UHCL LAUNCHES 50TH ANNIVERSARY
STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
UNIVERSITY HIGHLIGHTS
FIFTY YEARS OF LAUNCHING CAREERS: HOW ONE LETTER
SPARKED THOUSANDS OF DREAMS
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENTS STAFF SPOTLIGHT
FACULTY FOCUS
18 24 28 22 12 10 26 34 32 04 17
FORGING NEW TRADITIONS: UHCL CELEBRATES INAUGURAL RING CEREMONY
HONORING OUR DONORS GRANT HIGHLIGHTS
UNIVERSITY STATISTICS & FACTS
I am delighted to present the University of Houston-Clear Lake 2023–2024 Annual Report. This year’s edition highlights our university’s collective achievements and celebrates a significant milestone — UHCL’s 50th anniversary. Since 1974, the university has been a cornerstone of the Bay Area Houston community that continues to strengthen year after year. In this year’s report, you will discover inspiring stories that highlight the resilience of our students, the innovation of our faculty, the dedication of our staff, and the achievements of our alumni — each illustrating the transformative impact of a UHCL education.
As we reflect on the past year, let us also inspire one another to dream big as we plan for the next fifty years and beyond. Together, we will continue to transform lives, translate potential, and transcend limitations.
UHCL’s first 50 years tell a rich and unique story, but it’s just the beginning. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Here’s to continuing a legacy of innovation, community, and excellence at UHCL.
Richard Walker, Ed.D. President, University of Houston-Clear Lake
UHCL unveils a commemorative window cling at its 50 TH anniversary kickoff celebration.
UHCL kicked off its 50th anniversary in February with celebrations across its Clear Lake, Pearland, and TMC locations. The event brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends to commemorate the university's journey since its founding in 1974.
Attendees enjoyed an interactive walk down memory lane, exploring each decade of UHCL's history and discovering the milestones that have shaped its legacy.
The celebration marked the beginning of a year-long series of history-centered and fun-filled events. From galas and alumni celebrations to faculty appreciation receptions and other special events, each gathering honored UHCL's legacy and spirit, engaged the community, and reaffirmed the university's commitment to excellence and innovation.
In 2020, Alexis Staropoli stepped onto the UHCL campus, initially pursuing computer science and engineering. Yet, her path took a transformative turn toward business marketing, sparked by her leadership roles within the vibrant campus community. As a dedicated student, proactive leader, and caring mother, Staropoli's journey at UHCL exemplifies how the right educational environment can turn challenges into stepping stones for
Throughout her academic journey, Staropoli demonstrated dedication and leadership. As the Campus Activities Board’s recruitment and retention coordinator, she discovered her passion for marketing, honing skills in understanding target audiences, communications, and problem-solving. As president of the Student Government, she led initiatives like organizing monthly mental health care packages and providing stress relief items and resources to support students during challenging times. Additionally, she played a key role in planning a future constitution aimed at representing UHCL's diverse student body, reflecting her commitment to making the campus a welcoming environment for all.
Professors like Jason Makepeace and Dr. Lori Jacobs played pivotal roles in Staropoli's development, providing her with opportunities to lead student projects and
Alexis Staropoli, '24 Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing, College of Business
offering guidance on navigating the complexities of her dual roles as a student and a mother. Her active participation in the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership not only enriched her college experience but also connected her with a network of peers and mentors who celebrated her achievements.
Looking to the future, Staropoli is poised to merge her skills in digital marketing and data analytics to innovate and drive brand growth. Her time at UHCL has instilled in her resilience and a forward-looking perspective, equipping her to approach professional challenges with creativity and confidence.
As Staropoli addressed her peers at the Spring 2024 Commencement, she reflected on her journey — a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of a supportive community. Her advice, "You can do anything you set your mind to; never limit yourself or be afraid to step out of your comfort zone," was not just a message to her peers but a reflection of her own experiences at UHCL. Looking forward, Staropoli embodies the ambition and communal spirit that UHCL endeavors to instill in all its students.
Jodie Beall, a fall 2023 graduate, is already making an impact as a special education teacher at Santa Fe Independent School District’s Alternative Learning Center. Recently named the 2023–24 New Teacher of the Year, Beall’s accomplishments reflect her dedication and passion and the solid foundation and support she received at UHCL.
Beall’s journey into education began with her decision to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Education. The university played a crucial role in shaping her teaching philosophy and equipping her with the skills necessary to excel in her field.
“During my time taking Special Education (SPED) classes, I learned the ins and outs of what a special education teacher does,” Beall shared. “All of these things helped me professionally because knowing how to do them when you come into the job takes a huge load off of you when you are trying to juggle all the other things the job throws at you.”
Before attending UHCL, Beall spent six years as a paraeducator,
Sofia Assanmal-Pelaez arrived in the U.S. from Honduras at 17, driven by a dream to change lives. Despite starting with little, she pursued a bachelor’s in psychology at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, aspiring to become a child life specialist.
Her journey was challenging. After briefly attending Texas A&M-San Antonio, she returned home when her stepfather fell ill with cancer. She then enrolled at UHCL, where she could be close to family while continuing her education.
“UHCL means community, family, and acceptance,” said AssanmalPelaez. “After transferring, I took online courses for two years due to COVID-19. 2023 was my first year on campus taking in-person classes, and I wish I had started at UHCL from the beginning.”
The sense of community and support Assanmal-Pelaez found at UHCL became even more significant when a tropical storm in the region changed the trajectory of her life. The storm left her family without power and food, leading to moments of despair. However, these challenges fueled her resolve to teach kindness and compassion.
“I promised myself I would never let ‘me’ down,” Assanmal-Pelaez reflected. Amidst a pandemic and personal losses, including nearly losing herself to suicide,
she gained resilience, wisdom, and appreciation for life’s lessons. She found strength in her family, especially her sister and stepfather’s courage.
“I lost a lot. But I gained a lot, too — courage, wisdom, friends, experiences, and a new pet.”
Outside of her studies, AssanmalPelaez discovered a passion for mentoring and supporting others, which UHCL has helped her nurture.
Her advice to struggling students: “Stay a little while longer. Hug your family tighter.” Assanmal-Pelaez urges others to embrace life and live their best despite challenges. She credits her success to her community, UHCL professors, and loved ones who supported her journey.
Assanmal-Pelaez’s story embodies resilience and the power of kindness. It reflects her determination to overcome adversity and make a positive impact, inspiring others to persevere through hardships and cherish every moment.
Sofia Assanmal-Pelaez, '23 Bachelor of Science in Psychology, College of Human Sciences and Humanities
Balancing a full-time teaching career with pursuing a Master of Science in Mathematics is no small feat. For Kenneth Evans, this demanding journey required careful time management and a strong commitment to his studies at UHCL. Despite the challenges of balancing work, studies, and personal life, Evans found success thanks to UHCL’s flexible evening courses and dedicated faculty.
“Time was the biggest problem,” Evans said. “At first, I struggled to juggle all my responsibilities and faced many difficulties until UHCL helped me get back on track,” he explained. “UHCL worked with my schedule by providing classes outside regular work hours, ensuring a more manageable and effective learning experience.”
Dedicated faculty like Dr. Jingjing Ma and Dr. LieJune Shiau were instrumental in Evans’ academic success. Dr. Ma’s mentorship in mathematics and Dr. Shiau’s guidance in navigating academic and career decisions gave Evans the motivation, confidence, and practical advice he needed to excel. Their combined support played a crucial role in his continued educational journey.
“They are highly knowledgeable and straightforward, always offering honest and direct insights,” Evans said. “The math department
Kenneth Evans, '22 Master of Science in Mathematics, College of Science and Engineering
UHCL at Pearland - Community Engagement and Event Hosting
UHCL at Pearland hosted 623
Professional and Continuing Education (P.A.C.E.) - UHCL at Pearland
2023–2024, with a total of 6,816 attendees. These events included collaborations with 22 community such as the Pearland Chamber of Commerce, local school districts, extensive engagement highlights UHCL’s role as a vital community hub, fostering partnerships that benefit both the university and the
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7,666
22
UHCL Celebrates Opening of New Location at the Texas Medical
The University of Houston-Clear Lake opened a new state-of-the-art facility early in 2024, strategically
Center, the world’s largest medical complex. Occupying the entire 14th floor in the Fannin Tower, this location offers unprecedented professionals and organizations. educational experience for students in the Healthcare Administration program by providing them with direct exposure to cutting-edge
UHCL at Pearland's P.A.C.E . program has made significant strides in offering professional development opportunities that cater to the needs of the local workforce. For instance, the completion of the Spring 2024 Project Management Certification for the Houston Airport System and the introduction of software that will enhance the search and purchase process for P.A.C.E. offerings. This initiative supports the economic development of the local community by providing high-quality, accessible training for professionals.
medical research and professional networking opportunities. The facility is equipped with modern classrooms, computer labs, and collaborative spaces designed to foster an inspiring educational environment for both undergraduate and graduate students.
The past year has been one of remarkable growth and innovation at the University of Houston-Clear Lake. From expanding academic support services to launching new programs and partnerships, UHCL continues to make significant strides in enhancing student success, driving curriculum innovation, expanding faculty research, and fostering community engagement. These achievements not only reflect the university’s commitment to excellence but also the transformative impact on the local and global community.
The Student Success Center at UHCL experienced a significant 44% increase in student visits in 2023, with a total of 10,997 visits. This growth highlights the center’s pivotal role in supporting academic achievement and student retention. Notably, students who engaged with academic advisors had an impressive retention rate of 94% from fall 2023 to spring 2024.
This program in the College of Human Sciences and Humanities, which launched in fall 2024, marks a significant expansion of UHCL’s influence in healthcare education. The MSN Education and Leadership Program, housed at UHCL at Pearland, addresses the growing needs of the healthcare sector by providing advanced training and leadership skills
A single letter. It may seem small — just ink on paper or words on a screen — but history shows us how profound its impact can be. A letter can ignite movements, build bridges between ideas, and spark the beginning of something extraordinary. At the University of Houston-Clear Lake, we understand this power all too well because the very foundation of our university began with a letter.
In 1965, as NASA’s Manned Spaceflight Center — now known as the Johnson Space Center — was already transforming Houston’s landscape and positioning the region at the forefront of space exploration, a pivotal moment occurred. Dr. Robert Gilruth, Director of the Spaceflight Center, recognized the urgent need for locally trained professionals to support America’s ambitious space program. He penned a letter to the University of Houston Chancellor Philip Hoffman, proposing the creation of an educational facility in Clear Lake to address this critical need.
While fulfilling an immediate demand, this letter did much more — it planted the seed for what would eventually become the University of Houston-Clear Lake.
1983 | Official NASA Johnson Space Center photograph of Houston Mayor Kathy Whitmire holding a framed poster of the joint UHCL and NASA Johnson Space Center program The Artist and the Space Shuttle, along with an unknown NASA official
In 1968, the Coordinating Board, Texas College and University Systems (now the Texas Higher
1980–1990 | A man working with lasers in UHCL's School of Sciences and Technologies (now College of Science and Engineering)
Clear Lake City commencement exercises in Atrium II of the Bayou Building. Pictured at the podium is UHCLC Chancellor Alfred R. Neumann
Education Coordinating Board), called for the creation of a new campus in Clear Lake to offer upper-division and graduate-level programs. This initiative was formalized when the 62nd Texas Legislature passed House Bill 199 in 1971, authorizing the establishment of what would initially be known as the University of Houston at Clear Lake City.
With the approval and backing of the state, significant developmental strides were made. Humble Oil & Refining Company and The Friendswood Development Company donated more than 500 acres for the campus to be built on. In 1972, Dr. Alfred R. Neumann, then a dean at the University of Houston, was appointed the founding chancellor. Construction of the Clear
artist Pablo Serrano on the lawn facing the Bayou Building. A surge in student enrollment followed in the fall of 1978 when a record-breaking 5,518 students registered for classes.
The 1970s concluded with the addition of the Developmental Arts Building (now known as the Delta Building) in 1979. This new facility, which included a dance studio and gymnasium, among other creative and recreational spaces, underscored UHCL’s commitment to providing comprehensive educational and extracurricular opportunities.
The ‘80s and ‘90s at UHCL were characterized by growth and transformation, marking a period of expansion that extended well beyond a simple name change. Throughout these decades, the university broadened its reach by introducing new centers and institutes, inaugurating its first student housing facilities, and continually aligning each development with the university’s overarching mission.
The 1980s brought national attention to UHCL when it hosted Judy Chicago’s controversial exhibition, “The Dinner Party.” This event was part of the university’s broader commitment to showcasing the creative works of contemporary and traditional artists from around the world, highlighting UHCL’s significant role in the global cultural dialogue.
In 1983, UHCL honored its founding chancellor, Alfred R. Neumann, by dedicating the library in his name, thereby cementing his legacy within
1980 | Artist Judy Chicago (left) discussing separate panels from Chicago’s complete art installation entitled The Dinner Party
the institution. That same year, astronaut John Young carried a UHCL banner aboard Space Shuttle Columbia , orbiting Earth 145 times and prominently placing the university’s name on the world stage.
In response to the growing number of alumni, UHCL established the Alumni Association in 1981, initiated by a faculty-led task force. The association was designed to strengthen bonds with graduates, enhancing their lifelong engagement with the university. The university’s identity was further defined in 1983 when Governor Mark White signed legislation renaming it to University of Houston-Clear Lake, affirming its distinct role within the University of Houston System.
The 1990s continued to address regional and educational needs, marked notably by the establishment of the Environmental Institute of Houston in 1991 to tackle pressing environmental challenges. This decision demonstrated UHCL’s dual commitment to academic rigor and practical environmental stewardship.
In 1994, UHCL unveiled a new official logo, reflecting the institution’s spirit and identity through colors representing the Texas Upper Gulf Coast. This redesign, resulting from extensive consultations with the university community, symbolized UHCL’s evolving brand and mission.
Educational innovation was prominently showcased with the launch of a distanceeducation program in software engineering in 1994, developed in collaboration with IBMAustin. By 1997, this program celebrated a
from Baker Junior High School outside being taught about the natural world at a fractal conservation program
significant achievement with its first graduates, marking the first UHCL degrees earned entirely through distance education.
Student life was significantly enhanced with the opening of the University Forest Apartments in 1995. This first on-campus housing complex, featuring a range of recreational facilities, catered to the growing demands of a diverse student body, fostering a more integrated campus community.
Within the new millennium’s first decade, UHCL demonstrated its commitment to students and the community by expanding learning spaces, adding more centers and institutes, establishing new partnerships, and introducing its first doctoral degree.
In 2004, UHCL increased its physical learning space for the first time in 30 years with the addition of the Student Services and Classroom Building. Prompted by advocacy from alumni working in the medical field, the university introduced the joint Master of Healthcare Administration/Master of Business Administration program the following year at the Texas Medical Center.
UHCL experienced another significant academic change when it introduced its first doctoral degree program, the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, in 2007. The following year, it established the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities (CADD) to assist families of children with autism spectrum disorders throughout the community. CADD is still a critical component of the university today as it continues to help individuals with autismrelated needs.
In addition to expanding its physical presence, UHCL strengthened its connections beyond campus by establishing the Office of Strategic Partnerships. This office fosters mutually beneficial relationships with businesses, government agencies, community organizations, educational institutions, and nonprofits, creating valuable opportunities for both students and staff. Currently, UHCL boasts 533 community partners.
The same year, UHCL at Pearland expanded with the new Health Sciences and Classroom Building, enhancing its nursing programs. Additionally, UHCL at Pearland now houses Professional and Continuing Education, which provides a range of training and development programs designed to meet the evolving needs of professionals and the broader community.
In 2023, UHCL secured a new lease for space in Fannin Tower at the Texas Medical Center. Currently, students can pursue four healthcarerelated degrees in this facility, which offers extensive opportunities for research, networking, and collaboration with faculty.
UHCL’s first 50 years tell a rich, multifaceted, and unique story, but it’s far from over. Initially created for NASA, it’s still launching careers. It continues to meet the region’s aerospace education needs with new science and engineering programs and other science,
The expansion of the Boeing Student Development Partnership, which now includes 41 students from the College of Science and Engineering, provides significant benefits to the local economy. This partnership offers students valuable experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for careers in the aerospace industry, which is a key sector in the Houston region. By supporting workforce development in this critical industry, UHCL is contributing to the economic vitality of the area.
UHCL and KBR Establish Partnership for Student Internships
The UHCL and KBR partnership provides aerospace industry internships, enhancing student career readiness. This collaboration
Have you ever taken a class that completely changed your perspective? For Dr. Christina Cedillo, that class was History of Rhetoric. It wasn’t just another course for her; it sparked a lifelong passion that led to her current role as an associate professor of writing and rhetoric at UHCL.
“I found it interesting to study the impact that art has on a culture,” she said about the course. “When we think about our society, most people get categorized by race and disability, and decolonial studies help us understand how those categories were created to keep people separate, but also to make it where certain people have power over others. There’s no way to get around looking at all of these
Dr. Cedillo’s contributions have
rhetorical investigation, advancing scholarship in communication “beyond the written and spoken word.” It has also contributed to the critical pedagogy for writing and rhetoric at UHCL. In the classroom, Dr. Cedillo applies her findings to her teaching practices by allowing her students to illustrate specific assignments instead of just writing essays. She also uses positionality stories as a way to connect with her students.
“We [professors] talk about our own experiences from when we were students,” she said. “This allows students to see themselves in the teachers’ experiences. That way, they can be more comfortable reaching out to professors without feeling intimidated because even though we’re professors, we don’t know everything. We’re always learning.”
Research: Dr. Christina Cedillo
Associate Professor, Writing and Rhetoric
Dr. Elizabeth Beavers’ journey into the realm of education began at the University of Southern Mississippi, where she initially majored in psychology. It wasn’t long before she discovered her true passion lay with teaching.
“That passion included advocating for others while creatively problem-solving, inspiring families, supporting other teachers, and continually growing myself,” she explained. “Within the field of early childhood special education, I found true joy in working with families, collaborating with peers, and mostly in seeing children thrive.”
Today, Dr. Beavers is an associate professor of special education at UHCL. Her commitment to service is profound, having held over 100 service commitments and leadership roles throughout
Dr. Elizabeth Beavers Program Director & Associate Professor, Special Education
“I didn’t like the idea of working with blood and guts, but I still wanted to help people. Psychology was the perfect blend of helping others and applying scientific principles,” explained Dr. Mary Short, reflecting on her pivotal decision to switch from pre-med to psychology during her junior year of college.
Since then, Dr. Short has dedicated her career to assisting adults and children of all ages. She spent her first four years as a psychology professional in pediatric psychology and research at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). In 2004, she accepted a professor of clinical psychology position at UHCL's College of Human Sciences and Humanities.
Throughout her two decades as a professor, Dr. Short has provided
pursuing doctoral training, so she modified the program to include more research. In 2016, she helped launch and became director of the college’s first doctoral program, the Doctor of Psychology in Health Service Psychology, which she developed herself.
“Our students in the doctoral program have been very successful, and it’s honestly one of the proudest accomplishments in my time at UHCL,” she said.
Dr. Short’s influence extends beyond her administrative accomplishments. She has mentored hundreds of students who now contribute significantly as researchers and clinicians at esteemed institutions such as Johns Hopkins Medicine, UTMB, Texas Children’s Hospital, and Kennedy Krieger Institute.
Dr. Mary Short Professor, Clinical Psychology & Director of Clinical Training
1974 | Professor Ed Biling teaching a class in the Arbor Building
The College of Business at UHCL implemented Assurance of Learning processes that led to significant curriculum changes, including the development of a Commercialization in Space Concentration. This curriculum innovation translates the latest industry needs into academic programs that equip students with relevant, cuttingedge skills. The program was developed in collaboration with industry partners, ensuring that graduates are well prepared to meet the demands of the aerospace sector.
In order from left to right:
Tanja Reason, Department Assistant, Office of Information Technology
LeeAnn Wheelbarger, Administrative Assistant, College of Business
Devin Hendry, Police Detective, University Police
Larisa Landry, Global Scholar Advisor, Education Abroad & Scholar Services
At the core of UHCL’s vibrant community are the unsung heroes — those dedicated individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often without recognition. Patti Koch exemplified this spirit of quiet dedication crucial to the university’s mission during her 19 years as a staff member within UHCL’s Environmental Institute of Houston (EIH).
In recognition of her extraordinary commitment and service, Koch was honored with the Hugh P. Avery Prize – President’s Distinguished Staff Service Award, the highest accolade UHCL can bestow upon a staff employee, in April 2024.
Koch’s journey at UHCL began in the early 2000s, after nearly two decades with the National Association of Conservation Districts in League City. She faced a crossroads when her employer announced a move to Washington, D.C. Then, she discovered a new opportunity at EIH, sparking a transformative chapter in her career and the institute itself.
“I had worked for NACD for 17 ½ years and was a bit nervous about the interview, but the interview committee was like a meeting with good friends, even though we’d just met,” Koch said. “I was hooked.”
She was hired in 2004 and stayed with EIH until she retired in the spring of 2024. Throughout her tenure, Koch transformed EIH into a customer-focused institute by always maintaining a helpful, selfless attitude, even when multitasking, learning new responsibilities, and facing other challenges. She also facilitated the management of an over $2.3 million budget and was revered for
From UHCL’s serene campus to the fast-paced financial industry, James Robert Lay’s career journey proves the power of focused education in professional ascension.
With a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and a Master of Business Administration from UHCL, Lay has transformed from a hardworking student to a renowned digital marketing advisor, speaker, and author. He authored “Banking on Digital Growth: The Strategic Marketing Manifesto to Transform Financial Brands,” which serves as a guide to financial institutions navigating the digital age. He also hosts "Banking on Digital Growth Podcast," ranked in the top 5% of podcasts worldwide.
At SW CUNA Management School, Lay educates credit unions on advanced digital marketing strategies that foster expansion and innovation. His expertise also earned him a place on the board of Nymbus, Inc., where he helps shape cutting-edge banking technology solutions for the digital era.
As the founder and chief executive officer of the Digital Growth Institute in Houston, Lay focuses on developing digital marketing
James Robert Lay, '04, '06 Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and a Master of Business Administration
systems and training programs for industry leaders, empowering financial brands to enhance their marketing strategies and guide individuals towards a more promising future.
Lay has been recognized as one of the Financial Brand’s “Top Global Financial Services Influencers to Follow,” a CUNA “Credit Union Rock Star,” and a CU Times “Under 40 Trailblazer.”
“Being a student at UHCL played a pivotal role in [my] becoming an entrepreneur today,” stated Lay.
Lay stands as a shining example of a former student who harnessed the educational footing received at UHCL to become an accomplished leader in their chosen field.
ALUMNI STATS
68,947 81,220 Alumni in Texas
Total Alumni
ALUMNI
BY COLLEGE
College of Business
28,195 College of Education
16,788
College of Human Sciences and Humanities
21,714
College of Science and Engineering
15,731
In December 2023, UHCL welcomed a fresh tradition that symbolizes both an ending and a beginning for its graduates. As part of the university's 50 TH anniversary celebrations, UHCL hosted the inaugural Ring Ceremony — an event designed to honor our graduates' academic achievements and forge a new connection between the alumni and their alma mater.
The ceremony was a significant milestone for many. Among those celebrating was Sofia Assanmal-Pelaez, ‘23 BS, a recent graduate and the first in her family to earn a degree, who highlighted the personal significance of the event.
"I'm the very first person in my family to get a college ring," Assanmal-Pelaez shared. "My family flew all the way from Honduras to be here today. It's not just a celebration for me — it's a celebration for all of us."
The UHCL Ring Ceremony is set to become a treasured campus tradition, symbolizing both the continuation of educational aspirations and the commencement of professional endeavors. It's a testament to the evolving traditions that define UHCL, commemorating the past while looking forward to the future.
Removing the financial hurdles that stand between students and their dreams transforms a college experience into an exceptional journey. Throughout our 50-year history, countless UHCL students have soared, buoyed by the generosity of those who believe in the transformative power of education. In celebration of our 50th anniversary, we launched the 1974 Society to recognize and honor this generosity.
Donors who give or commit at least $25,000 during our anniversary campaign, which runs through December 31, 2028, will be welcomed as inaugural members of the 1974 Society. Our initial goal of 50 members for our 50th anniversary will be surpassed. In fact, that original goal was nearly met during the first year of our anniversary campaign, demonstrating the spirit of giving that continuously uplifts our UHCL community.
We are deeply grateful to all our donors who see our golden anniversary as a pivotal moment to support and join this philanthropic circle. Membership in the 1974 Society is a fitting way to mark this historic milestone in UHCL’s history, and the opportunity to contribute is still open to all.
For those interested in supporting UHCL’s commitment to academic excellence and student success, details about the types of gifts that qualify for membership in the 1974 Society can be found at uhcl.plannedgiving.org/society.
SCAN TO JOIN THE 1974 SOCIETY
www.uhcl.plannedgiving.org/society
Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Abbott
Ms. Mary Ainslie
Marjorie Allard
Mrs. Margaret and Mr. Charles Allen
Mr. David and Mrs. Jill Almaguer
Mr. Edward Altemus
Mrs. Sharon and Mr. Allyn Amabile
Mrs. Vaijayanthimala Anand
Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Anderson
Mr. Robert Andrews
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Francis Andrews
Mr. Tony Annan
Ms. Elbby Antony
Mrs. Shirley and Mr. Jim Arbet
Dr. Matthew Aschenbrener
Myrna Baker and Allen Baker
Mrs. Karen and Mr. Robert Barbier
Mr. Joe Barnes
Ms. Maeline and Mr. Robert Barnstable
Mr. Raymond Bartels
Dr. Carol Carman and Dr. Robert Bartsch
Mrs. Barbara and Mr. James Becker
Mrs. Linda and Dr. Steven Berberich
Dr. Darlene Biggers
Mr. and Mrs. George L. Biggs
Dr. Carolyn and Dr. Kenneth Black
Mrs. Janet and Mr. Greg Blackburn
Dr. George Blanford
Mr. Dion Bledsoe
Mr. and Mrs. Cecil J. Booth
Ms. Tamela Braswell
Ms. Susan Braymer
Mr. Michael Brock
Mr. Blaine and Mrs. Susan Brown
Nadia Bruner
Mrs. Tina and Mr. Tom Burke
Mrs. and Mr. Walter Campbell
Mr. Anthony Carbone
Mrs. Linda and Dr. Dennis Casserly
Mrs. Kamala and Dr. Raj Chhikara
Ms. Marjorie Clark
Ms. Donna Johnson and Ms. Michele Clark
Mrs. Evon Collins
Mrs. Donna and Mr. Cris Coneley
Mrs. Allison and Mr. Craig Cordola
Mrs. Brenda Cothran
Mrs. Amber Countis
Ms. Pam Culpepper-Cronk and Capt. Peter Cronk
Mr. Brian Davis
Ashley De Vries
Mr. Ephraim and Mrs. Sara del Pozo
Mrs. Verva Densmore
Mrs. Jacqueline and Mr. Nick de Vries
Mrs. Cyndi and Mr. Harold Draughon
Neil DuRoss
Mrs. Joan and Dr. Howard Eisner
Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Elder, Jr.
Birgitta Ericcson
Ms. Alice Sweet-Faatz and Mr. Edward Faatz
Ms. Nanette Faget and Mr. Gregory Johnson
Ms. Diane Faulkner
Mrs. Sue and Mr. Charles Fellman
Mr. Peter and Mrs. Christine Feng
Mr. David and Mrs. Laura Fulton
Mr. Roberto and Mrs. Jane Garcia
Mr. Michael Garcia
Dr. Earnestine Gardner
Mr. Shawn Gault
Mr. Ronald Gerlach
Mr. Claude Gibson
Mr. Perry Giles
Dr. Estella and Mr. Peter Gillette
Mr. Chad Glessman
Mrs. Joyce Goerke
Ms. Marcie Goss
Dr. Lisa and Mr. Tom Gossett
Mr. John and Mrs. Jill Griffin
Cathy and Peter Hartley
Ms. Katherine Hill
Mr. Lee Hilyer
Mr. Paul Hinojosa, Jr. and Mrs. Ann Hinojosa
Ms. Donna Hite
Mr. Lee and Mrs. Susan Holmes
Mr. Kuo-Wei Huang
Dr. Rebecca Huss-Keeler and Mr. Terry Keeler
Mr. Hugh and Mrs. Vivian Irvine
Lori Ivey
Dr. Rebecca Jacobs-Pollez and Mr. Alain Pollez
Dr. Anngienetta and Mr. Raymond Johnson
Mrs. Joslen and Mr. Prestion Johnson, Jr.
Mrs. Sandra and Mr. Douglas Johnson
Mrs. Diana and Dr. Lawrence Kajs
Mr. Steven and Mrs. Judith Katzman
Mrs. Graciela and Mr. Tim Kavulla
Dr. Dorothy Kirkman
Mrs. Kristina and Mr. Kenneth Koncaba, Jr.
Mr. David and Mrs. Deborah Korth
Mr. John and Mrs. Chris Kovach
Ms. Annette Kyle
Mrs. Renee Lance
Ms. Ann Wismer-Landolt and Mr. Michael Landolt
Ms. Apollonia Landrum
Ms. Mary Lares
Dr. Michael and Dr. Patricia Larranaga
Mr. Brian and Mrs. Lee Ann Lawrence
Jianzhi Li
Eleanor and Paul Lederer
Mr. Simon and Mrs. Melody Lin
Mrs. Marilyn Lunney
Dr. David and Dr. Jane Malin
Mr. William McArthur
Mr. Harold and Mrs. Debra McCracken
Mrs. Mary Jane amd Mr. Edward McGuire
Professor Maria Teresa and Dr. Scott McIntyre
Mrs. Jesmin and Dr. Nizam Meah
Dr. Beth Merfish
Mr. Jano Mladonicky
Mrs. Carmen and Mr. Juan Moreno
Dr. Sandra and Mr. Gary Mossman
Ms. Sherrie and Mr. Steven Mueller
Mrs. Paula Myer
Mrs. Denise and Mr. Mike Navarro
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Noce
Dr. Patricia and Col Robert Nossov
Mr. David and Mrs. Luisa Overland
Ms. Mitali Paul and Mr. Rajesh Baskaran
Dr. Joan Pedro
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Perez, Jr.
Mr. Simoun Peralta
Dr. and Mrs. Robert N. Phalen
Mr. Steve and Mrs. Jana Phelps
University of Houston-Clear Lake is proud to be a HispanicServing Institution (HSI), with more than 40% of students who identify as Hispanic. UHCL is also a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI). More than 65% of students identify as Hispanic, Black, Asian, or International.
$8,054,264 90
TOTAL FUNDING THE UNIVERSITY RECEIVED TOTAL GRANTS
UHCL’S PARTNERSHIP WITH GOOSE CREEK CISD SUPPORTED BY A
$750,000
TEA PRINCIPAL RESIDENCY GRANT
administrative roles, UHCL is directly contributing to the improvement of local school systems, enhancing the quality of education in the region and ensuring that schools are led by well-trained, effective principals.
$300,000
NASA SCIENCE MISSION DIRECTORATE BRIDGE PROGRAM SEED FUNDING
Vázquez, and Dr. Soma Datta, secured $300,000 in seed funding from NASA’s Science
Mission Directorate Bridge Program for research on space materials and microbiome research. This grant is intended to build a bridge to future workforce development at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, enhancing UHCL’s role in spacerelated research.
HOUSTON ENDOWMENT
$250,000 $583,590
The College of Education’s receipt of grants from the Houston Endowment and Moody Foundation supports programs like the Success Through Education Program (STEP) and efforts to strengthen the early education workforce. These grants facilitate partnerships with local school districts, such as Houston ISD and Channelview ISD, and provide scholarships and resources to firstgeneration and minority students. The impact of these programs extends into the community, improving educational outcomes and supporting the development of future educators.
Dr. Karen Alexander, Director of Nursing and Associate Professor in the College of Human Sciences and Humanities, secured $378,753 from the THECB Nursing Shortage Reduction Program, which aims to address the nursing shortage in Texas.
BOEING CORPORATION GRANT FOR VETERAN STUDENT PROGRAMMING
The $20,000 grant from Boeing Corporation for the “Boots to Suits” program, which targets veteran students, is a great example of how donor contributions are being used to directly
