The Academy of Global Business & Advanced Technology at United South High School continued a treasured tradition as nearly 100 magnet juniors gathered at La Posada Hotel for the Ninth Annual Business Etiquette Seminar. National etiquette expert Diane Gottsman of the Protocol School of Texas led the interactive luncheon, guiding students through essential dining and professional etiquette skills designed to prepare them for interviews, internships, and future careers.

Gottsman, who typically works with universities and corporate clients, makes a special trip to Laredo each year to work with the United South Magnet students—something she says she looks forward to long before she arrives.

“I am beyond excited to be here in Laredo, working with these students, because this is nine years, and I look forward to 90 more,” she said. “It is always such an inspiration to see how Dr. Koroma really puts his heart and soul into training these ambassadors to become future professional leaders.”

Throughout the luncheon, students practiced everything from proper utensil placement to confident table conversation. Gottsman emphasized that these skills translate far beyond the dining room.

“I just think that dining skills are leadership skills, and how we behave at the table is how we behave in life,” she said. “Year after year, they ask thoughtful, engaged questions. You can tell they have been groomed to participate, and I enjoy working with people who have the motivation to learn.”

Magnet Dean Dr. Sinneh J. Koroma, who took over the etiquette program at the school, wanted to take the experience to the next level by securing a world class presenter.  But doing so required persistence, vision, and a commitment to giving students opportunities normally reserved for adults. 

“We’ve been doing this for nine years now, and the fascinating thing is that Ms. Gottsman is a world-renowned etiquette trainer—she does not do training for high schools,” Koroma explained. “The story of how we convinced her to come to Laredo is a miracle, but it speaks to having the tenacity to do whatever it takes for students.”

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Koroma found a way to keep the program alive. Working with former logistics teacher Claudia Saenz, the team organized drive-through meal pickups at La Posada and delivered the etiquette seminar virtually through Zoom.

“Yes, even talking about it now, I get very emotional,” Koroma said. “Our students were locked up at home with very little to do. But we were able to have them pick up their meals, go home, and participate online. Ms. Gottsman was able to deliver the full training via Zoom, and it showed that when something is done with good intention, it pays off.”

Koroma says about 90 to 100 juniors participate each year, giving every magnet student the opportunity to practice soft skills that will benefit them in college and the workforce. 

United South High School Principal Martha Alvarez is a big supporter of the program and has praised Gottsman’s ability to connect with students. She emphasized the importance of helping students acquire skills that contribute to long-term success, both academically and professionally.

The annual seminar remains a point of pride for the Magnet program, made possible through ongoing support from district leadership, campus staff, and the dedication of the magnet counselor, secretary, and teachers who attend each year.

As Gottsman reflected on the nearly decade-long partnership, she expressed gratitude for the continued opportunity to help shape young leaders.

“I want to say thank you to Dr. Koroma, because he is my hero,” she said. “His team is amazing, and they make it easy for me to do what I do. These students truly represent the future.”