YEAR IN REVIEW
2021
Annual Report
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Greeting Cougars, We invite you to view our 2021 Annual Report that highlights the many ways UHAA is engaging the Cougar community. Following an unprecedented 2020, our alumni family continued to remain strong in 2021, embracing the new normal and finding more opportunities to connect with one another and the University. Our new alumni platform, CoogsConnect, saw a steady stream of new users who expanded their network, joined groups and sought out mentoring opportunities. Our alumni also engaged through our UH2U webinar series and Book Club offerings. And in true Cougar fashion, our alumni reemerged for a memorable football season, participating in our renowned “Party on the Plaza” and Life Member tailgates. We continued to celebrate the success of our alumni through various communications and were able to showcase unique UH experiences with the launch of the Alumni Oral History project. We received over 14,000 stories from alumni who wanted to share how the University impacted their lives. Sharing how alumni honor their UH legacy is an important part of what we do at UHAA. We were able to do just that at our 66th Annual Alumni Awards Gala, where we recognized some special Cougars and friends for their achievements and enduring commitment to the University. As you read on, we hope you feel a sense of pride for what we have accomplished together and become more inspired to enrich your involvement. Whether through volunteering, joining an Alumni Association, becoming a Life Member or supporting one of our student scholarships, the possibilities are endless. Sincerely, Drue DaSilva (’93, M.S. ’99) President, UHAAF Board
Mike Pede (’89) Associate Vice President, Alumni Relations
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Table of Contents 01
06
10
11
19
17
25
33
01.
Remarks From Leadership
04.
Introduction
05.
UHAA By The Numbers
06.
Supporting Cougar-Owned and Operated Businesses
07.
Gathering With Our Alumni
09.
Growing Our Alumni Network
10.
Engaging Our Alumni
11.
Remembering Our Alumni
12.
Getting Involved
13.
Celebrating Our Alumni Associations
17.
Connecting With Our Life Members
19.
Recognizing Our Alumni
24.
Involving Our Students
25.
Our Traditions
29.
UHAAF Past Presidents
30.
UHAA Foundation Board
31.
UHAA Foundation Financial Position
32.
Corporate Sponsors
33.
UH Fight Song/UH Alma Mater
34.
Alumni Relations Staff
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“My UH journey contributed to the person I am today. When I look back and see how much the University has grown, and what it means to our community, I consider myself to be extremely fortunate, benefiting from a quality education and diverse experiences that I will forever treasure.” Go Coogs! -Drue DaSilva (’93, M.S. ’99) President, UHAAF Board
The Board of Education of the Houston Independent School District founded Houston Junior College as a public institution. HISD superintendent E. E. Oberholtzer became president of the college (a post he held until 1950). Classes were held at San Jacinto High School on Holman Street. By the fall, Houston Junior College had 232 students and a faculty of eight. The first issue of “The Cougar” was published.
1927
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
INTRODUCTION Since 1936, UHAA has served and supported the University of Houston, its over 300,000 alumni, its friends, and the community it calls home. UHAA is the brand through which all alumni relations occur at the University of Houston. The goal is to provide alumni, current and former students unique and meaningful programs and services to ensure lifelong engagement with the University. Prior to 2013, UHAA operated as an independent organization and collected annual member dues. In 2013, UHAA merged with the University to create more opportunities for alumni. Annual membership became automatic for graduates. Under the University’s banner, UHAA has taken on broader initiatives to better serve alumni, increasing the number of programs and services offered. This united focus has helped advance common goals: student success and alumni connection to the University. The UHAA Foundation (UHAAF) is the name of the independent, 501(c)(3) organization that closely partners with the University by providing advice, advocacy and outreach on behalf of the University and the Alumni Relations program. Through its Board of Directors, the UHAAF provides oversight for its Alumni Associations, endowed scholarships, Life Member program, and legislative advocacy on behalf of issues important to UH alumni worldwide.
MISSION Serving and supporting the University of Houston, its alumni and its students
VISION UHAA is a global community of alumni and friends committed to and sharing pride in the growth and support of the University of Houston as a premier institution. Our commitment and pride are demonstrated through active participation, leadership and financial support.
CORE VALUES Commitment, Leadership, Integrity, Inclusiveness, Fun, Teamwork
The college’s name changed to the University of Houston when HISD made the college a four-year private institution. UH offered day classes for the first time to its 909 students at Houston’s Second Baptist Church.
1934
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UHAA By The Numbers 2021
ALUMNI COUNTS AS OF 8/31/21 • 316,769 ALL-TIME UH ALUMNI • 291,490 LIVING UH ALUMNI • 227,890 UH ALUMNI IN TEXAS • 160,017 UH ALUMNI IN GREATER HOUSTON AREA
ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONS • 42 ACTIVE ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONS
SCHOLARSHIPS • 103 AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS • $132,652 in SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
LIFE MEMBERS • 709 NEW LIFE MEMBERS • CURRENTLY OVER 8,400 LIFE MEMBERS
PHILANTHROPY • $15,891,791.36 in alumni giving
CLASS NOTES • 178 CLASS NOTES PUBLISHED
First Annual Commencement was held at Miller Memorial Theater for 80 graduates.Ora D. “O.D.” Brown walked with the first graduating class even though he graduated in 1934. He would go on to become President of Alumni Division from 1940-1944. The first issue of The Houstonian yearbook appeared. Published in just two weeks’ time, the 32-page annual sold for $.75 cents.
1935
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Supporting Cougar-Owned and Operated Businesses The Cougar 100 identifies, ranks and celebrates the fastest growing Cougar-owned and operated businesses, demonstrating that UH alumni are among the finest commercial, retail and industry leaders in the world. Due to the pandemic, UHAA held its seventh annual Cougar 100 virtually to pay tribute to our business honorees. During the program, UH alumna, Hanneke Faber (’90, M.B.A. ’92) who is the president of Global Foods and Refreshments at Unilever discussed how her organization is combatting the challenges brought on by the pandemic and the importance of a purpose-driven business model. UHAA congratulates our business honorees and looks forward to hosting our eighth annual Cougar 100 in 2022. To view the list of Cougar 100 companies, please visit houstonalumni.com/cougar100.
COUGAR BUSINESS NETWORK Cougar 100 members are automatically included in UHAA’s Cougar Business Network. The Cougar Business Network is an online listing of all Cougar-owned and operated businesses, which helps promote Cougars doing business with Cougars. In November 2021, UHAA hosted a reception for the Cougar Business Network where over 60 participants gathered to connect and exchange business information. If you are a Cougar-owned or led business and would like to have your company listed, please submit your company to the Cougar Business Network at houstonalumni.com/business-network. Once approved, your listing will be created on our new alumni platform, CoogsConnect, and you will be invited to control your listing.
After an early proposal to locate the campus in Memorial Park collapsed, the University of Houston acquired nearly 110 acres of land for a permanent campus southeast of downtown from donations by the Settegast and Taub estates, between St. Bernard Street (now Cullen Boulevard and Calhoun Road). The gift stipulated that construction of the university’s first building must begin by January 1, 1938.
1936
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Gathering With Our Alumni
COUGARS ON TOUR Every year, UH alumni and supporters travel to new and exotic locations through UHAA’s Cougars on Tour program. These unique excursions promote educational and cultural exchange for alumni and friends of the University, while giving participants the chance to connect. In 2021, our alumni attended the Albuquerque Balloon Festival while exploring Santa Fe, Taos and other areas. When you travel with Cougars on Tour, a portion of your purchase goes to help fund UHAA programs and scholarships. To learn more, please visit houstonalumni.com/travel.
University of Houston’s first Alumni Association started in 1936 under then president, Rev. Max M. Groeschel (FS). Since then, there have been 63 other Presidents of UH Alumni Association and over 400 alumni that have served as Board of Directors members. There are now over 300,000 UH graduates all-time.
1936
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COOGS ON THE ROAD
PARTY ON THE PLAZA
UHAA INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
To give alumni the chance to cheer on our Cougars at away athletic events, UHAA’s Coogs on the Road program saw quite the activity in 2021. Last March, the hashtag, #ForTheCity, swept across social media as the Houston Cougar Men’s Basketball team headed to the NCAA Final Four for the first time since 1984. Hundreds of UH alumni gathered to watch the Cougars’ Men’s Hoops face off against the Baylor Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Cougar fans also traveled to support the Men’s Basketball team in Las Vegas at the Maui Jim Maui Invitational.
Every football season, UHAA hosts its infamous “Party on the Plaza,” which transforms Gate 1 at TDECU Stadium into the ultimate tailgate experience. Held four hours before the game, various Alumni Associations and college groups set up individual spaces within “Party on the Plaza” for fun and refreshments. Life Members are also invited to their exclusive Life Member tailgate to take part in the excitement. In 2021, over 5,000 alumni participated in the festivities.
On June 17, 2021, UHAA held its annual Invitational Golf Tournament at the Sienna Golf Club in Missouri city, Texas. With 130 participants, 32 teams took to the course to enjoy great weather and a little friendly competition. When it was over, Team H-Association claimed victory with members: Ralph Adams (’84), Chuck Brown (FS ’80), Keith Howard (’87) and John Clarke (’82). All players were then treated to a reception where they had the opportunity to take part in a silent auction and meet surprise visitor, Greg Ward Jr. (’17) from the Philadelphia Eagles. Fun was had by all.
During the 2021 football season, UHAA hosted away tailgates in Philadelphia, Birmingham, New Orleans, Tampa, and Cincinnati. Highlights included the trek to Cincinnati for the American Athletic Conference Championship, where the Houston Cougars took on the Cincinnati Bearcats, and the Birmingham Bowl where the Houston Cougars successfully defeated the Auburn Tigers 17-13.
Frontier Fiesta is founded and featured musical and theatrical performances, carnival booths, cook-offs, and concessions. The festival has enjoyed three runs: 1940-1941, 1946-1959, and 1992-the present. During its second run, the event grew to its greatest popularity, and Life Magazine proclaimed it to be the “Greatest College Show on Earth.” During its heyday, Frontier Fiesta attracted as many as 100,000 people to the UH campus, including celebrities and visitors from across the nation, including Ed Sullivan, Kenny Rogers, and Humphrey Bogart to name a few. Early Fiestas raised money to address campus building needs. Currently, Fiesta funds scholarships for entering freshman and current students.
1939
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Growing Our Alumni Network
Alumni Network For over 80 years, UHAA has fostered lifelong connections that span the globe to help our Cougar community further enhance their engagement with one another and the University, UHAA launched the online alumni platform, CoogsConnect in the spring of 2021. Think of CoogsConnect as an exclusive portal for UH alumni to leverage the power of their network as well as: • Volunteer as a mentor and offer advice to fellow alumni • Post jobs for your company and recruit alumni • Plot your next career move and browse new job opportunities • Get involved with UHAA and join one of our Alumni Associations • Browse our Cougar Business Network and help support fellow Cougars
To join CoogsConnect, go to www.coogsconnect.com. We recommend signing in with your LinkedIn credentials when you create your user profile for the first time. Your LinkedIn information will then be automatically imported into your profile. Start connecting today!
The official University of Houston Alma Mater was the culmination of an assignment by Associate Professor of Music, Bruce Spencer King. He assigned his harmony class the task of composing a song that was suitable to become the University’s Alma Mater. The song has been a part of the University lore from that day on.
1942
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Engaging Our Alumni UH Oral History Project Last year, UHAA partnered with PCI (Publishing Concepts, Inc.) to produce an Oral History publication—a collection of stories from UH alumni throughout the years. The 100th Anniversary of the University of Houston is on the horizon in 2027, so it is important to preserve these treasured memories for generations to come. We thank our alumni for providing a glimpse into their UH experiences and know that their dedication to this special endeavor will be appreciated by those that follow.
“I am now an attorney, and I work as in-house
“The professors all taught passionately. I majored
“I have to applaud the UH administration for
counsel for a marketing corporation. This role
in political science, and every professor was well
raising the bar and placing a high level of focus
requires a lot of leadership, a lot of ingenuity,
versed in that specific subject. UH gave me the
on research and public awareness. I can sense the
thinking on your feet, improvisation, and surpassing
foundation to say that I can do this on my own,
energy and upward mobility of the whole university.
expectations by meeting challenges, tight deadlines,
and I can aspire to get a higher education and be
These days I’m just really impressed with where UH
and things like that. I am really just digging my
successful. It also gave me the foundation I needed
is heading!”
heels in and putting my thinking cap on, and the
to grow. Once I left, I was able to grow even more as
foundation for that type of learning development
a professional.”
and professionalism started at UH.”
Bria Riley (’14)
Meagan Ledesma (’18)
Stuart Schofield (M.B.A.’07)
The first UH Class Rings are awarded. The UH logo adorns the top of the official class ring, with the right shank showing the university seal and graduation year. The left shank has the recipient’s degree, the Ezekiel Cullen Building’s façade, and UH’s founding date, 1927.
1946
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Remembering Our Alumni UH DAY OF REMBERENCE The UH Day of Remembrance is historically held the first Tuesday in March each year to honor our Cougar Family – students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the University – that have passed away the previous year. During the service, four candles are lit by the respective leaders of the Student Government Association, Faculty Senate, Staff Council, and UHAA. At the conclusion of the ceremony, 27 chimes sound in tribute. The UH Day of Remembrance is presented by the Campus Ministries Association and the A.D. Bruce Religion Center. Support is also provided by the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services, Student Centers, Student Government Association, UHAA, Office of Development, Human Resources, and the Office of the Dean of Students. THE UH DAY OF REMEMBRANCE TRADITION:
Due to the pandemic, the Day of Remembrance was held virtually on March 2, 2021. To view the online service, please visit https://youtu.be/9TJfv0QUl3c.
• The 27 tolls represent the year of the founding of the University of Houston. • The annual service is historically held the first Tuesday in March that coincides with: • March 2, 1793 – Sam Houston’s birth date • March 3, 1845 – U.S. President John Tyler signs the annexation bill to admit Texas into the Union. • March 7, 1927 – Houston School Board approves and establishes the University of Houston.
The University of Houston joined the Lone Star Conference, its first official intercollegiate sport conference. A crowd of 11,000 arrived at HISD’s Public School Stadium (later renamed Jeppesen Stadium) on September 21, 1946 for UH’s first football game. The Cougars lost 13-7 to Southwestern Louisiana Institute, but the loss by no means dampened the fans’ Cougar spirit. That inaugural season also brought the first bonfire, Sadie Hawkins Dance, and Homecoming celebration, including a barn dance complete with hay and animals.
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ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Getting Involved Be an active part of the Cougar Alumni nation. Join one of our over 40 Alumni Associations and connect based on geography, affinity or the college that you attended. There is place for everyone. Please visit houstonalumni.com/alumni-associates to learn more.
COLLEGE/SCHOOL
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Architecture & Design Bauer College of Business Conrad N. Hilton College Education Engineering Graduate College of Social Work Hobby School of Public Affairs Master of Public Administration Natural Science & Mathematics Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Nursing Technology Valenti School of Communication
INTEREST & AFFINITY
• Asian Alumni • Black Alumni • CenterPoint Energy • Communication Sciences and Disorders • Cougars Athletic Alliance • Delta Upsilon • Energy Alumni • Eta Lambda • Eta Mu • First Generation Alumni • Frontier Fiesta • Graphic Alumni Partnership • Hispanic Alumni • LGBTQ Alumni • Sigma Nu Alumni • Spirit of Houston • Tau Kappa Epsilon • Young Alumni
REGIONAL • Austin • Dallas/Fort Worth • Denver • Fort Bend • Katy • Los Angeles • New York City • Northside Houston • Rio Grande Valley • San Antonio • Washington
The first of five live UH Cougar mascots, a seventy-five-pound, fifteen-month-old puma, was purchased by Alpha Phi Omega. After she arrived by private plane, excited students escorted her to campus. Student Joe Randol won a contest to name the mascot, calling her “Shasta” because “Shasta have a cage, Shasta have a keeper, Shasta have a winning ball club, Shasta have the best!” The cougars lived on campus until Shasta V died in 1989, and the school switched to human mascots.
1947
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Celebrating Our Alumni Associations ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONS PIVOT AND RISE
•
2021 proved to be another year of pivoting for all of us. Nevertheless, despite moving from virtual to in-person engagement, and then back again, our Alumni Associations rose to the occasion and continued to support the missions of their organizations and give back to their communities and our students.
Due to the incredible success of their events throughout the year, both virtual and in-person, the Hispanic Alumni Association was able to award $15,000 in scholarship funds for the 2021-2022 academic year.
•
The Engineering Alumni Association supported close to 50 students and 4 Engineering Student Associations to the tune of over $40,000 thanks to the success of the Engineers Week fundraising initiative and the Engineering Alumni Awards Gala.
SCHOLARSHIPS A cornerstone of the mission for all of our Alumni Associations is the commitment to raising scholarship funds to support current students. In 2021, our Alumni Associations collectively awarded over $100,000 in scholarship funds to deserving students across all colleges and affinities. Highlights from the past year include: • The Bauer Alumni Association achieved their goal of fully funding the Bauer Alumni Scholarship Endowment. •
The CenterPoint Energy Alumni Association was able to contribute over $10,000 toward the principle balances of three scholarship endowments, resulting in higher award amounts for scholarship recipients.
•
The College of Architecture Alumni Association established the Hines College of Architecture and Design Alumni Association Endowed Scholarship to support need-based scholarships for Architecture students and embarked on the fundraising campaign to reach fully funded status by 2025.
•
In April 2021, the LGBTQ Alumni Association was able to award $12,000 to 6 outstanding LGBTQ UH students.
NETWORKING IN A HYBRID WORLD Success of our students, and the creation of career networking opportunities for new and soon-to-be graduates remains a driving force for all UH Alumni Associations. Due to the COVID related impacts, many students found themselves without access to the traditional networking opportunities afforded to previous student populations. Thankfully, our Alumni Associations stepped up to the plate to fill this void with a host of creative career related activities.
The UH Frontiersmen group was organized to promote Cougar spirit, help with Frontier Fiesta and homecoming, and serve as campus ambassadors.
1948
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES Collectively, our Alumni Association members provided over 1500 volunteer service hours during the course of 2021. These volunteer activities included virtual career support activities, community-based trainings and discussions, virtual fundraisers, and in-person service activities. Our Cougars showed up in big ways and continue to show the strength of the alumni community in serving those around us. Examples of their service include: •
The Engineering Alumni Association, in conjunction with the student chapters of the Society of Women Engineers and the Society of Petroleum Engineers, volunteered at the Houston Food Bank on May 8, 2021, and together helped fill 450 boxes of food containing 2250 meals for seniors.
The first Distinguished Alumni Honoree was James L. Sibley (FS ’49). Distinguished alumni awards would be awarded every year since. In 1954, The Alumni Association hosted its first Distinguished Alumni Gala to recognize past and current Honorees.
1949
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Celebrating Our Alumni Associations (cont.) •
The Spirit of Houston Alumni Association hosted a food drive for Katy Christian Charities at their new Graduation Happy Hour, allowing a valuable networking opportunity for new grads.
•
The Bauer Alumni Association, in partnership with the Valenti School of Communication Alumni Association and the Architecture Alumni Association, assisted with the planting of 50 trees on the UH Campus. The trees were generously donated by the Apache Corporation.
•
The Cougar Athletic Alliance held their 17th Annual “Step Up To the Plate” food drive in November 2021 and was able to provide 50 complete Turkey Dinners to 50 families, thanks to the generous donations of all who participated. They followed that up by partnering with the Technology Alumni Association for their annual Toy Drive to benefit the House of Tiny Treasures – an early childhood development center serving homeless children ages 6 weeks to 6 years (and their families).
The Cougar Hand Sign is rooted in a mishap with Shasta I, when her front paw got caught en route to UH’s first game against the University of Texas. When UT students heard Shasta lost a digit, they mocked her by raising a hand with the ring finger tucked in. Cougar fans adopted the gesture as a symbol of pride and determination.
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•
Members of the NSM Alumni Association participated in the UH Coastal Cleanup – helping maintain the coastal prairie habitat by removing invasive tree species.
•
16
On April 8, 2021 the Black Alumni Association volunteered with the COVID Vaccine Clinic at One Delta Plaza, assisting with set-up, sanitizing, seating and instructions for vaccine participants.
As you can see from this impressive list, despite the challenges 2021 posed, our Alumni Associations found creative ways to fulfill their missions and solidify their impact for their communities and our students. Additionally, the resounding support our groups gave to the Athletic Department this year, through hosting virtual watch-parties across the United States, UHAA’s “Party on the Plaza” participation, in-person watch parties, and game day activities, solidified the importance our Alumni Associations have in the success of the University of Houston. Make your 2022 resolution to get involved in one of our 42 College, Region, or Interest/Affinity Based Alumni Associations and join the fun!
The UH Board of Regents recommended that the university become a state-funded public institution. After an eleven-day filibuster from three senators, a compromise was struck and the bill won approval by one vote. Once UH officially became a state university, tuition dropped from approximately $700 per year to $100, and enrollment jumped 28 percent to 17,430 in the fall semester. To accommodate the growing number of students, a building boom began, with 25 buildings constructed during the next 10 years.
1963
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ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Connecting With Our Life Members It’s crazy to think how fast 2021 flew by. We started 2021, all still working remotely and engaging with our friends and family virtually. While we were still virtual at the beginning of the year, Life Members were itching to do something fun that would help fuel our excitement for the upcoming March Madness tournament. Over 250 Life Members from all over the country registered for “Locker Talk” with Coach Kellen Sampson on February 11. Each registered Life Member was mailed a “For The City” t-shirt and allowed to submit questions for Coach Sampson. It was such a fun hour! We got to hear about player development, favorite drills, fun memories of his dad coaching when he was younger, working with his family and his children, Maisy and Kylen. Life Members were able to get an exclusive behind the scenes look and up close and personal with Coach Sampson and our men’s basketball program.
Coach Kellen Sampson during “Locker Talk “with Life Members via zoom
Life Member Trivia was played on Thursdays for 5 weeks in the Spring.
One of the pieces of feedback we had received from Life Members was that they loved playing trivia against each other. What was really neat about Virtual Trivia was that it allowed Life Members from all over the country to participate. We played for 5 weeks starting in April. Each week, we had a different theme. Life Members tested their knowledge in different themes: general knowledge, movie madness, in the 80’s, where in the world, and in the 90’s.
Each game had 4 categories with 7 questions each. Every game had between 7 to 15 Life Members participating. First, second, and third place all received gift cards to places of their choosing. It got really competitive and was a lot of fun for the whole family! The 2020 Life Member panel was installed last May and had 297 names on it! This was the most names we have ever had! Once a Life Member pledge is completed, the name of the Life Member(s) are put on that calendar year’s panel and installed within Life Member Plaza, which is located in front of the Athletics-Alumni Building. Your legacy will forever remain on campus! Life Members in attendance for “Locker Talk”
On January 20, 1968, the Cougars faced No. 1 UCLA inside the Houston Astrodome in the Game of the Century. Played in front of more than 52,000 fans and broadcast to millions, it was the first nationally televised regular-season college basketball game in prime time, setting the stage for how today’s NCAA Tournament fans enjoy the games every year. In a match-up against two college basketball legends, Houston forward Elvin Hayes scored 39 points with 15 rebounds to outduel UCLA’s Lew Alcindor (later Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) in a 71-69 Houston victory.
1968
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
18
UH vs ECU Life Member tailgate- Homecoming Special guests, Shasta and Sasha crashing the exclusive Life Member tailgate
Will your name be included on the 2021 panel? Once the fall rolled around, we were coming back into some sort of “normalcy.” This meant in-person events were allowed again! With the excitement of college football in the hot and humid Houston air, we were expecting big turnouts. We weren’t wrong. This season, we averaged over 600 Life Members at every home tailgate, which was the most we had ever had! Life Members helped cheer our Cougars on to an 11-2 season.
Life Member packages being handed out prior to the game
In November, the men’s basketball team celebrated their appearance in the 2021 NCAA March Madness tournament where they made it all the way to the Final Four at the first home game against Hofstra. One-hundred and fifty lucky Life Members were given game tickets and the Final Four keychains, which were the special giveaway at the game! Athletics unveiled the Final Four banners at a pregame ceremony. The Cougars went on to beat Hofstra in overtime 83-75! 2021 was a year full of rapid growth for the Life Member program. We welcomed over 700 new Life Members in the calendar year, increasing the Life Member network to over 8,000! We were able to award over $21,000 in Legacy Scholarships to 14 undergraduate students. We helped welcome the Class of 2025 through a sponsorship of Cub Camp and so much more! Life Members leave a lasting impact within the UH community, in which we couldn’t be more proud of! We are so grateful for our Life Members’ continued support. I look forward to 2022 and all of the wonderful things it will bring! Go Coogs! Don’t miss out on all of the exciting things coming up for Life Members. Join this exclusive network of Coogs today at houstonalumni.com/lifemember or email Kirstyn Speich at klspeich@uh.edu.
The UH Alumni Association establishes the Life Member program which has now grown to include over 7,000 members. Life Members are recognized on year-specific plaques in Life Member Plaza in front of the Athletics-Alumni Center.
1969
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ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Recognizing Our Alumni 66th Annual Alumni Awards Each year, UHAA honors alumni and friends of the University who embody the true spirit of UH and work to create impact through their unique contributions. On October 29, 2021, UHAA was able to gather in-person to celebrate our 2020 award honorees. The Distinguished Alumni Award The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes and honors alumni who have made significant contributions to society and whose accomplishments and careers have brought credit to the University of Houston. JIM CULPEPPER (’67)
HOWARD S. LORCH (‘67, M.ED. ‘68)
ALEX LÓPEZ NEGRETE ROBERT D PLANK (‘71) (FS ‘81)
Distinguished Service Award The Distinguished Service Award recognizes the exceptional loyalty and leadership of alumni volunteers and their efforts to further the goals and mission of UHAA programs. FERMEEN FAZAL (‘96, ‘97, J.D. ‘00)
SHARMAGNE TAYLOR (’86)
Billie Schneider Outstanding Volunteer Award The Billie Schneider Outstanding Volunteer Award recognizes alumni who exemplify a spirit of volunteerism to advance the mission of UHAA and its programs. EDWARD CARRIZALES (’13)
Rising Star For Achievement Award The Rising Star Award recognizes and honors motivated young alumni who have excelled beyond the norm and who exhibit leadership, involvement, and hold key volunteer positions on campus or within UHAA. JUSTIN YU (‘07)
The Chair’s Award The Chair’s Award recognizes and honors non-alumni who have consistently and voluntarily given extraordinary support to the University of Houston. DR. WILLIAM MUNSON
UH purchased Jeppesen Stadium from HISD, which had built the facility with WPA funds in 1942. It was later renamed Robertson Stadium in honor of Corbin Robertson, Sr., one of the major benefactors of Houston Athletics. The stadium eventually played host to Houston Football, Houston Oilers football, Houston Dynamo soccer, and a 2002 scrimmage between the Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys. The proud facility was torn down in 2012 to make way for the new TDECU Stadium, which opened in the fall of 2014.
1970
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Join us as we honor alumni and friends for their enduring commitment and dedication to the University of Houston. Distinguished Alumni Award
Distinguished Service Award
Rising Star for Achievement Award
Alois Blackwell (’78) Karen Dufilho (’91) Bonnie Dunbar (Ph.D. ’83) Elizabeth Killinger (’91) Dave Smalley (’79) Brent Spiner (FS ’71) Steve Stephens (’80)
Steve Goodman (’83, M.S. ’85)
Mayra Moreno (’07)
Billie Schneider Outstanding Volunteer Award
Chair’s Award
Leslie (’93) and Philip (’94) Schulze
Garnet Coleman
The University of Houston celebrated its 50th anniversary with events throughout the year focused on four themes: resources, technologies, lifestyles, and environments. As part of the UH 50 Fund drive, the Cullen Foundation pledged $3 million to endow nine distinguished professorships contingent upon the university raising $6 million in matching funds.
1977
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Past Alumni Award Honorees DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD James L. Sibley (FS ’49) 1949 Ernest Mayeux (FS ’52) 1951 Jack Valenti (A.S. ’42, B.S. ’46, H ’02) 1952 Sherwood Crane 1953 Johnny Goyen (’47) 1954 William W. Sherrill (FS ’50) 1955 Charles A. Saunders (’45) 1956 Joel H. Berry, Jr. (’42) 1957 Harry H. Montgomery, Jr. (’40) 1958 Thomas Menefee (FS ’42) 1959 John J. Toomey (’50, J.D. ’69) 1960 Ralph Poling (’56) 1961 Walter M. Rainey, Jr. (’49) 1962 Roger W. Jeffery, Sr. (FS ’38) 1963 Judge Roy Hofheinz 1967 Dr. John McGivney (’47) 1968 Congressman Bob Casey 1969 Dan Rather (FS ’57) 1969 Dr. Arleigh Templeton (M.Ed ’50, Ph.D. ’60) 1969 LeRoy Melcher, Sr. (’33) 1970 Hon. Welcome Wilson, Sr. (’49) 1970 Harry H. Hedges, Jr. (’40) 1971 Elsa Rosborough (’46, M.L. ’63) 1971 Larry Blyden (’47) 1972 Judge Bill Elliott ( J.D. ’51) 1972 Reverend Rene H. Gracida (’50) 1972 Guy V. Lewis (’47) 1973 Judge Wendell A. Odom ( J.D. ’51) 1973 Judge Criss Cole ( J.D. ’54) 1974 Howard W. Pollock ( J.D. ’69) 1975 John B. Van Ness (’51, ’56) 1975 Byron G. “Pappy” Bond (’50) 1976
Rabbi Hyman Judah Schachtel (Ed.D. ’48) 1977 Roy Wiese (’54) 1978 Dave Williams 1978 Robert W. Baldwin (’47, ’49) 1979 Archie Bennett, Jr. (’62) 1979 Elvin Hayes (’85) 1980 Hon. Leonard Rauch (FS ’47, H ’07) 1980 Richard “Racehorse” Haynes ( J.D. ’56) 1981 Kenneth Reese (’54) 1981 Hon. Charles B. Marino (’50) 1982 Kathryn J. Whitmire (’68,M.S. ’70) 1982 Peter H. Roussel (’65) 1983 Judge Shearn Smith (’51, J.D. ’69) 1983 Judge Ruby Kless Sondock (’59, ’61) 1983 E. Virginia Barnett (M.B.A. ’56) 1984 Hon. John E. Kolb ( J.D. ’55) 1984 Hon. Charles E. McMahen (’62, H ’02) 1984 Hon. Dr. Kenneth L. Lay (Ph.D. ’70) 1985 Vassar Miller (’47, M.A. ’50) 1985 Mickey L. Herskowitz (’56) 1986 Kenneth L. Schnitzer ( ’56) 1986 James C. Shindler (’57) 1986 Ned Battista (’62, M.M. ’64) 1987 Roy H. Cullen, Jr. (’57) 1987 Jack M. Rains ( J.D. ’67) 1987 Duane B. Adams (’54) 1988 Joseph Rodney Canion (’66, M.S. ’67) 1988 Larry W. Gatlin (’70) 1988 Sam P. Douglass (’54) 1989
Dr. Louis Green (’47) 1989 Wilhelmina Cullen Robertson (’44) 1989 Victor Costa (’58) 1990 Hon. C.F. Kendall, II (’60, J.D. ’69) 1990 Dr. Robert W. Lawless (’64) 1990 Congressman Tom DeLay (’69) 1991 Hon. John J. Moores (’70, J.D. ’75, H ’95) 1991 Leonard Rosenberg ( J.D. ’53) 1991 Katherine Mize (’61, M.A. ’65) 1992 Jim Nantz (’81) 1992 Don D. Sykora (’57) 1992 Carl Lewis (FS ’82) 1993 Hon. John O’Quinn (’65, ’67, J.D. ’69) 1993 Dr. Shirley Rose (’60, M.Ed. ’69, Ph.D. ’73) 1993 Dr. Bernard Harris (’78) 1994 Tom Jarriel (’56) 1994 Regina Rogers (’70) 1994 Valerie King Freeman (’70, M.Ed. ’72) 1995 Congressman Gene Green (’71) 1995 Hakeem Olajuwon (FS ’84) 1995 Doug Drabek (FS ’83) 1996 Elizabeth D. Rockwell (FS ’42, H ’99) 1996 Jane Cizik (’83) 1997 Hon. Gene McDavid (’65) 1997 Hon. Morrie Abramson (’56) 1998 Emyré Robinson (’70) 1998 Hon. Mary E. Bacon ( J.D. ’72) 2000 Kenneth L. Barun (’81) 2000 Burdette W. Keeland (’50) 2000
Dr. B. Montgomery Pettitt (’75, Ph.D. ’80) 2000 Judge Vanessa Gilmore ( J.D. ’81) 2002 Cynthia Woods Mitchell (’43) 2002 Dominique Sachse (’90) 2002 Melvyn Wolff (’53) 2002 Hon. Michael Cemo (’68) 2003 Hon. Vidal Martinez ( J.D. ’77) 2003 Dr. Kathryn “Kaye” Stripling (’67, Ed.D. ’85) 2003 Leroy Burrell (’94) 2004 Rose Cullen (FS ’57) 2004 Charles Matthews ( J.D. ’70) 2004 Dr. Anastacio Mindiola (’02) 2005 Hon. Margaret Spellings (’79) 2005 Dr. Herman Suit (’48) 2005 Dr. Patricia Potter Wilson (Ph.D. ’85) 2005 Carol L. Lewis (’89, ’92) 2006 Jack Moore (’77) 2006 Senator John Whitmire (’75) 2006 Gerald McElvy (’75) 2007 Hon. Martha Wong (’76, Ed.D. ’83) 2007 Dr. Dorothy E.F. Caram (Ed.D. ’82) 2008 Marvin D. Nathan (’65, J.D. ’69) 2008 Col. Barrye L. Price, Ph.D. (’85) 2008 Christopher Theofanidis (’90) 2008 Karen W. Katz (M.B.A. ’82) 2009 Miguel R. San Juan (’74) 2009 Alvin L. Zimmerman (’64, J.D. ’67) 2009 Richard Coselli (’55, J.D. ’58) 2010
Elizabeth Ghrist (M.Ed. ’67) 2010 Jim Perdue (’61, J.D. ’62) 2010 David Bertman (M.M. ’98) 2011 Cheryl Creuzot (’81, J.D. ’92, M.L. ’99, M.B.A. ’12) 2011 Leroy Hermes (’66) 2011 Beth Madison (’72) 2011 Durga Agrawal (M.S. ’69, Ph.D. ’74) 2012 Brett Cullen (’79) 2012 Lt. General Robert Milstead (’74) 2012 Dorothy T. Nicholson (’77) 2012 Dennis Quaid (’74) 2012 Robert Wuhl (’76) 2012 Dr. Roger Birkman (’47, M.S. ’47) 2013 Alonzo Cantu (’78) 2013 Loretta Devine (’71) 2013 Dr. Dennis Golden (’76, O.D. ’77) 2013 Vicki & Nick (’73) Massad 2013 Richard Rawson (’72) 2013 Doug Brooks (’75) 2014 Rafael Ortega (’81, M.B.A. ’85) 2014 Andre Ware (’96) 2014 Dr. Philip Zelikow (’77, J.D. ’79) 2014 Aylwin Lewis (’76, M.B.A. ’90) 2015 Bill Worrell (’69) 2015 Rushion McDonald (’83) 2015 Ken Bailey (’69, J.D. ’72) 2015 Dominic Ng (’80) 2015 Dr. William Brookshire (’57) 2016 Billy Ray Brown (’85) 2016 Alan Gershenhorn (’82) 2016 Pamela O’Rourke (UHCL ’95) 2016 The Honorable Jarvis V. Hollingsworth ( J.D. ’93) 2017 J. Downey Bridgwater (’84) 2017
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Star Jones ( J.D. ’86) 2017 The Honorable Melissa Noriega (’77, M. Ed. ’83) 2017 Wade Phillips (’70) 2017 The Honorable Sylvester Turner (’77) 2017 Spencer Armour (’77) 2018 Otis Birdsong (’77) 2018 James H. Greer (’54) 2018 Dr. Laura Murillo (’89, M.ED. ’98, Ed.D. ’03) 2018 Marvin Odum (M.B.A. ’95) 2018 Thasunda Brown Duckett (’96) 2019 Hanneke Faber (’90, M.B.A. ’92) 2019 David Ashley White (’68, M.M. ’74) 2019 Honorable Jim P. Wise (’66) 2019 Jim Culpepper (’67) 2020 Alex López Negrete (FS ’81) 2020 Howard S. Lorch (’67, M.Ed. ’68) 2020 Robert D. Planck (’71) 2020
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD Murray Stinson (FS ’68) 1994 Jim Wiseheart (’61) 1995 Pleas Doyle (’57) 1996 Billie Schneider 1997 Stephen Harcrow (’69) 1998 Janet A. Blair (’83) 2000 Judie (’95) & Glenn (FS ’68) Lilie 2002 Joanne ( J.D. ’85) & Larry (’68, J.D. ’70) Doherty 2003 Josanna (‘80) & Hon. Thaddeus “Bo” (‘67) Smith 2003 Richard Coselli (’55, J.D. ’58) 2004 Graham Painter (’72) 2004
Shirley (FS ’82) & Matthew (’59) Provenzano 2004 J. Downey Bridgwater (’84) 2005 Sharon Stinson 2005 Cathy Coers Frank (’80) 2006 Francie Willis 2006 Margaret Bock (FS ’57) 2007 Sonny Messiah-Jiles (’74) 2007 J.W. “Willie” Burns (’58) 2008 David M. Doll (’88, M.B.A. ’92) 2008 Chris Mims (’87) 2008 Linda (’64) & Stanley (’60, J.D. ’62) Binion 2009 Elaine (’82) & Tommy (’80) Ebner 2010 George Leroy Hall (’56, ’77, M.S. ’11) 2010 Robert Planck (’71) 2010 Judy (’68) & Ken (FS ’65) Baxter) 2011 Mike Holley (’90) 2011 Audray McMillian (’84) 2012 Ron Page (’80) 2012 Rick Bowen (’88, M.B.A. ’91) 2013 Lance “Hopper” Livingston (’66) 2014 Rick Noriega (’84) 2014 Laurie Rutherford (’86, M.B.A. ’91, M.S. ’04) 2015 Nancy and Dale (’70) Lowe 2016 Dr. Demetrius “Dee” Pearson (Ed.D. ’90) 2016 Kim (’81) & John (’82) Clarke 2017 Kimberly (‘93) & Trey (‘92, M.B.A. ‘02) Wilkinson 2018 James Holmes (‘86) 2018 Preston Johnson, Jr. (FS ’87, UHCL M.B.A. ’83) 2019 Fermeen Fazal (’96, ’97, J.D. ’00) 2020 Sharmagne Taylor (’86) 2020
BILLIE SCHNEIDER OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER AWARD Don McKusker (’50) 2003 Becky Hyatt (’93) 2004 Sherman Smith, Jr. (’76) 2005 Jeffrey D. Fuller (’95, M.Ed. ’07) 2006 Cynthia Oliver Coleman (’71) 2007 Alton “Red” Veselka (’77) 2008 Perry Pace, III (FS ’68) 2009 Patty Godfrey (’89, M.B.A. ’97) 2010 Joe Green (’80) 2011 Judy Chong (’69, ’76) 2012 Yuen-Yee Ma (M.B.A. ’77) 2013 Amanda Heath (’02) 2014 Dr. Sharon Spillman (’97, M.Ed. ’03, Ed.D. ’11) 2014 John T. McNabb 2015 Drue DaSilva (’93, M.S. ’99) 2015 Barbara Parrott McGinity (’74, M.S.W. ’00) 2016 Margarita Barcenas (UHD ’92, M.B.A. ’03) 2016 Nicolas Brines (’92) 2017 Charlene Johnson (‘91) 2018 Michael Alcorn (’07) 2019 Edward Carrizales (’13) 2020
RISING STAR FOR SERVICE Katie Kalenda Daggett (’99, M.A. ’03) 2010
RISING STAR AWARD FOR ACHIEVEMENT Jim Parsons (’96) 2010 Carlos de Aldecoa Bueno (’97) 2011 James Hong (’05) 2012
Hon. Jacqueline Baly (’90) 2013 Robert Flores (’92) 2015 Katie Kalenda Daggett (’99, M.A. ’03) 2010 Lisa Cushing (’01) 2016 Erik Barajas (’99) 2017 Clara Hough (‘02) 2018 Alexander W. Obregon (’09, M.B.A. ’14) 2019 Justin Yu (’07) 2020
CHAIR’S AWARD Robert W. Baker 1969 Max Levine 1969 Hon. Colonel W. B. Bates 1970 Hon. Mrs. Ray Dudley 1971 Harry H. Fouke 1971 Dr. Philip G. Hoffman 1971 Robert W. Kneebone 1972 C.F. McElhinney 1973 Hon. Aaron J. Farfel 1974 Bessie M. Ebaugh 1975 L. Standlee Mitchell 1975 Mrs. Gus Wortham 1976 Hon. Mr. & Mrs. Hugh Roy Cullen 1977 Mrs. Marty Harris 1978 Don D. Jordan 1979 George P. Mitchell 1979 Bill Yeoman 1979 Eric Hilton 1980 A.A. White 1980 John R. Butler, Jr. 1981 Dr. Barry Munitz 1981 George A. Butler 1982 Hon. Mack H. Hannah, Jr. 1982 Frell L. Albright 1983 Elliott A. Johnson 1983 Roland S. McGinnis 1983 William T. Slick (FS ’63) 1985 Stewart Orton 1986 Hon. John T. Cater 1988 Hon. James L. Ketelsen 1990
Hon. Corbin Robertson, Sr. 1991 John Walsh (FS ’73) 1992 Robert C. Lanier 1993 Rev. William Lawson 1994 Dean John M. Ivancevich 1995 Max Watson 1996 Dr. & Mrs. Glenn Goerke 1997 Tom Tellez 1998 Lee W. Hogan 2000 Cheryl L. Thompson– Draper 2000 Charles T. Bauer 2002 Lucile B. Melcher 2002 Hon. Wilhelmina “Beth” Robertson 2003 Hon. Tilman Fertitta (FS ’78) 2004 Hon. William P. Hobby 2004 Gasper Mir, III 2005 Robert Mosbacher, Jr. 2005 Dena Lewis 2006 A.J. Yeoman 2006 Jim McIngvale 2007 Bill Moffit 2007 Dr. Carolyn Farb, h.c. 2008 Carey C. Shuart 2009 Bruce Williams 2010 John Hofmeister 2011 Lillie Therese Robertson 2012 Meredith Mitchell Dreiss 2013 University of Houston Student Body 2015 Michael “Doc” O’Shea 2017 Ted L. Estess 2019 Stephanie “Steph” Sherrodd 2019 Dr. William Munson 2020
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Communicating With Our Alumni CLASS NOTES
FOLLOW US
@houstonalumni
At UHAA, we like to highlight our alumni and their accomplishments. When alumni have special news to share, they can submit a “Class Note.” A “Class Note” is a dedicated space for alumni to convey factual information about their accomplishments and milestones such as promotions, awards/honors, career moves, wedding and birth announcements. This allows us to publish exciting stories about our alumni through our print and digital communications. ”Class Notes”can be found at https://classnotes.uh.edu.
HAPPENINGS
@houston_alumni
@houstonalumni
UHAA wants to ensure our alumni are kept abreast of the latest news, events and programs occurring within UHAA and across the University. Each month, we send an e-newsletter, “Happenings,” just for this purpose. If you are not currently receiving this nugget of news, please contact Carolyn Hartmann at cwhartma@uh.edu, and we’ll make sure you get up to speed.
ALUMLINE UHAA produces the “Alumline“ magazine twice a year to tell stories of our alumni and provide the latest news and information about the events and programs occurring within UHAA. We’re always looking for interesting features about our talented alumni so do not hesitate to reach out to us at alumni@uh.edu and let us know.
@houstonalumni
SOCIAL MEDIA UHAA uses our social media platforms as an engaging and impactful communications tool to keep alumni engaged, informed and connected to their beloved alma mater.
In the early 1980s, the University of Houston boasted one of the nation’s most exciting, prolific, and high-scoring offenses in the college basketball world. From 1982 to 1984, Phi Slama Jama, “Texas’ tallest fraternity,” advanced to three straight NCAA Final Fours and competed in back-to-back National Championship games.
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Involving Our Students Senior Decal Drive-Thru UHAA makes it a point to engage with our students so they can become acquainted with the resources available to them when they transition into becoming an alumnus/ alumna. To jump-start this process, UHAA hosts Senior Decal Drive-Thru every semester for graduating seniors. Student drive up to the Athletics-Alumni Center where they are greeted by the UHAA staff and members of the UHAAF Board and given goodies that include a car decal and t-shirt. With over 1,100 students participating last year, this event has become a favorite! UH Class Ring Last spring marked the 75th anniversary of the official UH Class Ring. Wearing the class ring is a time-honored expression that is recognized by Cougars worldwide. It is a cherished symbol of the UH experience and an acknowledgement of hard work and academic achievement. When students complete 70 plus credit hours, they are eligible to purchase their ring.
Beginning last January, UHAA, in partnership with Balfour, announced new ring options − the Kendra Scott and University Collection. To allow students who are not able to purchase a class ring due to financial limitations, UHAA offers Ring Scholarships. The UHAA Foundation Student Engagement Committee and the Student Policy Board reviewed hundreds of applications, awarding the scholarship to five deserving students. Due to the pandemic, UHAA was not able to hold an in-person Ring ceremony in the spring of 2021, but was able to host a Ring Pick Up Celebration at the Athletics Alumni Center. With help from the UHAA team and some members from the UHAA Foundation Board, over 600 students received their UH Class Ring. As tradition dictates, the Class Rings spend the night in Shasta VI’s habitat at the Houston Zoo and are guarded before being handed out to the lucky recipients. In December 2021, UHAA was able to hosts its in-person Ring ceremony at the Fertitta Center. Over 600 UH students were able to receive their cherished symbol of achievement, with cheers from family and friends.
Carl Lewis (FS ’82) established himself as one of the world’s greatest athletes with his performance at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. With gold medals in the long jump, 4x100-meter relay, and100- and 200-meter races, he matched Jesse Owens’s feat of winning four gold medals in a single Olympics. He finished his career with 10 Olympic medals, including nine gold, and ten World Championships medals, eight of them gold.
1984
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Our Traditions Throughout our history, the University of Houston has connected alumni worldwide through its time- honored traditions. From football games, study sessions at the library to long walks on campus, lifelong bonds are formed and memories are created.
this, the motto, “In Tempore” (In Time). Greyhounds were placed at the sides to indicate the speed in giving aid. The first official version was placed on the floor of the Roy Cullen Building. COUGAR HAND SIGN
RED AND WHITE The official colors of the University of Houston are Scarlet Red and Albino White, the colors of Sam Houston’s ancestor, Sir Hugh. Scarlet Red represents “the blood of royalty that was spared due to the timely arrival of Sir Hugh and the blood that is the life source of the soul.” Albino White denotes “the purity and perfections of the heart, mind and soul engaged in the effort to serve faithfully that which is by right and reason, dutifully served.” In other words, the red stands for courage or inner strength to face the unknown, and the white stands for the good of helping one’s fellow man.
The “Cougar Sign,” is made by folding the ring finger of the right hand toward the palm. The tradition dates back
THE OFFICIAL SEAL The seal was adopted by UH in 1938 in conjunction with the construction of the campus. The official seal of arms of General Sam Houston, as handed down to him from noble ancestors. The simple escutcheon in the center of the seal consists of checkered chevrons denoting nobility, and three martlets, gentle low land birds symbolizing peace and deliverance. A winged hourglass is above the shield and surmounting
The Frontiersman started operating The Blaze, originally a hand-cranked oil field siren that sounded when the football team scored. In 1996, the Frontiersmen added the tradition of running across the field after each score while holding the Texas and UH flags aloft.
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to 1953, when Shasta I, the presiding cougar mascot, lost a toe in a cage door on the way to a game. While at the game in Austin, the opposing team mocked UH by imitating the cougar’s injury. Cemented in 1976 with a 30-0 win over that same team, tradition tells Cougar faithful the paw is extended on the right hand to demonstrate unity among the UH community. SHASTA, UH’S COUGAR MASCOT Between 1947 and 1989, five live cougars served as mascots. The tradition of a live mascot was revived in 2012 with Shasta VI, our current living cougar mascot, who resides in an environmentally approved habitat at the Houston Zoo. Costumed Shasta mascots have been a tradition for half a century, becoming one of the first two costumed mascots
sounding of the Spirit Bell and the Spirit of Houston Marching Band’s music. THE UH CLASS Ring The class ring is presented each semester at a formal Ring Ceremony, an event held prior to both the December and May graduations. Tradition dictates that current students must wear the ring facing inward, with only alumni wearing the ring facing outward. Each class ring spends the night before the Ring Ceremony with our live mascot, Shasta VI, in the cougar habitat at the Houston Zoo. THE BLAZE
in the country. Shasta and Sasha do pushups after each Cougar touchdown scored, to match the total on the scoreboard. Fans count along as the mascots complete the pushups and their voices are matched with the
Blaze is an oil field warning siren that was chosen to represent UH’s ties to the petroleum industry. Beginning in 1988, along with other student volunteers, the Sigma Chi Fraternity was given charge of the siren and named it in honor a fallen brother, David Blazek. Blazek played an instrumental role in its creation and contributed to the regeneration of student enthusiasm on campus in the late 1980s. The siren is sounded during the game to alert Cougars, both present and past, of the on-field success.
Houston quarterback Andre Ware (’96) became the first Cougar to win the Heisman Trophy, given annually to college football’s top player. He threw for nearly 4,700 yards with 46 touchdowns, and set 26 NCAA and 15 Southwest Conference records for passing and total offense. Despite UH not playing a game on television that season, Ware earned college football’s highest honor and led the Cougars to a 9-2 record and No. 14 final ranking.
1989
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Our Traditions (cont.) FRONTIER FIESTA Frontier Fiesta was founded in 1939 as a student-run festival and was dubbed “The Greatest College Show on Earth” by LIFE Magazine in 1958. After being discontinued for more than 30 years, Frontier Fiesta re-started in 1992 and continues to be a completely student-run event featuring variety shows, free live concerts, carnival booths and a barbecue cook-off. COUGAR RED FRIDAY Wearing read on Friday is more than just a tradition, it is who we are. We wear red to show our pride and passion for the University. The color unites us, to live and to celebrate together, and behold our individual achievements as a singular legacy of pride. We encourage our campus community and those all around the globe to wear red on Fridays. THE FRONTIERSMEN The Frontiersmen, a distinct group of spirited UH students representing Houston’s western heritage was formed in 1948. Frontier Fiesta ended its initial run in 1961. Then in 1992, when Fiesta returned to campus, the Frontiersman returned as well, serving as spirit ambassadors across the campus. In fall of 1994, the Frontiersmen began running
the UH Flag across the field after each score at football games in full western dusters, cowboy boots and hats, representing the student body at large. LEGEND OF THE COUGAR PAW In honor of UH’s first live cougar mascot, Shasta I, the Legend of the Cougar Paw Statue was installed at Gate 2 of TDECU Stadium that tells the story of the Cougar Hand sign and its genesis. Cougar fans rub her extended right paw for good luck prior to entering the stadium on game day. Cougar fans also “rub the “paw” of the cougar
Renu Khator started her tenure as the eighth UH System chancellor, the thirteenth University of Houston president, the first Indian-American to head a major U.S. higher education system, and the first woman UH System chancellor. During her tenure, UH has experienced record enrollment, research expenditures, and fundraising. Accomplishments include $1 billion construction plan that encompassed TDECU stadium, Fertitta Center and refurbished/expanded University Center, achieving Tier One status, being awarded a Phi Beta Kappa, surpassing the $1 Billion dollar “Here, We Go” fundraising campaign and establishing a College of Medicine.
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ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
statues in Cullen Family Plaza, in front of the E. Cullen Building. It’s especially important during Homecoming. Sometimes, students rub the paws for extra luck on their final exams. COUGAR WALK Fans line up to take part in the Cougar Walk two hours before kickoff at home foot- ball games. Led by the head coach and accompanied by the Spirit of Houston, the team is dropped off on Cullen Boulevard as they make their way past the UHAA “Party on the Plaza”, where they then rub Shasta’s paw and continue past Shasta Square Student Tailgate into the locker room.
days and two nights, campers participate in their first tradition as a UH student by learning more about the university, its official traditions, and the on-campus community at an off-campus retreat center. This is an opportunity for new Coogs to come together as a class, have fun, make friends, and learn more about creating a successful life at UH and in Houston. After Camp, students can continue the tradition by attending on campus events, nominating camp namesakes, and joining the Cub Camp staff. BUGGY BEAUTIES
CUB CAMP Created by UH students seeking a way to grow campus pride and involvement, Cub Camp is a student-run, program held the week before classes begin. For three
In the early 1970s, a new spirit tradition was introduced at UH football games. A golf cart was retrofitted with a fiberglass football helmet and painted with the scarlet and white UH logo. After each UH touchdown, the buggy was driven around the stadium. In addition, four female students chosen by the administrative and coaching staffs rode on the buggy and engaged with Cougar fans during the celebration. The tradition continues to this day with the Buggy Beauties serving as spirit ambassadors for UH year-round.
UH Alumni Association in cooperation with the Houston Zoo reinstated the live cougar mascot. Shasta VI, the first male Shasta, arrived at the zoo from Washington State, where he had been rescued after a hunter killed his mother. Prior to each UH Class Ring ceremony, the rings are blessed the night before by Shasta.
2012
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UHAAF Past Presidents THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON ALUMNI ASSOCIATION FOUNDATION PAST PRESIDENTS Max Groeschel (FS) 1936–37 Pat Foley (’51) 1937–38 Ora Brown (’34) 1940–44 Louise DeYoung (’67) 1946–47 Charles Saunders (’45) 1947–48 Thomas Menefee (’42) 1948–49 Jack Valenti (’46) 1949–51 Roger Jeffery, Sr. 1951–53 Sherwood Crane 1953–55 Joel Berry (’42) 1955–57 Johnny Goyen (’47) 1957–58 John Toomey (’50, J.D. ’69) 1958–60 Walter Rainey, Jr. (’49) 1960–61 Gordan Hollan (’60) 1961–62 J. Cavanaugh O’Leary, Sr. (’57) 1962–63 Harry Hedges, Jr. (’40) 1963–65 Louis Green (’47) 1965–67 John B. Van Ness (’51, ’56) 1968–70 Richard Coselli (’55, J.D. ’58) 1971 Clarence F. Kendall, II (’60, J.D. ’69) 1972–73 Shearn Smith (’51, J.D. ’69) 1974 J. Huey O’Toole ( J.D. ’60) 1975 Roger W. Jeffery, Jr. 1976 Coulson Tough (’75) 1977 Robert Ulmer (’69) 1978 Laurence Wayne ( J.D. ’70) 1979–80 Leonard Pizalate (’67) 1980–81 E. Virginia Barnett (’56) 1981–82 Jay Ginsburg (’70, J.D. ’72) 1982–83 Elton Porter, Jr. (’50) 1983–84 James Wiseheart (’61) 1984–85 George Thomas Lambert (’69) 1985–86 Harry M. Jacobson (’57) 1986–87
J. Pleas Doyle (’57) 1987–88 Shirley Rose (’60, M.Ed. ’69) 1988–89 Donald Sykora (’57) 1989–90 Stanley Binion (’60, J.D. ’62) 1990–91 R. Larry Snider (’55) 1991–92 Matthew Provenzano (’59) 1992–93 Stephen T. Harcrow (’69, ’71) 1993–94 Alvin Zimmerman (’64, J.D. ’67) 1994–95 Paula Douglass ( J.D. ’88) 1995–96 Jack Moore (’77) 1996; 2003–04 Glenn Lilie (FS) 1996–98 John Peterson (’76) 1998–99 Alfredo Vela (’62) 1999–2000 John Downey Bridgwater (’84) 2000–01 Graham Painter (’72) 2001–02 Sonny Messiah–Jiles (’74) 2002–03 Marvin Nathan (’65, J.D. ’69) 2004–05 Rick Bowen (’88, M.B.A. ’91) 2005–06 Elizabeth Ghrist (M.Ed. ’67) 2006–07 Cheryl Creuzot (’81, J.D. ’92) 2007–08 Michael Baker (’68, J.D. ’71) 2008–09 Judith Lilie (’95) 2009–10 Reece Rondon (’92, J.D. ’95) 2010–11 Ricky Raven (’83, J.D. ’86) 2011–12 John Clarke (’82) 2012–13 Starlet Hargrave Agrella (’86, M.B.A. ’89) 2013–14 Joseph Pogge (’79) 2014–15 Trey Wilkinson (’92, M.B.A. ’02) 2015–16 Patty Godfrey (’89, M.B.A. ’97) 2016–17 Bill Hickl (’86) 2017–18 Brent Chinn (FS ’82) 2018–19 Laurie Rutherford (’86, M.B.A. ’91, M.S. ’04) 2019–20 Drue DaSilva (’93, M.S. ’99) 2020-2022
UHAA merged into University of Houston under a Memorandum of Understanding (we were previously an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization). UHAA offices and staff are now part of the UH’s Advancement Division. UH Alumni Association Foundation remains a separate 501(c)(3) governed by UHAAF Board of Directors.
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UHAA Foundation Board Board Members
Executive Committee
DRUE DASILVA (’93, M.S.’99) PRESIDENT
WAYNE LUCKETT (’74) INCOMING PRESIDENT
KATY CALDWELL (’78)
EDWARD CARRIZALES (‘13)
LAURIE RUTHERFORD (’86, M.B.A. ’91, M.S. ’04) IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
SHAZIA KHAN (’84) SECRETARY
KEITH CORNELIUS (’83)
LISA CUSHING (’01)
RICHARD WHITELEY (’93, J.D.’99) TREASURER
CHARLENE JOHNSON (’91)
SANDY LEE (’84)
MARGO MASSAD KAPLAN (’03)
THOMAS MAY (’88)
MICHAEL SACHS (’97) MEMBER AT-LARGE
AMANDA HEATH-MONTAG (’02)
ALEX OBREGON (’09, M.B.A. ’14)
TRENT PEREZ (’05)
SCOTT RANDO (’83)
DAVID ROLAND (’83)
EUGENIA VANCE (’90)
KELLY COLEMAN (’71)
JUDY CHONG (’69,’76)
ERIK BARAJAS (’99)
JAMES HONG (’05)
Ex Officio
AGNES DEFRANCO (B.SC. ’83, M.B.A. ’89, ED.D. ’93)
MIKE PEDE (’89) ELOISE DUNN BRICE ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FORVICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ALUMNI RELATIONS ADVANCEMENT
First Annual Cougar 100 Luncheon hosted at Bayou City Event Center. 100 Cougar-owned or led companies were ranked in order of growth percentage and recognized at the luncheon. More than 600 attendees attend the luncheon each year.
2014
30
31
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Statement of Financial Position THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON ALUMNI ASSOCIATION FOUNDATION
STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION AUGUST 31, 2021 AND 2020 ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents Investments Accounts receivable Pledges receivable, net Prepaid expenses and other assets Property, net Restricted cash
TOTAL ASSETS
2021
2020
$ 1,158,471 10,292,377 45,470 176,255 88,359 66,850 2,151
$ 1,189,633 7,859,989 27,044 212,492 58,058 84,001 2,151
$ 11,829,933
$ 9,433,368
$ 39,249 35,747 43,434
$ 40,577 48,599 5,133
118,430
94,309
10,702,719 1,008,784
8,385,575 953,484
11,711,503
9,339,059
$ 11,829,933
$ 9,433,368
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Liabilities Accounts payable and accrued expenses Due to affiliates, net Deferred revenue
TOTAL LIABILITIES NET ASSETS Without donor restrictions Without donor restrictions
TOTAL NET ASSETS TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
UHAA launched the Cougar Business Network to support UH alumni owned and operated businesses and other businesses that partner with UH.
2019
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
Corporate Sponsors Thanks to Our Corporate Sponsors UHAA programs and services are made possible, in part, through the support of our dedicated corporate sponsors. With these partnerships, UHAA is able to provide valuable benefits and services to our alumni and other members of the Cougar family. Please visit houstonalumni.com/partners to see some of the offers that are available from fellow Coogs.
UHAA launched the UH Alumni Store to provide alumni the opportunity to purchase officiallybranded UH gear that bears the UH legacy logo.
2019
32
33
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
COUGAR FIGHT SONG
UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON ALMA MATER
Cougars fight for dear old U of H,
All hail to thee,
For our Alma Mater cheer.
Our Houston University.
Fight for Houston University,
Our hearts fill with gladness,
For victory is near.
When we think of thee.
When the going gets so rough and tough,
We’ll always adore thee,
We never worry cause we got the stuff.
Dear old varsity.
So fight, fight, fight for red and white,
And to thy memory cherished,
And we will go to victory.
True we’ll ever be.
UHAA unveiled the Ring statue at the Student Center to allow students and alumni the opportunity to celebrate the time-honored tradition of the UH Class Ring.
2020
ANNUAL REPORT / 2022
34
Alumni Relations Staff
CHUCK ARNOLD (’94)
BETH BORCK (‘03)
Executive Director of Alumni Relations
Director of Affiliated Alumni Associations
NANCY CLARK (‘76), CFRE
MIKAYLA COLLINS (‘18, M.A. ‘20)
Director of Legacy Programs
DAVID PALOMO (‘15) Program Mgr. of Corporate Partnerships
LEIA BURROUGHS Program Manager, Student Programs
KENDRA HAKANSON
MAYRA CASTILLO (‘19)
Senior Graphic Designer
CAROLYN HARTMANN
ASHLEIGH HILDRETH
Special Events Operations Coordinator
Director of Events and Special Programs
Director of Alumni Communications
MIKE PEDE (’89)
ANNEKA ROBERSON
KIRSTYN SPEICH (‘16)
Associate Vice President, Alumni Relations
Project Manager
JULIAN CEARLEY
Social Media Coordinator
Life Member Manager
UHAA launched the online alumni platform, CoogsConnect, to help alumni expand their network, browse job opportunities, become a mentor and more.
2021
Program Manager
NON-PROFIT ORG
US POSTAGE
UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Athletics/Alumni Center 3204 Cullen Boulevard | Room 201 Houston, TX 77204-6000
PAID
HOUSTON,TEXAS PERMIT NO.5910