YEAR IN REVIEW 2020
Annual Report
Table of Contents 4 Introduction
29 UH Athletics Forecast
5 What Does UHAA Do?
30 Legacy Scholarship Spotlight
7 Resources for Young Alumni
31 Get Involved
8 Young Alumni Spotlight
32 Alumni Associations
10 UHAA By the Numbers
34 Events
12 Cougar 100
36 Our Traditions
14 Distinguished Alumni Gala
39 Corporate Sponsors
17 Alumni Award Honorees
40 UHAA Foundation Board of Directors
20 UH Day of Remembrance
42 UHAA Communications
21 Cougars on Tour
44 UHAA Foundation Past Presidents
22 Student Programs
45 UHAA Staff
24 Public Affairs
46 UHAA Foundation Financial Position
25 Community Involvement
48 University of Houston Alma Mater
26 The Best Parts of 2020 for Life Members
49 University of Houston Cougar Fight Song
Dear Cougars, Thank you for playing an important role in the life of UHAA and the University of Houston. Once again, you have demonstrated your enduring dedication to our mission of connecting and engaging a network of now over 300,000 strong. The year 2020 marked the 80th anniversary for UHAA, and despite the challenges that we faced as a community, UH alumni united and rose to the occasion. Through It all, we found new and impactful ways to connect, celebrate success and support one another. The initiatives and accomplishments highlighted in our Annual Report are the result of Cougars coming together to help make our beloved alma mater stronger and more vibrant than ever. As you read on, we hope you become even more inspired and find new ways to enrich your involvement. There are many opportunities to enhance your alumni experience; from volunteering for a professional or social event, joining one of our alumni associations, supporting our student scholarships to becoming a Life Member. Your alumni association is here for you. As we move forward, let us continue to raise the bar on what we can accomplish together and continue our commitment to the University, its students and each other. Sincerely,
Mike Pede (’89)
Associate Vice President
Alumni Relations
Drue DaSilva (’93, M.S. ’99)
President
UHAA Foundation Board of Directors
INTRODUCTION Since 1940, UHAA has served and supported the University of Houston, its over 300,000 alumni, its friends, and the community it calls home. Our goal is enabling and encouraging lifelong alumni relationships with the University of Houston. From student scholarships, to alumni networks and communications, UHAA is working to enhance the value of your degree and your alumni experience. The UHAA Foundation 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. The UHAA Foundation provides oversight through its Board of Directors for its constituent alumni associations, endowed scholarships, Life Member program, affinity and corporate sponsorships, revenue generation 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
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Year in Review: 2020
WHAT DOES UHAA DO? UHAA is the brand through which all alumni relations occur at the University of Houston. UHAA provides UH alumni, current and former students unique and meaningful programs and services to ensure lifelong engagement with the University. An engaged alumni base sustains school pride, generates additional University prestige and increases opportunities for community and career networking and personal success. Those who engage with our programs and services have fun, receive benefits, create lasting memories and are continually shaped by UH experiences, developing a greater affinity for giving back to the University. Prior to 2013, UHAA operated as an independent organization closely affiliated with UH, collecting annual member dues. In that year, UHAA merged with the University to create more opportunities for alumni, and annual membership became automatic for graduates. Under the University’s banner, UHAA has taken on broader initiatives to better serve our fellow Coogs and has increased the number of programs and services we offer. This united focus has indisputably helped us advance our common goals: student success and alumni connection to our alma mater.
Seven Major Initiatives of UHAA 1 Alumni Associations
5 Student Programming
2 Awards & Recognition
6 Supporting Athletics
3 Career Development & Networking
7 Traditions & Engagement
4 Philanthropic Opportunities & Corporate Partners
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LEARN + ENGAGE + GROW COOGSCONNECT.COM
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Year in Review: 2020
RESOURCES FOR YOUNG ALUMNI Young alumni (those who have graduated within the last ten years and are under the age of 35) comprises a large component of our constituent base and are important to our ever-evolving alumni network. As young alumni, your journey as a Coog does not end once you graduate. It is actually just beginning. Whether you are job hunting, looking to expand your network or just wanting to reconnect with fellow Coogs, UHAA is here for you. To help point you in the right direction, follow our checklist, and you will remain connected to UH no matter where life takes you.
Get Your Digital Alumni Card
Become a Life Member
Your Alumni Card identifies you as a UH alum. Receive special
Start solidifying your engagement with UH today. By becoming
discounts and offers from UHAA business partners and gain
a Life Member, you continue your legacy while receiving some
exclusive access to some great events.
great perks along the way.
Get Involved
Join CoogsConnect
Join one of our dynamic alumni associations and start forming
Leverage the power of your network with the new alumni
new lifelong connections. Whether you’re interested in joining a
platform, CoogsConnect. Reconnect with fellow Coogs, browse
group of Coogs based on your college, interests or geographical
job opportunities, find a mentor and much more!
area, there’s a place for you at UHAA.
Download the UH Go App
Navigate Your Career Path
To stay up-to-date on UHAA events, alumni associations and
As you transition to life after college, University Career Services
discounts in your area, download the official mobile app for UH
is here to help. Recent graduates can use Alumni Career Services
and make sure your role is set to “alumni.”
for a full semester after graduation for free.
Keep in Touch
Make sure you’re in-the-know for all the exciting alumni news and information that is occurring within UHAA. To update your contact information, please visit: www.uh.edu/giving/update-info.
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YOUNG ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: UP AND COMING AUTHORS Brenda Melgar (’15) In the spring of 2020, the world was grappling with the beginnings of the COVID-19 pandemic. Living in Denver, Colorado, Brenda Melgar (’15) was trying to give her two young children some sense of normalcy amidst the lockdown and social distancing. “At first, having to stay at home was fun for my children,” said Brenda. “However, as time went on, I knew that I had to do something to keep my son and daughter occupied.” To engage her children in an activity that was entertaining yet also helped them understand what was happening in the world, Brenda decided that they would create a book based on their experience with the pandemic. “My son had some difficulty in reading so I asked him to help me create some of the dialogue for the book,’’ said Brenda. “He also helped me color in the illustrations.” Growing up in Houston, Brenda always had an interest in art and used every opportunity to showcase her talent. “I regularly entered my drawings in the Houston Live Stock and Rodeo Art contest,” said Brenda. “Being able to illustrate my first book is a dream come true.” As a graduate of the Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship in the C.T. Bauer College of Business, Brenda credits the experience in providing her with a keen business sense and the drive to work hard. “While I have always gravitated towards art, I decided to enter the business school at UH to give me the business know-how that would help me further my talent,” said Brenda. Brenda’s E-Book, “Ramsey and Brecken: When the World Closed Its Door,” can be found on YouTube at youtu.be/tPyyWeTDzEw.
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Year in Review: 2020
Adam Arafat (’18) Back in 2012, if you traveled along I-45 South, just north of Downtown and passed beneath an old train bridge, you would see the statement, “Be Someone,” etched in blue lettering. For many people, this statement probably does not conjure up anything of significance. For Adam Arafat (’18), that was not the case. To understand how this statement led to Adam’s book, “Be Someone: Operationalize Vision to Make an Impact in Life, Business, and the World,” we have to start from the beginning. When Adam graduated from UH in 2018, he did what all graduates do and started the infamous job search. “In my culture, there is a common expectation that the children will take over the family business,’’ said Adam. “While I have the utmost respect for my father and what he had accomplished in his own business, I wanted to forge my own path and control my own destiny.” Adam did just that and started an intense job search. “Despite the many rejections, I decided to take what I learned and turn it into strengths,’’ said Adam. Adam’s determination paid off when he received an offer from DocuSign, which is located in Seattle. “Because I did not receive any relocation allowance, I had to be resourceful so I stayed in a hostel for $35.00 per night,” said Adam. While Adam was residing in the hostel, he began pondering the challenges he faced and all that he had learned throughout his journey. “For some reason, I kept thinking about that message, “Be Someone” that I remembered seeing back in Houston,” said Adam. “That message inspired me to begin writing about how successful people carve out their destiny. In my book, I ask the question, how do we satisfy the need to be someone?” Adam released the paperback version of “Be Someone: Operationalize Vision to Make an Impact in Life, Business, and the World” in December 2020. The book is available on Amazon, Barnes and Nobel and Kobo. The audiobook is available now. Adam hopes his book will inspire others to apply their own unique vision to fulfill their destiny. Adam now serves as a writer at New Degree Studios and is working on a new audio series, “Deserts from the Desert,” which explores preserving cultural heritage through food and how food, particularly middle eastern sweets, can heal the current divides that exist in our world today.
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UHAA BY THE NUMBERS Alumni Counts As of August 31, 2020
305,963
282,935
All-Time UH Alumni
Living UH Alumni
217,560
185,233
UH Alumni in Texas
UH Alumni in the Greater Houston Area
Virtual Events*
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Year in Review: 2020
19
2,532
UH2U Webinars
Registrants
1,068
1,095
Participants
YouTube Views
Scholarships*
117
$
UHAA Scholarships Awarded
157,350
In Scholarship Awards
Life Member*
529
7,600 +
New Life Members
Current Life Members
Alumni Associations*
UH Class Rings*
Class Notes*
30
1,169
517
Active Alumni Associations
UH Class Rings Sold
Class Notes Published
*Numbers reflect period from 1/1/20 – 12/31/20
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COUGAR 100 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. In addition to our annual recognition ceremony, a series of networking events are scheduled for the Cougar 100 honorees from current and past years. Due to the pandemic, UHAA was not able to hold our Cougar 100 luncheon in 2020 but was able to pay tribute to our Cougar 100 honorees through a virtual webinar held in February 2021. The Cougar 100 members are automatically included in the Cougar Business Network. The Cougar Business Network is an online listing of all Cougar-owned businesses, which helps in our continuing effort to support Cougars doing business with Cougars. 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.
Top 10 Companies of the 7th Annual Cougar 100
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Year in Review: 2020
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7 T H AN N UAL COUG AR 100 Recognizing the Fastest Growing Cougar-Owned or Led Businesses
Cover of the 7th Annual Cougar 100 booklet
Support Cougar-owned Businesses!
THE COUGAR BUSINESS NETWORK Visit coogsconnect.com to see the business directory.
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DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI GALA Each year, UHAA takes time to recognize and honor the achievements and service of its faithful alumni via the Alumni Awards Gala. In 2020, the following honorees were selected. While UHAA was not able to pay tribute to these alumni in-person in 2020, plans for a proper tribute are underway in 2021.
Distinguished Alumni Award Jim Culpepper (’67) Jim L. Culpepper is founder of Jim L. Culpepper & Associates, P.C. — a law firm that handles business litigation and probate matters. He is Board Certified in Civil Trial Law, Personal Injury Law, and Commercial Real Estate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He is fluent in Spanish and able to provide all phases of legal services and other communications to the firm’s Spanish-speaking clients.
Elizabeth Killinger (’91) Elizabeth Killinger graduated from the University of Houston in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration-management information systems from the C.T. Bauer College of Business. She has nearly 30 years of domestic and international experience in the energy and services industries and currently serves NRG as EVP and president of Reliant.
Alex López Negrete (FS ’81) Since co-founding Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc., in 1985, Alex’s passion and vision have positioned the company to become one of the country’s most influential, independent, Hispanic owned and operated Omnicultural® marketing agencies. He started the Houston-based agency with his wife and partner, Cathy, with the conviction that thoughtful, relevant, fully integrated, in-language and in-culture communications is the best way to reach the exceedingly important Hispanic market.
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Year in Review: 2020
Howard S. Lorch (’67, M.Ed. ’68) Howard “Howie” Lorch is a Managing Director-Investments and Financial Advisor with The Lorch Group of Wells Fargo Advisors. Lorch offers a wide range of experience from Wealth Management, Estate Planning Strategies and Insurance, as well as access to lending products and services through Wells Fargo Advisors. Howard offers a broad array of company resources, including research analysts and economic and market experts. Lorch has helped clients make informed investment decisions during his more than 50 years in the financial industry. He also played a key role in the integration of college basketball over 50 years ago as the first roommate for NCAA and NBA legend, Elvin Hayes (’85) at UH.
Robert D. Planck (’71) Robert Planck is the president of Interconnect Enterprises, a consulting firm specializing in the hospitality and foodservice manufacturing industries. Planck also serves as the associate for Pentallect, a strategic consulting firm serving the leading trading partners in the food industry. Planck is active in several organizations — serving as Chairman of the Cougar Lunch Bunch; as a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council for the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management at UH; as a member of the Board of Advisors for the TKE Fraternity at UH; and as a member of the Board of Directors for the Krewe of Gambrinus, a leading Galveston based Mardi Gras Krewe.
Distinguished Service Award The Distinguished Service Award is given to UHAA Life Members who are set apart by their history of service to UHAA and University.
Fermeen Fazal (’96, ’97, J.D. ’00) Fermeen Fazal is Vice President, Chief Counsel, and Director of Compliance at Universal Pegasus International (UPI), a pipeline engineering, procurement, and construction services company. She has responsibility and oversight for UPI’s legal, compliance, risk management, facilities, quality, and contracts functions. Fermeen graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Houston Law Center in 2000. While in law school, she was the Chief Justice of the student-run Honor Court, and the Publishing Editor for the Houston Law Review.
Sharmagne Taylor (’86) Sharmagne Taylor, CMP, is president and CEO of On-Site Partners, Inc. Established in 1998, On-Site Partners, Inc., is a full-service meeting consulting firm that provides technology solutions for attendees and housing and event-logistics management for large meetings and events hosted by professional and trade associations, corporations and community organizations. Prior to starting her own firm, Taylor worked for 15 years in hotel operations, sales and convention services, primarily with the Hyatt and Hilton.
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DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI GALA (CONT.)
Billie Schneider Outstanding Volunteer Award The Billie Schneider Outstanding Volunteer Award recognizes alumni who exemplify a spirit of volunteerism to advance UHAA’s mission.
Edward Carrizales (’13) Edward Carrizales works as Systems Data Analyst for Amegy Bank. He was awarded the 2019 ETO Community Service award from Zions/Amegy Bank. Edward is a Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Scholar and was the recipient of the 2012 ALPFA Latino of the Year award during his time at the University of Houston. He has served as the President of the UH Hispanic Alumni Association and graduated from the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Emerging Leaders Institute in 2017. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Alumni Task Force.
Rising Star Award for Achievement The Rising Star Award recognizes and honors motivated young alumni who have excelled beyond the norm early in their careers.
Justin Yu (’07) Native Houstonian and Chef Justin Yu has crisscrossed the globe honing his culinary skills. Yu earned his bachelors in Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston and a culinary arts degree from New York’s Culinary Institute of America. In Houston, Chef Yu worked at *17 and The Grove before heading west to man the stoves at the vegetable-focused, Michelin-rated Ubuntu in Napa Valley. In 2010, he ventured back to his hometown for the Just8 Project — a wildly-popular one-month pop-up restaurant — before traveling abroad to work. In Europe, he served as a stagier at In de Wulf in Belgium and AOC and Geranium in Denmark. Chef Yu opened Oxheart in March 2012, listed by Bon Appetit as one of America’s top 10 Best New Restaurants of 2012. When Oxheart closed in 2017, Yu opened Theodore Rex, the Houston spot already being recognized as one of the Best New Restaurants in America.
Chair’s Award The Chair’s Award honors non-alumni who have consistently and voluntarily given extraordinary support to the University of Houston.
Dr. William Munson Dr. Munson started his 34-year connection with the University of Houston in 1985 when he was hired as the Director of Campus Activities. In 1988, he was promoted to the Dean of Students position and subsequently to the positions of Assistant Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students in 1992, Associate Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students in 2001, and Associate Vice Chancellor/Associate Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students in 2007. Since 2012, Dr. Munson has served as the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students.
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Year in Review: 2020
ALUMNI AWARD HONOREES Award year is noted in black.
Distinguished Alumni Award James L. Sibley (FS ’49) 1949
Hon. Dr. Kenneth L. Lay (Ph.D. ’70) 1985
Ernest Mayeux (FS ’52) 1951
Vassar Miller (’47, M.A. ’50) 1985
Jack Valenti (A.S. ’42, B.S. ’46, H ’02) 1952
Mickey L. Herskowitz (’56) 1986
Sherwood Crane 1953
Kenneth L. Schnitzer 1986
Johnny Goyen (’47) 1954
James C. Shindler (’57) 1986
William W. Sherrill (FS ’50) 1955
Ned Battista (’62, M.M. ’64) 1987
Charles A. Saunders (’45) 1956
Roy H. Cullen, Jr. (’57) 1987
Joel H. Berry, Jr. (’42) 1957
Jack M. Rains ( J.D. ’67) 1987
Harry H. Montgomery, Jr. (’40) 1958
Duane B. Adams (’54) 1988
Thomas Menefee (FS ’42) 1959
Joseph Rodney Canion (’66, M.S. ’67) 1988
John J. Toomey (’50, J.D. ’69) 1960
Larry W. Gatlin (’70) 1988
Ralph Poling (’56) 1961
Sam P. Douglass (’54) 1989
Walter M. Rainey, Jr. (’49) 1962
Dr. Louis Green (’47) 1989
Roger W. Jeffery, Sr. (FS ’38) 1963
Wilhelmina Cullen Robertson (’44) 1989
Judge Roy Hofheinz 1967
Victor Costa (’58) 1990
Dr. John McGivney (’47) 1968
Hon. C.F. Kendall, II (’60, J.D. ’69) 1990
Congressman Bob Casey 1969
Dr. Robert W. Lawless (’64) 1990
Dan Rather (FS ’57) 1969
Congressman Tom DeLay (’69) 1991
Dr. Arleigh Templeton (M.Ed ’50, Ph.D. ’60) 1969
Hon. John J. Moores (’70, J.D. ’75, H ’95) 1991
LeRoy Melcher, Sr. (’33) 1970
Leonard Rosenberg ( J.D. ’53) 1991
Hon. Welcome Wilson, Sr. (’49) 1970
Katherine Mize (’61, M.A. ’65) 1992
Harry H. Hedges, Jr. (’40) 1971
Jim Nantz (’81) 1992
Elsa Rosborough (’46, M.L. ’63) 1971
Don D. Sykora (’57) 1992
Larry Blyden (’47) 1972
Carl Lewis (FS ’82) 1993
Judge Bill Elliott ( J.D. ’51) 1972
Hon. John O’Quinn (’65, ’67, J.D. ’69) 1993
Reverend Rene H. Gracida (’50) 1972
Dr. Shirley Rose (’60, M.Ed. ’69, Ph.D. ’73) 1993
Guy V. Lewis (’47) 1973
Dr. Bernard Harris (’78) 1994
Judge Wendell A. Odom ( J.D. ’51) 1973
Tom Jarriel (’56) 1994
Judge Criss Cole ( J.D. ’54) 1974
Regina Rogers (’70) 1994
Howard W. Pollock ( J.D. ’69) 1975
Valerie King Freeman (’70, M.Ed. ’72) 1995
John B. Van Ness (’51, ’56) 1975
Congressman Gene Green (’71) 1995
Byron G. “Pappy” Bond (’50) 1976
Hakeem Olajuwon (FS ’84) 1995
Rabbi Hyman Judah Schachtel (Ed.D. ’48) 1977
Doug Drabek (FS ’83) 1996
Roy Wiese (’54) 1978
Elizabeth D. Rockwell (FS ’42, H ’99) 1996
Dave Williams 1978
Jane Cizik (’83) 1997
Robert W. Baldwin (’47, ’49) 1979
Hon. Gene McDavid (’65) 1997
Archie Bennett, Jr. (’62) 1979
Hon. Morrie Abramson (’56) 1998
Elvin Hayes (’85) 1980
Emyré Robinson (’70) 1998
Hon. Leonard Rauch (FS ’47, H ’07) 1980
Hon. Mary E. Bacon ( J.D. ’72) 2000
Richard “Racehorse” Haynes ( J.D. ’56) 1981
Kenneth L. Barun (’81) 2000
Kenneth Reese (’54) 1981
Burdette W. Keeland (’50) 2000
Hon. Charles B. Marino (’50) 1982
Dr. B. Montgomery Pettitt (’75, Ph.D. ’80) 2000
Kathryn J. Whitmire (’68,M.S. ’70) 1982
Judge Vanessa Gilmore ( J.D. ’81) 2002
Peter H. Roussel (’65) 1983
Cynthia Woods Mitchell (’43) 2002
Judge Shearn Smith (’51, J.D. ’69) 1983
Dominique Sachse (’90) 2002
Judge Ruby Kless Sondock (’59, ’61) 1983
Melvyn Wolff (’53) 2002
E. Virginia Barnett (M.B.A. ’56) 1984
Hon. Michael Cemo (’68) 2003
Hon. John E. Kolb ( J.D. ’55) 1984
Hon. Vidal Martinez ( J.D. ’77) 2003
Hon. Charles E. McMahen (’62, H ’02) 1984
Dr. Kathryn “Kaye” Stripling (’67, Ed.D. ’85) 2003
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ALUMNI AWARD HONOREES (CONT.)
Distinguished Alumni Award (cont.) Leroy Burrell (’94) 2004
Alonzo Cantu (’78) 2013
Rose Cullen (FS ’57) 2004
Loretta Devine (’71) 2013
Charles Matthews ( J.D. ’70) 2004
Dr. Dennis Golden (’76, O.D. ’77) 2013
Dr. Anastacio Mindiola (’02) 2005
Vicki & Nick (’73) Massad 2013
Hon. Margaret Spellings (’79) 2005
Richard Rawson (’72) 2013
Dr. Herman Suit (’48) 2005
Doug Brooks (’75) 2014
Dr. Patricia Potter Wilson (Ph.D. ’85) 2005
Rafael Ortega (’81, M.B.A. ’85) 2014
Carol L. Lewis (’89, ’92) 2006
Andre Ware (’96) 2014
Jack Moore (’77) 2006
Dr. Philip Zelikow (’77, J.D. ’79) 2014
Senator John Whitmire (’75) 2006
Aylwin Lewis (’76, M.B.A. ’90) 2015
Gerald McElvy (’75) 2007
Bill Worrell (’69) 2015
Hon. Martha Wong (’76, Ed.D. ’83) 2007
Rushion McDonald (’83) 2015
Dr. Dorothy E.F. Caram (Ed.D. ’82) 2008
Ken Bailey (’69, J.D. ’72) 2015
Marvin D. Nathan (’65, J.D. ’69) 2008
Dominic Ng (’80) 2015
Col. Barrye L. Price, Ph.D. (’85) 2008
Dr. William Brookshire (’57) 2016
Christopher Theofanidis (’90) 2008
Billy Ray Brown (’85) 2016
Karen W. Katz (M.B.A. ’82) 2009
Alan Gershenhorn (’82) 2016
Miguel R. San Juan (’74) 2009
Pamela O’Rourke (UHCL ’95) 2016
Alvin L. Zimmerman (’64, J.D. ’67) 2009
The Honorable Jarvis V. Hollingsworth ( J.D. ’93) 2017
Richard Coselli (’55, J.D. ’58) 2010
J. Downey Bridgwater (’84) 2017
Elizabeth Ghrist (M.Ed. ’67) 2010
Star Jones ( J.D. ’86) 2017
Jim Perdue (’61, J.D. ’62) 2010
The Honorable Melissa Noriega (’77, M. Ed. ’83) 2017
David Bertman (M.M. ’98) 2011
Wade Phillips (’70) 2017
Cheryl Creuzot (’81, J.D. ’92, M.L. ’99, M.B.A. ’12) 2011
The Honorable Sylvester Turner (’77) 2017
Leroy Hermes (’66) 2011
Spencer Armour (’77) 2018
Beth Madison (’72) 2011
Otis Birdsong (’77) 2018
Durga Agrawal (M.S. ’69, Ph.D. ’74) 2012
James H. Greer (’54) 2018
Brett Cullen (’79) 2012
Dr. Laura Murillo (’89, M.ED. ’98, Ed.D. ’03) 2018
Lt. General Robert Milstead (’74) 2012
Marvin Odum (M.B.A. ’95) 2018
Dorothy T. Nicholson (’77) 2012
Thasunda Brown Duckett (’96) 2019
Dennis Quaid (’74) 2012
Hanneke Faber (’90, M.B.A. ’92) 2019
Robert Wuhl (’76) 2012
David Ashley White (’68, M.M. ’74) 2019
Dr. Roger Birkman (’47, M.S. ’47) 2013
Honorable Jim P. Wise (’66) 2019
Distinguished Service Award Murray Stinson (FS ’68) 1994
Chris Mims (’87) 2008
Jim Wiseheart (’61) 1995
Linda (’64) & Stanley (’60, J.D. ’62) Binion 2009
Pleas Doyle (’57) 1996
Elaine (’82) & Tommy (’80) Ebner 2010
Billie Schneider 1997
George Leroy Hall (’56, ’77, M.S. ’11) 2010
Stephen Harcrow (’69) 1998
Robert Planck (’71) 2010
Janet A. Blair (’83) 2000
Judy (’68) & Ken (FS ’65) Baxter 2011
Judie (’95) & Glenn (FS ’68) Lilie 2002
Mike Holley (’90) 2011
Joanne ( J.D. ’85) & Larry (’68, J.D. ’70) Doherty 2003
Audray McMillian (’84) 2012
Josanna (‘80) & Hon. Thaddeus “Bo” (‘67) Smith 2003
Ron Page (’80) 2012
Richard Coselli (’55, J.D. ’58) 2004
Rick Bowen (’88, M.B.A. ’91) 2013
Graham Painter (’72) 2004
Lance “Hopper” Livingston (’66) 2014
Shirley (FS ’82) & Matthew (’59) Provenzano 2004
Rick Noriega (’84) 2014
J. Downey Bridgwater (’84) 2005
Laurie Rutherford (’86, M.B.A. ’91, M.S. ’04) 2015
Sharon Stinson 2005
Nancy and Dale (’70) Lowe 2016
Cathy Coers Frank (’80) 2006
Dr. Demetrius “Dee” Pearson (Ed.D. ’90) 2016
Francie Willis 2006
Kim (’81) & John (’82) Clarke 2017
Margaret Bock (FS ’57) 2007
Kimberly (‘93) & Trey (‘92, M.B.A. ‘02) Wilkinson 2018
Sonny Messiah-Jiles (’74) 2007
James Holmes (‘86) 2018
J.W. “Willie” Burns (’58) 2008
Preston Johnson, Jr. (FS ’87, UHCL M.B.A. ’83) 2019
David M. Doll (’88, M.B.A. ’92) 2008
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Year in Review: 2020
Billie Schneider Outstanding Volunteer Award Don McKusker (’50) 2003
Yuen-Yee Ma (M.B.A. ’77) 2013
Becky Hyatt (’93) 2004
Amanda Heath (’02) 2014
Sherman Smith, Jr. (’76) 2005
Dr. Sharon Spillman (’97, M.Ed. ’03, Ed.D. ’11) 2014
Jeffrey D. Fuller (’95, M.Ed. ’07) 2006
John T. McNabb 2015
Cynthia Oliver Coleman (’71) 2007
Drue DaSilva (’93, M.S. ’99) 2015
Alton “Red” Veselka (’77) 2008
Barbara Parrott McGinity (’74, M.S.W. ’00) 2016
Perry Pace, III (FS ’68) 2009
Margarita Barcenas (UHD ’92, M.B.A. ’03) 2016
Patty Godfrey (’89, M.B.A. ’97) 2010
Nicolas Brines (’92) 2017
Joe Green (’80) 2011
Charlene Johnson (‘91) 2018
Judy Chong (’69, ’76) 2012
Michael Alcorn (’07) 2019
Chair’s Award Robert W. Baker 1969
John Walsh (FS ’73) 1992
Max Levine 1969
Robert C. Lanier 1993
Hon. Colonel W. B. Bates 1970
Rev. William Lawson 1994
Hon. Mrs. Ray Dudley 1971
Dean John M. Ivancevich 1995
Harry H. Fouke 1971
Max Watson 1996
Dr. Philip G. Hoffman 1971
Dr. & Mrs. Glenn Goerke 1997
Robert W. Kneebone 1972
Tom Tellez 1998
C.F. McElhinney 1973
Lee W. Hogan 2000
Hon. Aaron J. Farfel 1974
Cheryl L. Thompson– Draper 2000
Bessie M. Ebaugh 1975
Charles T. Bauer 2002
L. Standlee Mitchell 1975
Lucile B. Melcher 2002
Mrs. Gus Wortham 1976
Hon. Wilhelmina “Beth” Robertson 2003
Hon. Mr. & Mrs. Hugh Roy Cullen 1977
Hon. Tilman Fertitta (FS ’78) 2004
Mrs. Marty Harris 1978
Hon. William P. Hobby 2004
Don D. Jordan 1979
Gasper Mir, III 2005
George P. Mitchell 1979
Robert Mosbacher, Jr. 2005
Bill Yeoman 1979
Dena Lewis 2006
1980 Eric Hilton 1980
A.J. Yeoman 2006
A.A. White 1980
Jim McIngvale 2007
John R. Butler, Jr. 1981
Bill Moffit 2007
Dr. Barry Munitz 1981
Dr. Carolyn Farb, h.c. 2008
George A. Butler 1982
Carey C. Shuart 2009
Hon. Mack H. Hannah, Jr. 1982
Bruce Williams 2010
Frell L. Albright 1983
John Hofmeister 2011
Elliott A. Johnson 1983
Lillie Therese Robertson 2012
Roland S. McGinnis 1983
Meredith Mitchell Dreiss 2013
William T. Slick (FS ’63) 1985
University of Houston Student Body 2015
Stewart Orton 1986
Michael “Doc” O’Shea 2017
Hon. John T. Cater 1988
Ted L. Estess 2019
Hon. James L. Ketelsen 1990
Stephanie “Steph” Sherrodd 2019
Hon. Corbin Robertson, Sr. 1991
Rising Star Award for Achievement Jim Parsons (’96) 2010
Lisa Cushing (’01) 2016
Carlos de Aldecoa Bueno (’97) 2011
Erik Barajas (’99) 2017
James Hong (’05) 2012
Clara Hough (‘02) 2018
Hon. Jacqueline Baly (’90) 2013
Alexander W. Obregon (’09, M.B.A. ’14) 2019
Robert Flores (’92) 2015
Rising Star for Service Katie Kalenda Daggett (’99, M.A. ’03) 2010
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UH DAY OF REMEMBRANCE Every spring, the University of Houston honors the lives of students, staff, faculty, alumni and supporters who passed away during the previous year at the UH Day of Remembrance. The interfaith service takes place in the A.D. Bruce Religion Center’s University Chapel and is open to the public. The ceremony, which is coordinated by the Campus Ministries Association, includes liturgy from campus ministers and remarks from UH Administrators as well as a special candle-lighting ceremony featuring the presidents of the Student Government Association, the Faculty Senate, Staff Council and the UHAA Foundation. On March 3, 2020, the University paid tribute to 595 individuals who had passed away in 2019.
Member of the UHAA Foundation executive committee, Shazia Khan (’84), pays tribute to UH alumni who passed away in 2019.
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Year in Review: 2020
COUGARS ON TOUR: UPCOMING TRIPS California Rail Discovery Aug. 11 – 17 | From $3,695/person | Double Occupancy Join us on a spectacular seven day journey through Northern California. Enjoy overnight stays in San Francisco, Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, and experience rail journeys on the famous Napa Valley Wine Train and Amtrak’s California Zephyr. Other highlights include a San Francisco Bay Cruise, a winery tour and tasting, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Reno, a Lake Tahoe Paddle Wheeler Cruise, and so much more!
Morocco Sept. 4 – Oct. 3, 2021 | From $3,795 per person | Double Occupancy Embrace the charms of Morocco on this eight-night journey in Marrakech and Casablanca. Explore the colorful souks and medina, tour ornate gardens and marvel at minarets. Enjoy tea with a Berber family in the Atlas Mountains, relish cosmopolitan Casablanca and marvel at the wonders of ancient Rabat.
Albuquerque Balloon Festival Oct. 8 – 13, 2021 | From $3,195 per person | Double Occupancy Travel with us to the world famous Albuquerque Balloon Festival! Witness the mass ascension, which includes over 500 balloons taking to the sky and experience the balloons up close and illuminated on solid ground during the Balloon Glow. Enjoy three nights in Santa Fe, the 3rd oldest continuously inhabited US city. Travel through ancient villages to Taos, visit healing El Santuario, see Santa Fe’s Plaza, Loretto Chapel, and the Palace of the Governor’s, built in 1610.
Rose Parade New Year’s Dec. 30, 2021 – Jan. 4, 2022 | From $3,595 per person | Double Occupancy Enjoy beautiful Southern California featuring Orange County’s beach towns, Spanish missions, and a New Year’s Eve dinner party with music and dancing! You’ll experience the majesty of the Tournament of Roses Parade from reserved seats, and visit the Showcase of Floats to see them up close. Other visits include Hollywood, Beverly Hills, the Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum, and a San Diego harbor cruise.
For more information, please visit www.houstonalumni.com/travel.
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STUDENT PROGRAMS Written by Elaine Duke, Program Coordinator, Student Programs
20 for 20 During 2020, UHAA student programs had to change direction to account for those students attending classes online and those who were absent from campus. With the Class of 2020 having a challenging end to their senior year, UHAA launched “20 for 20,” which gave alumni, faculty and staff the opportunity to submit their congratulations and well wishes to the graduates. UHAA received 55 submissions and posted them on the alumni website for all to see. Submissions were received from graduates as far back as the class of 1949. Like always, UHAA welcomed our new graduates into UHAA with an email that highlighted all the resources available to them as alumni. As an added bonus, some familiar and notable alumni expressed their congratulations via a special video that was sent to graduates via email.
Senior Decal Drive Thru In the fall of 2019, UHAA held the first Senior Decal Drive Thru where 350 graduating seniors attended. The attendees received a free Houston Alumni t-shirt and car decal to show off their cougar pride outside of college. UHAA had to pivot this program in the spring semester due to COVID-19, but was able to host it again on November 23, 2020. The 2020 graduates of the spring, summer and fall semesters were invited to “drive thru” the AthleticsAlumni Center and pick up their goodies! We were pleased to have over 450 seniors participate. We hope this program becomes a new tradition for our graduating seniors as they step into the Cougar alumni family!
22
Year in Review: 2020
Class Rings Due to the pandemic, UHAA changed the format of the Ring Ceremony into a Ring Pick Up Celebration, which was held on December 6, 2020. The event was similar to the Senior Decal Drive Thru event where students drove to the Athletics/Alumni Center to pick up their newly blessed UH Class Ring from Shasta VI. After spending the day in Shasta’s habitat at the Houston Zoo, nearly 500 rings were blessed. Those who were not able to see their ring in Shasta’s habitat were invited to watch virtually via the Shasta Cam. UHAA invited those students who were unable to have their rings blessed in the spring due to COVID-19 come back and have their ring blessed in the fall. With the help from the UHAA Foundation Board and the UHAA staff, more than 450 students and their families drove to the Athletics/Alumni Center to receive their class rings, take pictures under the ring inflatable with the mascot, Shasta and Sasha, and be recognized for their stellar accomplishment! In 2020, UHAA created the Ring Scholarship as an extension of the Ring Program. UHAA partnered with Balfour to award class rings to those students who were not able to partake in the coveted tradition. The UHAA Foundation Student Engagement Committee and the Student Policy Board reviewed 544 Ring Scholarship applications. During the fall semester, we were able to award three ring scholarships.
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PUBLIC AFFAIRS
UH Day at the Capitol As a private 501(c)(3) organization, the UHAA Foundation is able to advocate for the University of Houston. Because UHAA falls under IRS Tax Code 170(b), employees are not allowed to use state assets with political intent. Therefore, the UHAA Foundation Public Affairs Committee uses its role to tell the UH story in the legislative arena. This committee continues to be very active and focuses on gathering information to educate alumni on legislation important to the University of Houston. Each legislative year, UH student volunteers accompany alumni, faculty, administration and community supporters to the state capitol where they meet with legislators and their associates. The goal of “UH Day at the Capitol” is to maximize funding for the University of Houston and the University of Houston System.
24
Year in Review: 2020
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT UH Rodeo Scholars The Rodeo provides numerous scholarships to Texas students every year, and many of these students end up becoming Coogs. A luncheon is held at the University each year to honor the student recipients of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarship. At any given time, there are more than 200 Rodeo Scholarship recipients enrolled at UH. Due the pandemic, the 2020 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo as well as the many events surrounding it were canceled. However, UHAA was able to participate in the Rodeo Parade with spirited alumni and friends.
UH on Parade In addition to the Rodeo parade, UHAA showcases the UH float in many community celebrations throughout the year. Listed below are some examples. Annual MLK Grande Parade Rodeo Houston Parade Houston LGBT Pride Parade Fort Bend County Fair Parade Mardi Gras in Galveston Juneteenth Parade Fiestas Patrias Parade Houston Thanksgiving Day Parade
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THE BEST PARTS OF 2020 FOR LIFE MEMBERS Written by Kirstyn Speich (’16), UHAA Life Member Manager Who would have thought we would have started this decade off by going into a global pandemic causing everybody to alter their daily routines?! While 2020 wasn’t a great year for most anybody, we did have moments of unexpected joy and inspiration. We have proved that we all are resilient and can make it through anything. Personally, I am extremely proud of how our Cougar family has come together to get through these rough times. Now that I have addressed the elephant in the room, let’s talk Life Members! The year started off “normal.” One-hundred and twenty lucky Life Members got to have a basketball experience like no other! Life Members took over Fertitta Center as part of the white-out game on March 1. They got to have a pre-game brunch, received the game t-shirt and a clear bag that can be used at all sporting venues, but the best part of all was the on-court recognition during half time! An experience like no other! The men’s basketball team ended up defeating Cincinnati 68-55!
Life Members receiving on court recognition
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Year in Review: 2020
Life Member pre-game brunch
After March, we all know what happened. We all went into lockdown, and UHAA had to get creative on how our alumni could stay engaged with each other. The Life Member program is no different. There was a 6-week trivia competition held virtually via Zoom using the Kahoot platform. The great thing about virtual events are Life Members from all over got to play since it was held online. We had participation from all over the Houston-area, Dallas-area, Austin-area, Colorado and Florida. It was really great to see Life Members from all over the country! The battles grew to be more competitive as the weeks went on. Each battle had 6 categories with 7 questions each. We crowned a champion on Wednesday, October 14. Congratulations to Sarah Jones (’19) who reigned supreme in her trivia knowledge! Don’t worry, Life Members, there are trivia battles scheduled in the spring of 2021! I wonder who will be crowned the next champion. Could it be you?
Life Member trivia had a neon theme
One of the categories during trivia was All About The Cougars
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THE BEST PARTS OF 2020 FOR LIFE MEMBERS (CONT.) Another really fun event Life Members were able to experience this year was Life Member Night at the Drive-In at Sawyer Yards. This was an event that was safe during COVID-19 times. Everyone wore masks and remained socially distant from each other. We rented out the entire venue and invited Life Members to come watch “Remember the Titans,” which was voted on by our UHAA Foundation Board. Life Members received free popcorn, candy and drinks to enjoy the movie. They brought their friends, family, and I even spotted a few cute furry friends! After being separated for so long, it was really great to see so many smiling faces even if it was through our car windows!
Sawyer Yards drive-in venue in the Heights
Life Members Brent Chinn FS ’82 and Wayne Luckett ’74
2020 was a year full of unknowns, but one thing did remain clear, the Life Membership program continued to grow at a high speed rate. We welcomed over 500 new Life Members in the calendar year, increasing the Life Member network to over 7,600! We were able to award over $24,000 in Legacy Scholarships to 16 undergraduate students. We helped welcome the class of 2024 through a sponsorship of Cub Camp and so much more! Life Members leave a lasting impact within the UH community in which I couldn’t be more proud. We are so grateful for Life Members’ continued support. I look forward to 2021 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.
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Year in Review: 2020
UH ATHLETICS FORECAST 2021 Home Games Texas Tech
East Carolina
September 4, 2021
October 23, 2021
NRG Homecoming
Grambling SMU September 18, 2021
October 30, 2021
75 Year Celebration (Houston Athletics & Spirit)
Halloween
Navy Memphis September 25, 2021
November 19, 2021
Family Weekend & Hero’s Day (Saluting Military
Senior Day & Fan Appreciation Day
& First Responders)
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LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP SPOTLIGHT Nathan Smith (’20) UHAA is grateful to provide a pathway for the next generation of foreverCoogs through our many scholarship opportunities. In partnership, the UHAA Foundation affords students the chance to receive a quality education thought the Legacy Scholarship Program. The Legacy Scholarship
Nathan Smith (‘21),far right, with his brother, Alexander Smith (‘19) left and his father,
encourages the children and
David Smith (‘95), middle. All are Life Members.
grandchildren of UH alumni to continue the family legacy and attend the University. Legacy Scholarship recipient, Nathan Smith (’20), is grateful to follow in his father’s and brother’s footsteps and looks forward to the opportunities that come as a result. “While my father attended UH, I really came to know the University through my older brother,” said Nathan. “I would come visit my older brother when he lived in the dorm and tag along as he experienced the campus. It didn’t take me long to become a UH fan. I immediately noticed the diversity and the excitement that accompanied various events and athletics.” Once the time came to apply for colleges, the decision was simple for Nathan. “I had basically fallen in love with UH to the point that it was my number one and only choice,” said Nathan. “The scholarship turned out to be a blessing, as I did not have a huge financial burden looming over me. I was able to fully immerse myself in all the things that make up the college experience. There is always something going on at UH.” While immersing himself in campus life, Nathan also immersed himself in his studies. As both a Political Science and Finance major, Nathan was accepted into the Bauer in D.C. Fellowship Program. The program gives students the opportunity to earn academic credit while gaining valuable work experience in the one of the nation’s most dynamic cities. “I hope to work in an area that allows me to concentrate on economic policy,” said Nathan. “With my scholarship and the chance to realize my true interests, my experience at UH has truly been amazing. I hope to be in a position one day to give back to others so they can benefit the same way that I have.” 30
Year in Review: 2020
GET INVOLVED UHAA has over 30 active alumni associations that help fuel the University through their philanthropy, volunteerism and participation. Though UHAA, alumni have the opportunity to connect with fellow alumni based on college, interest or geography. To learn more, please visit us at www.houstonalumni.com/alumni-associates.
College/School
Regional
Shared Interest
Architecture & Design
Greater China Alumni
Asian Alumni
Bauer College of Business
Association
Black Alumni
Education
Austin
CenterPoint Energy
Engineering
Dallas/Fort Worth
Communication Sciences
Hilton College
Fort Bend
and Disorders
Hobby School of Public
New York City
Cougar Athletic Alliance
Affairs
Denver
Delta Upsilon
Graduate College
Los Angeles
Eta Lambda
of Social Work
Katy
Eta Mu
Master of Public
Rio Grande Valley
Frontier Fiesta
Washington D.C.
Graphic Alumni Partnership
Woodlands
Hispanic Alumni
Administration Natural Science & Mathematics Nursing Technology Valenti School of Communication
LGBTQ Alumni Energy Alumni Sigma Nu Alumni Spirit of Houston Tau Kappa Epsilon
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ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONS Coog Strong The year, 2020, proved to be quite challenging and had tremendous impact on Alumni Associations groups and their ability to engage. However, despite the odds, these groups pulled their resources together to support alumni, students and the community. Past president and fishing tournament chair
13th Annual Saltwater Fishing Tournament
for the Valenti School of Communication Alumni Association, Kimberly Maraldo (’03), spearheaded the 13th Annual Saltwater Fishing Tournament at Topwater Grill in Galveston County to raise scholarship funds for students at the Jack J. Valenti School of Communication. Working through postponements and appropriate health guidelines, the event raised over $7,000 in late August. Loteria Night
Mónica Rojas-Hidalgo (’16), interim president of the Hispanic Alumni Association, worked with her Board to raise over $15,000 through a variety of programming while embracing a virtual media format. Prior to the pandemic, the Association held its Fashion Show in the UH Athletics/Alumni Center. In response to social distancing protocols, the Hispanic Alumni Association held a virtual Lotería Night where participants played a game similar to Bingo. Typically run in-person, support for the event totaled over $3,500. The Association also Hispanic Fashion Show
had a virtual 5K Turkey Trot and virtual art gallery where all proceeds went to support UH
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Year in Review: 2020
students. A number of Alumni Associations collaborated with UHAA to provide outreach to alumni through educational webinars. The College of Education partnered with UHAA in its UH2U Alumni Webinar Series to host “Finding Balance: Tips for Managing Your Mental and Physical
Finding Balance: Tips for Managing Your Mental and Physical Health
Health.” Similarly, Tom Omondi (MSN ’12, M.B.A. ’14), president of the Nursing Alumni Association and Dean of the College of Nursing, Kathryn Tart (Ed.D. ’99), MSN, RN and LaDawn Fletcher, director of Development for the College of Nursing, produced “PTSD and Me: Time for Nurses to Heal Ourselves.” Other Alumni Associations pulled their resources to support the greater community. Kevan Brewster (’82), president of the UH Cougar Athletic Alliance and their board of directors held two separate drives in November and December. Through their Step Up to the Plate — the Association raised funds to feed over 60+ families for Thanksgiving. They also held their annual Toy Drive in December to support SEARCH House of Tiny Treasures, a preschool dedicated to serving children whose families are homeless. Kelly McClurkin Granado Turkey Trot
(’03, M.B.A. ’06), president of the Bauer College Alumni Association, produced a charity drive to
support the Fort Bend Women’s Center and Jenna Pel (’13), president of the LGBTQ Alumni Association, joined the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce to host a food and supply drive for those in the LGBTQ+ community in-need. This is a snapshot of the tremendous activity represented by various Alumni Associations during “unprecedented” times. Through it all, our Coogs continue to show their strength and resilience.
Virtual Art Gallery
Step Up to the Plate
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EVENTS UHAA and Supporting Causes that Matter In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many nonprofit organizations have had to employ more creative ways to involve their volunteers and stakeholders in community outreach efforts. As a committed partner and supporter of the University of Houston and its over 300,000 alumni base, UHAA wanted to continue its mission of alumni engagement despite the challenges. “The pandemic has really made us rethink our events and initiatives on a whole new level,” said Mike Pede (’89), Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations. “We knew that our alumni would welcome the opportunity to connect while making a difference.” To lend support behind the University of Houston’s initiative to help members of the community in immediate need of food assistance, UHAA spearheaded its first-ever Virtual 5K in 2020. With over 350 participants, from 15 states and Saudi Arabia, the event raised $10,000 for the Houston Food Bank via the Spirt Food Fund. The Spirit Food Fund was established by a gift to the University of Houston from the Cullen Trust Foundation to raise support for and community awareness of the Houston Food Bank.
Just a few of the participants in the Coogs for Houston: 2020 Virtual 5K
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Year in Review: 2020
As the pandemic has increased the need for food assistance, it has also intensified the need for blood donations. In addition to essential medical procedures that require fresh blood to save lives, plasma, which is the liquid part of blood, is used for a number of specialized medical treatments. In response to the current decline of blood donations, UHAA teamed up with the Gulf Coast Blood Center to hold socially-distanced blood drives in 2020. As expected, UH alumni stepped up to help members of the community. One-hundred and nineteen donors gave 152 units of blood, saving 456 lives.
Coogs for Houston: Blood Drive
Webinars: A New Era in Alumni Engagement In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic affected many of UHAA’s traditional methods for alumni engagement, such as Party on the Plaza, tailgates, Homecoming, alumni chapter meetings, and networking opportunities. Because the value of connection is so important, UHAA launched its UH2U Alumni Webinar series in the Spring of 2020. From navigating the financial impacts during the pandemic, managing mental health and wellness, leaning the art of wine tasting to charting your career path, there were a variety of topics that spoke to various segments of the UH alumni base. “Our webinar series really showed us how much our alumni enjoy connecting with each other and learning about new subjects,” said Mike Pede (’89), Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations. “We plan to continue bringing our alumni webinars that cater to their likes and interests.”
Screenshot of a webinar
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OUR TRADITIONS Throughout history, the University of Houston has connected alumni worldwide through its timehonored traditions. From football games, study sessions at the library to long walks on campus, lifelong bonds are formed and memories are created.
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
UNI VE
SI
T Y OF HO
TON US
R
to face the unknown, and the white stands for the good of helping one’s fellow man.
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 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 The “Cougar Sign,” is made by folding the ring finger of the right hand toward the palm. The tradition dates back 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 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 push-ups and their voices are matched with the sounding of the Spirit Bell and the Spirit of Houston Marching Band’s music.
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Year in Review: 2020
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 Blaze is an oil field warning siren that was chosen to represent UH’s ties to the petroleum industry. Beginning in 1991, 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.
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 paws” of the cougar 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.
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OUR TRADITIONS (CONT.)
Cougar Walk Fans line up to take part in the Cougar Walk two hours before kickoff at home football 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.
Cub Camp Created by UH students seeking a way to grow campus pride and involvement, Cub Camp is a student-run, student-led program held the week before classes begin. For three 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 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.
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Year in Review: 2020
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/discounts to see some of the offers that are available from fellow Coogs.
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UHAA FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Service on the UHAA Foundation Board of Directors is on a volunteer basis and demonstrates the highest level of commitment from our alumni community. Members are ambassadors for the University of Houston and critical leaders in helping UHAA carry out its mission of long-term alumni engagement. This distinguished group invest their time, passion and resources to support UHAA, and we thank them for their dedication and commitment.
Drue DaSilva*
Wayne Luckett*
Laurie Rutherford*
Shazia Khan*
Richard Whiteley*
(’93, M.S. ’99)
(’74)
(’86, M.B.A. ’91, M.S. ’04)
(’84)
(’93, JD ’99)
President
Incoming President
Immediate Past President
Secretary
Treasurer
Michael Sachs*
Erik Barajas
Katy Caldwell
Edward Carrizales
Judy Chong
(’97)
(’99)
(’78)
(’13)
(’69, ’76)
Member at Large
Member
Member
Member
Member
Kelly Coleman, MD
Keith Cornelius
Lisa Cushing
James Hong
Charlene Johnson
(’98)
(’83)
(’01)
(’05)
(’91)
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
*Member of the UHAA Foundation Executive Committee
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Year in Review: 2020
Margo Kaplan
Sandy Lee
Thomas May
Amanda Montag
Alex Obregon
(’03)
(’84)
(’88)
(’02)
(’09, M.B.A. ’14)
Member
Member
Member
Member
Member
Trent Perez
Scott Rando
David Roland
Eugenia Vance
Agnes DeFranco
(’83)
(’83)
(’83)
(’90)
(B.Sc. ’83, M.B.A. ’89, Ed.D. ’93)
Member
Member
Member
Member
Ex Officio
Darren Randle
Eloise Brice
Mike Pede
(’12, M.A. ’14)
Vice President for
(’89)
Young Alumni Chair
University Advancement
Associate Vice President for
Ex Officio
Ex Officio
Alumni Relations & UHAA Ex Officio
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UHAA COMMUNICATIONS Class Notes As UHAA routinely communicates with our alumni base, we also like to hear from our Coogs and see what’s happening in their lives. When alumni have some 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 alumni in our print and digital communications. Class Notes can be found at https://classnotes.uh.edu.
UHAA “Happenings” UHAA wants to ensure alumni are kept abreast of the latest news, events and programs occurring within UHAA and across the University. Each month, we send our digital 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 that tells the stories of UH Fall 2020 A Magazine for UH Alumni
alumni and provides 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.
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Year in Review: 2020
GET YOUR UH SWAG
Coogs far and wide can now show off their Cougar pride by sporting exclusive line of apparel and merchandise from the new online UH Alumni Store. UHAA, in partnership with Follett, is pleased to provide alumni with the opportunity to purchase officially branded UH legacy logo gear. Whether you’re partial to the UH Legacy or Elongated Cougar logo, belong to a constituent group or are a Life Member, the choice is yours.
You will be able to find hundreds of products available with the logo you want. A portion of the proceeds from each purchase will help support UHAA services and programs. “We are thrilled to offer our alumni the chance to get their UH swag on,” said Mike Pedé (’89), Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations. “Coogs, more than anybody, are our best and most enthusiastic ambassadors.”
Start shopping by visiting UHAlumniStore.com
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UHAA FOUNDATION PAST PRESIDENTS Max Groeschel (FS) 1936–37
Shirley Rose (’60, M.Ed. ’69) 1988–89
Pat Foley (’51) 1937–38
Donald Sykora (’57) 1989–90
Ora Brown (’34) 1940–44
Stanley Binion (’60, J.D. ’62) 1990–91
Louise DeYoung (’67) 1946–47
R. Larry Snider (’55) 1991–92
Charles Saunders (’45) 1947–48
Matthew Provenzano (’59) 1992–93
Thomas Menefee (’42) 1948–49
Stephen T. Harcrow (’69, ’71) 1993–94
Jack Valenti (’46) 1949–51
Alvin Zimmerman (’64, J.D. ’67) 1994–95
Roger Jeffery, Sr. 1951–53
Jack Moore (’77) 1996; 2003–04
Sherwood Crane 1953–55
Glenn Lilie (FS) 1996–98
Joel Berry (’42) 1955–57
John Peterson (’76) 1998–99
Johnny Goyen (’47) 1957–58
Alfredo Vela (’62) 1999–2000
John Toomey (’50, J.D. ’69) 1958–60
John Downey Bridgwater (’84) 2000–01
Walter Rainey, Jr. (’49) 1960–61
Graham Painter (’72) 2001–02
Gordan Hollan (’60) 1961–62
Sonny Messiah–Jiles (’74) 2002–03
J. Cavanaugh O’Leary, Sr. (’57) 1962–63
Marvin Nathan (’65, J.D. ’69) 2004–05
Harry Hedges, Jr. (’40) 1963–65
Rick Bowen (’88, M.B.A. ’91) 2005–06
Louis Green (’47) 1965–67
Elizabeth Ghrist (M.Ed. ’67) 2006–07
John B. Van Ness (’51, ’56) 1968–70
Cheryl Creuzot (’81, J.D. ’92) 2007–08
Richard Coselli (’55, J.D. ’58) 1971
Michael Baker (’68, J.D. ’71) 2008–09
Clarence F. Kendall, II (’60, J.D. ’69) 1972–73
Judith Lilie (’95) 2009–10
Shearn Smith (’51, J.D. ’69) 1974
Reece Rondon (’92, J.D. ’95) 2010–11
J. Huey O’Toole ( J.D. ’60) 1975
Ricky Raven (’83, J.D. ’86) 2011–12
Roger W. Jeffery, Jr. 1976
John Clarke (’82) 2012–13
Coulson Tough (’75) 1977
Starlet Hargrave Agrella (’86, M.B.A. ’89) 2013–14
Robert Ulmer (’69) 1978
Joseph Pogge (’79) 2014–15
Laurence Wayne ( J.D. ’70) 1979–80
Trey Wilkinson (’92, M.B.A. ’02) 2015–16
Leonard Pizalate (’67) 1980–81
Patty Godfrey (’89, M.B.A. ’97) 2016–17
E. Virginia Barnett (’56) 1981–82
Bill Hickl (’86) 2017–18
Jay Ginsburg (’70, J.D. ’72) 1982–83
Brent Chinn (FS ’82) 2018–19
Elton Porter, Jr. (’50) 1983–84
Laurie Rutherford (’86, M.B.A. ’91, M.S. ’04) 2019–20
James Wiseheart (’61) 1984–85 George Thomas Lambert (’69) 1985–86 Harry M. Jacobson (’57) 1986–87 J. Pleas Doyle (’57) 1987–88
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Year in Review: 2020
UHAA STAFF Mike Pede (’89)
Chuck Arnold (’94)
Nancy Vecera Clark (’76)
Kendra Hakanson
Associate VP for
Executive Director for
Alumni Legacy
Program Director
Alumni Relations
Alumni Relations
Programs Director
713-743-8982
713-743-9551
713-743-6988
713-743-8873
kahakanson@uh.edu
mlpede@uh.edu
cwarnold@uh.edu
nclark@uh.edu
Anneka Roberson
Kirstyn Speich (’16)
Elaine Duke
Carolyn Hartmann
Executive Administrative
Life Member
Program Coordinator
Communications Director
Assistant
Program Manager
of Student Engagement
713-743-1640
713-743-4007
713-743-3681
and Class Rings
cwhartma@uh.edu
arrobers@uh.edu
klspeich@uh.edu
713-743-1769 evduke@uh.edu
Justin Carrier
Ashleigh Hildreth
Miguel Cabrera (’05)
Graphic Designer 2
Program Coordinator,
Director, Affiliated Alumni
713-743-5636
Alumni Engagement
Associations
jcarrier@uh.edu
713-743-3693
713-743-1523
ahildreth@uh.edu
mcabrera3@uh.edu
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UHAA FOUNDATION FINANCIAL POSITION The University of Houston Alumni Association Foundation Statements of Financial Position August 31, 2020 and 2019
Assets Cash and cash equivalents Investments
$1,185,336
$7,859,989 $7,662,203 $27,044
–
Pledges receivable, net
$212,492
$294,868
Prepaid expenses and other assets
$58,058
$142,527
Property, net
$84,001
$103,378
$2,151
$2,151
$9,433,368
$9,390,463
Total Assets
Year in Review: 2020
$1,189,633
Accounts receivable
Restricted cash
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2020 2019
Liabilities and Net Assets
2020 2019
Liabilities Accounts payable and accrued expenses
$40,577
$15,122
Due to affiliate, net
$48,599
$281,926
$5,133
$53,929
$94,309
$350,977
$8,385,575
$8,022,245
$953,484
$1,017,241
$9,339,059
$9,039,486
$9,433,368
$9,390,463
Deferred revenue Total Liabilities Net Assets Without donor restrictions With donor restrictions Total Net Assets
Total Liabilities and Net Assets
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UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON ALMA MATER
All hail to thee, Our Houston University. Our hearts fill with gladness, When we think of thee. We’ll always adore thee, Dear old varsity. And to thy memory cherished, True we’ll ever be.
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Year in Review: 2020
UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON COUGAR FIGHT SONG
Cougars fight for dear old U of H, For our Alma Mater cheer. Fight for Houston University, For victory is near. When the going gets so rough and tough, We never worry cause we got the stuff. So fight, fight, fight for red and white, And we will go to victory.
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