Fall 2021 A Magazine for UH Alumni
RISING TO THE OCCASION
A Look Back in Time
Greetings Cougars, Welcome to the fall edition of Alumline! I hope you have been enjoying engaging with your fellow Coogs at the various events that have been held thus far. It was
Alumni Association Foundation Board of Directors
so nice to see many of you at the 66th Annual Alumni Awards Gala in October.
Drue DaSilva (’93, M.S. ’99) President
Paying tribute to alumni for their dedication and service to the University and
Wayne Luckett (’74) Incoming President
community is always a treat. We continue on this theme in this issue of Alumline as we introduce you to some Cougars who have truly risen to the occasion. Whether through sports, medicine or other fields, our alumni never disappoint. On another note, we are seeing more and more of you on our CoogsConnect alumni platform, so keep spreading the word about this one-stop portal. With CoogsConnect, you can reconnect with fellow Coogs, browse jobs, seek out mentor opportunities, join an Alumni Association and much more. In the meantime, we always like to highlight our alumni’s accomplishments and achievements in our various communications. Please reach out by submitting a Class Note to classnotes@uh.edu, and you could be our next feature story!
Laurie Rutherford (’86, M.B.A. ’91, M.S. ’04) Immediate Past President Shazia Khan (’84) Secretary Richard Whiteley (’93, J.D. ’99) Treasurer Michael Sachs (’97) Member at Large Erik Barajas (’99) Member Katy Caldwell (’78) Member Edward Carrizales (’13) Member Judy Chong (’69, ’76) Member Kelly Coleman, M.D. (’98) Member Keith Cornelius (’83) Member Lisa Cushing (’01) Member
Go Coogs!
Agnes DeFranco (’83, M.B.A. ’89, Ed.D. ’93) Member – Ex Officio Cathy Frank (’80) Member – Ex Officio James Hong (’05) Member
Drue DaSilva (’93, M.S. ’99)
Charlene Johnson (’91) Member
President
Margo Kaplan (’03) Member
University of Houston Alumni Association Foundation
Sandy Lee (’84) Member Thomas May (’88) Member Amanda Montag (’02) Member Alex Obregon (’09, M.B.A. ’14) Member Trent Perez (’05) Member Scott Rando (’83) Member David Roland (’83) Member Eugenia Vance (’90) Member
Front cover: UH Alumnna, Micaela Bouter (’18) competing in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics Left side: 1986 US Olympics Festival Poster from the UH Digital Library
Eloise Brice Ex Officio Vice President for University Advancement Mike Pedé (’89) Ex Officio Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations & UHAA
University of Houston Alumni Association Staff
Table of Contents Coogs Rise to the Occasion
Listed alphabetically Chuck Arnold (’94) Executive Director of Alumni Relations cwarnold@uh.edu
Come with us as we meet up with some of the Cougar athletes who gave it their all at the Tokyo Olympics.
Beth Borck (’03) Director of Affiliated Alumni Associations bkborck@uh.edu Justin Carrier Graphic Designer jcarrier@uh.edu Mayra Castillo (’19) Social Media Coordinator mcasti27@uh.edu
6
Mikayla Collins (’18, MA ’20) Special Events Operations Coordinator mmcollins@uh.edu
A Family of Life Members
Nancy Vecera Clark (’76), CFRE Alumni Legacy Programs Director nclark@uh.edu Elaine Duke Program Coordinator evduke@uh.edu
Hear why these Life Members like keeping it “red” in the family.
Kendra Hakanson Program Director kahakanson@uh.edu Carolyn Hartmann Communications Director cwhartma@uh.edu
14
Ashleigh Hildreth Program Coordinator ahildret@uh.edu
Helping Businesses Launch Dreams
David Palomo (’15) Program Manager of Corporate Partnerships dmpalomo@uh.edu Mike Pedé (’89) Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations & UHAA mlpede@uh.edu
See how one Cougar’s passion allows businesses to thrive in the marketplace.
Anneka Roberson Executive Administrative Assistant arroberson@uh.edu Kirstyn Speich (’16) Life Member Manager klspeich@uh.edu
22 10 13 18 20 21
Circling the Globe Author Spotlight Making a Difference First Generation Alumni Association UH Alumni Oral History Project
A digital version of Alumline is available online at houstonalumni.com/alumline.
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In July 2021, the best of the best stepped up to compete in the Summer Olympics that took place in Tokyo, Japan. Among the participants were five UH athletes and two former UH coaches. We were able to catch up with some of these spirited competitors who exhibited the grit and determination of true Cougars.
Left: Jane Figueiredo (’87) with Olympic Gold Medalist Tom Daley
history,” said Jane. After competing in the Olympics, Jane continued with her studies and graduated from the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management in 1987. She then retired from diving and kept up with her waitressing job at the Allegro Café in Rice Village. “I had just accepted the role as Operations Manager at the Café when I was offered the Diving Coach position at UH,” said Jane. “For a while, I was working at both establishments.”
JANE
FIGUEIREDO (’87)
Jane led the Houston Divers from 1990 to 2014, recruiting and coaching world-class talent, including 14 divers who combined for 51 All-American honors and eight NCAA titles. In 2014, Jane accepted a position as head coach of the British Diving High Performance Center in London. “I consider UH to be my home so leaving what was so familiar was extremely difficult, but I felt that I was making the right move,” said Jane.
or the athletes that have been fortunate to train
under what many people call a legend in the world of diving, Jane Figueiredo (’87), the secret to their success
Jane’s decision proved to be the right one. Fast forward to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics where Jane coached British Divers, Tom Daley and Matty Lee
stems from expert coaching with a heart. “Jane has a way of
to Olympic gold in the Synchronized 10-meter
making you feel safe and secure,” said Micaela Bouter (’18).
Platform. “What a journey that win was,” said Jane.
“Her passion and enthusiasm are contagious.”
“Many repetitive days of going to the practice facil-
Born in Zimbabwe, spending time outdoors in the sea-
ity then going straight home, due to COVID-19.
sonably warm weather was a way of life for Jane Figueiredo.
It was very isolating at times. I am so proud of my
“While I grew up playing many sports, I tended to gravitate
divers for putting in the time and energy it took
towards swimming at a very early age,” said Jane. “I took up
to experience such a life-changing achievement.”
diving because I wanted to challenge myself.” When Jane began training with various diving coaches, she noticed
When asked what advice she imparts to her athletes, Jane is quick to answer.
that other divers were leaving Zimbabwe to compete internationally. “As more and more divers left, and the state of affairs in Zimbabwe began to change, I decided to follow
“I TEACH LIFE SKILLS.”
suit,” said Jane. “After my best friend got accepted to the University of Houston, I followed behind with a scholarship.” While at UH, Jane embarked on the opportunity of a
“Divers do not compete forever. They go on to other profes-
lifetime and dove for Portugal in the 1984 Olympics. “My
sions and form new relationships, which require basic life
parents left Zimbabwe and relocated to South Africa. Since
skills. That is more important than any diving lesson.”
my father was Portuguese, and I had a Portuguese passport, he reached out to the Portuguese Federation, and the rest is
Fall 2021
7
After completing her studies at UH, Micaela moved to London and trained with the British Diving High-Performance team. In 2019, she secured her spot in in the 3-Meter Springboard event for the Tokyo Olympics. “Tokyo was an incredible experience,” said Micaela. “I was able to interact with divers who I had previously competed with at other competitions.” After closing out the preliminary round with a five dive score of 216.15, Micaela celebrated with Jane Figueiredo and a call to her family.
MICAELA
BOUTER (’18)
With the Tokyo Olympics under her belt, Micaela will relocate to South Africa where she will attend Medical School. “When I was in Houston, I shadowed a doctor at Texas Children’s Hospital,” said Micaela. “While I do not know the specialty I will choose; I am interested in infectious disease.” At this time, Micaela has not decided whether her future will involve diving. When asked what advice she would impart to young girls
hen i found out that I would be competing in the
interested in competing on the national stage, Micaela said,
2020 Tokyo Olympics, I literally dropped to the floor,” said Micaela Bouter (’18). It is not surprising that news of this nature would affect Micaela to such a degree. Her enthusiasm for the sport of diving is undeniable. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Micaela’s interest in diving began at an early age. “My parents played underwater hockey and would take me with them on occasion,” said Micaela. “I would occupy myself by playing in the diving pool.” Overtime, as Micaela’s interest grew, she set her sights on competing as a collegiate diver in the U.S. Micaela’s dream came true when she met then University of Houston head diving coach, Jane Figueiredo at the South African Diving nationals. Figueiredo offered Micaela a diving scholarship at the University of Houston. While at UH, Micaela thrived both in her sport and in the classroom. In addition to winning multiple diving competitions, Micaela was named the 2016-17 American Athletic Conference Female Scholar Athlete of the Year. The selection was made by the Conference’s Academic Affairs Committee. “I take my studies very seriously so receiving this honor was truly amazing,” said Micaela. 8 Alumline
“YOU HAVE TO PERSEVERE, NO MATTER HOW HARD THE JOURNEY. YOUR ENTHUSIASM MUST CARRY YOU THROUGH.”
During her time at UH, Tristan’s dreams of competing in the Olympics began to crystalize. She won both the Women’s 60m and the 200m at the American Athletic Conference Indoor Track and Field Championships in 2020. Tristan then secured her spot in the Tokyo Olympics when she clocked a new national record time of 11.14 seconds to win gold in the women’s 100m final at the American Athletic Conference Championship.
TRISTAN
EVELYN (’20)
“BEING ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE TOKYO OLYMPICS WAS AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE.”
rom a very early age , running was more than just
a hobby for Tristan Evelyn (’20). At seven-years old,
“The only drawback was not being able to fully interact with
she competed in her first international meet in her
the fans, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “However, I did
hometown of St. George, Barbados. “I can remember watch-
get the chance to connect with the other UH alumni who
ing one of the greatest sprinters of all time, Shelly-Ann
competed.”
Fraser-Pryce on television and wanting to be just
While her dreams may have come to fruition, Tristan is
like her,” said Tristan. “The more I ran, the more I
not done yet. “I am currently attending graduate school at
started to realize that I could take it to the next
UH and already envisioning competing at the 2024
level someday.”
Olympics,” said Tristan.
While looking up to famous track stars of the day, Tristan continued to hone her talent and enrolled in the Track and Field program at Monroe College in New York. “I actually wanted to attend the University of Houston, but because I was only 16 at the time, I decided it might be better to gain some experience for the first couple of years,” said Tristan. Once Tristan received her Associate’s Degree, she left the Big Apple and headed to the Lone Star State for the University of Houston. “Once I met the UH Track and Field coaches, I felt I was truly home,” said Tristan.
Fall 2021
9
Mantanuska Glacier, Alaska
CI
LING THE C R
Cancún, Mexico
Henrys Lake, Idaho
You never know where you might spot a Cougar. Here are just a few pics from some of our alumni who took time to send us a memory from their vacation getaways. Email us at alumni@uh.edu to send us your photos! 10 Alumline
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Maui, Hawaii
Machu Picchu, Peru
Fall 2021
11
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A U T H O R S P OT L I G H T
Linda Feyder (M.A. ’93) F
or alumnus, Linda Feyder (M.A. ’93), her roles as a
psychotherapist and writer go hand in hand in creating impactful and memorable stories. In her new book, All’s Fair and Other California Stories, Linda explores the desire for human connection amongst a diverse group of characters living in Southern
U.S. publisher of contemporary and
exist between writing and psycho-
California. “I had actually begun
recovered literature by US Hispanic
therapy. “In my profession, I enter
formulating the idea for my debut
authors. My mother’s Hispanic
my clients’ worlds to a certain extent
collection of short stories when I was
heritage had always fascinated me,
so I can understand how to help
attending the University of Houston,”
and the fact that this publisher was
them,” said Linda. “In my writing, I
said Linda. “The characters in the
housed at UH gave me another
create characters and the worlds in
book are a compilation of the people
avenue to explore.”
which they live and imagine how they
I encountered or came across when I
After completing her M.A. at UH,
would respond in certain situations.
Linda moved to New York City where
In both scenarios, you are trying to
Born and raised in California,
she began channeling her love for
relate and empathize with individu-
Linda decided to leave the Golden
writing and literature through teach-
als’ real or imagined circumstances.”
State when she enrolled in the
ing. “While I enjoyed teaching, after
While Linda continues to excel
University of Houston’s Creative
several years, I wanted a change,” said
in both her passions, she is currently
Writing program. “While I applied
Linda. “I became very taken with the
working on a historical fiction novel,
to several different schools, the
idea of connecting with people to see
told through the lens of a famous
Creative Writing program at UH
how I could help them. This led me
architect.
included an emphasis on literature,
to obtain my Masters in Social Work,
which attracted me,” said Linda. “I
later becoming a psychotherapist.”
was living in California.”
also became interested in Arte
As a practicing psychotherapist,
Público Press, which is the largest
Linda realizes the similarities that
Linda’s book, All’s Fair and Other California Stories, is available in both paperback or Ebook.
Fall 2021
13
phones and slide rules, or simple hand-held calculators. I bought my first Texas Instruments calculator for $125 that only had basic math functions and some trig functions. We registered for classes in-person on campus at tables that were set up with volunteers to receive our requests. If you were lucky enough to get there early, you got the classes that Left to right: Billy, Dwayne and Tommy
you wanted. After graduation, I received a substantial raise from the construction company where I was working and have since
A FAMILY OF LIFE MEMBERS The Life Member program provides an opportunity for UH alumni to build lasting connections with fellow Coogs,
been able to rise in my profession to Senior General Superintendent, working for a large commercial construction company in the Houston area. I began taking my children to the UH campus to watch ball games during their early years, which introduced them to UH and gave them a feel of college life. My oldest son, William, has also been able to benefit from my UH education by receiving the Legacy Scholarship from UH along with his academic scholarships.
rekindle treasured memories, gain access to a variety of perks
My work has taken me to many different states and
along the way while creating an enduring legacy. We recently
cities throughout the United States and I owe it, in part, to
caught up with three Life Members who share why UH holds such a special place in their hearts. To become a Life Member, please visit houstonalumni.com/lifemember.
TOMMY SNIDER (’84)
the great education that I received from the University of Houston. Go Coogs!
BILLY SNIDER (’11)
Well, my UH experience was certainly different than my two sons. I am the youngest of eight siblings in my family and the
I had a great experience at UH. I had applied to other Texas
only one to graduate from college. My entire college career
universities and got scholarships to go other places. Ulti-
consisted of night and weekend classes that spanned from
mately the UH Legacy Scholarship provided the tipping
1973 to 1984 while working full time on construction sites.
point to make UH the most economical for me, and made the
I started taking engineering classes at South Texas
decision that much easier. I lived on-campus in Cambridge
Junior College for one semester, which was in the old M&M
Oaks apartments. It was a two bedroom with four guys. One
Building in downtown Houston. (now UH Downtown). I
was my best friend from home, and the other one was the
then transferred to the UH Main campus where I eventually
Punter for the football team and his best friend. Having a
graduated. I remember our great sport days of the Southwest
roommate on the football team really made me invest that
Conference where we dominated most sports, especially
much more into UH athletics. To this day, our family is still
football and basketball.
UH Football and Basketball season ticket holders.
We did not have cell phones or computers; only pay 14 Alumline
After I graduated in 2011 with my B.S. in Mechanical
Engineering, I went to work for a local Oil and Gas company,
My dad has a UH class ring that he earned in 1984. There’s
and was always involved in recruiting new graduates. I came
only been a handful of times that I’ve seen him without his
back to campus as often as I could to present at Info Sessions
ring on, and that’s only because it was being cleaned. My
for the Cullen College of Engineering, ASME, NSBE, SWE,
whole life I’ve wanted a ring just like his, but my baseball
IEE, SHPE and many others.
career led me to a different university. After graduating
My company sponsored the UH Engineering Alumni
from that institution, I went to work in the industry for a
EWeek program and the Awards Gala. Through my
few years before I felt the need to continue my education
exposure to that event and other Engineering Alumni
even further. My brother received his UH class ring in 2011,
connections, I made at tailgates, BOSS Party, and Alumni
and I knew this was the perfect opportunity for me to follow
Golf Tournaments. I was eventually asked to join the UH
in their footsteps.
Engineering Alumni Board. I served on the board for several
My time spent at UH as a student was quite different from
years and really enjoyed giving back to the Cullen College
my dad and brother’s experience because of the COVID-19
more directly.
pandemic. Most of my classes ended up being online, but I
At that point, I was ready to commit to becoming a Life
was able to make some good friends to study with every day
Member. However, my dad beat me to it and gave me a full
via the internet. However, since I grew up going to the UH
membership for Christmas! I proudly wear my UH ring daily,
campus countless times during the years, I still feel as though
fly a UH flag at home on game days, wear red on Fridays,
I have a good understanding of what life is like as a student.
and have my Life Member decal on my truck. I really enjoy
What’s even better is that I have a unique understanding of
the Life Member tailgates, exclusive events and giveaways,
what life is like growing up in a UH family.
and the platform Life Membership provides to network with other Cougars.
I graduated in the Spring of 2021 with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Technology from the same college that my
You never know who you are going to meet, and how they
dad graduated from 37 years ago, coincidentally, which is the
can help you in the future. I now have a son of my own and
last time UH Basketball was in the Final Four. My dad and
was able to bring him to center court at the Fertitta Center
brother have been the two most influential people in my life,
with my dad at one of the Life Member appreciation events-
and I couldn’t be more proud to finally wear the same UH
a truly special moment in our Snider UH Legacy.
class ring as they do.
DWAYNE SNIDER (’21) My dad always took my brother and I to any UH sporting event possible as we were growing up. Not only us, he organized to take my entire little league team to baseball games each year as well. He was not just supporting and promoting UH to our family, but also to our community. I’ve had countless friends attend and graduate from UH in recent years. I have to believe my dad had some influence on them since they all grew up going with us to UH events and saw my family decked out in UH gear all the time.
LEVERAGE THE POWER OF YOUR NETWORK • Tap into the UH alumni community and expand your professional network • Volunteer as a mentor and offer advice to fellow alumni • Post jobs for your company and recruit UH alumni • Plot your next career move and browse new job opportunities • Get involved with UHAA and join one of our Alumni Associations
VISIT COOGSCONNECT.COM TODAY!
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Fall 2021
17
Making a Difference At the University of Houston, our graduates go on to become leaders in their own right, working to tackle the problems of today and find the solutions for tomorrow. The alumni below are shining examples of what it means to step up and take action.
When Crystal recovered, she began wondering if her peers faced similar obstacles when it came to their health. “I started asking my friends and other female students if they had encountered any roadblocks when it came to their health care,” said Crystal. “Across the board, I found that the majority had challenges in getting the right information and receiving timely care.” After determining that there was a legitimate need for a healthcare service tailored to young women’s health care needs, Crystal contacted developers to help execute her vision. “At first, the platform was used for chat purposes
Crystal Adesanya (’15)
then it gradually turned into a telemedicine experience” said Crystal. “We launched the pilot in 2019 with the official
hen Crystal Adesanya (’15) first arrived to the UH
launch following in 2020. Strangely enough, we launched at
campus back in 2010, she had dreams of wanting
the right time. With the pandemic just hitting, many health
to solve big problems. Little did she know that she would
care facilities were not offering in-person visits so people
be doing exactly that by overcoming a personal challenge.
had to rely on virtual consultation.”
W
“I came to the University of Houston from Nigeria,” said
To date, Crystal’s company, Kiira Health, focuses on pro-
Crystal. “Because I had family in Houston, and the season-
viding a safe, confidential platform for women at colleges
ably warm weather was to my liking, UH seemed to be the
and universities. The platform offers 24/7 phone, video, and
right choice.” As an international student, Crystal began to
chat capabilities with primary care, OB/GYN and mental
acclimate to her surroundings and form strong relationships
health clinicians through a mobile app. “The dedication, love
with her fellow students. “The diversity of the University
and passion that my team stands by is what sets us apart,”
made it very easy for me to adapt and find my niche,” said
said Crystal.
Crystal.
Crystal is currently working with colleges and universi-
During Crystal’s freshman year, she began experiencing
ties in California and New York and plans to expand Kiira
abdominal pain and found it difficult to obtain information
Health to other colleges and universities in the future. “We
and receive medical attention. “I come from a conservative
have not even scratched the surface,” said Crystal. “We want
background and openly discussing personal medical issues
to be there to help young women achieve positive health
is not something that I was very comfortable doing,” said
outcomes. The key is introducing them to good health care
Crystal. “After trying to self-medicate, I ended up having
at an early age to set the foundation for lifelong positive
emergency surgery.”
women’s health.”
18 Alumline
in transporting decedents from private homes, hospitals and morgues to their final resting place. “I was working in the Supply Chain area when I received a mass email that California was in desperate need of help,” said Dylan. “I voluntarily relocated to California where I was immediately put to work.” While challenging at times, Kiira Health website – kiira.io
Since launching Kiira Health in 2019, Mrs. Adesanya has
Dylan became very focused on his role. “At first, it was quite overwhelming,” said Dylan. “I had to concentrate on the importance of what I was called there to do.”
raised close to $4M in venture capital from leading investors
After two weeks serving as a first responder, Dylan
like Serena Ventures, 500 startups and more. She has also
returned to Houston and resumed his role at SCI. Looking
been named in the class of 2021 Forbes’ “30 Under 30” in
back, Dylan is grateful for the experience and credits the
the healthcare list.
education he received from UH in helping him navigate. “I realized there are always different perspectives in every situation,” said Dylan. “I was able to meet and work with all types of people and learn from them.”
“It is better to have a meaningful life and make a difference than to merely have a long life.” Dylan Nguyen (UHCL ’18, M.B.A. ’21)
T
Bryant H. McGill
hroughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen many members of our community step up and assist
where needed. For Dylan Nguyen (UHCL ’18, M.B.A. ’21), that entailed moving to another state and helping others lay their loved ones to rest. Working at Service Corporation International (SCI), the leading provider of funeral, cremation and cemetery services, Dylan answered the call when he received word that the state of California needed assistance
Fall 2021
19
FIRST GENERATION Alumni Association
President: Eduardo Arzate (’20) Vice President: Katrina Ortega (’19) Marketing: Margarita Lerma (MSW ’18)
make it happen,” said Katrina. “As a First Generation graduate, I can appreciate the challenges that those of us face by not having family who are familiar with our journey.” Using the experience, she gained from participating
Treasurer: Jared Wilson (’20)
in the Hispanic Alumni Association, Katrina was able to
Secretary: Alicia Herrera (’17)
spread the word and work with UHAA to establish a Board.
A
t UHAA, we believe there is a place for all Cougars. With over 40 active Alumni Associations, UH
alumni have opportunities to connect with fellow Coogs based on the college they attended, shared interest or geography. Through their volunteerism, philanthropy and participation, our Alumni Associations play a crucial role in fueling the University’s spirited culture and enduring legacy. We recently caught up with the Vice President of the First Generation Alumni Association, Katrina Ortega (’19), to learn how they are fostering connections and engaging
Katrina Ortega (’19)
their members. “We were chartered in December 2020 and began meeting virtually due to the pandemic,” said Katrina. “We had our first virtual event last March; a March Madness Watch party.” When asked what advice she would give to those Alumni Associations who are just starting, Katrina advises that passion amongst members is key. “You have to attract members who are passionate about your mission so you can lead together and collaborate.” In addition to providing First Generation Alumni with the information and resources to be successful post-graduation, such as networking and mentoring opportunities, (Left) Eduardo Arzate (’20)
Katrina and her Board are hoping to establish a scholarship that provides graduating students with their cap and gown.
“When I was first approached by the UH advisor who
If you would like to get involved with one of our Alumni
manages the First Generation Coogs student organization
Associations or are interested in establishing your own
about my interest in forming a First Generation Alumni
group, please reach out to Beth Borck at 713-743-9927 or
Association, I immediately wanted to do what I could to
bkborck@uh.edu.
20 Alumline
UH Alumni Oral History Project Last spring, UHAA invited alumni to participate in the creation of an oral history publication that unites Cougars across the generations. Thanks to your involvement in our Oral History Project, we were able to collect thousands of stories that will help preserve the UH legacy for years to come.
21,157
14,954
Respondents
Stories Collected
19,520
29,860
Email Addresses Updated
Phone Numbers Updated
UofH - OGP AD - V3.pdf
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YEAR-END GIFT STRATEGIES FOR GIVING BACK WHILE SAVING ON TAXES Here are strategies that can lower your tax bill and help you achieve your philanthropic goals GIVE APPRECIATED STOCK You will receive a charitable deduction based on the Fair Market Value of the stock on the day it was transferred to UH, and you’ll completely avoid capital gains tax. MAX OUT YOUR CHARITABLE DEDUCTION Take advantage of extended limitation on charitable deductions – up to 100% of AGI. MAKE A GIFT THROUGH RETIREMENT PLAN If you are 70 ½ year of age, you can make a Qualified Charitable Deduction (QCD) from your IRA up to $100,000 annually. MAKE A GIFT THAT PAYS YOU FIXED INCOME FOR LIFE Establish a Charitable Gift Annuity and receive a dependable fixed payments for life, while you will be eligible for charitable income tax deduction this year. WANT MORE TAX SAVING IDEAS? Please feel free to contact Andrea Olczak at 713-743-6313 or giftplanning@uh.edu
giftplanning.uh.edu
Helping Businesses
Launch Dreams
W
the high points in my life,” said Travis. “I met my wife there, who was also a Law student. I think the experience taught me to analyze complex issues from different angles.” Once Travis graduated from the UHLC, he began working for a law firm. “While I enjoyed the various aspects of my cases, I really developed an affinity toward the startups,” said Travis. “The passion and enthusiasm of these clients were contagious. I wanted to help businesses fulfill their main mission without having to worry about all the paperwork and regulations.”
hen Travis Crabtree (’00) graduated from the University of Missouri in the mid-1990s, he accepted
a position at a local news affiliate in Eastern Iowa, covering news and sports. Once Travis arrived, it didn’t take long for his interest to gravitate toward the legislative aspect of news, making him wonder if he was truly fulfilling his passion. “The more I became drawn to the legislative/trial type of news, the more I started to contemplate if I was really
Travis Crabtree (’00)
making an impact,” said Travis. “I began taking LSAT prac-
As Travis began working more with startups, he came
tice tests whenever I had the chance and decided to take
across two individuals who shared the same passion.
the real test at the University of Northern Iowa one
“With my legal background and my partners’ market-
day when I had off. When I found out that I received
ing and tech expertise, we set out on a quest to help
an acceptable score, I made the decision to return
businesses realize their true potential,” said Travis.
to my hometown and enroll in the University of Houston Law Center (UHLC).”
In 2016, Travis signed on as President of Swyft Filings. Recently named for the second year in a
Once at the UHLC, Travis started to form
row to Inc. Magazine’s list of the fastest growing
strong relationships with his fellow classmates
companies in the U.S., Swyft Filings is an online
and appreciate the knowledge and expertise of
business incorporation and compliance provider
his professors. “The UHLC was definitely one of
that has helped more than 100,000 entrepreneurs
22 Alumline
start and grow their businesses. “During the pandemic, we
“I ended up hiring my mentee and have since hired another
awarded five $1,000 grants to some small businesses,” said
graduate. We (Swyft Filings) made a donation to the Wolff
Travis. “We also were able to help some businesses while
Center so it can continue preparing students for the com-
enhancing our work culture. We invited a Pilates instructor
petitive landscape.”
to hold a class online and also held an online belly-dancing class taught by our customers.” The commitment and dedication that Travis has for both his clients and staff is just one of the reasons he was named
Swyft Filings is a member of the University
a 2021 Most Admired CEO by the Houston Business Journal.
of Houston’s Cougar 100 that recognizes the
“We are blessed with a great team who are empowered to
fastest growing Cougar owned and operated
help businesses concentrate on what they are called to do,”
businesses. To learn how your business can
said Travis.
participate, contact David Palomo at
While Travis continues to help businesses thrive, he also
713-743-4336 or dmpalomo@uh.edu.
finds time to help the next generation of up-and-coming leaders at the University of Houston’s Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship. “I thoroughly enjoyed my time mentoring students at the Wolff Center,” said Travis.
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