SMW Participants Begin the 2026-2027 Season with Annual Orientation

August 19, 2026

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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.

President’s Kick Off Luncheon Opens the 2026-2027 SMW Season

August 19, 2026
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.

2026 Patriot Scholars Experience Washington, D.C.

June 25, 2026
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.

Welcoming Our Newest Members

June 25, 2026
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.