Published author highlights UHCL and its role in her success
From her passion for history to becoming a celebrated author, Mary Sue Anton’s journey reflects a lifetime of resilience and creativity. After earning an associate degree from San Jacinto College, Anton pursued a Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) in 1988. Although UH-Clear Lake did not offer a media studies program at the time, her passion for writing and genealogy led her to the school newspaper. Here, Anton first honed her skills in writing, editing, publishing, and interviewing – key steps on her path to becoming a successful published author.
“One of my favorite memories is working for the student newspaper,” said Anton. “It was the very first time I got to interview people at UHCL and in the community.”
Anton also highlighted UHCL’s ability to provide a healthy work-life balance for students who work full-time, and for those who are parents.
“I was a stay-at-home mother with a lot of obligations. I was able to complete my assignments and finish the program just fine,” said Anton. “Everything was fine.”
Reflecting on her journey, Anton recalled her mother’s strength and resilience during a Mississippi River flood scare.
“We had to evacuate during the 1937 flood,” said Anton. “We lived in the courthouse for three weeks with my six siblings. My mother never complained.”
During Anton’s time at UHCL, she learned how to edit and developed her public speaking, interviewing, and communication skills. Although she had taken writing courses in junior college, her professors at UHCL provided the training and encouragement she needed to build confidence and hone her writing abilities.
“I remember my professor Gloria Morris. She was so encouraging,” said Anton. “No matter what we wrote, she always provided positive feedback,” she explained. “The skills I acquired also help at book signings. I have to get up and discuss what my book is about. I really learned how to talk to people.”
Anton also served on the UHCL alumni board and is proud to have been a part of the group that successfully advocated for the university to become a four-year institution. Shortly after, UHCL welcomed its first freshman and sophomore students to campus in fall of 2014. Today, UHCL is a four-year university offering more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and three doctoral programs across its four colleges.
Anton realized her love for writing at a young age, inspired by reading the works of renowned authors and driven by a passion for sharing history. After publishing a genealogy book with two cousins in 1994, she began writing popular histories. To date, she has published four books, the most recent being “Leaving the Homeplace: Tales Beyond the Levee,” in February 2024. This memoir recounts her beginnings as a Missouri native and spans her experiences through the Great Depression, World War II, the 60s, and the space age. In her memoir, Anton offers a heartfelt and often humorous account of her diverse life in a small Missouri town, living near Johnson Space Center, Texas and into the 21st century.
Anton currently resides in League City, Texas and serves on the Evelyn Meador Branch Library board. She will be 95 in July, and enjoys her work and leisure time. At her book signing in April, over 120 people came to support and she plans to host another book signing this fall. The date is TBD.
Anton’s advice for college students is to look at and apply for scholarships, join clubs and organizations, and to be involved on campus.
“I think applying for a scholarship is important,” said Anton. “A lot of people may look at scholarships and get intimidated or think they aren’t worthy, but they are,” she continued. “Don’t skip classes, and be sure to get involved in clubs and organizations on campus. I think these are the most important things.”
Furthermore, Anton believes Clear Lake is fortunate to have UHCL in the neighborhood.
For more information about UHCL’s Bachelor of Arts in History program visit, www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/history-ba. For more information about Mrs. Mary Sue Anton, visit marysueanton.com.
