Dear Members of the University of Houston-Clear Lake Community,
I am delighted to present the 2023-2024 Provost’s Academic Impact Report. The contents of this report underscore the academic achievements and milestones of our institution over the past academic year and are a testament to the dedication, innovation and hard work of our students and Academic Affairs faculty and staff.
The past academic year was a period of remarkable growth and accomplishment for the University of HoustonClear Lake (UHCL). Our faculty continued to push the boundaries of knowledge, securing prestigious grants and making innovative advances in research to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Recognized at local, state and national levels, our faculty members have made substantial contributions that resonate far beyond our campus.
Equally impressive are the achievements of our students, who have excelled in their academic pursuits and beyond. This year’s report includes inspiring stories of student success, from those who have earned life-changing internships, to those who have excelled in national competitions and students who are making an impact
with the next generation. These achievements reflect the transformative experiential learning environment that UHCL provides while fostering a culture of translating knowledge and transcending boundaries.
This year we also celebrated UHCL’s 50th anniversary by recognizing the significant milestones in our history These milestones include both the growth of our campus and the achievements of the individuals who have graduated from our institution. This report not only celebrates past achievements but also sets the stage for continued progress and innovation. Together, we will continue to build on this foundation of excellence, driving forward the mission of UHCL and our commitment to student success.
Sincerely,
Christopher Maynard, Ph.D. Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
CONTENTS
Academic Affairs & Office of the Provost
College of Business College of Education College of Human Sciences and Humanities
College of Science and Engineering
Partnerships & Experiential Learning
Faculty Spotlights
Student Spotlights
University Spotlights
Division of Academic Affairs
Student Success & Initiatives
Office of Information Technology
Celebrating 50 Years
Alumni Spotlights
The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) is a nationally ranked and regionally focused comprehensive university within the University of Houston System that is classified as a doctoral university and offers more than 90 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs through its four colleges: Business, Education, Human Sciences and Humanities, and Science and Engineering.
Situated on a 524-acre wildlife preserve, UHCL has become a cornerstone of higher education in Texas. Since opening its doors in 1974, the university has awarded more than 80,000 degrees, each resulting in expanded employment prospects, brighter futures and changed lives. UHCL has earned a distinctive reputation as a studentcentered, community- minded, partnership-oriented university.
Our more than 80,000 alumni are leaders in a variety of fields and include 10 astronauts, more than 400 CEOs and at least one best-selling author. Through its
ongoing community engagement, UHCL has developed alliances with area businesses, organizations, schools, and governmental agencies that enhance the educational, economic, cultural, scientific, and professional environment across the region. The university is proud to be classified as both a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and a Minority Serving Institution (MSI).
Academic Affairs and the Office of the
The Division of Academic Affairs is focused on three Strategic Goals: Improving Student Success Increasing Academic Excellence Growing Academic Engagement
Dr. LeeBrian E. Gaskins
Senior Associate Vice President, Information Technology
Dr. Joan Pedro Dean, College of Education
Christopher Maynard, Ph.D.
Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
Dr. Tim Richardson
Associate Vice President, Student Success and Initiatives
Dr. Glenn M. Sanford Dean, Human Sciences and Humanities
Dr. Kathryn I. Matthew Vice Provost
Dr. Jennifer Irvin Dean, College of Science and Engineering
Dr. Edward R. Waller Dean, College of Business
Quick Facts
In 2023-2024, UHCL awarded
1,984
DEGREES
UHCL was listed at No. 12 among the Top Public Institutions in Texas (Top 5 within non-R1 institutions) U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best Colleges:
UHCL was listed a NO. 8 OUT OF 118 Best HSIs in Texas
NNO. 30 OUT OF 572 Best HSIs in the U.S.
College of Business
The College of Business is committed to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares students for success in an evolving global marketplace. Our mission is to develop aspiring learners and the organizations that employ them, contributing to a diverse and inclusive learning environment where innovation thrives. We aim to cultivate leaders prepared to meet today’s challenges, with programs designed to enhance critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving skills. The success of our graduates reflects the quality of our academic offerings, and the value of their education is validated by their strong return on investment, as evidenced by high rankings in national assessments and postgraduation employment outcomes.
The College of Business’s achievements are a testament to the dedication and expertise of our faculty. They contribute to the academic success of our students and to the
UHCL at Texas Medical Center
advancement of research, community engagement and industry collaboration. Our faculty members are consistently recognized for scholarships and innovation which have positively impacted both our learners and broader society.
We are proud to announce the extension of our AACSB accreditation for business and accounting through 20292030, a recognition achieved by less than 6% of business schools worldwide. As we celebrate the extension of AACSB accreditation, we remain committed to student success and continuous improvement. We know that our college will continue to play a vital role in the professional and personal growth of our students, sustaining the excellence that has defined us and continuing to create opportunities for students to thrive.
Edward R. Waller, Ph.D. Dean, College of Business
In January 2024, UHCL hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly renovated Texas Medical Center facility located at 6624 Fannin. Taking up the entire 14th floor, the new space for the Healthcare Administration program is in the heart of one of the leading centers of healthcare research and delivery around the globe. Here, students and faculty have access to state-of-the-art classrooms, flex spaces, lounges and offices at a central location.
Annual Business Pitch Competition Celebrates Students’ Entrepreneurial Spirit
In April 2024, UHCL’s College of Business hosted the second annual Business Pitch Competition, an event that showcased some of the university’s brightest entrepreneurial minds and their unique business concepts. Among the contestants were six remarkable students, each with a vision and a business plan that could potentially change the market landscape.
Each phase of the competition is designed to challenge the contestants’ business acumen, creativity, and resilience. From the initial application process, where one-pagers laid the foundation of their business concepts, through the Hawk Business Pitch Bootcamp, where their ideas were refined and their pitches perfected, to the final live event judged by a panel of esteemed alumni and entrepreneurs.
The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) granted the College of Business an extension of business and separate accounting accreditation through 2029-2030.
Amount in scholarships awarded to College of Business students in a five-year period (6,613 scholarships).
Only one percent of the world’s schools offering business degree education hold both business and separate accounting accreditation.
UHCL’s online Masters in Business programs (nonMBA) was ranked in the Top 100 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
Taking Off
In January 2024 the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approved a CIP designation change for the M.S. Accounting program to receive a STEM designation. The college also launched an MBA with a concentration in Commercialization of Space which equips students with the managerial skills needed to meet the demands of the aerospace sector.
Societal Impact
The College of Business serves communities with many first-generation and minority learners. A high percentage of our learners are first-generation (48.4%), minority classified (64.1%), and part-time learners (61.3%).
Focus on Engagement
Through the College of Business, students can benefit from:
• Job and internship fair partnerships with career services.
• Resume reviews and salary negotiation workshops with the Texas Bay Area Society of Human Resource Management.
• Small business lunch and learns, Employer Mixers, Meet the Firms, Accounting Recruiters’ Reception and Finance Recruiters’ Reception.
• Financial Executive Institute scholarship and job shadowing opportunities for learners.
• Reception Collaboration with the Risk Management Association (RMA) providing opportunities to earn RMA certification and internship opportunities in commercial banking.
Education College of
The College of Education (COE) boasts a mission of preparing future educators and educational leaders to become powerful forces for change in and out of the classroom and in the broader community. Our commitment to student success is paramount and is part of our mission as we prepare our students to “Learn to Teach, Teach to Transform Lives.” Through professional development school sites, local partnerships and innovative classes, our students graduate with real-world experiences. We mold future educators and administrators in our academic programs with the knowledge, skills and pedagogy necessary to create effective learning environments.
Our academic programs seek to educate our students with research-based teaching strategies that improve curriculum design, classroom management and assessment practices, directly impacting the quality of education. Our graduates work in diverse environments
and are prepared to address the varying needs of students from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Our Educational Leadership and Policy programs prepare students to influence education systems at a broader level. Graduates contribute to shaping policies that improve educational standards and access, and they play an important role in the development of a proficient and well-informed community.
Our faculty are involved in best practices in teaching and conducting research and service at all levels. They continuously publish articles in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences, ensuring that teaching practices evolve with new research which broadens the knowledge base in their disciplines.
The College of Education is making a positive and lasting impact as our influence extends beyond the classroom to ensure the well-being of future generations.
Joan Pedro, Ph.D. Dean, College of Education
8th Annual Greater Houston Area STEM Conference Continues to Enhance Student Learning
STEP Program
UHCL-Pearland honored former State Rep. Ed Thompson in the spring of 2024 for his unwavering support and advocacy in securing funding for the Success Through Education Programs (STEP) at UHCL. This program, a collaborative effort between UHCL, local school districts and community colleges, aims to provide opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in teaching.
STEP focuses on identifying first-generation, diverse, and low-income students with the potential to become exceptional educators, offering them support and guidance from high school through community college and then into the teacher preparation program in the College of Education at UHCL over six years.
In Spring 2024, the College of Education hosted the 8th Annual Greater Houston Area STEM Conference. This year’s theme, Fostering a STEM-Driven Mindset, drew approximately 300 attendees, exhibitors, presenters, students, and volunteers. STEM audiences from various backgrounds, including pre-service teachers, K-16 educators, EDCI doctoral students, and community partners, gathered to enrich their knowledge and skills in STEM education.
COE’s goal in hosting events like the annual STEM Conference is to nurture relationships with educators and community stakeholders in Greater Houston by promoting experiential learning and workforce readiness.
The College of Education’s Teacher Education programs received Texas Education Agency Full Accreditation for five years.
In 2024, UHCL moved up to No. 35 nationally for Best Online Master’s in Education Programs according to U.S. News & World Report.
In fall of 2023, the College of Education initiated a cohort of Master’s in Instructional Design and Technology at UHCL-Pearland. The first cohort graduate in August 2024.
The Early Childhood Education program earned full accreditation
Employment & Retention
students in COE’s Grow Your Own Program currently serve as paraprofessionals/instructional aides across 12 partner independent school districts.
teacher candidates graduated from the College of Education’s Teacher Preparation Program in 2024, with approximately 90% hired by school districts upon graduation.
for its Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Care and Education and Bachelor of Applied Science Educator of Young Children Interdisciplinary Studies from the National Association for Educators of Young Children Accreditation. In addition, the department has launched a new PreK-3 Certification program, distinguishing UHCL as the only university in the Houston area to offer this certification.
of 2022 undergraduate teachers have secured employment in school districts. Data from the Texas Education Agency indicates that the 4-year retention rate of first-year teachers from UHCL is 83.5%, while the state average is 72.2%.
UHCLTeach Making an Impact
Received the Moody Foundation Grant for for three years to strengthen the Early Education Workforce project.
Hosted a High School Fiesta in March 2024 with 100 students from 5 area school districts spending a day on UHCL’s campus attending classes and participating in other engagement activities.
Received the Houston Endowment Grant to continue the Success Through Education Program (STEP) and build a partnership with Channelview and Houston ISDs.
In 2023-2024, the College of Education: $583,590 $1 MILLION
Received dollars from the Texas State Legislature for the STEP to offer scholarships to incoming teacher education students from Clear Creek and Pearland ISDs.
The UHCLTeach program aims to train top-notch science and mathematics high school teachers in the country. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the College of Education and the College of Science and Engineering. Currently, UHCLTeach has 36 participants working towards Life Sciences certification and 45 participants working towards Mathematics certification.
The program has been recognized with the Inspiring Programs in STEM Award by Insight into Diversity Magazine for both 2022 and 2023. Additionally, UHCLTeach has secured several prestigious grants, including an NSF Grant, the Noyce Grant from the STEMHawks: Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program and the STEM4ALL: Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence Grant. Furthermore, UHCLTeach offers scholarships funded by the Powell Foundation and the Greater Texas Foundation.
Human Sciences & Humanities College of
The College of Human Sciences and Humanities is dedicated to fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a deep understanding of the human experience. Our mission is to equip students with the intellectual tools to navigate and shape the world around them, grounded in a foundation of ethical values, cultural awareness, and social responsibility.
The degree programs we offer—from psychology and sociology to art, history, nursing, kinesiology, and beyond—prepare students not just for careers but for life. In an ever-evolving world, the skills our students gain— communication, analysis, empathy, and adaptability— are more essential than ever. Whether they pursue client care, public service, business, teaching or the arts, our graduates leave equipped to make meaningful contributions to society. COLLEGE
Our Fall 2024 launch of an MSN in Nurse Education and Leadership continues the long history of meeting the needs of our community as exemplified by our Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, our Health and Human Performance Institute, the Art School for Children, and the wide array of student interns who work with community partners throughout the region. From groundbreaking research to community engagement, our faculty’s contributions enrich the learning environment and extend the impact of the college.
As we continue to face the challenges and opportunities of today’s world, I want to assure you of our unwavering commitment to student success. Together, with your support, we will continue to empower the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and change-makers.
Glenn M. Sanford, J.D., Ph.D. Dean, College of Human Sciences and Humanities
Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities
Established in 2008, the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities (CADD) at UHCL supports research on autism and developmental disabilities, trains current and future professionals, and provides assessment and therapy services to children, youth, adults, and their families through partnerships with community organizations.
The scope and variety of CADD programs available and the age range of the individuals served makes it a unique center in Texas. Currently staffed by UHCL faculty and students in the Behavior Analysis and School Psychology programs, the majority of services are provided at little or no cost to families.
Since its inception, CADD has served more than 2,800 clients and families, trained nearly 200 undergraduate and graduate students and provided specialized continuing education to 7,750 education and healthcare professionals.
Mentorship Program Helps Equip High School Students for Psychology-Related Careers
Recent data from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board shows a lack of diversity in behavior analysis at the master’s and doctoral levels. This prompted Dr. Sarah Lechago, Associate Professor of Behavior Analysis, and her former students, Brianna Banks and Jennifer Nguyen, to create a high school mentorship program through Lechago’s BADIE research lab at UHCL.
The BADIE lab focuses on how culture influences behavior and aims to promote positive cultural interactions. In 2022, Lechago partnered with Clear Lake High School to launch the mentorship program.
The program pairs UHCL Behavior Analysis master’s students with high schoolers from underrepresented communities to introduce them to behavior analysis in an engaging, hands-on way. Each spring, one or two Clear Lake High School students are chosen to participate.
Expanding Programs to Meet Students Needs
In 2024, the Clinical Health and Applied Sciences department was divided into two new departments, Psychological and Behavioral Health Sciences which includes all license-eligible psychology programs, and Health, Human, and Biomedical Sciences which focuses on Kinesiology, Nursing and Social Work programs. The Criminology and Criminal Justice Program launched a fully-online option for graduate students seeking to earn their master’s degrees at UHCL.
The launch of the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Education and Leadership graduate program was designed for those who have earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and prepares graduates for advanced roles in education and leadership in academic or clinical settings. Graduates of the program are prepared for roles such as nurse educators in hospitals and academic settings, staff development coordinators, hospital administrative leaders, nursing managers and other critical positions across diverse healthcare settings.
AWARDS & GRANTS
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board awarded
$378,753
from the Nursing Shortage Reduction Program (NRSP) to the UHCL Nursing program. NSRP is designed to aid in reducing the professional nursing shortage in Texas. These funds will assist in enrolling additional nursing students, encouraging innovation in the recruitment and retention of Spanish-speaking and bilingual students, implementing innovative teaching methods and utilizing part-time faculty to provide clinical instruction.
Dr. Gill Strait, Associate Professor of School Psychology and Health Service Psychology, received a
$1,034,675
grant from the Department of Education to train school psychology professionals. The five-year project, titled “Empowering Horizons,” aims to improve mental health support in high-need middle schools by training graduate students and paraprofessionals from under-represented backgrounds.
Dr. Sofia Georgiadou, Assistant Professor of Family Therapy, received a grant from the Bluenotes Explorance for research on student perceptions of marriage and family therapy education. Additionally, Georgiadou was recently honored with the Professor of the Year Award from the Texas Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
College of
Science & Engineering
The College of Science and Engineering (CSE) prepares independent, problem-solving, creative thinkers to enter careers in science, engineering, mathematics, and computing.
CSE significantly enhances student success by offering a dynamic learning environment that combines rigorous coursework with hands-on research opportunities.
With more than 20 undergraduate and graduate degree programs to choose from, our students are trained to meet today’s toughest challenges head-on, adapting their knowledge to new situations and the benefit of society. Our faculty work with organizations like NASA, the National Science Foundation, the Environmental Protection Agency, Boeing and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to identify real-world problems for our students to solve through internship and research opportunities. Our alumni have built careers tackling Earth’s most difficult challenges from beneath the waves to above the stratosphere. Student success is at the heart of our mission; we are dedicated to creating an environment where our students are inspired to pursue their passions, overcome challenges, and achieve their dreams.
Jennifer Irvin, Ph.D. Dean, College of Science and Engineering
Aerospace Engineering Bachelor of Science Launching
This new degree program at UHCL will serve the Houston metropolitan area and beyond by offering an educational program that fills needed engineering positions, supports the growth of aerospace with NASA missions and the Houston Spaceport, and provides a path to the Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering at University of Houston. It will be the only bachelor program of its kind within 100 miles of the Johnson Space Center, Houston Spaceport and neighboring aerospace companies.
Distinguished Faculty: BY THE NUMBERS
Faculty distinguished themselves with two President's Distinguished Faculty Awards (teaching and research) and two endowed faculty fellowships. The Center for Faculty Development also recognized twelve Science & Engineering faculty for their contributions and dedication to teaching and research.
2
2
12
President’s Distinguished Faculty Awards Endowed Faculty Fellowships Center for Faculty Development Awards
College of Science & Engineering faculty awarded in new grants and contracts (2023)
100
1 including
6
Faculty published over scholarly works scholarly books and textbook accepted or in press
Student Support through STEM Grants
STEM grants have continued to support and encourage students to become actively engaged in extracurricular activities within their STEM discipline. In total, these grants have benefitted over 300 students.
NSF-HSI grant “Building Capacity: Improving STEM Graduation Rate through Engaged Learning” under Dr. Said Bettayeb (Principal Investigator) supported engaging 59 students as research assistants, interns, and embedded tutors in 2023.
UHCLTeach, a collaboration under Dr. Stephen Gruber (Biology) and Dr. Michelle Peters (College of Education), consists of 81 students majoring in Biology or Mathematics with a 7-12 certification.
DOE grant “Supporting Diversity in STEM Careers” under Dr. Kathy Matthew (Principal Investigator) and Dr. Sadegh Davari (Co-Principal Investigator) supported 70 students in 2023. These students were hired as peer mentors, research assistants, and interns.
NSF grant “Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation” under Dr. Magdy Akladios supported 12 students in 2023. Students are supported with a stipend for engaging in extracurricular activities within their STEM discipline.
NSF grant “Supporting the Success of Undergraduate and Graduate Students in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, and Computer Information Systems” under Dr. Ahmed Abukmail continued to provide scholarships to students in 2023.
Partnerships &
Experiential Learning
Boeing Student Development Partnership
Since 2022, Boeing has committed to hiring UHCL engineering students for technical work opportunities involving various projects. The partnership has proven to be a success and in 2023-2024, Boeing hired 40 student participants as part of the Boeing Student Development Partnership. This includes students from a variety of academic disciplines including Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, and Mechanical Engineering.
Partnerships with Boeing, KBR/NASA, the Space Alliance and Technology Outreach Program and the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center are opening doors to student internships and faculty-led collaborative ventures with aerospace and manufacturing organizations in the Gulf Coast.
UHCL’s partnership with Boeing includes contract orders for technical assignments on Commercial Derivative Aircraft and International Space Station, with a total contract funding of $784,423.
The 2023-2024
Student Development Partnership resulted in four participants receiving and accepting full-time employment offers with Boeing . Due to the success of the program, UHCL and Boeing have agreed to a partnership extension.
A similar partnership with
KBR/NASA
has also started under a similar model and the first student was hired in 2023.
Boeing has been extremely impactful for me in investing in my future through the opportunity for the SDP program as well as hiring me outright when I graduated from UHCL. I am confident to say that I have a bright future here and the peace of mind of having earned this position is astounding.
Jacob Howard UHCL Grad, Boeing Full-Time Employee
Faculty Spotlights
College of Health Sciences and Humanities
Dr. Karen Alexander
Founding Director of Nursing & Associate Professor
In 2024, Dr. Alexander was honored at the state level and nationally by the Association of Black Nursing Faculty, Inc. as a "Member on the Move" and appointed as the District Liaison for District 9 by the Texas Nurses Association. With a deeprooted passion for nursing from a young age, Dr. Alexander has dedicated her career to caring for individuals during their most vulnerable moments. Her commitment to excellence in nursing shines through her diverse experiences in the military, public sector, and academia, where she continuously strives to elevate the standards of nursing practice.
College of Science and Engineering
Dr. Michael LaMontagne, Assistant Professor of Microbiology
Dr. Lory Santiago-Vázquez, Program Chair of Biotechnology, Associate Professor of Biology and Biotechnology
Dr. Soma Datta, Associate Professor of Software Engineering
In Fall 2023, the College of Science and Engineering’s Drs. LaMontagne, Santiago-Vázquez, and Datta were awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation. This funding enabled them to acquire a MALDI-TOF spectrometer and an FTIR spectrometer. These advanced systems are being utilized by UHCL students for the identification and characterization of bacteria obtained from samples collected from Galveston Bay and the Flower Garden National Marine Sanctuary.
College of Education
Dr. Antonio Corrales
Doctoral Program Director and Associate Professor of Educational Leadership
After fleeing his home country of Venezuela and starting a new life in the U.S., Dr. Corrales put his career as an engineer behind him and decided to focus on what made him happy and how he could make a difference. Corrales obtained a Master of Science in Educational Management and in 2015, a doctorate in Educational Leadership from UHCL. Today, he is fulfilling his mission at UHCL and is devoted to helping students reach their potential. As the Educational Leadership Doctoral Program director, he is committed to developing individuals who have a strong work ethic, grit, flexibility, adaptability and can perform in school achievement.
College of Business
Dr. Dina Abdel-Zaher
Associate Professor of Management
Dr. Dina Abdel-Zaher founded and served as a director of Youth for a Better Houston, an organization that provides servant learning opportunities for K-12 learners with an emphasis on ages 12-18. Through projects such as helping nursing homes, serving unhoused communities and environmental cleanup, students in the program are provided with workshops focusing on job and career development, public speaking and debate, group talks and social gatherings.
College of Human Sciences and Humanities
Dr. Christine Kovic
Professor of Anthropology and Cross-Cultural Studies
& Dr. Dawit Woldu
Associate Professor of Anthropology
Drs. Kovic and Woldu led a presentation exploring the impact of refugee urban farmers on Houston’s sustainability at a Plant It Forward event in 2024. Their research highlighted how refugee farmers apply their agricultural knowledge from their home countries and connect with the local community through farming.
College of Education
Dr. Emily Horton
Assistant Professor of Counseling
Dr. Emily Horton received the “Researcher Advocate Award” from the Association for Child and Adolescent Counseling. This award goes to a researcher who has demonstrated advocacy for the mental health of children and adolescents by participating and publishing research that may have impacted legislation, developed new methodology, challenged older methodology or impacted the larger community.
College of Business
Dr. Laura Guerrera
Associate Professor of Management
Dr. Laura Guerrero was selected to present an instructional innovation session at the 2023 Southwest Academy of Management Conference. This session was based upon an award-winning proposal about a ‘viral video’ assignment in MGMT 3313 – Organizational Communication. The assignment that generated the award helps students prepare professional quality video productions and then position them on social media so that they may spread “virally” through social network activity of the video’s viewership.
College of Science and Engineering
Dr. Nelson Carter
Senior Lecturer of Mathematics
Dr. Carter was named a 2024 Project New Experiences in Teaching (NExT) Fellow of the Mathematics Association of America (MAA). MAA’s Project NExT program is designed to support new or recent doctorates in mathematical sciences. The program prepares its fellows to become productive mathematics faculty members and future leaders of the mathematics community by fostering strong teaching, mentoring, and research skills. Project NExT annually selects a cohort of only 100 college and university faculty members across the United States and Canada.
Student Spotlights
UHCL students win NASA Innovation and Tech Transfer Idea Competition
In late 2023, five College of Science and Engineering students and their faculty sponsor, Dr. Kristine Ferrone, won the NASA Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) Innovation and Tech Transfer Idea Competition (MITTIC) with their pitch for GalvaniGauze, a product that uses NASA’s ‘Electroactive Material for Wound Healing’ patent to accelerate wound recovery. The team, consisting of students Valentine Le, Annabelle Lozano, Nghia Nguyen, Nicholas Ross, and Dev Saha, won a $20,000 grand prize and a grant to license the NASA patent. Their journey began at a Pathways to STEM Careers information session, leading to their formation and collaboration.
Inspiring young minds through teaching
Zach Jernigan and Zachary Sheriff made a significant impact on young learners through their teaching roles with UHCL’s Center for Educational Programs. They taught courses to Gifted & Talented students from Dickinson ISD and La Porte ISD, who would visit UHCL on alternate Fridays. Jernigan, who graduated in Spring 2024 with a B.A. in Communications, taught Game Design Explorations, while Sheriff, set to graduate in Fall 2025 with a B.S. in Education, taught Graphic Novels. Both students attribute their success to the mentorship of Dr. Jana Willis and aim to continue their educational careers post-graduation.
UHCL’s Artifices Lunaris team advances in NASA’s Micro-g NExT Design Challenge
The Artifices Lunaris team, comprising of mechanical engineering students Adrian Garcia, Blair Mitchell, Buvaneshraj Saravanan, and Omar Tubeishat, guided by Dr. Kazi Md Masum Billah, created a Hand Carrier for the Lunar EVA Tool to address real-world space exploration challenges. They were invited to test their prototype at NASA’s Johnson Space Center’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab in June 2024, with NASA divers evaluating the tools as the students directed from the Test Conductor Room. The challenge provided an invaluable hands-on, experiential learning experience, fostering a sense of accomplishment and inspiring these future engineers.
Students awarded at North Korean Human Rights Speech Contest
Four UHCL students showcased their advocacy and eloquence at the North Korean Human Rights Speech Contest in April 2024, organized by the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council of Korea, Houston Chapter. Alexandra Le from the College of Business won the Gold Award, earning a $500 prize and an invitation to speak at the international North Korean Human Rights Conference. The Bronze Award, with a $100 prize, went to Steve McWhirter (Social Work), Leslie Reyes Vargas (Communications), and Timothy Burns (Physics). Their achievements underscore the diverse commitment of UHCL students to human rights advocacy.
From classroom to career: Gaining valuable experience through internships
Internships are crucial for shaping students’ professional futures by providing real-world experience, enhancing resumes, building networks, and exploring career paths. They offer students, like the ones below, a competitive edge in the job market and a clearer understanding of their career aspirations, fostering both professional and personal growth.
Jordan Jewell, a former graduate student who earned her joint Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Spring 2024, secured an internship at HCA Houston Healthcare in Clear Lake, influenced by her grandmother’s battle with cancer. During her internship she worked on improving patient care and community outreach and gained valuable leadership insights and practical experience.
Nick Zupon, a history major in the College of Human Sciences and Humanities interning at the San Jacinto Battlefield Museum, is acquiring skills in artifact preservation and museum research. He credits the Office of Strategic Partnerships for helping him secure his internship, highlighting the importance of utilizing available resources.
Christopher Garcia, a mechanical engineering student, worked on Intuitive Machines moon lander carbon fiber panels while interning there in 2023-24. Almost all of the spacecraft was built in Houston and the names of individuals who worked on the spacecraft were etched into the bottom of its landing gear, giving Garcia a permanent presence on the moon.
University Spotlights
UHCL opens new facility at Texas Medical Center
In January 2024, UHCL hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly renovated Texas Medical Center facility located at 6624 Fannin. Encompassing the entire 14th floor of Fannin Tower, UH-Clear Lake at Texas Medical Center is an open-concept, modern environment with high-tech classrooms and break-out areas that encourage networking, interacting with faculty and advisors, studying and collaborating.
The Healthcare Administration program within the College of Business touts a long and distinguished history at the university. Now home to the Healthcare Administration B.S., Healthcare Services B.A.S., Healthcare Administration MHA and Healthcare Administration MHA/MBA, this new space will continue to provide transformative experiences for all students who come to the program from across the Greater Houston area.
With a focus on business skills, finance, reimbursement and operations, our medical center degree programs prepare students to assume administrative responsibility in healthcare institutions in both the public and private sectors.
Second annual Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance Summit
In April 2024, the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Health and Human Performance Institute (HHPI) and KBR hosted the second annual Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance (SHOP) Summit at Space Center Houston. The event gathered over 300 attendees focused on enhancing astronauts’ physical readiness for extended space missions.
Over three days, the summit featured 23 sessions with insights from 33 esteemed speakers, including astronauts, strength and conditioning experts, human performance scientists, flight surgeons, and physical therapists. This diverse lineup offered a comprehensive understanding of astronaut health and performance, promoting interdisciplinary learning.
The SHOP Summit is a vital platform for sharing innovations in astronaut health, enabling attendees to engage with top experts and thought leaders. This event underscores the importance of interdisciplinary solutions for the challenges of long-term space missions.
UHCL’s partnership with KBR, highlighted by the annual SHOP Summit, demonstrates a commitment to advancing human spaceflight. Beyond the summit, this collaboration includes ongoing research, with seven full-time UHCL employees working onsite at NASA-JSC in KBR labs on the Human Health and Performance Contract, paid internships for students, and professional development for KBR employees. Together, UHCL and KBR are dedicated to preparing the future aerospace workforce, ensuring astronauts are ready for the rigors of space exploration, and expanding the possibilities in human spaceflight.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HHPI
Education Abroad & Scholar Services (EA&SS)
Rising Global Learning: In 2023-2024, EA&SS saw a 44% increase in participation for education abroad programs, with students and faculty visiting Africa, Asia, South America, and Europe.
Internships and Research Abroad: Students completed internships and research projects internationally, gaining practical skills and professional connections, making them more competitive in the global job market.
Fulbright Program: UHCL celebrated its first non-faculty Fulbright Specialist awardee, highlighting this prestigious opportunity for global project-based exchanges.
ACADEMIC AFFAIRS DIVISION OF
Center for Faculty Development (CFD)
Writing Challenge Participants & Impact
The online Writing Challenge in February and October had 76 participants. Faculty developed grant proposals, submitted journal articles, authored book chapters, and advanced other scholarly projects.
Faculty Development Week and Awards Ceremony
Faculty Development Week in February 2024 featured 12 panels and an awards ceremony, with 248 participants.
BY THE NUMBERS
Faculty Development Activities
622
Faculty Received “Going to 11” Award 45 33 29 47 Participants
Faculty Recognized with CFD Awards in Teaching and Research
Faculty Honored for Teaching 1000, 2500, 5000 or 10000 UHCL Students
Communities of Practice Highlights and Attendance
CFD sponsored 11 Communities of Practice in fall and spring with 198 participants. They initiated research grant proposals, co-authored papers, and developed other collaborations.
Development Funding and Impacts
CFD funded 20 faculty members in 2023-2024. This led to the development of transferable knowledge, improved mentoring networks, and the creation of new resources or products.
Environmental Institute of Houston (EIH)
Since 1991, the Environmental Institute of Houston at UHCL has led environmental research, education, and outreach in the region by addressing critical issues like water resources, wetlands, fisheries, and wildlife conservation, and providing unbiased expertise for statewide and Gulf of Mexico challenges. Through workshops, youth programs, and meetings, EIH at UHCL connects researchers, students, educators, agencies, organizations, and the community to essential environmental topics and issues.
BY THE NUMBERS
Undergraduate & Graduate Students Continuing Grants/Contracts New or Renewed Grants/Contracts Publications Grant-Funded Projects Awarded $1,990,379
7
8
10
22
Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP)
UHCL’s Quality Enhancement Plan,
Becoming Aware: Cultural Interactions at UHCL,
aims to enrich student experiences and prepare them for a diverse global environment.
Now in its second year, the QEP fosters a campus culture that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed for effective cultural interactions.
MAIN FOCUS
The plan centers on the student learning outcome (SLO) of intercultural knowledge and competency, where students will use knowledge, skills, and attitudes to effectively and appropriately interact and work with individuals who differ from themselves.
GOALS
Increase intercultural knowledge and competency.
Enhance faculty implementation of the SLO in the curriculum.
Include the SLO in the League of the Rising Hawks.
2023-2024 ACHIEVEMENTS:
In 2023-2024, the Office of Planning and Assessment executed a strategic plan to increase awareness of the QEP among employees and students.
The College of Education’s Dr. Sheila Baker received $25,000 to offer scholarships for rural Texas teachers to pursue a master’s in School Library and Information Science. This grant promotes educational access, diversity, and enhanced library resources in rural areas. Dr. Jennifer Fritz, Dr. Sarah Lechago
Faculty members from the College of Human Sciences and Humanities Behavior Analysis program have received received $500,000, totaling $2.8 million since 2016, for the “Connecting the Dots” program. Led by Drs. Jennifer Fritz and Sarah Lechago, the program has helped over 500 Houston families with autism, providing internships and winning the STAR Award from Clear Creek ISD’s Special Education PTA.
NASA Science Mission
Directorate Bridge Program
Seed Funding
Dr. Hakduran Koc, Dr. David Garrison, Dr. Youssef Hamidi, Dr. Tej Limbu, Dr. Serkan Caliskan, Dr. Michael LaMontagne, Dr. Lory Santiago-Vázquez, Dr. Soma Datta
Faculty from the College of Science and Engineering secured $300,000 from NASA’s Bridge Program to research space materials and microbiomes. This funding highlights UHCL’s key role in space research and aims to develop future NASA JSC workforce.
Student Success & Initiatives
The Transfer Advising & Student Transitions team hosted its first Transfer Student Celebration in Fall 2023. With transfer students comprising over 50% of UHCL’s enrollment, the event highlighted their importance. The official event t-shirt was designed by Katelynne Hall, an Art and Design major and transfer student.
In Spring 2024, the Testing Center hosted the College Readiness MiniConference, where Houston area K-12 and higher education staff collaborated to streamline students’ education and career planning.
Launched in 2024, UHCL’s Exploring Majors Office helps students with academic and career exploration, including self-discovery, assessing strengths, exploring careers, and creating educational plans.
2023-2024 Impact
UHCL’s Academic Advising empowers students to make informed, responsible decisions in pursuit of their goals.
STUDENT APPOINTMENTS in 2023-2024.
of students who met with an academic advisor were RETAINED FROM FALL 2023 TO SPRING 2024.
The Student Success Center at UHCL offers Tutoring, Success Coaching, Embedded Tutoring, and Academic Skills Workshops.
STUDENT VISITS
A 22% increase from 2022.
of workshop attendees reported IMPROVED ACADEMIC SKILLS.
participated in Peer Mentor-led programs.
The Writing Center helps with academic and personal writing projects through free online, face-to-face, and workshop consultations.
Provided COURSE-EMBEDDED TUTORING for
UHCL continues to support students finishing degrees with fewer wasted credits. In 2023-2024, UHCL STUDENTS’ AVERAGE CREDITS TO DEGREE WAS while the average of current Houston GPS partners was 147.7. 94% 17,400 137.9 99% 13% 455 12,602 45% 7
courses in 2023-2024.
STUDENTS HIGHER AVERAGE GPA. HIGHER AVERAGE GPA
Students using courseembedded tutoring had a of students using course-embedded tutors.
Office of Information Technology
Libraries
Focus on AI: The Alfred R. Neumann
Library hosted one of the first campus panel discussions, “Integrating Artificial Intelligence into the Future of Higher Education.”
Preservation through Digitization: The Legacy Collection (1974–2015) now provides digital access to the scholarship and creative works from the UHCL community that were previously only available in print. UHCL Archives and Special Collections also completed digitization of all issues (1975–2007) of the student newspaper, The UHCLidian.
Distinguished Leadership: Executive Director Lee Andrew Hilyer was elected as chair of the Texas Council of State and University Libraries, a division of the Texas Council of Academic Libraries.
Supporting Faculty: UHCL Libraries awarded $9,000 in grant funds to faculty developing free open educational resources (OER) for their courses in order to provide significant savings for students.
Impactful New Technology Initiatives
During 2023-2024, the Office of Information Technology successfully implemented several technology initiatives that have had a positive impact on operations, user experience and overall efficiency. These projects reflect UHCL’s commitment to delivering technology solutions that support the university’s strategic goals, enhance service delivery, streamline workflows and achieve cost savings.
DocuSign Projects: Enhancing Workflow Automation and Efficiency
ADG Virtual Orientation System: Ensuring a Smooth Student Onboarding
Listserv Implementation: Enhancing Email Communication
Time Collection Devices Project: Streamlining Time Tracking for Hourly Employees
Concur Ticketing System: Optimizing Travel and Expense Management
Cayuse Human Ethics: Advancing Research Management Processes
Instructional Design and Technology
UHCL’s Instructional Design and Technology (IDT) team continues to support UHCL faculty and staff in myriad ways. In addition to training faculty and staff on various platforms and instructional practices, this past year IDT also hosted open houses, table talks, drop-in virtual support sessions, published bi-weekly newsletters with resources and launched new procedures designed to enable UHCL colleges and programs greater flexibility in responding to shifting instructional needs.
In 2023-2024, UHCL migrated to Instructure Canvas as the university’s new learning management system (LMS). Part of this rollout included providing introductory Canvas training to faculty and staff, as well as migrating content from over 7,000 course shells from the previous LMS.
Celebrating
Launched in 1974. Still Soaring. 5O Years
This year, the University of Houston-Clear Lake celebrates 50 years of educational excellence, community engagement, and innovative growth.
UHCL welcomed its first 1,069 students in September 1974, led by founding chancellor Alfred R. Neumann. Classes expanded to the Bayou Building in 1975.
Today, enrollment is growing, and the campus includes five classroom buildings, a recreation and wellness center, on-campus housing, and programs at our Pearland and Texas Medical Center locations.
As UHCL moves forward, it upholds a legacy of excellence and a vision for the future, driven by dedicated faculty and staff. The university’s commitment to shaping future leaders and advancing knowledge ensures it remains a beacon of innovation and excellence for generations to come.
Alumni Spotlights
Landis
J.
Craven, ‘22
Bachelor of Science in Public Service Leadership
After nearly 30 years in law enforcement, Landis J. Craven was informed that further advancement at the Texas City Police Department required a college degree. Motivated by this, he earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Alvin Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Public Service Leadership from UHCL in 2022. Despite the challenges of returning to school, Craven found support among peers and professors, especially in leadership, conflict resolution, and communication courses. His education proved invaluable when he was promoted to Chief of Police, as he applied lessons on ethical decision-making and community engagement to his daily work. Encouraged by supportive professors, Craven is now pursuing a master’s degree and inspiring other department captains to further their education.
Monica Trevathan, ‘00 & ‘18
Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology
Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction
Monica Trevathan began her career as a math teacher but transitioned to the field of computer technology after pursuing further education at UHCL, where she earned a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology. This blend of education and technology facilitated her career as an instructional designer at Boeing, and later roles with the TSA and Tietronix Software, where she supported NASA’s educational initiatives. Collaborating with Dr. Jana Willis on grant-funded projects inspired her to pursue a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with a STEM focus, which she completed in 2018. Trevathan then founded her own consulting company, Curriculum and Instruction Services, highlighting that a doctorate in education can lead to diverse opportunities beyond traditional classrooms, including roles with STEM-focused nonprofits and educational initiatives at various governmental levels.
Ichha Manandhar, ‘22
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Minor in Cybersecurity
Every year, approximately a million people come to the United States seeking better opportunities, including Ichha Manandhar, who traveled 8,300 miles from Nepal to Houston at age 6. After graduating from Clear Horizons Early College High School with both an associate’s degree and a high school diploma, she chose UHCL for her Bachelor’s in Computer Science with a minor in cybersecurity. Passionate about using technology to help people, especially in Nepal, Manandhar was actively involved in student government and led the SUPERGirls SHINE Foundation club, focusing on empowering young women of color in STEM. Her internship at NASA in software development for the International Space Station significantly aided her job search. As she looks forward to a career in software engineering, her ultimate goal is to establish a tech business operating in both the U.S. and Nepal to create much-needed jobs.
Mathew Timmons, ‘05
Joint Healthcare Administration MHA/MBA
Mathew Timmons, a seasoned healthcare administrator, attributes his success to his comprehensive education at UHCL, where he earned a joint Master of Healthcare Administration/Master of Business Administration in 2005. With nearly 25 years of experience, including 22 years at Texas Children’s Hospital and a recent promotion to Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Children’s Hospital New Orleans, Timmons oversees all hospital operations and community partnerships. He credits his education and administrative fellowship for providing a strong foundation in data-driven decision-making, operational strategies, and teamwork. Engaging with UHCL’s alumni network further opened career opportunities for him. Timmons often reflects on his academic experiences and appreciates the impactful teaching methods and support from his professors.
