Spring 2020 Alumline | UHAA

Spring 2020 A Magazine for UH Alumni

A Look Back in Time

Couple in the Quadrangle courtyard. Special Collections, University of Houston Libraries. University of Houston Digital Library. Web. March 27, 2020. https://digital.lib.uh.edu/collection/p15195coll3/item/266

A couple poses in the Quadrangle courtyard. The Quadrangle is a courtyard area containing five distinct coed dorms: Bates, Law, Oberholtzer, Settegast, and Taub.

All five residence halls were designed by architect Lamar Cato and occupied in 1949. You can learn about the University’s renovation of the Quad on page 12.

Dear UH Cougar Nation, With the onset of COVID-19, I know that we are in a very interesting place as of late. In my role as your UH Alumni Association Foundation President, I am in regular contact with the Alumni Association team, and together, we are closely monitoring the latest news and information regarding COVID-19. To this end, steps have been undertaken to safeguard the health and safety of our entire

Alumni Association Foundation Board of Directors Laurie Rutherford (’86, M.B.A. ’91, M.S. ’04) President Brent Chinn (FS ’82) Immediate Past-President

UH Cougar community.

Drue DaSilva (’93, M.S. ’99) Incoming President

As advised by health experts, the University is recommending social

Wayne Luckett (’74) Secretary

distancing and has canceled all University-sponsored events through July.

The Alumni Association has been in communication with alumni constituent

Michael Sachs (’97) Treasurer

group leaders and is working with them to find future dates for their events.

Shazia Khan (’84) Executive Committee Member at Large

To further ensure everyone’s welfare during this time, this year’s 66th Annual

Erik Barajas (’99)

Alumni Awards Gala has been postponed and will be held Friday, November 13

Katy Caldwell (’78)

at Bayou City Event Center.

Judy Chong (’69, ’76) Cynthia Oliver Coleman (’71)

While risk is all around us, and this type of situation causes us to change our

Lisa Cushing (’01)

daily routines, I can assure that you that, as UH Cougars, we will get through

Amanda Heath (’02)

this together and come out better for our caution, diligence and perseverance;

Bill Hickl (’86)

after all, we are a resilient UH Cougar Nation! In the meantime, we will continue

James Hong (’05)

working on making your engagement with the University as rewarding and

Thomas May (’88)

meaningful as it can be.

Margo Massad Kaplan (’03) Darryl Schroeder (’69)

Until then, I wish you good health and safety. I look forward to connecting with you at future events. I hope this issue of Alumline will remind you of how fortunate we are to be in the company of each other, especially now. As Coogs,

Sharon Spillman (’97, M.Ed. ’03, Ed.D. ’11) David Roland (’83) Richard Whiteley (’93, J.D. ’99)

we make our beloved alma mater a very special place.

Eloise Dunn Brice Ex Officio, Vice President for University Advancement

Be safe and Go Coogs!

Charlene Johnson (’91) Ex Officio, President’s Council

True we’ll ever be,

Mike Pede (’89) Ex Officio, Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations & UHAA Darren Randle (’12 M.A. ’14) Ex Officio, Young Alumni Association Chair

Laurie Rutherford (’86, M.B.A. ’91, M.S. ’04) President, University of Houston Association Foundation Board

Alumline Special Contributors

Contents

Pamela Gibbs-Smith Editor

Alumni Network to Watch

Megan Broussard Editorial Assistant Xaymara Garza (’17) Photographer

University of Houston Alumni Association Staff

Meet the leaders of the Young Alumni Association and their plans to reignite Cougar spirit.

14

Mike Pede (’89) Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations & UHAA mlpede@uh.edu

Four Under 40

Chuck Arnold (’94) Director of Alumni Relations cwarnold@uh.edu

Get to know four dynamic alumni who are making their mark in Houston and beyond.

Nancy Clark (’76), CFRE Alumni Legacy Programs Officer (Parades, Rodeo, Historian, Class Notes) nvclark@uh.edu Joseph Rera Program Director (Constituent Associations, Scholarships, Party on the Plaza) jfrera@uh.edu

20

Kendra Hakanson Program Director (Travel Program, Signature Events, Away Tailgates) kahakanson@uh.edu

Wine 101 With Wayne

Anneka Roberson Executive Administrative Assistant arroberson@uh.edu

Learn how one alumnus is bringing a taste of culture to the wine industry.

Kirstyn Speich (’16) Life Member Manager klspeich@uh.edu Jarred Fancher Program Manager (Cougar 100, Class Rings, Corporate Partnerships) jwfanche@uh.edu Lindsey Allison Program Manager (Constituent Associations) lallison@uh.edu Elaine Duke Program Coordinator (Alumni Center & Student Programming) evduke@uh.edu

32 6 8 12 30

Spotted: Professional Athletes Paying It Forward Did You Know?

UH Shines at the Grammys

Carolyn Hartmann Communications Director cwhartma@uh.edu Justin Carrier Graphic Designer jcarrier@uh.edu

A digital version of Alumline is available online at HoustonAlumni.com/Alumline.

Welcome to the

LIFE MEMBER FAMILY! Jason Payne

Philip Schulze

(’99, J.D. ’02)

(’94)

Mayra Castillo Why did you join?

(’19)

Lauren Potter Why did you join?

“I became a Life Member

“I became a Life Member to

to connect with my fellow

support our great University.

alums and actively give back to the school that gave me so much.”

Favorite aspect of being a Life Member?

“My favorite thing about being a Life Member is being able to attend exclusive events with other

I have so many memories from my time as a student, including meeting my wife of 25 years, Leslie. I have a deep connection to the University, that always brings me back.”

(’15)

Favorite aspect of being a Life Member?

“The tailgates at football games are the best, and it gives me a great excuse to stay in touch with fellow

people who are just as

alums at an event I will

excited about the University

already be attending.”

of Houston as I am!”

Learn more by visiting HoustonAlumni.com/LifeMember

PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES Many familiar athletes that we all know and love got their start at the University of Houston. From homecomings to player reunions, these Coogs are making their mark in Houston and in cities like Cincinnati, Phoenix, Tampa Bay and more!

See who you can spot.

BNER E E H H A N N

SAVA 06) ’ ( E L T T NCHO LY

SA

This Cougar had an impressive 15 season career in the WNBA, which started with the Houston Comets and completed with the Phoenix Mercury. Lyttle retired in 2019 and tied for sixth on the WNBA all-time steals list with 634 career steals.

6 Alumline

(’19)

Heeber played softball as a pitcher/first baseman at the University, and upon graduation; became the seventh player in UH Softball history to be drafted by an NPF team; the first since 2014.

WILLIAM

7) 1 ’ ( I I I N JACKSO

(’13) T T I U R P AUSTIN Austin Pruitt returned to his hometown after the Astros acquired him from the Rays in January 2020. Pruitt went to high school in Houston and pitched for UH before being drafted in 2013.

(’16) N O S L I NDON W

BRA

These Cougars played football at UH and are now paving their way in the NFL together! Check out these alumni who played together as cornerbacks at UH and are now on the Cincinnati Bengals. True We’ll Ever Be!

These are just a few of the outstanding professional athletes who further developed their careers and education at UH. We are proud of the talent that we have seen over the years and look forward to spotting more Cougars in the future.

Spring 2020

7

8 Alumline

Paying It Forward

ushion McDonald (’83) grew

ability to ignore naysayers and

up in the Fifth Ward district

remain open-minded about the

of Houston, Texas, as the middle

future to his time at UH. While still

child of nine with six sisters and two

in college, McDonald served as an

brothers. Despite his humble begin-

administrative accountant at IBM,

nings, McDonald learned to never

a position, which grew into a five-

let other people’s expectations limit

year career. During McDonald’s final

his dreams and opportunities. “We

years at IBM, he tried his hand at

never attain success all on our own.

stand-up comedy. Winning the title

As a teenager, two of my high school

of Showtime’s “Funniest Person in

teachers — Georgia Nelson in the

Texas” for three consecutive years,

math department and Linda Traylor

McDonald went on to compete for

in biology — took a particular inter-

“Funniest Person in America,” losing

est in me, and, made an enormous dif-

in the finals to Ellen DeGeneres.

R

ference in my life. I owe the fact that I graduated from the University of Houston, with a major in mathematics and a minor in Sociology, to their support and mentorship,” McDonald said. From an early age, McDonald had a keen understanding of making his own way; whether it was selling photos of couples at parties in high school or making pizzas in his dorm room in college. He pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc and planned many large scaled on-campus parties and charitable community events, which would later fuel his success in marketing and branding.

McDonald credits his drive and

“I recognize that we all have different definitions of success. For some, it’s a sizable paycheck. For others, it’s living a purposeful life or enjoying close personal relationships or expressing their creativity. (It’s all of those things — and more — for me.) Helping people wake up and inspiring them to succeed by accomplishing their business goals and living their very best lives are my passions; and that’s what I have been doing all of my life and it started when I enrolled at the University of Houston.”

Spring 2020

9

and three-time NAACP Image Award

Since 2014, McDonald has helped

Winner. He recently launched Money

14 gifted female students at UH

Making Conversations talk shows

complete their studies in Chemistry,

for entrepreneurship and entertain-

Mathematics, Physics and Optometry.

ment. The interviews give the con-

“My scholarship is for both men and

sumer and business owners access

women, but my wife and I wanted to

to Celebrities, CEOs, Entrepreneurs,

make sure that women are given the

and Industry Decision Makers. They

chance to pursue STEM opportuni-

provide relatable information to the

ties academically,” said McDonald.

listener about career and financial

Most recently, Rushion and his

planning, entrepreneurship, motiva-

wife, Cicely (’86, OD ’87) gifted UH

tion, leadership, overcoming the odds,

with a $250,000 scholarship endow-

and how to live a balanced life. While

ment. The McDonald Endowed

In 1986, McDonald met Steve

McDonald built an exceptional career

Scholarship will provide countless

Harvey, who was his opening act.

in the entertainment world, he never

generations of students with the

Over the next few years, McDonald

forgot the University of Houston, the

opportunity to realize their dreams

fully realized Harvey’s true talent and

place where his story began, the place

and contribute to their communities.

passion. Accordingly, McDonald put

where he fell in love with his wife —

“Many scholars and policymakers

his stand-up comedy career aside and

the place, that helped him so much.

have noted that the fields of science,

jumped at the opportunity to become

“After mentoring and motivating

technology, engineering, and math-

a writer on Harvey’s new ABC show

thousands of people both in-person

ematics (STEM) have remained pre-

called “Me and the Boys.” Within

and in media appearances over the

dominantly male with historically

the next 30 years, McDonald and

course of my career, I am positioning

low participation among women

Harvey would build a media empire

students to learn the powerful lessons

since the origins of these fields.

that included the #1 syndicated Steve

that changed my life when I attended

“Change can only come about by cre-

Harvey Morning Show, #1 new syn-

the University of Houston. I want

ating opportunity. This scholarship is

dicated Steve Harvey Talk Show

people to embrace their passions and

one positive step in paying it forward,”

series, and #1 syndicated Family Feud

fulfill their dreams. I want them to

said McDonald.

game show series; three consecutive

trust and lead with their gifts!”

#1 New York Times best-selling books, Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man, Straight Talk, No Chaser and Act Like a Success, Think Like a Success; and #1 blockbuster movies, Think Like a Man and Think Like a Man Too. Today, McDonald is business manager for ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith and holds the titles of a two-time Emmy Award Winning TV Producer 10 Alumline

Left to right: McDonald’s wife, Cicely McDonald (’86, O.D. ’87); daughter, Christiana McDonald (’21); and sister, Carolyn Burnley.

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Cougar Emergency Fund As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact our

In support of this effort, some members of the UH

region and beyond, the University of Houston is taking

community have reached out to assist students during

the necessary steps to ensure that its students can continue

this unprecedented time. Through a new matching fund

their education. In April, the University launched the

sponsored by the UH Foundation and its James Wade

Cougar Emergency Fund to assist eligible students facing

Rockwell Endowment, all gifts made to the Cougar

unanticipated financial hardships due to the health

Emergency Fund will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to a

crisis. Eligible students include those currently enrolled

total of $500,000.

in undergraduate or graduate courses who are in good standing, with priority given to those enrolled full time.

If you would like to learn more about the Cougar Emergency Fund and how you can help, please visit:

The Cougar Emergency Fund may help cover expenses related to: • Costs related to loss of wages (past due utilities, unpaid rent, childcare) • Medical expenses • Food • Housing (deposits, unexpected moving expenses and emergency lodging) • Utilities (application, initiation and deposit fees) • Technology (internet costs, increased data needs, software) • Tuition assistance (including summer sessions) • Course materials (textbooks and other required materials)

12 Alumline

uh.edu/dsaes/cef.

Supporting Our Alumni Many Cougar-owned or operated businesses are facing new challenges brought on by COVID-19. As social

Join the Cougar Business Network

distancing guidelines continue, some establishments

Small businesses are generally considered the backbone of

such as restaurants have transitioned to different modes

American ingenuity and impact local economies in

of service. During this unique time, the UH Alumni

cities and towns across the country. This is a key reason

Association (UHAA) is using its resources to help Cougar

why the UHAA wants to ensure the success of our Cougar-

businesses maximize their promotional outreach efforts.

owned or operated businesses. In this effort, we have

“We have the communication platforms and reach available

expanded our Cougar Business Network to further support

to get the word out about the special offers and discounts

Cougars doing business with Cougars.

these businesses are offering to alumni,” said Mike Pede (’89), Associate VP for UH Alumni Relations. I want our

If your business would like to be added to our online

alumni to know that we are there for them when the going

Cougar Business Network Directory, please visit

gets rough.”

houstonalumni.com/business-network to submit your information. Please contact Jarred Fancher at:

Cougar-owned or operated businesses are welcome to

jwfancher@uh.edu or 713-743-7849 for information.

send their promotional information to alumni@uh.edu.

The listing of special offers and discounts we have received from restaurants in the area can be found at: houstonalumni.com/partners/catering-partners.

Spring 2020

13

Alumni Network to Watch Our young alumni — those who have graduated in the last 10 years or who are under 35 years of age — represent some of the most involved, passionate and dedicated individuals at the University of Houston. The Young Alumni Association is the primary leadership group leading the cause for engaging, encouraging and educating our more than 55,000 young alumni community members. The UH Alumni Association will lead the programming that serves as the pipeline to expand the UH connection beyond graduation through fun and impactful events, professional networking opportunities, and career development.

Get to know our newest network who aims to reignite Cougar spirit.

You may not walk through Wilhelmina Grove or the Satellite, but your time as a Coog doesn’t have to end.

14 Alumline

How do you plan to connect to the young alumni base?

Our council has placed a priority on organizing events that provide addedvalue to the UH young alumni. Whether it is a networking happy hour, lifestyles programs focused on first-time homebuying process, cooking classes or financial management — we want our focus to be on supporting the transition

Darren Randle (’12, M.A. ’14)

from college to the next stage of life. These are just a few ways we’re able to use

CHAIR

the UHAA platform to make an impact.

What areas of engagement are your main focus?

I’ve also always had a heart to give back, and that is one of the primary reasons I wanted to serve on the Young Alumni Council. We will be focusing some of our efforts on supporting athletics, rallying young alumni to attend games and events surrounding athletics. We also will have a focus on giving back to the University and to the neighborhoods and communities around the campus.

Scott Black (’13) VICE CHAIR

Sales pitch time: Why should alumni get involved with the Young Alumni Association?

Alumni are ambassadors of the University. When you wear a UH t-shirt or proudly display your degree on your office wall, people automatically assume you know everything that is going on at the University. What better way to stay

Taylor Ballard (’14, M.A. ’17)

in the loop than to get involved in the Alumni Association! You are already a member so just show up to an event and start connecting with other alumni and students. The Alumni Association also provides so many opportunities for alumni to give back to the University, volunteering with students, service days, and so much more. Why not pay it forward for future Coogs? Most importantly, getting involved is the best way to show your Cougar Pride! Once a Coog, always a Coog. And to thy memory cherished, true we’ll ever be.

Spring 2020

15

For those who were not as involved on-campus during their undergrad, how do you plan to encourage them to get involved as alumni?

For those who were not as involved on-campus during their undergrad, we plan to encourage them by having different events throughout the year. We plan on

Edward Carrizales (’13)

hosting tailgates with UH Athletics, have workshops that will help them in their career and community service events. This is a great way to get involved and meet other alumni from different backgrounds in order to grow networking opportunities down the road.

What would you consider one of the biggest struggles with life after college?

After graduation, depression is a very real thing and comes in many forms.

One of the biggest struggles with life after college is adjusting to the fact that you’re no longer a student. While some might find this transition easy, it definitely wasn’t for me. Having been very involved in college, my biggest

Mayra Castillo (’19)

struggle was that I was no longer able to contribute to the University in the ways I was used to. However, being apart of the Young Alumni Council has given me the opportunity to give back in ways that fulfill that precious void.

What do you enjoy most about re-establishing a Young Alumni Association?

What I enjoy is the idea that the University is understanding and identifying that young alumni have a voice and also want to give us a place to feel included. I love that young alumni now have an opportunity to connect with

Cherika Edwards (’13)

the University and also an opportunity to connect with other alumni that they probably never had the chance to connect with at the University.

16 Alumline

Of all the programs or events you have planned, what are you most excited about and why?

I am most excited for the UH Cougar Athletic Alliance (UHCAA) Golf Tournament and The UH Young Alumni Council (YAC) events. The Golf Tournament is a scholarship fundraiser for UH students that has unique

Seante Monique Johnson (’14)

elements for its participants to enjoy. YAC events bring together and support UH students and alumni.

What will you consider success for this group in the next year?

The goal of the Young Alumni Council is for recent graduates to engage with the University of Houston Alumni Association. I believe our success can come in many different forms, whether it is by connecting graduates with an alumni group they are interested in, having them attend one of our events, or helping

Zachary Maher (’16)

them become a Life Member.

What would you consider unique about the work this Young Alumni Council does?

I am a proud Legacy Cougar, but my mother’s time on campus as a student was so different than the UH I attended. Our young alumni have this shared experience of watching the University of Houston make huge strides in the last

Kaitlyn Palividas (’17)

10 years, including fantastic academic achievements with a Tier 1 Research status, increased scholarship opportunities and a Phi Beta Kappa chapter, campus improvements with new state-of-the-art dorms, classrooms and sports venues as well as a clearly evident culture shift among students.

Spring 2020

17

What do you think are the most pressing issues for young professionals today?

Employees want a certain amount of experience and will compare candidates for their years of experience related to the job. As young professionals climb up the corporate ladder, they may get lost in their work. Late night, evening or

Paul Sierra II (’12)

weekend functions can fill their calendars, creating burn-out or an unhealthy cycle of job-hopping due to not protecting their boundaries in the work place.

Social skills are getting lost in our world of new technology.

Why did you decide to volunteer?

I honestly would not be where I am today — both personally and professionally — without the education I received from the University of Houston. As a young alumna, I don’t have a lot of “treasure” to give, but I can donate my time. Volunteering with current students and recent graduates give me an opportunity to do this for those seeking a similar career path.

18 Alumline

Kaitlyn Venable (’12)

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22 Alumline

I

f you have ever heard the

keep in touch with my professors.”

occasion,” said McDonald. “I apply

saying, “rise to the occasion,”

After graduating, McDonald accepted

this same rule of thumb to my pro-

Steven McDonald (’05) could coin

a position as band director at a high

fessional life.”

the phrase. Serving as Wine Direc-

school in Spring, Texas. It was not

When asked what motto he lives

tor, with the Master Sommelier

too long that McDonald began to

by, McDonald keeps it simple. “As

credential, at Pappas Bros. Steak-

feel burnt-out, deciding to move to

long as I can pay my bills, and my

house, McDonald has earned a

New York with his wife. “I came to

children are happy, life is good,” said

well-respected reputation in a very

New York without a job, not really

McDonald. “I think today’s genera-

competitive industry. The Master

knowing what I was going to do,” said

tion tries to set thresholds that leave

Sommelier diploma is the highest

McDonald. “My brothers worked in

them feeling disillusioned. As long as

distinction a professional can attain

the restaurant business so I thought I

you continue to make learning a key

in fine wine and beverage service.

would give that a try.”

priority, all will fall into place.”

Testing is focused on the areas needed

Once McDonald got his feet wet,

for superior beverage department

he became intrigued with the wine

management, which include Tasting,

facet of the hospitality field and

Theory, Service. There are roughly

decided to start studying for the

279 professionals worldwide who

Master Sommelier exam. After six

have received the coveted title of

tries, McDonald passed the grueling

Master Sommelier. For McDonald,

test. His victory was short-lived due

achieving this level of professional

to the tasting portion of the Somme-

success has been a journey of hard

lier exam being compromised, result-

work and determination.

ing in McDonald having to retake

McDonald graduated from UH

the tasting portion of the exam. In

with a bachelor’s degree in music. “I

this case, the seventh time is a charm.

chose UH for its premiere music

McDonald passed and received his

program and was so fortunate to be

Master Sommelier pin in 2018. “As

in the company of legendary band

I practiced at UH, I always made it

director, Eddie Green and Associate

a point to surround myself with the

Professor of Music, David Bertman,”

best and put myself in situations

said McDonald. “To this day, I still

where I would have to rise to the

Spring 2020

23

24 Alumline

I

love my commute,” said Cory

her to apply. Owen credits Professor

practice was ideal,” said Owen. “I

Owen (UHCL M.A. ’10, Ed.D. ’15),

Emeritus Alexander Schilt, former

absolutely love what I do. I tell people

as she describes her daily walk to

chancellor of the UH System, for

that if I ever win the lottery, the only

work each morning. “Living in New

helping her understand and appre-

thing that I will have to change will

York City, I am able to see the seasons

ciate the value of community. “He

be my wardrobe.” Owen’s passion and

change and hear the birds sing.” This

helped fostered a strong bond among

commitment to her job carries over

aura of positivity exudes from UH

our student cohort and was the main

into her enthusiasm toward her alma

alumna, Cory Owen, no matter the

reason why we all chose to stay the

mater. “The University of Houston

topic of conversation. Serving as the

course and complete our education,”

has truly transformed the fabric of

Associate Dean of Student Develop-

said Owen. “The faculty at UH treat

the city,” Said Owen. “We have a very

ment at The Juilliard School, Owen

you like unique individuals. I never

strong UH network in New York, and

channels her contagious optimism

once felt like a number.”

I really cherish the friendships that I

into helping students navigate the

While earning her doctorate,

academic landscape at the world-fa-

Owen became interested in cultural

When asked if she lives by a certain

mous performing arts school. “I have

identity and the influence of percep-

motto, Owen said that “working hard

always been a proponent of human

tions and stereotypes of Asian Ameri-

and playing hard” come to mind. “I

connection, and the opportunity to

cans. “As a multi-racial woman, I have

have the luxury of integrating my

connect with these students and help

had to come to terms with my own

professional life with my personal

them be successful is a dream come

identity,” said Owen. Owen contin-

life,” said Owen. “I see students during

true for me,” said Owen.

ues to explore this area of study and

the day and then go see them perform

Owen began fine-tuning her

has contributed to Affecting Mental

in other venues around town, such as

career aspirations while working as

Health Issues Affecting International

Broadway. I could not ask for more.”

a Senior International Advisor and

Students, edited by Patricia A. Burak.

Residential Advisor at Rice Univer-

She also will be unveiling her new

sity. Knowing her interest in higher

book, Advising International Students

ed and student interaction, Owen’s

with Disabilities in May 2020.

former boss, Dr. Adria Baker, told

Owen credits her career success

her about the University of Houston’s

to the pragmatic nature of UH aca-

graduate program in Administration

demics. “The ability to take what you

and Supervision and encouraged

learn and transform it into everyday

have made with other Coogs.”

Spring 2020

25

26 Alumline

F

or many of us, birthdays come

and go. For UH alumna, Seante

that she had to create a nonprofit that celebrated birthdays.

Johnson also credits her mother for her business acumen and phil-

Johnson (’14), birthdays are an every-

After Johnson graduated from the

anthropic spirit. “My mother is an

day way of life. Since childhood,

Conrad N. Hilton College and com-

entrepreneur, with a Bachelor’s in

Seante has always had wonderful

pleted her Nonprofit Management

Business Administration. “My mom

birthday celebrations. One day, her

Certification through the UH Non-

is one of my business mentors and

mother told her about a little girl who

profit Leadership Alliance, she began

has taught me, by example, to have

was so sad because it was her birthday,

honing her skills by working in the

empathy for those who are less for-

and she would be at Seante’s party

nonprofit sector. She was laid off in

tunate”, said Johnson.

standing around all alone. It touched

2016, and used that as an opportunity

When asked about her future,

young Seante’s heart, and she never

to work on the business plan for the

Johnson answers quite emphati-

forgot it.

nonprofit. In 2018, she received the

cally, “I hope one day to go back to

One memorable birthday began

501(c)(3) designation for Birthday

school,” said Johnson. “I would like

the pathway to a successful career. “I

Bash Box, a Literacy and Social-Emo-

to be a professor at the University

was serving as a Resident Advisor in

tional Learning experience through

of Houston and teach on the topic

Moody Towers when my RA friends

birthday celebrations for children.

of building successful philanthropic

gave me a surprise birthday cele-

She celebrated the birthdays of 654

businesses while keeping in mind

bration,” said Johnson “I will never

children in 2019, her first year of

the need for hospitality in a non-

forget how their kindness made me

programming and hopes to celebrate

profit’s generosity. The University of

feel. After that celebration, I decided

even more in the second year.

Houston is an important part of my

to start celebrating the birthdays

Johnson attributes the success of

life. I currently serve on two alumni

of all of the residents on my floor. I

Birthday Box Bash to her time and

constituent groups; the UH Alumni

wanted to make everyone feel special

connection with UH. “Everything I

Young Alumni Council and the exec-

and loved.”

am is UH,” said Johnson. Since gradu-

utive board of the UH Cougar Ath-

Seante had no idea that “birth-

ating, Johnson has participated in the

letic Alliance.

days” in some form or fashion would

SURE™ Program at the C. T. Bauer

“I have received enormous support

occupy a very special place in her life.

College of Business, which provides

from my various connections at UH,”

However, after reflecting and seeing

educational modules and mentor-

said Johnson. Being able to give back

the joy of her residents when their

ship for businesses in their beginning

in this way would be icing on the

birthdays were celebrated, she knew

stages of development.

cake!”

Spring 2020

27

28 Alumline

F

or Jackie Battle (’06), his career

called “Philanthropy” that combines

Yes, I had the money and the cars, but

path may have started at UH but

business with charity,” said Battle.

it wasn’t fulfilling me. Now, I have

ultimately ended with a call to action

“When I decided to retire from the

the chance to help others and make

to help others. Battle came to the UH

Tennessee Titans, I wanted to give

a difference.”

on a football scholarship. “I was so

Christine the opportunity to live

fortunate to receive the opportunity

her dream so we decided to open

to attend UH, playing a sport I abso-

up our own Philanthropy boutique

lutely loved,” said Battle. “My fellow

in the Woodlands.” In 2017, Jackie

players on the field became my true

and Christine opened Philanthropy,

brothers.” After graduating from UH,

which has become a recognized leader

Battle was signed as an undrafted free

in cause-based retail. A percentage of

agent by the Dallas Cowboys in 2007.

the proceeds that come from the sale

During the preseason, Battle suffered

of women’s clothing and accessories

an injury and was cut from the team’s

goes to charity and local nonprof-

final roster.

its. “From nonprofits that serve the

Battle’s football journey didn’t

homeless to the ones that combat sex

end there. He was later signed by the

trafficking, our business is devoted to

Kansas City Chiefs to their practice

giving back to others,” said Battle.

squad. After being promoted to the

When asked how his time at

team’s active roster, Battle rose to

UH prepared him for his business

the occasion, scoring a touchdown

venture, Battle answered, “diver-

in his first NFL carry. Following his

sity,” At UH, diversity is everywhere,

success with the Kansas City Chiefs,

and that taught me how to interact

Battle went on to play for the San

with all types of people,” said Battle.

Diego Chargers and the Tennessee

“People from all walks of life, color

Titans. Little did Battle know that

and race, come to our place of busi-

his time in Tennessee would lead to

ness because they too want to make

something more than football.

a difference. When I think about my

While we were in Tennessee, my

life before Philanthropy, I remember

wife, Christine, discovered a store

feeling that something was missing.

Spring 2020

29

GRAMMYS

A

t this year’s Grammy Awards, three UH alumni each took home Grammys in the

same evening — now, that is something to sing about!

Winners included: Gabriel Preisser (M.M. ’10) for Best Opera Recording for his work with “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” Cecilia Duarte (’18, M.M. ’20), in the Best Classical Choral Performance for her involvement in “Duruflé: Complete Choral Works” with the Houston Chamber Choir, and rising superstar, Lizzo (FS ’07), who won Best Urban Contemporary Album, Best Traditional R&B Performance, and Best Pop Solo Performance.

30 Alumline

GAB RIEL P REISSER (M

UH alumnus Gabriel Preisser picked up his first Grammy Award at the January 2020 celebration. The executive and artistic director of Opera Orlando, Preisser won in the best opera recording category as part of the team behind “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” a 1998 opera by Tobias Picker based on a Roald Dahl story. He learned

.M. ’10 )

the good news when text messages started flooding his cell phone. With the show under way, Preisser’s only way to celebrate was with a whisper.

MEL

ISSA “LIZZO” JEFFERSO

Superstar and award-winning singer Lizzo recently won three Grammys, five months after visiting UH and following her rise nationwide in 2019. Lizzo’s three recent Grammy wins included Best Pop Solo Performance for “Truth Hurts,” Best Traditional R&B Performance for “Jerome” and Best Urban Contemporary Album for “Cuz I Love You (Deluxe).” During her time at the University, Lizzo was in the

N (FS ’0

Spirit of Houston’s Cougar Marching Band as a piccolo player.

7) CEC

ILIA D

Houston Chamber Choir has won the Grammy Award for “Best Choral

UARTE (’18, M.M. ’2

Performance” for its Signum Records recording of “Duruflé: Complete Choral Works,” a performance of music by 20th century French composer Maurice Duruflé. Houston Chamber Choir soloist and alumna Cecilia Duarte, who has been praised by the New York Times as “a creamy voiced mezzo-soprano,” honed her skills at the University of Houston. Mexican born, Cecilia, is a versatile singer who has performed around the world, singing different music styles, from early

0)

music to contemporary music and jazz.

Spring 2020

31

UHAAF BOARD MEMBER HIGHLIGHT

W

ayne Luckett (’74) is Founder and CEO of

Prior to launching a wine business, Luckett was a

Branwar Wine Distributing Co. Branwar

telecommunications executive, formerly involved with

serves as an importer and wholesale

new technology and venture developments in Africa and

distributor of fine wines from around the

the United States.

world. Luckett developed an affinity for these wines

He is currently a member of the University of Houston

during his five-year residency in Johannesburg, South

Board of Visitors, former chair of the UH Third Ward

Africa. Given the void of good consistent South African

Schools Task Force Initiative as well as an Executive

wines in the Texas industry, Luckett founded Branwar

Board Member of the University of Houston Alumni

in 2010.

Association Foundation.

32 Alumline

What was the vision behind Branwar Wines?

Your wine portfolio includes wines from Lithuania, Chile and South Africa.

Why did you choose these particular origins?

WAYNE LUCKETT: Branwar Wine Distributing Co. was established in 2010 by myself and my son, Warren.

WL: We started our business with South African wines

We envisioned sharing South African wines with the

because, this is the region where I first developed my

US market while creating a new generation of wine

passion for wine. South Africa also provides red wines

connoisseurs. Branwar Wine Distributing Co. serves as

with juicy tannins and fruit forward characters that are

an importer and wholesaler for international and

pleasurable drinking by the glass as well with foods.

domestic wine distribution across the states of Texas and Georgia.

As founder, my affinity for fine wines began while

We began sourcing wines from other countries and regions because of market and consumer demands. Many restaurants have menu selections of Malbec, Cabernet

spending time living in South Africa. Realizing the void

Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc

for South African wines in the US market, I set out to

wines. We have found excellent Malbec, Cabernet and

offer some of the best boutique wines from the region.

Sauvignon Blanc wines with competitive pricing from

As the business grew, so did the vision.

Argentina, Chile and South Africa.

Demographics also play a role in our wine region selection. We have found Sparkling Malvasia and Moscato wines are popular in younger age groups and

Would you consider wine to be one of your great passions?

select sections of the city. We source these special wines from Northern Italy.

Our juicy tannin Cabernets have done very well,

WL: Yes, wine is one of my passions. I developed this

which we have sourced from South Africa. However,

passion after drinking wine that was perfectly paired

our biggest and boldest Cabernet, Pinot Noir and Red

with a meal. When a meal is paired with the perfect

Zinfandel wines are sourced from California.

wine, it produces flavors in the wine and food that are a delight and pleasure to consume. Wine is a great complement with food, and it is an excellent refreshment for social gatherings.

The development of wine from growing grapes

What advice would you give to new wine enthusiasts’?

in a vineyard to harvesting and processing through fermentation, and barrel aging is a very interesting

WL: Attend as many wine tasting and wine dinner

process.

events as possible to explore the many different wines with their own unique characteristics. And let your palate be the guide to exploring and finding many new favorites delights.

Spring 2020

33

34 Alumline

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