Dallas mayor Laura Miller shook hands and posed for pictureswith students at Dallas City Hall on Tuesday. The mayor and citycouncil members recognized SMU’s Leadership ConsultantCouncil for its work throughout the community.

Among those present at the meeting was Councilman Gary Griffith,former 1980-81 alumni director.

“I think SMU’s leadership council is the best in thenation, producing outstanding leaders for not only Dallas, but theworld,” Griffith said. “The program is one of the bestI’ve seen.”

Also in attendance was SMU law school alumnus and State HouseRep. Dan Branch. The 1983 graduate and district 108 representativehad only positive things to say about the LCC and university.

Branch has had a chance to work with several interns from theLCC in his office and on campaigns.

“This year’s class is an impressive group,” hesaid.

The state representative, whose district includes SMU, spokeabout the council’s president, Kim Deblance, with whom he hasworked.

“I am impressed with her skills,” Branch said.

He continued, “I have gotten a chance to know her, andeveryone on the staff has been wooed by her take-chargeattitude.”

Following the presentation, Deblance spoke to council members,thanking them for the recognition.

“This is a huge honor for us,” she said.

Deblance also explained the goals of the LCC.

“Our purpose is to push for excellence and leadership inprogramming conferences, classes and forums,” she said.

According to the LCC’s Web site, the organization servesover 150 on-campus organizations through workshops andpresentations throughout the year.

For more information on the LCC, visit its Web site atpeople.smu.edu/lcc.