Sammi Hammers was there on May 4, 2017, gavel in hand when the Texas legislature passed the Convention of States Resolution. Of all the patriots who could have been there—of all the men and women who made that landmark victory possible—it was altogether fitting that Sammi was among them.
Ask anyone who’s spent any amount of time with the grassroots and they will almost certainly recognize Sammi’s name. She was a legend in the movement, and her reputation was well-earned.
Sitting atop nationwide leadership charts with an astonishing 107,000 personal contacts to new petition signers and over 720,000 activist points (used to track grassroots engagement), Sammi Hammers’ status as the organization’s most dedicated patriot and fighter was unquestioned. Even after her recent, tragic passing on September 27, 2023, Sammi’s unforgettable legacy lives on, inspiring countless compatriots nationwide.
“Sammi Hammers was truly one of a kind, an irreplaceable figure in COS, and indeed, American history,” said Mark Meckler, President of Convention of States. “Never in the history of the Republic has there been a patriot quite like her. She inspired everyone she knew with her indomitable spirit, tireless activism, and unyielding commitment. Although we are grieved to say goodbye, we rejoice to know that Sammi has entered into her eternal reward. She fought the good fight, she finished her race well, and undoubtedly, her reward will be great.”
Earlier this year, Sammi was tragically diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor. Nevertheless, despite the uphill battles, Sammi persisted in the fight.
“God’s not finished with me yet,” she declared.
“[Sammi] was a true American Freedom Warrior,” remembered Dave Schneider, a longtime COS Regional Director. “A true inspiration to me in dedication to a cause to help save this nation.”
SEE ALSO: Honoring Sammi Hammers’ iconic legacy with Convention of States
As Sammi’s unforgettable life drew gradually to a close, the Texas team presented her with the first-ever Sammi Hammers Legacy Award, a challenge coin engraved with her likeness, honoring her steadfast faith, devotion, humility, service, and vision. The coin also bore an ancient proverb of Solomon: “Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.” (Proverbs 3:16)
At the time, COS Texas State Chaplain Darren York reflected on Sammi's significant contributions, noting that she had been “an iconic member of COS and the Texas team since the earliest days of COS…. God allowed us enough time to present the number one coin to Sammi as the first recipient of the award.”
Sammi Hammers may have been a proud Texan, but her patriotism and influence transcended state borders. Supporters, leaders, and lawmakers across the nation looked to her—and continue to do so—as an enduring symbol of courage, dedication, and Christ-like character. Indeed, she left an indelible mark on the grassroots army, and her story will always be fondly remembered and honored in COS history.
“I never met Sammie in person,” said Mary Ellen Probanski, a District Captain from New York. “Nevertheless, she was an inspiration to every volunteer at Convention of States, [and] her legacy will live on forever.”
