SMW Blog

On Saturday, October 3, 2026, the Society of Martha Washington proudly hosted its 5th Annual Pink Walk at Texas A&M International University, bringing together more than 500 registered walkers for a morning filled with hope, remembrance, strength, and community. The SMW Pink Walk is the Society of Martha Washington’s annual community event dedicated to raising cancer awareness and supporting patients through fundraising, education, and community involvement. What began five years ago as an event focused primarily on breast cancer has grown to embrace and support women affected by all types of cancer throughout the Laredo community. Despite the rainy weather, the Laredo community showed up in an incredible way. Walkers, families, friends, supporters, volunteers, and sponsors came together at TAMIU, demonstrating that a little rain could not dampen the spirit or purpose behind this very special event. Fundraising remains at the heart of the Pink Walk’s mission. Last year, the event raised an incredible $40,000, and this year SMW set an ambitious goal of raising $50,000 to continue providing meaningful support and resources for local women and families impacted by cancer. A special part of this year’s event was recognizing the 2026 debutantes and escorts whose efforts helped make the Pink Walk such a success. Debutante Elizabeth Dora Bunn and her escort, Miller Molina, were honored for raising the most money through registered walkers and donations. Second-place honors went to debutante Ella Gonzalez and her escort, Flaviano Benavides. Their dedication, along with the efforts of all of this year’s debutantes and escorts, played an important role in the continued success of the Pink Walk. The Society of Martha Washington extends its heartfelt gratitude to every person who walked, donated, volunteered, sponsored the event, or helped spread the word. Each registration, donation, sponsorship, and step taken helps provide hope and essential resources to cancer patients while reminding those facing cancer that they are surrounded by a community that supports them. From approximately 150 walkers during its first year to more than 500 in 2026, the SMW Pink Walk continues to grow not only in size, but also in its impact. What began as a walk for breast cancer awareness has become a powerful community tradition supporting women affected by all cancers.  Thank you, Laredo, for once again walking with us, supporting our mission, and helping make the 5th Annual SMW Pink Walk such a tremendous success. Together, we continue to make a meaningful difference—one step at a time.

On Thursday, September 24, Society of Martha Washington President Tami Dorsett Summers and President-Elect Monica Alexander Gonzalez visited first grade students at United Day School to share the mission of the SMW Pink Walk and explain how the annual event supports women in Laredo who are facing cancer.  During their visit, Summers and Gonzalez spoke with the students about why participants come together for the Pink Walk, the importance of supporting members of the local community during difficult times, and how the funds raised through the event help women with cancer right here in Laredo. The students also participated in a special rock-painting activity as part of the visit. The presentation came ahead of United Day School’s First Grade Chapel, which will be held on October 1. As part of the school’s Character Counts program, each chapel focuses on one of the program’s Pillars of Character and gives students an opportunity to support a local organization or cause. This month, the first-grade class is focusing on the pillar of Trustworthiness and has selected the Society of Martha Washington Pink Walk as the recipient of its chapel donations. The Society of Martha Washington is grateful to the United Day School first graders for choosing the Pink Walk and for learning at such a young age about the importance of caring for and supporting others in their community. Their participation is a meaningful reminder that even the youngest members of our community can make a difference in the lives of others.

On Thursday, September 24, Society of Martha Washington President Tami Dorsett Summers and President-Elect Monica Alexander Gonzalez visited first grade students at United Day School to share the mission of the SMW Pink Walk and explain how the annual event supports women in Laredo who are facing cancer.  During their visit, Summers and Gonzalez spoke with the students about why participants come together for the Pink Walk, the importance of supporting members of the local community during difficult times, and how the funds raised through the event help women with cancer right here in Laredo. The students also participated in a special rock-painting activity as part of the visit. The presentation came ahead of United Day School’s First Grade Chapel, which will be held on October 1. As part of the school’s Character Counts program, each chapel focuses on one of the program’s Pillars of Character and gives students an opportunity to support a local organization or cause. This month, the first-grade class is focusing on the pillar of Trustworthiness and has selected the Society of Martha Washington Pink Walk as the recipient of its chapel donations. The Society of Martha Washington is grateful to the United Day School first graders for choosing the Pink Walk and for learning at such a young age about the importance of caring for and supporting others in their community. Their participation is a meaningful reminder that even the youngest members of our community can make a difference in the lives of others.

On Saturday, September 19, 2026, the Society of Martha Washington continued one of its cherished traditions with the annual Colonial Ladies Luncheon, held at 11:30 a.m. at Dona Rosa, a beautiful historic home in downtown Laredo. The Colonial Ladies hosted the luncheon in honor of the 2027 debutantes, continuing a longstanding SMW tradition of celebrating each new debutante group. Remarks were led by 2026 SMW President Elva Chamberlain Puig and 2026 Martha Washington Nydia Sanchez Weathers. Veronica Casillas Castillon gave the invocation, and Minnie Dora Bunn Haynes shared the history of the Colonial Ladies and the significance of this special tradition within the Society of Martha Washington. A highlight of the luncheon was the presentation of the SMW gold medallions to each debutante. Each medallion is personalized with the debutante’s initials and the date engraved on the back, creating a special keepsake to commemorate her debutante year. Miranda Alicia Leal received her medallion from Annabelle Uribe Hall; Anna Gabriela Jordan from Irma De La Miyar Deutsch; London Regina Montserrat Beckelhymer from Anna Benavides Galo; Alessandra Rempe Slaughter from Julia Catherine Casso; Carolina Andrea Leyendecker from Tami Dorsett Summers; Ella Alessandra Gonzalez from Linda Lopez Howland; Andria Amrit Alston from Tina Holliday Cerda; Ava Graciela Botello from Brenda Botello Martinez; Elizabeth Dora Bunn from Betty Bunn Moreno; Sophia Ella Garcia from Veronica Casillas Castillon; Carisa Elis Lopez from Dr. Minita Ramirez; Zoey Bella Buitron from Carole Weber Wilson; and Triana Maria Bolado Garcia from Minnie Dora Haynes Rodriguez. Another special moment during the luncheon was the presentation of the diamond SMW pin with diamond halo to 2027 Martha Washington Tina Holliday Cerda. The pin was presented by Minnie Dora Bunn Haynes, marking a meaningful milestone in her role within the Society of Martha Washington.  The Colonial Ladies Luncheon remains a beautiful SMW tradition that brings together generations of members while celebrating the debutantes and the history, friendship, and traditions of the Society of Martha Washington.

The Society of Martha Washington held its September General Membership Luncheon on Saturday, September 12, 2026. President Tami Summers welcomed the Society’s newest members: Alyssa Cigarroa, Rosa Elvia Solis, Jordan Jacaman Soliz, Celina Summers, Karina Leyendecker, Angelica Gonzalez, Alexandria “Lexie” Hale, Sofia Perez, and Christina Killam. President Summers introduced the 2027 debutantes to the membership: Miranda Alicia Leal, Anna Gabriela Jordan, London Regina Montserrat Beckelhymer, Alessandra Rempe Slaughter, Carolina Andrea Leyendecker, Ella Alessandra Gonzalez, Andria Amrit Alston, Ava Graciela Botello, Elizabeth Dora Bunn, Sophia Ella Garcia, Carissa Elis Lopez, Zoey Bella Buitron, and Triana Maria Bolado. The September luncheon marked the kickoff of the SMW Pink Walk season. President Summers reminded members that the Pink Walk will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, and encouraged everyone to participate by either registering to walk or donating. She shared her hope for 100% member participation this year. Members embraced the occasion by arriving in beautiful shades of pink, filling the room with Pink Walk spirit and enthusiasm. The 2026–2027 SMW rosters were distributed during the luncheon. Ana Botello showcased SMW Pink Walk merchandise available for purchase, while Julia Rubio displayed additional SMW merchandise available for order.  The luncheon was a wonderful start to the fall season, bringing members together to welcome new faces, celebrate the 2027 debutantes, and begin another meaningful Pink Walk season.

The Society of Martha Washington officially kicked off its 2026-2027 season with the President’s Kick Off Luncheon on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Laredo Country Club. Hosted by Society President Tami Summers, the luncheon brought together this year’s debutantes, escorts, pages, flower girls, their families, and Society members to celebrate the beginning of the season leading up to the 88th SMW Colonial Pageant and Ball in February 2027. During the program, the Society introduced Tina Holiday Cerda, who will portray Martha Washington, and Jeffrey Gerard Puig, who will portray George Washington, during the upcoming celebration. President Summers also introduced the 13 young women who will make their debut at the 88th Colonial Pageant and Ball. This year’s Daughters are Miranda Alicia Leal, Anna Gabriela Jordan, London Regina Montserrat Beckelhymer, Alessandra Rempe Slaughter, Carolina Andrea Leyendecker, and Ella Alessandra Gonzalez. The Granddaughters are Andria Amrit Alston, Ava Graciela Botello, and Elizabeth Dora Bunn. The Society’s Guests are Sophia Ella Garcia, Carisa Elis Lopez, Zoey Bella Buitron, and Triana Maria Bolado Garcia. Participants received traditional items and special gifts in preparation for the season ahead, including the debutantes’ white button-down blouses and bloomers and the escorts’ traditional red ties. Throughout the presentation, historical photographs and videos highlighted the Society’s rich history and the traditions that have been passed from one generation to the next. The images provided a meaningful connection between this year’s participants and the many Martha and George Washingtons, debutantes, escorts, and families who have been part of the Society’s legacy. The President’s Kick Off Luncheon marked the beginning of a memorable year for the 2026-2027 participants. The Society of Martha Washington looks forward to celebrating the traditions, friendships, and special moments that will lead to their presentation at the 88th Colonial Pageant and Ball in February.

The Society of Martha Washington warmly welcomed its newest members during the annual New Member Tea, held on June 11, 2026, at the beautiful home of Cristina Alexander. Hosted by the Colonial Ladies and chaired by Cristina Alexander, the New Member Tea is a cherished Society tradition designed to introduce first-year members to the organization, its history, and its traditions while fostering fellowship among members.  The Society welcomed first-year members Alyssa Cigarroa, Rosa Elvia Solis, Jordan Jacaman Soliz, Celina Salazar Summers, Karina Marie Leyendecker, Angelica Brooke Gonzalez, Alexandria Danielle Hale, Sofia Perez, and Christina Michelle Killiam. Second-year members Sandra Rangel Gonzalez and Adriana Marroquin were also recognized during the gathering. The afternoon provided an opportunity for members to build friendships, learn more about the Society of Martha Washington, and celebrate the beginning of each new member's involvement in one of Laredo's most treasured traditions. The Society extends a warm welcome to all of its first- and second-year members and looks forward to their involvement and contributions in the years ahead.

From May 31 through June 5, the Society of Martha Washington's 2026 Patriot Scholars proudly represented Laredo during the Close Up Washington program in Washington, D.C. This unforgettable educational experience provides students with the opportunity to explore our nation's history, government, and civic responsibility through hands-on learning. Throughout the week, students visited historic landmarks and national memorials, toured museums and government institutions, participated in interactive discussions and workshops, and gained a deeper understanding of the legislative process and the responsibilities of engaged citizens. They also had the opportunity to meet and exchange ideas with students from across the country while developing leadership skills and a greater appreciation for public service. The Society of Martha Washington is proud of these outstanding young leaders and congratulates the 2026 Patriot Scholars on their dedication, achievements, and commitment to learning. We know they represented Laredo with pride throughout their Washington, D.C. experience.  The Patriot Scholarship Program reflects the Society of Martha Washington's ongoing commitment to encouraging civic engagement, leadership, and a deeper appreciation of our nation's history among the youth of our community.

The Society of Martha Washington welcomed its 2026-2027 debutantes, escorts, and pages for the annual Participant Orientation on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Celebre. The gathering marked an important first step in preparing participants and their families for the year ahead and the many traditions and events that make up the Society's celebration season. Society President Tami Summers led an informative presentation outlining the responsibilities and expectations of participants throughout the year. Topics included the Society's Code of Conduct, participant roles and responsibilities, event protocols and proper attire, photography and publicity guidelines, ad sales, community service, social events, rehearsals, and preparations for the Colonial Pageant and Ball. Participants and parents also received guidance on the many activities and milestones they will experience throughout the upcoming season. Several special guests joined the Orientation to help participants prepare for the year ahead. The Society's formal photographer was introduced to participants and families, while Grace presented models demonstrating appropriate hairstyles for the debutantes' colonial attire as well as the traditional ponytails worn by escorts. Members of the Ad Sales Committee were also on hand to meet the participants and parents they will work with during the upcoming ad sales campaign, providing an opportunity to make those important connections early in the season.  Guests enjoyed lunch provided by Blue Chip Catering while becoming better acquainted with fellow participants, families, Society members, and committee representatives. The Participant Orientation provided a welcoming introduction to the traditions, responsibilities, and experiences ahead. The Society of Martha Washington looks forward to an exciting 2026-2027 season as this year's debutantes, escorts, and pages begin their journey toward Laredo's annual Washington's Birthday Celebration.