St. Edward's University Students Look to Holy Cross Brother for a Window into Texas Politics
Students at St. Edward’s University seeking internships at the Texas State Capitol are often directed to Brother Richard Daly, CSC. Daly, the campus expert on Capitol affairs, spent 30 years as a lobbyist for the Catholic bishops in Texas, serving as executive director of the Texas Catholic Conference for most of his tenure. Although he has left the position, he remains well-informed on state political issues and is respected by those working with the Texas Legislature.
A Half-Century of Dedication and Guidance at St. Edward’s University and the Texas State Capitol
Daly’s history at St. Edward’s University extends back more than 50 years. He graduated in 1961 with degrees in history and English. He later returned to the university where he was director of University Relations from 1972 to 1974. He remains Brother Richard Daly at the Texas State Capitol with students. an adjunct faculty member to this day and still teaches a class on the legislative process. Daly often takes his classes and other school groups on tours of the Capitol. Anyone along for the tour can quickly see that Daly knows this building and the people in it well. He stops at offices of elected officials, the House and Senate chambers, historical rooms and paintings to share stories. More often than not, people take the time to say hello to him or flash a smile his way.
Guiding Students with Kindness and Expertise in the World of Politics
In politics, a world many perceive as cold and fast-paced, Daly has made his way through kindness and consistency. Daly speaking to a student inside of the Texas State Capitol. “I was lucky enough to get the Daly Capitol tour twice in my time at school. Seeing how many people he knows there was just awesome, because he really has connected with so many people during his time,” said alumnus Chris Naley who is now working in the Office of University Advancement on campus. When students are looking for internships, Daly will often meet them in Meadow's Coffee Shop on campus. He arrives on time and always well-dressed. He greets students with a handshake and sits down with a briefcase full of information about various internship opportunities. He also talks about who he knows at each organization and who to talk to when applying. “He goes through the different organizations one by one and knows everything about each of them,” said Colin Stonecipher, senior Poltical Science major. “He really takes the time to get to know you and line up your passions with the work.” Daly’s dedication to his work and his students is exemplified in his unwavering support for the next generation of politicians. After half a century, Daly has given so much to the St. Edward’s community and continues to do so. Daly explaining aspects of the Capitol to students.
