Smith-McMillan Chapter, DAR Honors Good Citizens Award Winners at Presidents Day Tea

Seniors selected by their respective area high schools as DAR Good Citizens for 2026 are and honored at the Smith-McMillan Chapter NSDAR Presidents’ Day Tea Honoring Good Citizens are (from left): Sherry Hebert, Chaplain and Good Citizens Co-Chair; Carolyn Caflisch, Regent, Smith-McMillan Chapter NSDAR; Advancing to State Level is Gunnar Fromme, Giddings High School; Caysen Perez, Flatonia High School; Ella Nygren, La Grange High School; Carter Marburger, Round Top-Carmine High School; Kylie Morgensen, Fayetteville High School; not pictured, Kenna Oliver, Schulenburg High School; Marty Emmons, Good Citizens Co-Chair; and Alex Ross Hernandez, Attorney-at-Law and founder of ARH Law Firm, guest speaker. Pictured are Kenna Oliver (right) with her Good Citizens Award and Sherry Hebert (left), Chaplain and Good Citizens Co-Chair

The Smith-McMillan Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution honored the school winners of the Good Citizens Award at the annual Presidents Day Tea at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15. The ceremony was held at the home of Jeanne Schilling in Fayetteville with parents and guests joining the members for this occasion. Regent, Carolyn Caflisch and Chaplain, Sherry Hebert led the Chapter in the DAR Ritual and after Pledges to the U. S. and Texas Flags, Sherry Hebert accompanied the singing of the National Anthem on the violin.

Regent Caflisch welcomed all members and guests, including family members of the honored students, guest speaker, Attorney Alex Hernandez and his wife, Briannaa. She further recognized some members of the panel of judges in attendance, Dr. William H. Bailey and his wife, Katherine, and Dr. Lori Learned.

Regent Caflish turned the program over to DAR Good Citizen Co-Chairs, Sherry Hebert and Marty Emmons who shared information about the award and introduced the guest speaker.

The DAR Good Citizen Awards are presented annually by each DAR chapter. Each of the students named as a DAR Good Citizen was selected from the senior class to represent their school based on four qualities: Dependability, Service, Leadership, and Patriotism. Each of these four qualities was applied during a stringent review of each candidate’s high school activities, grades, home activities, community activities, and their future plans.

Each winner was asked to participate by writing an essay according to the prompt: “Our nation will celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States of America on July 4, 2026. Describe how the characteristics of a good citizen help to renew and strengthen the democracy achieved by the Patriots of the American Revolution.” Independent judges review the winners from each school to determine an overall area winner.

Students are awarded a DAR Certificate and jewelry pin from National DAR headquarters in Washington D. C. and a monetary gift of $150 from our Smith-McMillan NSDAR Chapter. One student will advance to the State Level with the possibility of advancing further to the National Level and is awarded a $250 monetary gift from our Smith-McMillan Chapter.

Vice Regent, Kathy Schatte introduced the guest speaker, Alex Ross Hernandez, who was a past DAR Good Citizen recipient representing Flatonia High School and is now founder of his law firm, ARH, where he is a civil and appellate attorney. Representing individuals, families, and businesses in high-stakes legal disputes across Texas and beyond, Alex has been recognized three consecutive years as a Texas Rising Star, an honor reserved for the top 2.5% of attorneys in the state. Beyond the courtroom, Alex is passionate about mentoring others, especially students from rural and modest backgrounds. He also enjoys hiking the Colorado 14’ers and spending time with his wife and three children.

DAR Good Citizens Co-Chairmen, Marty Emmons and Sherry Hebert welcomed with introductions each of the senior level students representing their high school as a DAR Good Citizen.

Gunnar Cole Fromme, the son of Ami and Craig Fromme, is a senior at Giddings High School and will attend the United States Naval Academy for a degree in mechanical engineering and continuing his track and field career. He then plans to serve a minimum of five years as an officer in the Navy.

Giddings High School teacher, Dawn Marshall, explains that Gunnar, ranked in the top ten of his class has “pursued one of the most rigorous academic paths available, excelling in honors and dual-credit courses across the sciences, mathematics, and humanities. However, what sets him apart is not just academic excellence, but a rare blend of discipline, humility, and initiative that is evident in every aspect of his life.” Leadership is exemplified by Gunnar’s multiple years as a class officer and Student Council President while actively serving in organizations such as Interact Club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Gunnar leads by example coordinating charitable fundraisers, mentoring younger students, and honoring veterans through Wreaths Across America.

AP Calculus educator, Holly Huettel, explains that Gunnar connects with classmates with his cheerful countenance, empathy, and sense of humor as he inspires and encourages classmates to push through the concepts when the material is challenging. His time-management skills are evident in balancing school and related activities with a part time job for the past four years at Tejas Ministries and Retreat working as a recreation staff and lifeguard.

Teacher Dawn Marshall shares that Gunnar’s multisport competition in track, baseball, and football resulted in all-district as well as regional honors representing Giddings High School. His interpersonal and leadership skills earned the trust and admiration of peers whose highest number of votes led to his selection to the Athletics Leadership Council. Marshall continues, “I can say without reservation that Gunnar embodies the character, intellect, and leadership potential to become an amazing military officer. His life reflects the military motto: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. I currently have four sons serving in the military, and I say this sincerely—Gunnar Fromme is the warrior I would want to serve next to MY boys.”

Caysen Angel Perez, son of Blanca (Villanueva) and Ryan Perez, is a senior at Flatonia High School and plans to attend Texas State University to pursue a Major in Psychology and become a psychiatrist. Heather Smith, Science teacher and Interact Club Sponsor states that knowing Caysen the past three years as his Chemistry and Physics teacher as well as the school sponsor for the Interact Club, a student volunteer organization sponsored by the Rotary Club, gives her insight into his demonstration of academic excellence, steadfast character, and commitment to service. “I was particularly impressed by Caysen’s success in UIL Academics, particularly in Public Speaking events, where he participated and showed exceptional ability to articulate complex ideas and advocate for civic values. As a member of the National Honor Society (NHS), Caysen has demonstrated a remarkable ability to lead his peers with grace, empathy, and a collaborative spirit. Beyond the classroom, he embodies the spirit of responsible citizenship as a dedicated and involved member of our school community through various activities such as Highway cleanup, participation in Flags of Flatonia and other volunteer opportunities.” She explains that Cayson mentors younger students by serving as a coach for several youth sports programs reflecting strong leadership and commitment to developing the next generation of citizens.

Coaching staff member, Christian Cruz echoes his colleagues’ sentiments regarding Caysen’s well-rounded character stating that he’s been impressed with Casen’s ability to overcome adversity, his outstanding work ethic both academically and athletically. Over the past two football seasons that he has worked with him, Caysen suffered AC joint separations in both shoulders that devastated him, but he pushed himself hard during rehab and even harder at home to get back on the field as he didn’t want to let his team down. “Caysen has not only been an inspiration to the youth of Flatonia, but he has also been an inspiration to me showing that, no matter how difficult the circumstances, there is always light at the end of the tunnel.”

Ella Celine Nygren, daughter of Tracy and Erik Nygren, is a senior at La Grange High School and plans to attend Texas A & M University with a major in Public Health and then a master’s degree to become a Speech Language Pathologist. La Grange High School Principal, Dr. John Pineda has known Ella the past four years and shares, “Of particular importance to me is Ella’s character. She embodies the values upheld by La Grange High School and the Daughters of the American Revolution as ethical, goaloriented, a team player, and a positive role model. She has been a key member of our volleyball, basketball, and tennis teams. Ella has earned the respect of her teachers and peers through her strong work ethic and academic accomplishments.”

Letitia Solarzano, Youth Director and Coordinator shares, “I have had the privilege of working with Ella through the Sacred Heart Organization of Catholic Kids high school youth education program, affectionately called SHOCK and the Junior Catholic Daughters of the Americas (JCDA). Knowing Ella since she was eight years old, I have witnessed her deep commitment to service. She volunteers with AMEN Food Pantry, Deputy Santa, and Rise Against Hunger, and plays a key role in community events like Oktoberfest and the Rotary Hamburger Booth. Her participation in JCDA and the La Grange Main Street Advisory Board highlights her dedication to faith-based service and civic engagement. Within her school community, Ella has served four years as Class Vice President, National Honor Society President, and Secretary of Interact Club while also contributing to Leo Club, Spanish Club, and several athletic teams. Her leadership style reflects dependability, inclusiveness, and a strong desire to make a positive impact.

“Academically, Solarzano continues, “Ella’s impressive GPA and class ranking, various AP coursework and dual credit courses through Blinn College, recognition with multiple Academic All-District Awards in basketball, tennis, and volleyball reflects her ability to balance coursework, numerous leadership roles, and extra-curricular activities demonstrating exceptional discipline and time management.”

Carter Lee Marburger, son of Michelle and Marvin Marburger, is a senior at Round Top-Carmine High School and plans to attend Blinn College and transfer to Texas A & M University to major in either Agribusiness or Industrial Engineering Technology. Junior High/High School Principal RaChelle Etzel Kuecker has watched Carter from an infant to now a graduating senior noting that, as an FFA officer, he has demonstrated responsibility, initiative, and leadership in many ways. Carter helped to organize the Hill Country Flood Relief Gift Card Drive where he personally raised over $800 for it. He serves as a mentor for younger members like her son and promotes agricultural education in his community by attending local Young Farmer’s meetings. As an active member of FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America), Carter continues to build his leadership and collaboration skills while serving others.

“A dedicated athlete, Carter participates in baseball, tennis, and golf and consistently exhibits sportsmanship, discipline, and perseverance – qualities that mirror his approach to academics and service,” RaChelle Kuecker reflects. “He and teammates have experienced numerous regional appearances including the Regional Finals Baseball game this past spring. Carter and his teammates restored a monument and volunteered to clean and organize the Train Museum in Carmine.”

Julie Johnson Robertson, a life-long neighbor to Carter, too, has watched him grow from infancy to a young adult and expresses many similarities scholastically, athletically, and in community relations and leadership. She states, “In demonstrating an entrepreneurial mindset, Carter started his own business this past summer providing lawn services as well as farm and ranch services including cutting, raking, baling and hauling hay, repairing farm equipment, fencing, and working with livestock. Carter has also raised and shown poultry and cattle at major livestock shows across Texas since he was in the third grade, demonstrating superb responsibility traits at a young age.” Robertson’s comments dovetail into what Carsen expressed about his future plans. “In my career, I would like to help the farming industry by supplying more affordable equipment and seed, allowing for the establishments of more farms and lower prices. I plan to also one day own and run my own show cattle operation where I will breed and sell show quality livestock.”

Kenna Grace Oliver, daughter of Carrie and Wesley Oliver, is a senior at Schulenburg High School and plans to attend TexasA& M University to major in marketing through Mays Business School. Allison Machac, Schulenburg High School’s Student Services Advisor says that having the honor of knowing and interacting with Kenna the past four years, she has witnessed firsthand Kenna’s talents and high goals. As one of Kenna’s past coaches and as student advisor, she finds Kenna very determined and involved both academically and in extracurricular activities including volleyball, softball, and Hope Squad member. “Miss Oliver has served and held many officer and leadership roles in organizations such as NHS, FFA, UIL, athletics and student council, continually advancing to the next level in all the events that she participates in. I have had the honor of knowing and interacting with Kenna for four years and have witnessed many of these accomplishments firsthand.” Amy Thibodeaux, Science Teacher and Student Council Advisor, specifies many academic and personal qualities that Kenna has honed through the years like the Super Shorthorn Award for excellence in character; FFA Dairy Judging competitor where her team placed 2nd at the Houston Livestock Show and advanced to state; UIL Ready Writing, Feature Writing, and Copy Editing where she advanced to regional competition are just some examples of her lifelong skills sets and time management. “Kenna is a poised, articulate, and compassionate young woman who consistently goes above and beyond to serve her school and community.”

Kylie Ann Morgensen, daughter of Jo Ann and Chris Morgensen is a senior at Fayetteville High School and plans to attend Blinn College to complete her prerequisite nursing courses beyond the 18 credit hours she currently has so as to transfer to Texas A & M University to prepare for a career in pediatric oncology. Dean of Students, Lisa Dyer, shares, “Kylie has been a leader in extra-curricular activities and took on the challenge of competing in the UIL Congress event. It was a challenging event that involved planning, speaking and debating a topic. She also played volleyball and volunteered for different organizations like the PTC Harvest Carnival, concession stand work, and the Food Pantry and has been able to maintain her grades while participating in the extra-curricular activities.” Kylie has participated in 4H – showing a pen of two heifers at the county show and chickens at the Fayette County Junior Livestock Show. She has worked as a service advisor during the summers for her father’s diesel mechanic business, helping customers in customer service and assisting with dropping trucks off. She interned in the summer of 2025 at the Columbus Community Hospital learning many aspects of nursing care spending time in the family doctor offices and the pediatrics floor and is currently employed at Orsak’s Café a little over two years. Kaylie also works at a ranch where Longhorn and Japanese Wagyu cow bloodlines are bred.

Amber Eilers, Kylie’s English teacher shares, “Kylie has mastered the delicate balance of being able to enjoy life and yet achieve her long list of goals. Kylie is very methodical in her continued commitment to excellence: she makes a plan, puts in hard work, overcomes and evaluates any setbacks, and excels. I have no doubt that her charismatic nature and determination will be key in excelling in college, or anything else she sets her mind to.”

Regent Carolyn Caflish presented the prestigious DAR Jewelry Pins, Certificates from NSDAR, and the Chapter’s monetary awards of $150 each to five of the six recipients. The sixth recipient, advancing to the State Level as DAR Good Citizen, is Gunnar Cole Fromme representing Giddings High School and our Smith-McMillan Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.

Following the Awards Ceremony, Regent Caflisch thanked hostesses Jeanne Schilling and Kim Joost and asked Chaplain, Sherry Hebert to give the Benediction then adjourned all to enjoy the English-themed Tea of homemade assortments of sweet and savory bites.