During the January 30 Junior Class meeting, Madeline Cospolich '26 and Isabelle Cospolich '26 were presented with certificates and awards of completion for the Junior Advocate Program of the Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN).

The Executive Director of THLN, Shelby Bobosky, who also serves as an Adjunct Professor of Animal and Wildlife Law at SMU, expressed her gratitude and appreciation for Madeline and Isabelle’s contributions. She stated, "The THLN Junior Advocate Program is a rigorous curriculum where our advocates complete 250 hours of research on animal cruelty laws, meet and speak with local and state legislators, and testify on bills to help pass humane laws for animals. Madeline and Isabelle Cospolich were crucial to our program over the last three years because they helped pass an animal cruelty law that will forever change the trajectory of the humane treatment of dogs kept outside. We are forever grateful for their hard work and dedication to the treatment of animals in Texas, following in the footsteps of St. Francis."

"One thing I think many people fail to recognize is the level of cruelty animals face from day to day," said Isabelle. "THLN works to pass laws to stop this cruelty. One law passed in 2021 was the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act. This law made it a requirement to give dogs adequate shelter, access to drinkable water, and require safe restraints. Before this, animals were tied with chains as large as the ones used on trucks. I hope people in the community will continue to help us advocate for the safety of our animals!" 

Madeline was inspired to become involved with THLN  when she heard stories about dogs being treated poorly. "I knew I wanted to help make a change," she shared. "Being an owner of 2 dogs, I have loved animals since a very young age. When my mom asked us if we wanted to help, we didn't have to think twice about it!"

Madeline and Isabelle's dedication to service highlights the importance of young voices in legislative processes. Their recognition serves as an inspiration for others to continue advocating for the humane treatment of animals.

About the Junior Advocate Program

The THLN Junior Advocate Program is designed to educate and empower young advocates who are committed to making a difference in animal welfare. Participants engage in comprehensive 250-hour training that includes researching animal cruelty laws, meeting with lawmakers, and providing testimonies to support humane legislation.

For more information on the THLN Junior Advocate Program, visit the official THLN website.