I am so pleased to announce that  the Santa Maria Hostel  Board of Directors approved Vaughan Gilmore to succeed me as CEO.

Vaughan has served as our Chief Clinical Officer for the past three years and during that time has assisted Santa Maria in improving its outcomes and efficiency, implemented a robust training and supervision program for interns, and shepherded us through implementation of the I-CARE Clinic. Vaughan will officially take the reins on February 19.

I will continue to work with her during the following month to ensure a smooth transition.

Please join me in congratulating Vaughan!

Stepping into the role of CEO at Santa Maria is both an honor and a privilege. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to build upon the strong foundation that Nadine has created—a foundation built on compassion, resilience, and a commitment to empowering women and families.

Over the past three years, I have seen firsthand the passion and dedication of our team, and I am inspired by the work we do every day. Together, we will continue to make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve, ensuring they have the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive.

For 12 years Nadine Scamp has served as the CEO of Santa Maria, shepherding our staff to provide the best possible programs and services for our participants.  Nadine has led the team in serving thousands of women children and family members each year.  She has guided the staff through unprecedented times, weathering extreme storms and keeping Santa Maria safely open through the COVID-19 pandemic.  In addition, Nadine has bolstered Santa Maria’s programming, adding Detox, Caring for Two, and the I-CARE Clinic.  Finally making the brave choice to expand Santa Maria’s work to the greater Austin area to meet the need for recovery services for women with children in Central Texas. 

Thank you, Nadine, the Santa Maria staff will greatly miss your leadership as you take on your next adventure as the CEO of Northwest Assistance Ministries. 

As we welcome February, we celebrate new opportunities for growth and connection. This month, we reflect on themes of history, culture, and community while focusing on excellence in our work. Thank you for your continued dedication, and let’s make this month a memorable one!

Black History Month is a time to honor the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. This year, we’re highlighting the remarkable stories of Black cowboys in Texas and their enduring legacy.

The Legacy of Black Cowboys

Did you know that one in four cowboys during the height of the cattle-driving era in the 1800s was Black?

Despite limited representation in media and history books, Black cowboys played a significant role in shaping the American West. Many were formerly enslaved individuals who sought freedom and opportunity on the open range. Their expertise in cattle herding and horsemanship was critical to the development of the American West.

Their resilience, courage, and contributions continue to inspire us today. Take time this month to explore their stories and appreciate their impact on American history.

Notable Black Cowboys:

Nat Love: Nat was a skilled cowboy, marksman, and storyteller whose adventures became legendary.

Bill Pickett: A Texas native, Bill invented "bulldogging" (steer wrestling) and became the first Black cowboy inducted into the National Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Jarred Howard II: Owner of 2REquine in Fort Worth, Texas, Howard is dedicated to preserving Black cowboy culture and providing equestrian opportunities to the community. His efforts were recognized when he was named one of Southern Living's 2024 Southerners of the Year.

Myrtis Dightman: Known as the "Jackie Robinson of Rodeo," Dightman was the first African American to compete at the National Finals Rodeo and has been inducted into multiple halls of fame for his contributions to the sport.

Texas Trivia Corner

Did you know that the iconic cattle drives in Texas often started right here in the Lone Star State and stretched as far as Kansas? Many of these drives were led by Black cowboys, whose skills and bravery ensured success along the treacherous trails.

This month, we’re recognizing team members who exemplify our core values. Nominate your colleagues by February 14th!

Lesbia Orozco               Feb. 1

Adriana Sandoval          Feb. 7

Keela Bowens               Feb. 9

Tanya Moore                Feb. 9

Dawn Insall                   Feb. 10

Najla Crawford              Feb. 13

Laura Grant                  Feb. 13

Elda Reyes                    Feb. 14

Cynthia Brooks              Feb. 14

Angel Cole                    Feb. 15

Yolanda Ross                Feb. 17

Berniece Ledesma         Feb. 19

Tyisha Sample               Feb. 21

Karen Gaddis                Feb. 22

Blanca Ramirez             Feb. 22

Geneva Belt                  Feb. 26

Sharon Lewis                Feb. 28

Jennifer C Helley           17 years

Melinda Williams          17 years

Michelle Hansford         6 years

Newashunta Polk          6 years

Brendalyn Vallie            5 years

Latanya Diagne             3 years

Dawn Insall                   3 years

Liliana Zamora              3 years

Paulette Banks              2 years

Kendra Llorentz             2 years

Latura Adams               1 year

Jessica Caver                 1 year

Michele Comeaux         1 year

Michelle Hill                 1 year

Melissa Hubenak           1 year

Sonja Jones                   1 year

Kim Nguyen                  1 year

Tyisha Sample               1 year

Vanell Wilson                1 year

YOUR HARD WORK AND DEDICATION

TO SANTA MARIA IS APPRECIATED. 

STAFF

Shalawanda Carter       Recovery Advocate

Vicki Edwards               Recovery Advocate

Elizabeth Evatt             Recovery Advocate

Elizabeth Hobdy           Van Driver

Alexa Melancon           Recovery Advocate

Catherine Taraviras      Director of Community Engagement

Lacrisha Woods             Recovery Advocate

PLEASE JOIN US IN GIVING THEM A WARM WELCOME TO THESE NEW MEMBERS OF OUR TEAM!

Please talk to your supervisors to make sure you attend the necessary trainings. 

FEBRUARY  7, 2025

ANE TRAINING - ANNUAL,  Jacquelyn Campus, Big Group Room,

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

FEBRUARY 12, 2025

ANE TRAINING -NEW HIRE,   Bonita House, Training Room

 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

FEBRUARY 19, 2025

CPR/FA TRAINING   Bonita House, Conference Room,

8:30 AM - 12:30 PM  

FEBRUARY 21, 2025

ANE TRAINING - ANNUAL,  Bonita House, Training Room,

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

FEBRUARY 26, 2025

PIAB,   Bonita House, Conference Room

9:00 AM

February Events

FEBRUARY  IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH

2/14 - Valentine’s Day

2/17 – Presidents’ Day

2/21 -  Mobile Health Clinic - Harris County Public Health, Community Health & Wellness will be at Bonita House to provide free immunizations/flu shots for all Santa Maria staff, Conference room from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

2/27- Dominican Independence Day

2/28 GO TEXAN DAY- Dress up in traditional Western attire to celebrate the state's rich Western heritage

Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Available 24/7 for counseling, financial advice, and more.

To learn more about the Lincoln Financial Employee Connect program, visit www.Lincoln4Benefits.com

or www.GuidanceResources.com (user name = LFGsupport; password = LFGsupport1), or talk with a specialist

at 888-628-4824.