Long after the final whistle sounds, Elizabeth Umanzor (’19) hopes visitors remember more than the matches.

Through a vibrant mural created as part of Houston's FIFA World Cup festivities, the University of Houston-Clear Lake alumna is inviting people to discover Houston's Museum District through its parks, museums, native wildlife and spirit of exploration. Located at Children's Museum Houston, the mural celebrates one of the city's most visited cultural destinations while encouraging guests to experience everything the district has to offer.

For Umanzor, the opportunity arrived unexpectedly.

After responding to a competitive artist call, she learned late one evening that her design had been selected.

"I screamed and I immediately called my brother because he's a soccer fanatic," she said. "It's a big deal to be working for FIFA. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

The excitement quickly gave way to action. She had just a few days to develop her concept before beginning work. A week of rain and a seven-day production schedule created an intense timeline, but she welcomed the challenge.

Rather than creating a mural centered solely on soccer, Umanzor wanted the artwork to tell a story that would remain relevant long after the tournament concluded.

"I wanted to represent what the Museum District has to offer," she said. "I wanted to incorporate the FIFA World Cup into it, but I didn't want to make the entire mural just about soccer."

Instead, she filled the mural with details that celebrate Houston. Native Texas flowers, butterflies and Houston's official bird, the yellow-crowned night heron, appear alongside references to Children's Museum Houston, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Hermann Park and NASA. Small FIFA-inspired details, including the World Cup trophy and soccer-themed elements, are woven throughout the mural without overwhelming the larger story.

That approach reflects the philosophy that guides all of her public art.

"My responsibility as an artist is to always make my murals site-specific to wherever they're going to be," Umanzor said. "I want someone looking at the mural to recognize something they see here in Houston."

She hopes visitors leave with more than admiration for the artwork.

"I hope they feel inspired to explore the Museum District," she said. "I hope they feel a sense of curiosity."

For the 2019 UHCL graduate, the FIFA commission represents another milestone in a career that continues to grow. Last year, she completed the commemorative mural celebrating the 15th anniversary of UHCL at Pearland. Today, she works full time as an artist, creating murals across Texas and preparing for her largest project yet, a mural in Idaho for a nonprofit developing affordable housing.

Looking back, she never imagined her career would lead to opportunities like this.

"I never thought I would be able to make a living making art, painting huge murals, working for the FIFA World Cup," she said.

Over the past several years, nature has become the defining thread in her work. Native birds, flowers and wildlife have evolved into signature elements that connect each mural to the community where it lives.

"I've definitely found my niche," she said. "I absolutely love nature, and I want my art to be about that."

Although the mural was commissioned as part of the FIFA World Cup, Umanzor hopes its impact extends well beyond the tournament. If it remains in place for years to come, she hopes families continue discovering Houston's Museum District through the stories woven into every flower, bird and brushstroke.

"I still can't believe all of that happened," she said. "I'm super ecstatic and grateful for the opportunity."

When Daniel Zakrzewski returned to college in his 30s, he wasn't chasing a lifelong dream of becoming an engineer. He was searching for a new direction.

After earning a degree in history from Texas A&M University and considering a future in patent law, he realized the path he had envisioned for himself no longer felt right. What followed was a return to the classroom, a leap into engineering, and eventually an internship that would place him inside one of the nation's most recognizable aerospace environments.

Today, the University of Houston-Clear Lake graduate works as a Project Engineer with V2X, helping design and develop training hardware used to support astronaut preparation and mission operations connected to NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Lab.

The journey from career uncertainty to supporting human spaceflight efforts wasn't something he had planned. Looking back, he still finds it a little hard to believe.

"You meet some of these people and they've been doing this for 35 to 40 years," Zakrzewski said. "It was very much imposter syndrome at first. I was like, 'How the heck did I wind up here?'"

Finding the right path

Zakrzewski's decision to attend UHCL was influenced in part by family experience. His brother had previously enrolled at the university to pursue engineering and ultimately built a career in aerospace.

For Zakrzewski, the appeal was both practical and professional.

Born and raised in Houston, he wanted to remain close to home while pursuing a field that offered strong career opportunities. UHCL's location in the heart of the Clear Lake aerospace community made it an easy choice.

"I knew NASA and all the aerospace companies were in the area," he said. "That was definitely a big plus."

Returning to school after nearly a decade away from the classroom, however, brought challenges of its own.

"It was definitely a humbling experience," Zakrzewski said. "Trying to relearn things 10 years later while everybody around you is fresh out of high school was a little shocking at first."

Still, he embraced the challenge and quickly realized that succeeding in engineering would require more than strong grades. Like many students pursuing aerospace careers, he knew gaining real-world experience would be essential.

That realization led him to the Office of Strategic Partnerships.

Opportunity meets preparation

Through a Strategic Partnerships information session, Zakrzewski learned about internship opportunities with aerospace employers throughout the region.

Like many students, he was actively searching for a way to gain experience and get his foot in the door.

"You always hear that you need internships," he said. "Especially if your goal is to work at NASA."

One potential opportunity didn't materialize, but another soon emerged when V2X began seeking interns to support operations connected to NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Lab.

The opportunity arrived at exactly the right time.

Aerospace internships are highly competitive, and Zakrzewski admitted he wasn't sure what to expect when his name was put forward.

"It was very surreal," he said. "I kind of had to pinch myself."

For Bernadina Streeter, program manager in the Office of Strategic Partnerships, stories like Zakrzewski's demonstrate the value of connecting students with employers before graduation.

"Partnerships play a great role in connecting students on our campus to the many industries," Streeter said. "We really pride ourselves on finding real-world experiences for our students to engage in."

Streeter said those experiences not only help students apply classroom learning but also create pathways into careers that might otherwise feel out of reach.

For Zakrzewski, that connection became the turning point in his college experience.

Learning beyond the classroom

The internship exposed him to a professional environment unlike anything he had experienced before.

Surrounded by engineers with decades of experience, he initially questioned whether he belonged.

"It was a little overwhelming at first," he said. "You meet people who have been doing this for 35 to 40 years and have incredible backgrounds."

What surprised him most wasn't the complexity of the work, but the culture of learning that existed around him.

Rather than expecting new engineers to have all the answers, colleagues encouraged questions, collaboration, and curiosity.

"One of the biggest lessons I learned is that I don't know everything, and that's okay," Zakrzewski said. "People are always willing to help you, and they're still learning too."

That mindset changed the way he approached both engineering and problem-solving.

Instead of feeling pressure to know every answer, he focused on asking better questions, seeking guidance from experienced professionals, and remaining open to continuous growth.

The approach paid off both professionally and personally.

"It helped build confidence," he said. "You start realizing that you can do this."

Turning experience into a career

As graduation approached, Zakrzewski faced the same uncertainty experienced by many college seniors.

Would the internship lead to something permanent?

For months, the answer remained unclear.

Then, during the spring semester, he received a call from his supervisor informing him that an opportunity had opened within the organization.

Within days, he had an offer.

"It was a huge relief," Zakrzewski said. "A lot of weight came off my shoulders."

The timing allowed him to focus on finishing his degree while preparing for the transition into a full-time engineering role.

Today, his work blends engineering design and project management responsibilities, supporting the development of training systems and hardware used in astronaut preparation and mission support activities.

While much of the work happens behind the scenes, Zakrzewski says seeing projects move from concept to reality is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.

"If we design something, I can actually walk downstairs and see it being built," he said. "Then later I can see it being used. That's what keeps me going."

Building something bigger

One of the experiences that left the greatest impression on Zakrzewski involved supporting training efforts connected to NASA's Artemis program.

Although his role represented only a small piece of a much larger mission, it provided a firsthand look at how thousands of individuals contribute to human spaceflight.

"Seeing the real-world impact is what makes it exciting," he said. "You realize that something you worked on is helping support these missions."

That connection between everyday work and larger outcomes continues to motivate him.

As NASA prepares for future exploration efforts and the aerospace industry continues to evolve, Zakrzewski is excited about the opportunity to keep learning, growing, and contributing.

For students who may doubt whether similar opportunities are possible for them, his advice is simple.

"You'll never know unless you try," he said. "If you already think the answer is no, you might as well put yourself out there and find out."

It is advice rooted in his own experience.

A few years ago, Zakrzewski was a career-changer returning to school and trying to determine what came next. Today, he is helping support the training and preparation of the people who will help shape the future of space exploration.

And for someone who once wondered whether he belonged, that journey has made all the difference.

Just a few years ago, Andrew Gallaher was unsure whether he could pursue a degree in physics. Today, the University of Houston-Clear Lake graduate is helping support one of NASA's most iconic scientific missions.

Weeks after earning his Bachelor of Science in Physics from UHCL, Gallaher accepted a position at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, located in Maryland just outside of Washington, D.C. At Goddard, he serves as an engineer on the Hubble Space Telescope operations team supporting the Optical Telescope Assembly group.

His journey from a student who questioned his own abilities to an engineer contributing to humanity's exploration of space was shaped by perseverance, mentorship, and a willingness to embrace opportunities as they appeared.

Finding the right launchpad

Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Gallaher knew he wanted to build a future in aerospace. Houston's reputation as the center of American human spaceflight made attending UHCL an easy decision.

"Coming from Detroit, I wanted to make the move somewhere that had more aerospace opportunities, as Michigan is 95% automotive," he said. "Everyone knows Houston is the hub of spaceflight, so seeing UHCL next door to the Johnson Space Center (JSC) made it a no-brainer."

Although he began college as a computer science major, his academic direction changed after enrolling in physics courses taught by UHCL faculty who helped him see a future he had not previously considered.

"I always knew I had a passion for physics, though I never felt like I was smart enough to pursue it," Gallaher said. "When taking University Physics I and II with Dr. Evan Richards, he was so passionate about every detail, and he really made me feel like physics was an achievable academic path."

That encouragement became a turning point, setting Gallaher on a path that would eventually lead to NASA.

The people who opened doors

When Gallaher reflects on the people who helped shape his career, one person stands out.

"Bernadina (Bernie) Streeter, program manager from UHCL's Office of Strategic Partnerships, is easily the biggest influence on where I am today," he said. "Starting from the moment I met her, she made it her goal to help me achieve my dream of working at NASA."

Through the Strategic Partnerships office, Gallaher secured an internship with KBR supporting NASA's JSC. What began as a student opportunity evolved into more than two years of hands-on experience supporting mission operations and flight control teams.

"When an opportunity opened up at KBR, contracting to JSC, Bernie Streeter was a key player in getting me that position," Gallaher said. "I owe the opportunities I have today to Bernie and her team at UHCL."

He also credits the university's physics faculty for helping him balance the demands of a rigorous academic program with the responsibilities of supporting active NASA projects.

"The entire physics faculty was supportive of me throughout my time in the program," Gallaher said. "Whenever I had scheduling conflicts, such as working on Artemis II, they were beyond flexible and worked with me on any missed classes or other conflicts."

Their support allowed him to gain valuable professional experience without losing momentum in the classroom.

Turning classroom lessons into real-world impact

Gallaher's education at UHCL provided both technical expertise and the problem-solving mindset required for complex aerospace work. His computer science coursework introduced him to programming languages such as Python, skills he later applied at JSC to develop computational tools for orbital navigation calculations. Those tools continue to support Boeing CST-100 Starliner rendezvous-and-docking missions and simulations involving the International Space Station (ISS).

At the same time, his physics education strengthened his ability to analyze and solve difficult problems.

"Physics gave me irreplaceable skills in problem-solving," Gallaher said. "Every day at NASA, I encounter a new problem, whether mathematically or another complex issue. UHCL taught me how to approach solving those problems from start to finish."

During his internship, Gallaher contributed to several high-profile projects, including an orbital trajectory display for Boeing's CST-100 Starliner, a docking camera display supporting Artemis II operations, and virtual reality training environments that recreated ISS emergency scenarios for astronauts.

Among those experiences, one opportunity stands above the rest.

"Creating the docking camera display presented me the opportunity to support the real Artemis II mission on console in the Mission Control Center, an experience I will never forget," Gallaher said.

Persevering through self-doubt

Despite his accomplishments, Gallaher said his path through college was far from easy.

"Every day," he said when asked whether he faced challenges during his academic journey. "In almost every physics class, I never felt like I was as knowledgeable as I was supposed to be."

Rather than allowing those doubts to stop him, he embraced the reality that growth often comes through struggle.

"I would tell myself that physics is supposed to be hard," he said. "This meant lots of late nights doing homework, studying for exams, and learning more about each topic. It was years of doubt and struggle, but I did it."

Balancing coursework with professional responsibilities required discipline and resilience. Some days began with work at JSC, continued with evening classes at UHCL, and ended with overnight Artemis II mission simulations.

"There were days I would go on-site at JSC, work from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., go to class at UHCL from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., then back to JSC for a second-shift Artemis simulation," he said.

The demanding schedule taught him lessons in time management and perseverance that continue to serve him in his professional career.

Reaching for new frontiers

Today, Gallaher has begun a new chapter at Goddard Space Flight Center, where he works on operations supporting the Hubble Space Telescope.

For someone who has long been fascinated by space exploration, the opportunity is professionally rewarding and personally meaningful.

"Space telescopes have always been interesting to me — the forefront of answering the universe's unanswered questions," he said. "Getting the opportunity to try out a different side of spaceflight has been really interesting so far."

The move also brings him closer to family in Detroit. Yet beyond any individual mission or position, Gallaher's motivation remains rooted in a lifelong passion for exploration.

"I have always been passionate about spaceflight," he said. "The idea of humanity leaving this planet and crossing new frontiers, with the goal of making life interplanetary."

A message for Hawks

Gallaher hopes current and future students recognize that ambitious goals often seem impossible until someone commits to pursuing them.

"Don't tell yourself it's impossible. Nothing is truly impossible," he said. "I went from almost not graduating high school to working at NASA."

His advice is simple: find something exciting and stay committed to it, even when the path becomes difficult.

"Find something you are passionate about, academically or professionally, and tell yourself that you will get there, no matter what," Gallaher said.

When asked what role UHCL played in helping him reach his goals, he answered without hesitation.

"UHCL is the sole reason I am the person I am today," Gallaher said. "From the team in the Strategic Partnerships office believing in me and supporting me the past two-plus years, to the professors who pushed me to do my best. I genuinely owe it all to UHCL."

Andrew Gallaher’s story serves as a reminder that remarkable careers are rarely built in a single moment. They are built through persistence, mentorship, hard work, and a willingness to seize opportunities as they arise. For Gallaher, those qualities helped transform a dream of working in spaceflight into a career supporting some of NASA's most critical missions.

Ready to turn your passion into a career? Discover how UHCL's Physics Program and Office of Strategic Partnerships connect students with hands-on experience, industry mentors, and opportunities that can launch extraordinary futures at www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/departments/mathematical-applied-and-physical-sciences/physics/ and www.uhcl.edu/strategic-partnerships/.

For Tabitha Hernandez, that moment of razor-sharp insight came almost at the end of her journey at the University of Houston-Clear Lake. The spring 2026 graduate faced hardships that might have deterred others on the way to a bachelor’s degree in education (social studies 4-8) but Hernandez realized she would make it shortly after starting her student-teaching internship at Dr. Ronald E. McNair Junior High School in Alvin.

“Originally, I was nervous but during my fourth observation, I felt everything fall into place,” she said. “My supervisor DeeDee Baker looked at me and said, ‘You got this!’ and I just knew it was going to happen.”

That confidence took some time to manifest itself. Hernandez, a 47-year-old wife and mother of four, faced financial hardship, saw her father battle cancer, was a full-time caregiver for her mother, and dealt with her own cancer diagnosis while on the path to her degree. Any one of those challenges could have derailed her, much less all of them.

Hernandez said resilience, transformation and purpose guided her throughout her journey.

“Returning to college changed my life. Every experience led me to where I am now, as a teacher ready to help students.”

Moved by the students she was teaching, Hernandez saw her purpose.  “A lot of the kids said they weren’t going on to high school. But I had a teacher who inspired me when I was their age, and I thought I could do that for others who needed it. For me, it’s all about the kids.”

The years leading up to enrolling at UHCL saw Hernandez experience numerous changes. Working as a medical assistant for 22 years and earning an associate’s degree at Alvin Community College, she saw her father battle cancer and then lose his job and almost lose the family home. And then her mother contracted swine flu in 2009. The after-effects of the illness caused seizures and blindness.

Bolstered by her husband Edgar, Hernandez became a full-time caregiver to her mom for 15 years until she passed away. She then enrolled at UHCL to complete her teaching degree because of its reputation for educating and training teachers.

Nervous to be back in the classroom at first, Hernandez cites the support she received from fellow students as crucial to her success. “At my age, going to classes with students just coming out of high school seemed intimidating. But it didn’t matter about my age; they were great. I loved the sense of support and community at UHCL.”

Professor of Curriculum and Instruction Kent Divoll also inspired her. “I was quiet and too nervous to speak in front of class. But Dr. Divoll opened that window for me. He told me I had a voice and helped me learn how to use it.”

She also was able to continue her education through UHCL’s online curriculum even as she herself battled cervical cancer. “I was able to go to school throughout my treatment doing the online program since I was on bed rest.” UHCL’s online process coupled with her own determination to keep going kept her on track.

“When the journey required me to keep going, I kept going.”

The hardships she faced gave her strengths that proved to be meaningful for her life as a student. “Being a caregiver to my mom and facing cancer myself taught me patience and compassion. It also taught me to show up for myself and my family and gave me a level of maturity and perspective.”

The significance of her accomplishment culminated at UHCL’s Ring Ceremony, held shortly before her graduation. The event hit her deeply, resonating all the more because it was held near the fourth anniversary of her mother’s death. With her entire family present, Hernandez found that receiving her Class of 2026 ring was a deeply personal experience, representing not an endpoint to her education but a significant step toward the future.

“I got very emotional at the Ring Ceremony,” she said. “I want my family – my children and now my grandson – to know that it is never too late to go after your goals.”

Cancer-free now for a year-and-a-half, she hopes her children – Marretta, Joselinne, Angellica and Junies – take her life as an example to keep going, even when the end isn’t yet in sight, Hernandez said.

“Life doesn’t happen in a straight line. You just need to persevere, no matter what season of life you are in.”

As graduates filled NRG Arena on Saturday, May 9, for the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Spring 2026 Commencement, Nicolas (Nico) Martinez and Ana Perales celebrated more than the completion of a degree program. Alongside more than 900 graduates crossing the stage that day, the married couple each earned a Master of Science in School Counseling, marking the end of a two-year journey defined by perseverance, partnership, and a shared passion for helping students succeed.

For Martinez and Perales, the moment represented far more than academic achievement. It was the culmination of long nights balancing full-time teaching careers, graduate coursework, and married life, all fueled by a shared mission to make a bigger difference in students’ lives.

From teachers to counselors

Before pursuing their degrees, Martinez and Perales spent years in education as teachers. While they loved working in the classroom, they said they often wanted to support students beyond academics.

“We always wished we could give more personalized attention to some students at a socio-emotional level,” they shared.

Perales, who already held a bachelor’s degree in psychology, dreamed of combining her background in mental health with her classroom experience. Martinez, who worked as a college and career teacher, discovered that school counseling naturally aligned with his passion for guiding students toward their futures.

Choosing to pursue the same degree together became more than a career decision. It became a partnership in growth.

“Embarking on this journey together provided us with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build on each other’s strengths and lift us up to the next stage in our careers and in our lives,” they said.

Their story began years earlier in 2017 at a mutual friend’s bachelorette party, where a conversation turned into a lifelong connection. Perales was temporarily living in the United States as an Au Pair, a cultural exchange program in which participants provide childcare for a host family while experiencing life abroad, while Martinez had already built his life in Houston after moving from Mexico during middle school. Since then, the two have remained inseparable.

Finding community and confidence at UHCL

Living in Cypress, the couple sought a program that offered flexibility without sacrificing quality. UHCL’s hybrid-online school counseling program provided exactly that. But what impacted them most was the sense of connection they found inside the classroom.

“We enjoyed the in-person classes the most,” they said. “The hands-on activities prepared by our professors, together with role-playing exercises, provided us with real-world counseling experiences.”

The couple credits UHCL faculty and classmates for helping them develop the confidence needed to enter the counseling profession.

“Our professors prepared us very well to the point where we feel we won’t have to fake it till we make it,” Martinez and Perales explained. “The curriculum taught us to appreciate the unique perspectives of people with diverse backgrounds, ethnicity, culture, and personalities.”

Through practicum experiences during their final year, both served as intern counselors at their schools, gaining firsthand insight into the emotional and personal challenges students face every day.  Martinez and Perales said that the experience strengthened their counseling abilities.

The support of their cohort also became a defining part of the journey.

“We got along very well with our cohort teammates,” they said. “They made the experience more enjoyable.”

Balancing marriage, work, and a dream

Pursuing graduate school while working full-time was not easy.

“Being full-time teachers while we pursued our master’s was not for the faint of heart,” Martinez and Perales admitted.

Balancing coursework, careers, and personal responsibilities required discipline, patience, and mutual support. Fortunately, they said their professors understood those pressures because many had once been teachers and counselors themselves.

Outside of school and work, Martinez and Perales leaned on one another and made time for activities they loved, including running and climbing mountains together.

Their advice for future students reflects the lessons they learned along the way:

“Do one thing at a time, never give up, and the two years will go by before you know it. Find the right balance between your personal life and responsibilities by allowing yourself to relax,” they advised.

 The next chapter

Now, the couple plans to return to UHCL to pursue Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) certification, with the hope of eventually opening a private practice or working in the healthcare industry.

Still, among all the accomplishments and future ambitions, one thing stands above the rest for them: completing the journey side by side.

“Accomplishing this milestone together was both an opportunity and a privilege,” they said. “The journey brought us closer together. We got to learn more about each other and to appreciate our relationship in a meaningful way. We highly recommend earning a degree alongside your partners.”

As hundreds of graduates celebrated new beginnings at NRG Arena that Saturday, Nico Martinez and Ana Perales embodied something especially powerful: the reminder that success becomes even more meaningful when it is shared.

For more information about UHCL’s Master of Science in School Counseling, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/school-counseling-ms.

Juana Rodriguez knows a perfect fit when she sees one. She saw it when she first visited the University of Houston-Clear Lake before enrolling for her Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies. The smaller campus, proximity to home, and the program's strength drew her in.

She saw it again when she received her perfect-fitting class ring at UHCL’s Ring Ceremony on April 28 in a tradition that recognizes upcoming graduates and underscores academic achievement and institutional connection.

Rodriguez is scheduled to graduate with a second UHCL degree, a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management, on Saturday, May 9, at NRG Arena. Surrounded by faculty, family, and peers, 60 students gathered to mark a milestone that formally links them to the university’s broader alumni community, with Rodriguez representing the ring recipients as the student speaker.

For Rodriguez, who also serves as chair of UHCL’s Alumni Association Board of Directors, the Ring Ceremony carried particular weight, reflecting a journey through UHCL that unfolded in stages rather than a straight path.

She described seeing UHCL as the first place where her academic goals and her life circumstances felt aligned rather than conflicted. That alignment deepened when she returned years later for her master’s. When she decided to return, she said she did not apply broadly. UHCL was the only institution she considered.

“For me, it came down to structure and support,” Rodriguez said. “Flexible scheduling, smaller classes, and faculty engagement that felt personal rather than distant.”

She described professors who made time outside of formal hours, and a learning environment where students were known, not just registered. That support system, she said, was the difference between finishing a degree and simply attempting one.

Her return to graduate study was not without disruption. The COVID-19 pandemic forced her to pause again, this time to support her daughter through a difficult period of isolation and adjustment. Later, when her daughter reached adulthood and her household responsibilities shifted, Rodriguez returned once more, this time with a clear sense of finality. She re-entered the program with the intention of completing it, no matter the workload ahead.

That determination carried her through multiple graduate courses at once, while working full-time. Along the way, she reconnected with faculty mentors and regained momentum in a program that, in her words, had always felt like the right place.

Building confidence and giving back

Rodriguez’s perspective on UHCL is not only academic, but professional. In her role as an HR director, she has applied the analytical and writing skills developed through her legal studies and HR coursework directly to her work. But she also points to something less tangible — confidence. A shift in how she sees herself in professional spaces, especially those where she once questioned whether she belonged.

That shift extended into mentorship, including partnering with UHCL’s Strategic Partnerships Program Manager, Bernie Streeter, to support student internships. Through that collaboration, she worked closely with UHCL student intern Josh Loera over multiple semesters, guiding him as he developed experience in human resources. Loera eventually secured his first full-time position in the field, an outcome Rodriguez describes as a clear example of how education and opportunity can extend beyond the classroom. For her, the experience reflected a broader responsibility to pass forward the support she once received.

Her involvement with UHCL expanded in parallel. Through alumni events, donor engagement activities, and volunteer opportunities, she gradually became more embedded in the university community. Encouraged by figures such as Marilyn Sims, a distinguished alumna and dedicated supporter of UHCL, she moved from participant to leader within the Alumni Association, eventually serving in executive roles, including vice chair and later chair. What began as a casual engagement evolved into sustained leadership, built on a growing sense of responsibility to the institution that had shaped her path.

One ring, multiple perspectives

By the time Rodriguez stood at the podium at the Ring Ceremony, she was speaking not only as a graduate but also as someone who had experienced the university from multiple perspectives — student, alumna, mentor, and board leader.

When she spoke about the ring itself, her words captured years of experience into a single reflection: “For me, this ring represents hope,” she said, describing it as a reminder of resilience and future opportunity.

Rodriguez also said that the ring carries the weight of a life shaped by migration, early medical fragility, and the responsibilities of being one of nine children in a family that relied heavily on her single mother’s resilience.

“It reflects years of translating for family members as a child, stepping into adult spaces long before I was fully grown, and navigating education alongside financial and emotional hardship,” she added.

At one point, Rodriguez considered leaving school entirely to support her family. But a counselor’s warning that leaving education would likely mean a lifetime of minimum-wage work became a turning point. Staying in school, she later realized, was not just a personal choice but a structural one that shaped her long-term ability to support others.

Connecting the past to the future

That perspective now defines how she sees her role in education and leadership. “This ring represents 51 years of perseverance through life, and 30 years of dedication to education,” Rodriguez reflected. It serves as a reminder and a promise, a circle that connects past struggle with future responsibility.

Dr. Carlissa Runnels, vice chair of UHCL’s Alumni Association Board of Directors, sponsor of the Ring Ceremony, echoed the persistence behind each student’s journey. “Your ring is more than just a symbol of pride,” she said. “It’s a reminder that you are capable of achieving whatever you set your mind to.”

Vice President for University Advancement Joe Staley welcomed the student graduates into the alumni network. “I consider you alumni,” he said, noting their place among more than 84,000 UHCL graduates.

At UHCL, the Ring Ceremony serves as more than a celebration. It is an invitation to a lifelong community. As graduates step into their next chapter, they carry their education and a shared responsibility to lead, mentor, and give back. Students approaching graduation are encouraged to participate in future ceremonies and take their place within UHCL’s growing alumni network.

For more information about UHCL’s Alumni Association and upcoming events, visit www.uhcl.edu/alumni/.

With families gathered, cameras ready, and applause filling the room, 60 students at the University of Houston-Clear Lake stepped forward to receive a symbol tied to years of work and persistence.

At the Spring ‘26 Ring Ceremony, the focus was not on finishing. It was on knowing they will.

For Annabelle Lozano, a computer science major graduating this May, that realization came just days before the ceremony.

“After my senior project presentation, I think I could finally breathe,” she said. “That’s when it actually hit me that I’m at the end.”

That shift from uncertainty to clarity showed up in different ways across the students recognized that evening. University leaders described the ring as a reflection of that journey. Vice President for University Advancement Joe Staley noted that it represents perseverance, growth, and commitment, while connecting recipients to a network of more than 84,000 UHCL alumni.

For students, the meaning is personal.

Esther Herrera, Director of Organizational Development and Engagement at UHCL, who will graduate with a Doctor of Educational began her program with doubt.

“There was fear of the unknown,” she said. “I didn’t know if I had what it would take.”

The turning point came when she received her acceptance.

“I remember thinking, ‘What have you done?’ And then realizing it was time.”

Now, receiving her ring reflects something more certain.

“It means that I proved to myself that I could do this,” she said. “That I was worthy, that I was equipped, and that I just needed to believe in it.”

Each ring carries a different story. For Brenda Jimenez, an accounting and finance major graduating this spring, the challenge was balancing full-time work, full-time classes, and raising two children.

“There were times I didn’t think I was going to make it,” she said. “It was very complicated.”

After stepping away from college for several years, returning to finish her degree was not guaranteed.

“This was always a dream of mine,” she said. “So this ring means that I never gave up.”

For Tabitha Hernandez, a future middle school social studies teacher, the path included caregiving, loss, and recovery. After spending 15 years caring for her mother, she returned to school following her mother’s passing.

“I didn’t know what I was going to do,” she said. “But I found my way into teaching.”

Even then, doubt remained constant.

“All the time. Every day.”

Two years ago, she was diagnosed with cancer. Now nearing remission, this moment carries added weight.

“This is my goal,” she said. “That I finished, that I’m healthy. And I’m going to keep going. I’m not done yet.”

For some students, the journey was about finding the right path. Samara Lonngi, a studio arts major with a minor in museum studies, began in a different field before realizing where she belonged.

“I was originally a STEM major going for marine biology,” she said. “But I realized my calling was really for the arts.”

Now, as she approaches graduation, the ring serves as a steady reminder.

“It’s like a milestone setter,” she said. “You’re almost there.”

Not every journey followed the same path, but each led here. Carson West, a general business major graduating later this year, said the reality of finishing came into focus recently.

“Halfway through this semester, it hit me,” he said. “I thought, ‘This is creeping up on me already.’”

Like many students, he began college during the pandemic and had to adjust before finding his footing.

“College is tough,” he said. “You just have to keep going.”

For Lozano, the experience was shaped by opportunity. During her time at UHCL, she completed internships with Boeing and KBR at Johnson Space Center and will continue her education in electrical engineering after graduation.

“The opportunities UHCL has provided me have been amazing,” she said. “I’m excited to represent UHCL.”

The ceremony reflected a wide range of student experiences. In remarks during the event, UHCL Alumni Association Board Chair Juana Rodriguez spoke to the journeys represented in the room, from single parents and caregivers to full-time employees and first-generation students.

“Your ring is a symbol of pride,” she said. “It is a reminder that you are capable of achieving what you set your mind to.”

That sense of support extended beyond the stage.

“It’s a great accomplishment,” said Gilbert Torres, Lozano’s boyfriend and a UHCL alumnus. “A lot of work went into this. It’s amazing to see it all come together.”

In the weeks and months ahead, these students will cross the commencement stage and complete their degrees. For those who participated in the ring ceremony, something has already shifted.

The ring marks a point where doubt begins to fade and confidence takes hold. The finish line is no longer distant. It is within reach.

Before the diploma is handed over and before the final walk across the stage, there is this moment.

The moment it becomes real.

At the annual 1974 Society Dinner on April 16, the University of Houston-Clear Lake brought its mission into sharp focus. Not through statistics or strategy alone, but through the people whose lives and work are shaped by donor generosity. Members of the 1974 Society support UHCL by establishing or increasing endowments that fund scholarships, professorships, and other programs, helping sustain the university’s future.

“This is one of our favorite events,” said UHCL President Richard Walker, addressing a room of dedicated supporters. “Because we get to recognize those who are committed to the institution and hear directly what that support means to our students.”

Throughout the evening, Walker outlined a university on the rise. From launching a new aerospace engineering program to fast-tracking the development of specialized labs, UHCL is expanding its academic footprint while deepening its ties to industry. New partnerships, hands-on learning opportunities, and workforce-aligned programs are positioning students for immediate impact in fields that matter, from healthcare to space commercialization.

But behind every new initiative is a constant truth. “We could not do all these things without your support,” Walker said.

That message was reinforced by Vice President of University Advancement Joe Staley, who framed the evening around the return on donor investment. 

“What you have invested in is solutions,” he said. “We have problem solvers at this university.”

A scholarship to a new path

Allyson Simmons, the Distinguished Alumni Scholarship recipient, stood before the room as both a reflection of UHCL’s mission and a testament to donor impact. A former high school English teacher, she described a journey marked by uncertainty, leaving a graduate program that didn’t fit, stepping away from her initial career path, and questioning what came next. Years later, she decided to try again.

Returning to the University of Houston System (UHS), Simmons enrolled at UHCL to pursue a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management.

“I obtained my bachelor's degree in English from the University of Houston-Downtown. My mama graduated from UHCL with her master's in Instructional Technology in 2008,” she said. “The UHS is my home; I wouldn't dream of getting my graduate degree and maybe even my PhD from anywhere other than a UHS campus.”

 With the support of a donor-funded scholarship, what once felt like a risk became an opportunity. “Your kindness is allowing for a frightening and unfamiliar path to seem just a little brighter,” Simmons added.

For Simmons, scholarship support meant more than financial relief. It meant the ability to redefine her future. Today, she is on track to graduate in the fall of 2026 and is equipped to step confidently into a new career.

Strategic partnerships that deliver results

Adam Moore’s story underscored a different, but equally powerful, dimension of impact.

After earning his undergraduate degree, Moore came to UHCL with a clear goal: to return to NASA and build a career in the aerospace industry. He quickly immersed himself in graduate studies while gaining hands-on experience through partnerships with UHCL’s Office of Strategic Partnerships and Boeing.

Navigating multiple programs from systems engineering to an MBA focused on the commercialization of space, Moore relied on scholarships to maintain his momentum. The Alumni Association Scholarship, which is not restricted by college, proved especially critical as his academic path evolved.

That support delivered immediate results. Today, Moore is already working in mission control at Johnson Space Center, an outcome that reflects the direct pipeline UHCL is building between education and industry.

Together, these stories highlight the power of scholarships to expand access, sustain ambition, and accelerate careers. But the evening made clear that donor impact at UHCL extends far beyond individual students.

High-quality care for families and high-impact research in medical challenges

At the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities (CADD), Executive Director Dorothea Lerman described how philanthropic support has enabled the center to serve more than 200 families each year at no cost. For many, these services would otherwise be inaccessible.

“When we opened our doors, one of our missions was to provide high-quality care at no cost,” she said. “Because of generosity like yours, we have achieved that goal.”

Nearby, the work of the Health and Human Performance Institute (HHPI) is advancing another dimension of impact. Through donor funding and strategic partnerships, researchers and students are addressing some of the most complex challenges in healthcare, from traumatic brain injuries to neurodegenerative diseases.

For HHPI’s Executive Director William (Bill) Amonette, the significance of this support goes beyond dollars.

“Yes, funding fuels research. But more importantly, it creates opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and purpose,” he said. “Our goal is to connect science with clinical care, grounded in compassion. We are deeply grateful not only for your financial support, but for your presence here today, and to be in this fight alongside you.”

Solutions that affect real lives in real time

By connecting science with clinical care and compassion, UHCL is not only improving patient outcomes but also redefining what education looks like. Students are learning and contributing to solutions that affect real lives in real time. It is this intersection of education, purpose, and impact that defines UHCL’s trajectory.

As Staley noted, public funding alone cannot sustain that vision. Donor support fills the gap, transforming what is possible for students, faculty, and the broader community. The 1974 Society represents that commitment at its highest level: a group of supporters who believe in the university as it exists today, and in what it can become.

And if the evening proved anything, it is that the return on that belief is already visible. It is a teacher finding her way to a new career. It is an engineer stepping into mission control. It is in families receiving life-changing care at no cost. It is in research that restores dignity, function, and hope.

These are not isolated outcomes. They are the result of intentional investment. At UHCL, donor support does more than fund education; it expands access, strengthens quality, and connects learning to purpose. It ensures that students are not defined by financial barriers, but by their potential.

The stories shared at the 1974 Society Dinner are proof of what that investment makes possible. They are also an invitation to open doors for the next student, to advance research that changes lives, and to be part of a university that is growing, solving, serving, and leading. Because the next story is already waiting. And with continued support, its impact will be even greater.

Ready to be part of the difference? Visit www.uhcl.edu/giving to learn more about giving opportunities at UHCL.

The moment Vamsee Potluri’s name was called at the March American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Congress marked more than a personal milestone; it reflected the foundation that shaped his path into healthcare leadership. Potluri, now a healthcare executive leading complex systems that serve veterans across the country, was named the 2026 Robert S. Hudgens Memorial Award winner for Young Healthcare Executive of the Year. But for him, the honor reflects something larger than individual achievement.

“Receiving the 2026 Robert S. Hudgens Memorial Award is truly humbling,” he said. “It's less a personal accolade and more a tribute to the organization and people I've worked with. Their collaboration, dedication, and trust made it possible.”

That mindset, grounded in service, teamwork, and continuous improvement, took shape during his time at the University of Houston–Clear Lake, where a planned one-year stop became a defining chapter.

Potluri’s path into healthcare administration was not linear. After accelerating through his undergraduate studies, he initially saw a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) as a brief step before medical school. Instead, the experience reshaped his future.

“During the MHA program at UHCL, I fell in love with healthcare quality and the idea of creating value beyond direct clinical care,” he said. “That shift led me to obtain my MHA/MBA and embrace healthcare leadership and quality improvement as my path, while honoring my clinical roots.”

A Houston native, Potluri’s decision to stay local deepened that transformation. Surrounded by family and immersed in one of the world’s largest medical hubs, he gained early exposure to healthcare systems in action.

“Proximity to family provided a strong support system, while Houston's community and volunteering opportunities offered early exposure to healthcare settings and leadership, experiences I might not have had elsewhere,” he said. “The Texas Medical Center (TMC) is a very unique place.”

Inside the classroom, theory quickly gave way to reality. Courses were led by former healthcare executives who brought lived experience into every lesson.

“My time at UHCL was eye-opening,” Potluri said. “I deeply appreciated professors who were retired healthcare executives, sharing real-world stories, challenges, and lessons that brought textbooks to life.”

That blend of academic rigor and practical insight helped Potluri develop a systems-level view of healthcare, in which leadership decisions directly translate into patient outcomes.

“Courses in healthcare quality, operations, and leadership stood out, teaching me to view healthcare as a system where small organizational changes can drive big impacts on patient outcomes,” he said.

The program's demands also instilled habits that would later define his leadership style. “As a student, I volunteered from 8 a.m. to about 4 p.m., attended evening classes until late, maxed out credit hours each semester, and held a part-time job,” Potluri said. “UHCL professors set high standards, preparing me well for the transition from graduate school into a fellowship.”

Those early lessons carried into his career with the Department of Veterans Affairs, where he began as a volunteer and rose to lead multiple medical centers, including serving as CEO.

“The most rewarding part is witnessing the daily value our teams create,” Potluri said. “Ultimately, it's about supporting healthcare professionals and patients to make a positive difference — improving care, improving value, and enhancing a veteran's experience.”

That focus on measurable impact emerged early. One of his first major projects after graduate school tackled medication safety, an effort that delivered both improved patient outcomes and significant cost savings.

“It built my confidence to drive change in complex systems,” Potluri said, noting it led to broader initiatives improving access to care, clinical quality, and patient flow across entire health systems.

Despite managing billion-dollar budgets and system-wide operations today, Potluri still anchors his leadership in a simple principle: leave every organization better than you found it.

Looking ahead, Potluri’s vision for veteran healthcare remains clear. “My vision is simple yet ambitious: Put the veteran at the center of everything,” he said. “I hope my leadership advances innovation, collaboration, and improvement, ensuring every veteran receives the best care when and where they need it.”

For current students and young professionals, his advice is rooted in the same willingness to embrace uncertainty that reshaped his own path.

“When a scary, unfamiliar opportunity arises, volunteer for it. That's where leaders grow most,” Potluri said. “These ‘stretch’ experiences build quick adaptation, fresh thinking, perspective, confidence, and humility.”

Potluri’s journey, from a Houston student balancing long days of work and study to a nationally recognized healthcare leader, illustrates how education can extend far beyond the classroom. At UHCL, he did not just gain knowledge; he found direction, purpose, and the tools to influence systems that touch the lives of thousands.

“UHCL gave me the foundation to shift from clinical to administrative leadership, supporting entire populations of patients and complex organizations,” he said. “Above all, my story shows there are many ways to serve — with a stethoscope, at a desk, or in the boardroom — as long as the focus stays on the people we serve.”

And in that service, the true impact of his education continues to unfold one patient, one team, and one system at a time.

For more information about UHCL’s Joint Healthcare Administration MHA/MBA program, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/healthcare-administration-business-adminstration-mha-mba.

Danielle Abrant did not set out to become a founder. She set out to find work that mattered. What started as a desire for more than the routine of an early HR career eventually led her to launch a company dedicated to workplace fairness, and it all began at the University of Houston-Clear Lake.

"After earning my bachelor's degree in psychology from Sam Houston State University, I spent about three years working in HR in the private sector. Over time, my roles started to feel a bit monotonous, and I realized I wanted to contribute to something bigger," Abrant said. "That's what drew me to pursue my Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Psychology. UHCL turned out to be the perfect place for that next step. It had an excellent I/O program, was close to home, and affordable."

At UHCL, Abrant built the technical foundation that would later define her professional work, crediting several faculty members with helping her translate complex theory into practical application.

"Dr. Lisa Sublett, Dr. Alex Milam, and Dr. Scott McIntyre were amazing professors. I learned so much from each of them," she said. "In Dr. Milam's class, I was introduced to the wide range of assessment tools used across different industries, which really sparked my interest in applied measurement."

Statistics, she added, proved to be one of the most challenging and ultimately most valuable parts of the program. "Dr. Sublett taught statistics, which was by far the most challenging course for me. What made her such a fantastic teacher was her ability to break down even the most complex material into something digestible and practical," she said.

Abrant is now the founder of TalenTrack Solutions, a platform that helps organizations evaluate whether their hiring and promotion practices are fair, compliant, and data-driven. At the heart of the platform is the concept of "adverse impact," a cornerstone of both employment law and organizational psychology.

"Adverse impact, also called disparate impact, occurs when a hiring or promotion practice appears neutral on the surface but disproportionately screens out individuals from certain protected groups, such as race, gender, or age, even when there is no intent to discriminate," she explained.

She noted that such outcomes can limit diversity and expose organizations to serious legal risk. "Adverse impact is rooted in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and was cemented by the landmark Supreme Court ruling in Griggs v. Duke Power Company."

The aim of TalenTrack is to simplify a process that has traditionally been complex and time-intensive. "HR professionals and organizations can analyze their own data in-house, generate unlimited bias reports, and instantly see if adverse impact exists," Abrant said. "The platform automatically flags potential risks, explains results in plain language, and if bias is detected, connects employers with trusted resources and qualified professionals to help them take corrective action."

Abrant’s idea for the company evolved over time. “About four years ago, I developed an idea I believed could greatly improve the efficiency of job knowledge written exams, a selection tool commonly used in hiring and promotion,” she said. “I shared the concept with a trusted mentor, someone who has taught me an incredible amount about assessment, selection, and how to apply this knowledge in the real world,” she continued. “Our conversation sparked a bigger, more meaningful vision of the concept that eventually evolved into TalenTrack Solutions.”

Launching the business came with challenges, since she was balancing a full-time job and had limited software development experience. "Everything was built in the evenings and on weekends," Abrant said. "I knew VBA code, but creating a secure, web-based platform was completely new to me, so I relied on my web developer, Joe Iliff, to bring the vision to life.” Funding presented another hurdle. "Without outside investors, I had to self-fund the entire venture, which required careful planning and real sacrifice."

As the company developed, Abrant maintained close ties to UHCL by involving current students in the process. Student consultants Kailee Bruecher, Saloni Desai, Cale Fellenstein, Anna Hrachovy, Nataly Mendez, Johnny Nguyen, Trine Rodriguez, Favour Unegbu, and Zéna Williams played a big role in testing and refining the platform.

"The UHCL student consultants ran thorough adverse impact analyses on multiple mock datasets in SPSS and Excel, then compared their results with the software's output to confirm accuracy and identify issues," she said. Beyond technical validation, students also provided feedback on usability, helping improve the platform's overall design and workflow.

Looking ahead, Abrant intends to keep translating I/O psychology concepts into accessible, practical tools while inspiring others in the field to do the same.

"We plan to keep transforming core I/O psychology concepts into tools that legal and HR professionals can easily understand and apply," she said. "My hope is that TalenTrack encourages more I/O professionals to step into that space between research and practice and start building."

Her advice to current students reflects the path she once took.

"You don't need to have everything figured out right away. Be intentional about the relationships you build and take advantage of every opportunity to gain real experience while you're still in school. The skills and connections you develop now will open doors you can't even see yet. Trust the process and keep going."

Abrant's path from graduate student to founder illustrates how technical expertise, mentorship, and persistence can translate into real-world change. As her company grows, she continues to apply the principles she developed at UHCL, creating opportunities for the next generation of professionals, including UHCL students, while working to make workplace practices more equitable.

Curious how I/O psychology can shape the workplace of tomorrow? Visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/industrial-organizational-psychology-ma to explore UHCL’s Industrial/Organizational Psychology program and start your own journey.

The self-introduction is as upbeat and direct as the person posting it on their website:

 “Hi! I’m Liz, a first-gen Salvadoran American artist based in Houston, Texas.”

 Meet Elizabeth “Liz” Umanzor, a 2019 graduate of the University of Houston-Clear Lake who is making her way as a working artist, combining her natural talent with the education she gained earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Arts and Design with teaching certification.

Taking inspiration from her Salvadoran heritage, Umanzor blends realism with vibrant color and symbolism to tell stories rooted in Latin American culture and environmental connection. The result is found in paintings, murals, and public art that celebrate identity and place, often featuring native wildlife, plants, and cultural motifs in bright colors.

 A significant project is the mural Umanzor created for UHCL at Pearland to commemorate the location’s 15^th anniversary in 2025. It features birds in flight representing learning in motion; a graduate in silhouette to illustrate the story of student journeys; and symbols of the health sciences professions that evoke how UHCL at Pearland is helping to shape the region’s workforce.

 “At its heart, the mural is about resilience and transformation,” Umanzor said. “My hope is that it inspires students to stay curious, open-minded, and willing in every part of their journey.”

 Resilience and transformation were also the themes of Umanzor’s own journey at UHCL. After graduating from YES Prep Southeast in 2014, Houston-born Umanzor entered UHCL as a first-generation college student. She cites her family as a key supporter of her decision to pursue art.

 “I’m the youngest and have an older brother and older half-sister, and my entire family has always been super supportive,” she said. "Latinas are typically not encouraged to pursue a creative field. We’re typically encouraged to pursue a field where you can get a steady-paying job.

 “But my family was incredibly supportive, and I finished my degree because of my mom. I didn’t want her to feel that she crossed the border (from her native El Salvador) for nothing. I did the normal job that most parents want their kids to have: I was an elementary art schoolteacher for two-and-a-half years. But then (I) began pursuing art as a full-time career.”

 UHCL gave her an environment and mentors she feels no other university could have, she said.

 “What attracted me to UHCL is that it didn’t feel like a big school. Professors knew me by name. One of my very first art professors was Lauren Yandell. She took time to get to know me and my work, and encouraged and pushed me to pursue my art.”

 UHCL gave her both the emotional and natural setting that enabled her to succeed, she said.

 “I feel, as a first-generation Latina (student), you don’t want to feel like a sore thumb sticking out. At UHCL, I didn’t feel like an outlier. I belonged.

 “I also love that UHCL is on this protected patch of nature. It’s the only time I see deer in a natural setting within the boundaries of Houston. I absolutely love that!

 “I love the pond; I love the woods. I remember going to college and feeling like I was in nature. You don’t feel like you’re in the city anymore.”

 Nature themes permeate her art with scenes of Salvadoran-inspired vistas featuring plants, animals, birds, and other wildlife in fiery colors. She is also a skilled portraitist, featuring subjects in natural settings.

 “I’ve worked on projects across the U.S. and abroad,” she said. “Through all of my art, I aim to spark connection, pride, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.”

 For information on pursuing a degree in art, visit the UHCL website at www.uhcl.edu/human-sciences-humanities/departments/humanities-and-fine-arts/art-design/. To see Umanzor’s art, visit her website at www.lizzzarts.com.

The popular notion is that an English literature degree results in limited career prospects but don’t tell that to Peggy Papadacos.

Papadacos is one example of how the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s approach to preparing students through applied learning and real-world experiences helps graduates turn their degrees into meaningful, high-impact careers.

Papadacos has built a highly successful career in the financial sector on the master’s degree in English Literature she earned from the UHCL in 1997. Beginning with work at the UHCL Writing Center and through a university-arranged internship that focused on actual on-the-job application, Papadacos gained the skills, mentorship, and professional exposure that provided the foundation for her career pathway ever since.

Today, Papadacos is a senior manager of financial management systems and solutions with the financial, data, and media giant Bloomberg in New York City. While earning her master’s in English literature, she worked in the UHCL Writing Center, where she sharpened her communication skills and gained confidence. Professors encouraged her to publish and present, providing her with a professional foundation that opened doors across various industries. A notable mentor was Craig White, Professor Emeritus of Literature.

Also, while at the Writing Center, she was recommended for an internship in the communications office at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, an opportunity made possible through UHCL’s professional networks and student support system. Through that internship, she received advice that moved her away from what she thought she wanted to do and onto the pathway where, she said, she needed to be.

As the internship was concluding, “I kept applying for jobs in public affairs and communications but wasn’t getting interviews or offers,” Papadacos said. “My supervisor gave me some great advice then: Go into journalism and be a reporter. Using time on a newspaper staff to hone my writing and editing skills would make me a very valuable employee in the communications field.”

It wasn’t what she wanted to do, but she recognized it was good advice. Papadacos then became the almost one-person staff of a suburban community newspaper and was told that if she performed well in that role, within three months, the owner would promote her to be the editor of all three community papers the company owned.

She was promoted after just one month.

And everything took off from there. After a few years in that position, a friend told her about a communications position that was perfect for her and she got it. She moved on to other communications positions within the financial sector, then fulfilled dual communications and project management/change management roles, most notably with JPMorgan Chase for 24 years. She also spent two years with Citibank and joined Bloomberg in mid-2024.

She notes her unique skill set was an asset to advancing her career. “Communications and writing, as well as being a well-organized leader who can manage complex projects, became my forte,” she said. “It made me a valued employee wherever I was.”

UHCL’s approach to supporting students also played a role, she said. “I earned my bachelor’s degree at a very large university (University of Texas at Austin) and felt I was just one of many. It was massive, and I didn’t feel like I got the guidance and direction I needed as an undergrad. It helped prompt me to go to graduate school.

“The smaller community of UHCL gave me so much more, not only from my professors but also from my fellow students, many of whom were working and were coming back to school.”

The bedrock of what she learned in the classroom was then refined in the Writing Center and the internship.

“First, the Writing Center was pivotal,” she said. “The camaraderie and knowledge we shared with one another were invaluable.

“Next, it was there (in the Writing Center) that I got the call about the UTMB internship. Without that internship and the guidance it provided, I don’t know that I would have had the career direction that I’ve experienced.”

For information about the UHCL Writing Center, go to https://www.uhcl.edu/writing-center/. For information about student internships, visit https://www.uhcl.edu/success-outcomes/internships.

Long before Veronica Villarreal was named assistant vice president of operations at UT Health Rio Grande Valley (RGV) — leading multi-site ambulatory operations, supporting clinical teams, and driving initiatives to improve patient access, quality, and efficiency — she was at the University of Houston–Clear Lake (UHCL), coffee in hand, tucked into quiet corners, mapping out process flows, and project plans.

For Villarreal, pursuing a Joint Master of Healthcare Administration and Master of Business Administration (MHA/MBA) at UHCL was not just about earning credentials; it was about learning how to think. She credits the program with sharpening her ability to turn big-picture strategies into real-world results: better access, better systems, better care.

“UHCL gave me a pragmatic, leadership-focused foundation and a network that reinforced evidence-based, patient-centered operations,” said Villarreal. “I still use building systems thinking, translating strategy into measurable clinic KPIs, which was sharpened during my time in the MHA/MBA program.”

One of Villarreal’s favorite memories at UHCL is publishing a study and presenting it at Jaipur University in India, where she also met her best friend. That experience, like so much of her time at UHCL, stretched her perspective.

“Participating in this conference deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity and global perspectives. I credit my professors and peers for inspiring me to combine values with operational excellence,” said Villarreal.

Villarreal’s first job out of grad school was in healthcare administration at DHR Health, and from there, she steadily climbed through operations, revenue cycle, and ultimately into executive leadership as chief ambulatory officer.

However, as Villarreal advanced in her own career, she remained equally committed to building pathways for others. Her bestselling book “C-Suite Bound,” featured in Forbes, was written to give emerging leaders a practical path forward, built on authenticity, clarity, and service.

Looking back, Villarreal said UHCL provided more than just an education; it gave her the tools, confidence, and foundation to step into high-level leadership roles and make a meaningful impact in her community. She described her time at UHCL as “purposeful, stretching, and transformative.”

Villarreal’s advice to current students is clear: “Pick a lane where mission and metrics meet. Find mentors, continue advancing your skills, and don’t rush your journey,” she said. “Your pace is your pace. Patience and focus compound. Comparison steals clarity.”

Today, Villarreal is helping scale care across the Rio Grande Valley, mentoring future leaders, and proving that background does not define ceiling. What matters is what one builds by leading authentically, one clinic, one team, and one win at a time.

For more information about UHCL’s Joint Healthcare Administration MHA/MBA, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/healthcare-administration-business-adminstration-mha-mba.

When Sylvia Gichana walked across the stage at the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s (UHCL) Spring 2025 Commencement ceremony to receive her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, she was not only graduating — she was rewriting her family’s narrative. A first-generation college student, a mother, and an immigrant, Sylvia’s journey to that moment was anything but ordinary.

Born in Kenya, Sylvia grew up speaking English as her third language. Adjusting to life in the United States came with challenges, from cultural shifts to mastering academic language, but she met each one with quiet determination. Her college journey began at the University of Texas at Arlington, where she majored in biomedical engineering. But when she found out she was expecting her first child, Sylvia made the difficult decision to leave her college dorm and return home to Houston to raise her daughter. It was a turning point, not a setback.

While researching universities closer to home, Sylvia discovered UHCL. The university’s reputation for academic excellence stood out. But what really drew her in was the strong sense of community and support that UHCL is known for. As a new mother and a transfer student, she needed more than a campus — she needed a village. And at UHCL, she found one.

“While searching for schools in the area, I chose UHCL because of its strong sense of community and the reputation of its College of Science and Engineering (CSE),” said Sylvia.

Balancing motherhood and academics was not easy. Sylvia remained a full-time student throughout college, navigating everything from late-night study sessions to early morning daycare routines. She credits her grandmother for stepping in to help care for her daughter and being her constant source of encouragement. Evening classes, long hours of coding, and exams were particularly tough. But thanks to the unwavering support of her grandmother and understanding UHCL faculty, she pushed through.

“The hardest times were evening classes after 7 p.m.,” Sylvia recalled. “But UHCL’s professors were supportive, as long as I communicated and did the work.”

For Sylvia, being a first-generation college student gave every milestone deeper meaning. Her parents always emphasized the importance of education, and earning her degree was not just a personal accomplishment — it was a family triumph. “Many women in my family put their education on hold after starting a family,” Sylvia said. “I broke that cycle. I’ve earned my degree while raising my child.”

Despite defying the odds, Sylvia’s journey was not without hardship. However, UHCL showed up for Sylvia in meaningful, tangible ways during difficult times. When she experienced food insecurity, the university connected her with a food scholarship through a partnership with the Houston Food Bank. The Basic Needs Persistence Grant helped her afford new prescription glasses when long hours of screen time strained her vision. She also took full advantage of resources like Campus Recreation and Wellness to manage stress and maintain her physical health.

“Those resources mattered,” Sylvia emphasized. “They helped me stay focused and healthy. UHCL supported me holistically—mentally, physically, and academically.”

Sylvia also found guidance through UHCL’s S-STEM Scholarship, which opened doors to mentorship, research opportunities, and graduate school possibilities. Furthermore, she credited the university for helping her grow personally and professionally. With this kind of support, she discovered her confidence and her voice.

“UHCL helped me in multiple ways,” said Sylvia. “I took advantage of resume reviews and career workshops that taught me how to craft an elevator pitch and present myself professionally,” she explained. “The campus even provided access to a Career Closet, where students could borrow professional clothing for interviews and networking events. These resources were crucial in shaping my confidence and professionalism.”

Sylvia’s growing skill set and ambition led her to an internship with Bank of America in Plano, Texas, an opportunity she found through LinkedIn. With a foundation in programming, especially Python, and solid knowledge from her algorithm and technical writing courses at UHCL, Sylvia quickly adapted to the fast-paced environment. That internship turned into a second, and eventually, a full-time job offer from the Fortune 100 company.

“When I got the offer, I was overwhelmed,” Sylvia said. “I cried and looked at my daughter and said, ‘This is for you, this is our future.’”

Looking back, Sylvia is most proud of never giving up, especially when it would have been easy to. From adjusting to a new country and culture, raising a child, and navigating college in her third language, her journey reflects the kind of strength that UHCL aims to nurture in all its students.

Now a UHCL alumna and tech professional, Sylvia hopes her story will inspire other first-generation students, transfer students, and student-parents. “Keep going,” Sylvia advised. “Pursuing your education will elevate your life and inspire your children. You’re setting an example for them, showing them that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance.”

For Sylvia, UHCL was not just a university — it was the bridge between a dream and its fulfillment. Her story is not just about success. It is about resilience, community, and the power of believing that where you start does not define where you finish.

For more information about UHCL’s CSE, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/. In need of assistance during hardship? Visit www.uhcl.edu/student-affairs/advocacy/persistence-grant for more details.

Learning doesn't stop at graduation; it’s a lifelong journey. Thanks to UHCL's new Professional and Continuing Education (PACE), adults can expand their knowledge by gaining targeted skills in a specific area or exploring a new interest. PACE offers over a dozen expert-led courses throughout the year at UHCL, UHCL at Pearland, and online. These courses are designed to enrich lifelong learners, support career growth, and enhance professional expertise.

In collaboration with the UHCL Alumni Association, PACE also invites community members to apply to share their expertise in various subjects as volunteers in a weekly presentation series called The Scholars' Circle at the UHCL and UHCL at Pearland. Desired topic areas include food and nutrition, history and memory, and mindfulness and well-being, among others.

Launched in January 2025, PACE is led by Director Shannon Samuelson, who is committed to making professional development more accessible and impactful.

"The institution has always had continuing education," she said. “I was hired to create a centralized location for learners to find everything they need in one place.”

Packed with valuable information that learners can apply at work and in everyday life, the program underscores UHCL's mission of meeting the community's professional, educational, economic, and cultural needs.

Attendees can take courses in subjects ranging from human resources to digital marketing to learning about NASA’s vibrant history, to name a few. Certificate programs and customized training for organizations are coming soon. In addition to equipping attendees with knowledge and skills, many PACE courses issue continuing education units (CEUs), professional development credits, or other certifications that attendees may need to maintain professional licensure or credentials.

"We have the ability to be creative, innovative, and flexible in a way that credit courses don't have," Samuelson said. "Dreaming big is what we do."

PACE courses are accessible to everyone with no admission requirements, though some certificate programs and specialized courses may have application or experience prerequisites. Courses may also have prior experience requirements. Just as with many degree programs at UHCL, PACE offers flexible program options to accommodate various schedules, including online and evening classes, hands-on workshops, and weekend sessions.

This month's lineup includes "5 Voices for Leaders" on February 25, "Apollo's Deep Roots in Houston" on February 27, and "Introduction to Digital Marketing for Small Businesses" on February 28, among others. Courses are affordably priced, ranging from free to $125.

Samuelson expects more UHCL departments and career-centered organizations to play a role in developing and offering future courses.

"We are still in the building phases, but we currently have collaborations with the Environmental Institute of Houston (EIH) and Dr. Phalen with the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC)," she said. “We expect more exciting offerings soon.”

She also hopes that PACE will have the opportunity to host a second no-cost summer series again; in the summer of 2024, PACE hosted a free introductory series that was well-received by attendees. Her vision for future courses includes a focus on STEM fields as well.

"We are hoping to partner with industry leaders to create innovative solutions in safety, technology, environmental, and other STEM fields," she added.

To learn more about PACE, browse the complete list of courses, or to register, visit the PACE website.

Landing a coveted role at NASA is a dream for many, but for UHCL alumna Dana Gardner, it became reality through hard work, unmatched leadership, and the powerful support of UHCL’s partnerships. The opportunity presented itself in 2022 when KBR contacted the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s (UHCL) Health and Human Performance Institute (HHPI) to fill a temporary position at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC). At the time, Gardner was a graduate research assistant at HHPI, pursuing her Exercise and Health Sciences M.S. Today, she works at NASA as a full-time employee of UHCL.

“From the moment she joined us at HHPI, Dana demonstrated natural leadership, exceptional competence as both a scientist and practitioner, and an innate ability to take charge of situations, uplift a team, and change things for the better,” said Dr. William Amonette, HHPI’s executive director.

KBR regularly recruits interns from a broad range of universities in pursuit of diverse talent. In the spring of 2022, the KBR team lead for the Exercise Physiology and Countermeasures Laboratory (EPC), formerly the Human Physiology, Performance, Protection and Operations (H-3PO) lab, contacted Amonette to request a recommendation for an employee to fill a temporary scientific support position on the Human Health and Performance Contract (HHPC) at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Amonette immediately thought of Gardner, despite the significant void he knew she’d leave behind at HHPI. In May of 2022, Gardner began working at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in the EPC Lab.

The EPC Laboratory’s primary objective is to maintain and monitor crew health and performance capabilities before, during, and after spaceflight by optimizing exercise and non-exercise countermeasure systems for current ISS astronauts and future exploration missions. Lab employees serve a critical mission for NASA, optimizing human health and  the performance of crewmembers through research and operational support. As an employee, Gardner excelled in this and other areas, as her KBR discipline lead noted in a letter to Amonette.

“Dana’s willingness to step up and take action on a number of critical tasks that our lab needs to function safely and effectively have been critical to our operation,” the lead said. “Her leadership in ensuring we have operators trained, and quality documentation finalized for our equipment and testing, has been instrumental in our team being fully prepared to support our work.”

Gardner earned her Exercise and Health Sciences M.S. in December of 2022. Weeks before graduation, though, she was offered and accepted a full-time position with HHPC sub-contracted through UHCL. She has been working at NASA while sporting a UHCL badge ever since.

She returned to campus in the summer of 2024 as an alumna for a planning meeting about the Orion Flywheel study (exercise device for moon missions) to be conducted on campus at UHCL. Gardner is just one of many alumni who remain linked to the university and contribute to ongoing research efforts. Amonette, who is a Co-I on the Orion Flywheel project, also attended the meeting, where he observed more of her high-level performance.

“In a room filled with senior NASA scientists, she demonstrated the same critical thinking, expertise, and confidence that had impressed me three years ago as a student and a research assistant,” said Amonette. “I couldn’t have been prouder of her growth as both a scientist and a leader—though I wasn’t surprised in the least.”

Gardner is among seven employees currently working under HHPI’s contract with KBR. Throughout the partnership, HHPI has hired a total of 13 individuals, including interns and full-time biomedical scientists and engineers, who work for UHCL within KBR labs. Each of these roles support NASA’s Human Health and Performance Contract to KBR and have attracted top-tier employees from across the country to work for UHCL. Currently, UHCL-HHPI employees seven full-time scientists, engineers, and integration specialists who work onsite in KBR labs, three of whom are former UHCL students.

The impact of this collaboration continues to grow. On September 27, 2023, KBR and UHCL signed a new partnership agreement to expand internship opportunities and create more real-world pathways to success like Gardner’s – a milestone facilitated by UHCL’s Office of Strategic Partnerships facilitated the agreement.

The six months Gardner spent working in NASA’s Johnson Space Center’s EPC Lab was a transformative experience, preparing her for a seamless transition into her current position at NASA. She hopes future students can benefit from the same opportunities, thanks to the university’s partnership with KBR.

To learn more about UHCL's partnerships with local organizations, visit the Strategic Partnerships webpage.

Every year, thousands of university students celebrate the culmination of their collegiate studies by walking across a stage as family and friends proudly watch and cheer. At the University of Houston-Clear Lake, this celebration includes a unique group of individuals transforming their future through education. This year, UHCL welcomed 31 graduates from its Transforming Lives by Degrees (TLD) program into its 81,000-strong alumni network.

The TLD program, directed by Dr. William P. Powers and housed in the College of Human Sciences and Humanities (HSH), is a partnership between UHCL and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s W.F. Ramsey Unit in Rosharon, TX. The program offers incarcerated individuals the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences, or even a Master of Arts in Humanities.

The TLD ceremony was held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the Springfellow Prison Unit in Rosharon, TX, with dozens of family members, friends, faculty, and staff in attendance. This biannual service commonly stirs a range of emotions, both for the graduates and those in the crowd, and this year’s event was no exception.

“The ceremony was as beautiful and meaningful as always with students walking up to the stage to receive their degrees and shake hands with the president, provost, and dean of our college while their loved ones, faculty and staff watched in rapt attention the chapel,” said Dr. Shreerekha Pillai,  humanities professor and Associate Dean of the College of HSH. “I had the high honor of reading the names of our graduates, which was very moving as they walked up to the stage. The chapel was filled with tremendous joy and a positive feeling as the Alvin and UHCL teams congratulated the students.”

Of the 31 graduates, 12 received a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, 13 received a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences-General, and six received a Master of Arts in Humanities. For the recipients, these degrees are more than just a piece of paper or a symbol of completed coursework. They represent a second chance that many of these men thought they would never receive while still behind bars. They represent personal transformation and a hope for a better future.

Michael Loya was selected as the student speaker for the ceremony. He graduated with a Master of Arts in Humanities. To the surprise of his faculty members, Loya gave an inspiring speech from memory.

“He blew us away,” said Dr. Pillai. “He thanked the faculty and the university for providing rigorous, sophisticated and deep learning within the confines of the prison that in many ways helps to enlarge his vision, sharpen his critical thinking and writing skills, and deepen his compassion. He spoke from his heart on the importance of a humanities education and its value in his life and the lives of his peers.”

This commencement brings the total of TLD graduates to more than 700. More than 300 of those graduates have earned a master’s degree through the program, and many have found gainful employment after serving their sentence.

To learn more about UHCL’s prison reform program, visit the Transforming Lives by Degrees webpage.

When Hailey Thomas first opened the email notifying her that she had received the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s New Hawk Scholarship, she froze in disbelief.

“I didn’t really know what to think,” she said. “My mom was freaking out because we’d spent hours during my senior year of high school applying to colleges and scholarships, so we were stoked to see that I received a full-ride scholarship.”

For Thomas, this moment marked the beginning of a life-changing journey. The scholarship was more than financial relief. It was an opportunity to pursue her passion for computer science without the burden of debt, something she and her family had worked tirelessly to achieve.

Thomas’ journey to UHCL began in high school. A standout student, she learned about the New Hawk Scholarship from her SAT trainer and a fellow Girl Scout who was already enrolled at the university. Encouraged by their success stories and the scholarship’s promise to cover tuition, housing, and more, she decided to apply.

Applicants are required to submit a 700-word essay and a listing of their leadership activities as part of the application process. An experienced essay writer, Thomas found the requirements fair and the application process “very smooth and easy.”

Her hard work paid off, and she met the rigorous criteria to secure her place among UHCL’s top scholars.

While the New Hawk Scholarship relieved the financial burden of college, Thomas still faced challenges transitioning from high school to higher education, especially after graduating during the pandemic. She credits two departments at UHCL for helping her adapt and succeed during her first year: Career Services, which provided resume assistance and equipped her with interview skills, and the Career Closet, which simplified the transition from student to professional. Student Success Center staff also played a vital role in her success, as they helped her during her first year as a college student.

Beyond academic and career resources, Thomas found community through UHCL’s more than 100 student organizations, particularly the Black Student Association.

“Being able to be around supportive, likeminded students was super helpful in the social aspect of college,” she said. “I’m so grateful for all our members and the students who played a huge part in making my college experience a lot more enjoyable and meaningful.”

The personalized support from UHCL faculty and staff also left a lasting impact. Thomas named Cassandra Heslep, UHCL’s associate director for Financial Aid, as being especially supportive throughout her journey as a student.

“Having the opportunity to just go and talk to Ms. Cassandra, seeing her around campus, and having her guide me through the financial process throughout the past three years has helped me tremendously,” Thomas shared. “I can’t thank her enough for all her support and help throughout my academic journey.”

Heslep, who has worked in UHCL’s Financial Aid office since 2017, reflected on Thomas’ transformation.

“To see this shy freshman come in my office with her mother and now to see her stand so confident makes me so proud of all her hard work,” Heslep said.

Thomas’ decision to attend UHCL was based on several factors, including the Computer Science program’s ABET accreditation, small class sizes, and the university’s proximity to her home. Receiving a full-ride scholarship was the icing on the cake. Thomas said the funds had a dramatic impact on her academic life, and she considers it both an honor and a blessing to call herself a UHCL New Hawk Scholar.

“This scholarship allowed me to focus on my education and grades instead of the financial aspect of college,” she said. “Being able to pursue higher education is incredibly important to me and my family.”

Thomas graduated in December 2024 with her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, debt-free and ready to leave her mark.

“Being able to graduate college without student loans and debt is truly a blessing,” she said.

Established in 2014 and funded by endowments, the UHCL New Hawk Scholarship provides funding to deserving freshman every fall semester. Scholarships range from full-ride awards – covering tuition, fees, books, and housing – to $1,000, ensuring that students with outstanding academic and leadership potential can access higher education.

Thanks to the generosity of donors and the dedication of UHCL’s faculty and staff, the scholarship reflects the university’s mission to make education accessible. Over the years, it has helped dozens of students, like Thomas, achieve their dreams and graduate with confidence.

Applications for the New Hawk Scholarship are now being accepted for the 2025-2026 school year. The next application deadline is February 1, 2025. To learn more about the scholarship, visit the New Hawk Scholarship webpage.

For many adults, the dream of earning a college degree can feel out of reach, with financial hurdles standing in the way. That’s why the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) is committed to making higher education accessible through scholarships and grants. For some students, even one scholarship can make all the difference - but for Alexa Guerrero-Magallon, receiving three scholarships not only made her education possible but allowed her to graduate from UHCL debt-free.

Growing up, Guerrero-Magallon was no stranger to the rigors or education. As a dual credit graduate at San Jacinto College’s South Campus, she simultaneously earned her high school diploma and associate degree. She then enrolled at the University of San Antonio, but her academic journey did not pan out the way she hoped it would after that.

“I thought it was going to be easy peasy, but after the first semester, I realized it was going to be too expensive and leave me in a lot of debt,” she said. So she made the tough decision to move back home and continue her studies at San Jacinto College.

In 2013, life served her another surprise when she learned she was pregnant, forcing her to put her college education on hold. She resumed her studies in 2021 with her eyes set on an aviation career, a decision inspired by her mother, a UHCL Distinguished Alumni Award honoree and aviation professional.

“My mother worked at an aviation company for over 20 years, so I was exposed to it at an early age,” Guerrero-Magallon said. “When I was going through a hard divorce, I needed a better job, so I started working shift work as a fuel service advisor, learning the logistics of aviation fuel for aircrafts. Six years later, I am even further now in my aviation career, with a wonderful company called World Fuel Services as a FBO & Airport Solution Sales Account Manager.”

Her academic path eventually led to UHCL, where she found more than just a university – she discovered a community that cared deeply about her success. During New Student Orientation, she learned about the university’s robust scholarship opportunities. She applied for the ones for which she was eligible and was awarded three scholarships: the Distinguished Alumni Scholarship, the Mae Snowden Bruce Scholarship, and the Dr. Harold and Dorothy Elden Scholarship.

The scholarships, totaling $5,450, combined with FAFSA support, allowed her to earn her Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a Concentration in Human Resources without paying anything out of pocket or relying on loans. They also enabled her to enroll as a full-time student, a feat she said she would not have been able to achieve without them. Reflecting on these accomplishments, she encourages other students to explore the financial aid options that UHCL offers.

“Apply for FAFSA every year, and research the scholarships that are applicable to your major. Every dollar helps, so take advantage of it. Thanks to the scholarships I received and FAFSA, I was able to graduate debt-free.”

Today, Guerrero-Magallon continues to beam with gratitude not just for UHCL, but for the scholarship donors, whom she had the pleasure of meeting at a philanthropy dinner. She also credits Director of Special Events Lori Lopez for encouraging her throughout her journey.

“I feel like UHCL cared about me as an individual,” she said, “and Lori has been so good to me. She got to see a lot of my milestones. She was there for the Philanthropy Dinner and Ring Ceremony in 2023, and my graduation and the Alumni Gala in 2024.”

From a single parent of one to a college graduate and mother of two, Guerrero-Magallon serves as an example of how UHCL’s resources can help students manage life’s complexities. Each scholarship serves as testament of the university’s commitment to accessibility, and of the importance of donors.

Every year, new students find themselves facing the same hurdles that she once faced, uncertain if they will be able to achieve their career dreams. The UHCL alumna is proof that they can, as she offers one final assurance: “Remember your why. What’s the reason for the sacrifice? Don’t give up. Keep pushing, knowing that the sacrifice is temporary and the reward for investing in your future is well worth it.”

Guerrero-Magallon plans to pursue her Master of Business Administration with a Concentration in Human Resources in 2025.

To learn more about UHCL’s scholarship opportunities, visit the Scholarships webpage.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) proudly announces Steven Foster's promotion to chief executive officer of Mercy General Hospital in California. Foster, a 2006 graduate of UHCL's dual Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, has achieved remarkable success throughout his career.

After earning his dual degree from UHCL, Foster began his career with a fellowship at MD Anderson. He quickly advanced through key leadership roles, including chief operating officer in medical tourism, and held positions at Universal Health Services and CommonSpirit Health. He further developed his leadership skills at CHI St. Luke’s before assuming the CEO role at Mercy General Hospital in October.

Foster attributes much of his success to his time at UHCL, where he chose the Healthcare Administration program for its strong reputation and dual degree options.

“It was the only option for a healthcare professional at the time, and I am proud to be both a student and an alumnus,” Foster said.

While at UHCL, Foster also served as vice president of the Healthcare Administration Student Association, where he built valuable connections within the healthcare community. He credits Dr. Phillip Decker, professor of healthcare administration, for profoundly influencing his career.

"Dr. Decker’s passion for teaching and focus on leadership competencies helped me develop the essential skills that have shaped my career,” Foster said.

Foster also highlighted the strong alumni network at UHCL, describing it as a "family" that continues to support his professional growth. His journey from a dedicated student to CEO reflects his commitment to healthcare excellence and leadership.

Foster’s time in the MHA/MBA program provided him with the necessary tools and skillsets to navigate the complexities of healthcare administration.

In his new role at Mercy General, Foster is excited to serve a larger community and work with a diverse team of healthcare professionals.

"I look forward to crafting a culture that encourages engagement and excellence in patient care," Foster said.

As a seasoned professional, Foster advises current students and early-career alumni: “Always take calculated risks and think two moves ahead in your career. Differentiate yourself by becoming an expert in your field and clearly articulating what sets you apart from others with similar experiences.”

Steven Foster’s journey from a dedicated student at UHCL to CEO of Mercy General Hospital exemplifies the power of education and perseverance in shaping a successful career in healthcare administration.

For more information about the UHCL Healthcare Administration program and alumni successes,  visit www.uhcl.edu/business/departments/healthcare-administration/.   

Jodie Beall, a University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) honor graduate, was recently named the 2023-24 New Teacher of the Year for Santa Fe Independent School District (ISD). The Alternative Learning Center special education (SPED) teacher was selected for her outstanding performance based on interviews, recommendations, and an essay. This prestigious award highlights Jodie's dedication, skills, and passion for education, all of which were supported by her experience at UH-Clear Lake.

“During my time taking SPED classes, I learned the ins and outs of what a special education teacher does. I was taught how to write good individualized education program goals (IEP), a beautiful present levels of academic achievement and functional performance (PLAAFP), and many other skills,” said Beall. “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.”

She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with Core Subjects EC-6 and Special Education EC-12. The skills Beall acquired at UHCL have contributed to her personal growth, as she is now more understanding and has a growth mindset instead of a fixed one.

“I was a para-educator for six years before I entered my first year of teaching. Those personal experiences helped, but the educational ones at UHCL helped fine-tune them,” said Beall.

Beall’s love for SPED comes from her desire to help students. She recognizes that it takes a special person to teach special education, and she is glad to be that person. “If they can’t learn the way I teach, I’ll teach the way they learn,” she said.

Beall chose UHCL for its proximity to her home and its well-rounded amenities. She found the campus to be the perfect size — comfortable yet offering a genuine university experience. Despite the remote learning challenges during COVID-19, she was grateful for her professors' support.

Beall mentioned that Dr. Elizabeth Beavers, the program director of Special Education, was a major inspiration for her and her classmates. She highlighted how Dr. Beavers taught them to be better teachers and continued to offer guidance both during the program and after graduation.

“Dr. Beavers served as a mentor, provided practical teaching strategies, offered feedback, and shared insight on classroom management, which inspired me to strive for excellence in my career,” said Beall. “The work was a beast on its own, but we learned so much.”

Beall’s experience at UHCL and as an educator has inspired her in many ways, specifically, the “aha!” moments she witnesses with her students. She said that helping them learn new life, academic, and social skills is incredibly rewarding for her.

“We may do 120 overcorrections, but that 121st time, it clicks. That is what we do it for,” said Beall. “My students inspire me. They make me a better teacher and person. Someone who accepts everyone no matter the label or disability.”

Over the past year, Beall has spearheaded numerous projects at her school. She secured a grant for the school’s garden area, developed a postcard board to teach students about U.S. geography, and facilitated international postcard exchanges. Additionally, she has organized various initiatives, including painting projects and seed-to-table lessons.

“We made pizza and our toppings came from the garden. We did a round of chicks and incubated three chicks. I also have my therapy dog who comes and visits my class, and it is so rewarding,” said Beall. “My class did many hands-on activities, and I cannot wait to see where this year takes us.”

Beall’s journey from a dedicated student to an inspiring teacher reflects the powerful combination of rigorous academic preparation and passionate mentorship. Her ability to translate her UHCL training into effective teaching practices and innovative classroom projects highlights the value of supportive educational environments and the transformative role of exceptional educators in shaping their students and their own futures.

For more information about the Special Education Program at UHCL, visit www.uhcl.edu/education/departments/counseling-special-education-diversity/special-education/. 

 "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 flexibility 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 supports its students 110% and is helpful. I can't thank them enough." 

 Academic research was crucial to Evans' educational experience, as demonstrated by his work studying partially ordered fields with Dr. Ma and modeling protein synthesis with Dr. Shiau. These opportunities not only sparked his academic curiosity and demonstrated the real-world applications of mathematical theories but also emphasized the critical role of solid writing skills. 

 "The biggest skill I honed in my master's program at UHCL is writing," Evans said. "I initially struggled with writing proofs and connecting ideas. While I still have room for improvement, I've made significant progress thanks to my professors." 

 Evans credits his family, particularly his wife, alongside UHCL for playing vital roles in his success. He attributes much of his ability to overcome self-doubt and achieve his goals to their encouragement and belief, combined with the support he received from UHCL. 

 "I wouldn't have had the courage to try if I hadn't built the foundation I have now," Evans said. "And before talking to the faculty at UHCL, I never even considered it an option." 

 Thanks to the skills and confidence he gained at UHCL, Evans has now set his sights higher. He is pursuing his Ph.D. in Mathematics at the University of Houston with a full scholarship, ready to take on new challenges and continue his academic journey. 

For more information about UHCL's Mathematics Program, visit www.uhcl.edu/science-engineering/departments/mathematics-statistics/mathematics/.

“I’m proud to have worked with devoted alumni leaders to build on a long history of alumni dedication and service at UHCL, and to redevelop a path for the future of the Alumni Association,” said Kendra Hakanson, director of Alumni Relations. “As UHCL celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year, we are excited to re-establish an alumni advisory board that aligns our work with the university’s mission.”

A redevelopment committee reviewed previous alumni leadership and volunteer committees, explored best practices in alumni communities, updated the group’s bylaws and committees, received applications, and selected new members.

“As I transition to past chair after three rewarding terms, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have shaped and strengthened our association,” said Wayne Sallee, ’12 BS, ’15 MS, past chair. “I’m honored to continue serving on the Alumni Board as an ambassador for our UHCL community.”

The UHCL Alumni Board includes 20 members representing the university's alumni body, with at least one graduate from each of the four colleges. Their mission is to partner with the Alumni Relations office to advance the association’s goals and serve as ambassadors for the association within the university community and beyond.

The UHCL Alumni Board’s committee structure focuses on high-level priorities and signature alumni programs and events. The committees are:

·         Executive Committee

·         Board Nominating Committee

·         Awards Nominating Committee

·         Alumni Celebration Committee

·         UHCL Alumni Golf Tournament Committee

·         Program Development Endowment Committee

·         Giving & Lifetime Membership Committee

·         Student Engagement Committee

Each member of the UHCL Alumni Board contributes unique experiences and valuable expertise. They are dedicated to collaborating with campus partners and fellow alumni to make a meaningful impact in the coming years.

“I’m thrilled with each of the members that have continued their service on this board, and with the new members that have been selected,” said Hakanson. “They represent UHCL's mission by thriving in the workplace and making meaningful contributions to their communities,” she continued.  “I look forward to incorporating their perspectives to elevate our alumni and student engagement efforts.”

Board Members for the 2024-2025 year are:

Kanch Weerasinghe, '98 BS, '00 MS, Chair

Juana Rodriguez, '18 BS, Vice Chair

Wayne Sallee, '12 BS, '15 MS, Past Chair               

Bobby Ausmus, '04 BA, '06 MA

Ambericent Cornett, '10 BS, '11 MS

Rafael de la Torre, '07 MS

Lecia Eubanks, '06 MS, '20 Ed.D

Estella Gillette, '86 BBA, '94 MA

Kaylee Madden, '22 BS

Renae Rives, '03 BS

Carlissa Runnels, '11 MA

Omar Sanjak, '10 BS, '12 MS

Cynthia Silva, '89 BS, ’92 MA

Bukola Simeon, '22 MHA

Marilyn Sims, '88 BS

Chris Wagner, '02 MS

Fay Watson, '89 BS, '92 MS

Joe Staley, VP for University Advancement, Ex-Officio

Kendra Hakanson, Director of Alumni Relations, Ex-Officio

Student Representative, Ex-Officio

“The Alumni Association will continue collaborating with university leadership to achieve our objectives while aligning with key initiatives. This academic year, a major focus will be on student engagement. I’m truly honored to serve as the chair of this diverse and accomplished Board of Directors,” said Kanch Weerasinghe, ’98 BS, ’00 MS, chair.

For more information on the UHCL Alumni Association Board of Directors, please visit www.uhcl.edu/alumni/association/board.

The UHCL Alumni Association, established in 1981, represents the university’s largest constituency of over 80,000 alumni. All UHCL graduates and certificate holders automatically become members—no dues are required. The association supports three endowments: the UHCL Alumni Association Scholarship Endowment for current students, the UHCL Distinguished Alumni Scholarship Endowment for descendants of alumni, and the UHCL Alumni Association Program Endowment, which funds student programming and faculty research and development. For more information, please visit www.uhcl.edu/alumni.

Virginia Jones stands out as an exceptional student, not only because she is a non-traditional student with a military affiliation or background, but also because of her remarkable achievement of completing two master’s degrees simultaneously—in Cross Cultural and Global Studies and Sociology. The Galveston native’s performance earned her the title of Outstanding Student of the Year from both the Sociology and Cross Cultural Global Studies programs at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL).

 “It is an honor to be recognized in this way, and I was incredibly moved and humbled when I was presented with the news, certificates, and the chosen book professors selected and presented to me,” said Jones. “I truly feel like all of my professors got to know me — not only as a student — but as a person.”

Before completing her master’s degree, Jones earned a Bachelor of Science in Anthropology with a minor in Sociology from UH-Clear Lake, graduating cum laude. She chose UH-Clear Lake following a recommendation from her brother and graduate counselor at Galveston College and the attractiveness of its online courses. Reflecting on her academic journey, Jones expressed her gratitude to the professors for their expertise, passion, and dedication, which greatly contributed to her success.

“My successful journey at UHCL was made possible by many professors and instructors who are incredibly passionate about their respective disciplines, and their drive to see their students succeed,” said Jones.

Jones expressed particular gratitude, noting that there were moments when completing the two degrees seemed uncertain. She highlighted the following professors’ unwavering commitment and determination to find a solution were essential to her success:

·         Dr. Christine Kovic

·         Dr. Dawit Woldu

·         Dr. Maria Curtis

·         Dr. Amy Lucas

·         Dr. Jennifer Arney Cuevas

·         Dr. Michael McMullen

·         Dr. Stephen Cherry

“When I chose to pursue a dual master’s degree, Dr. Amy Lucas was the first faculty member to listen to my reasons and guide me through the process, providing support that exceeded my expectations,” said Jones. “Her enthusiasm for families in society further ignited my own passion and interest in this area.”

Jones added Rae Longest, a former advanced writing instructor at UHCL, helped hone her writing skills, and encouraged her to think creatively about diverse topics.

Jones is also grateful for the student services provided by UHCL, which were crucial in her timely graduation. Services such as academic advising, financial aid, and study spaces aided in career planning, reduced financial burden, and access to resources.

“Jaelyn Buggs, my academic advisor, was instrumental in ensuring that the credits and management of my degree programs were successfully recorded,” said Jones. “The Financial Aid Office secured and provided the scholarships and funds vital to receiving my education,” she explained. “The Student Success Center offered one-on-one appointments, drop-in tutoring, online sessions, and helpful resources throughout my studies.”

Despite her academic success, Jones faced considerable difficulties. The COVID-19 pandemic made it challenging to manage her course load while dealing with a full house during lockdown. Additionally, in June 2023, she was devastated by the sudden death of her father. However, through her faith, family and friends' support, and the assistance of UHCL professors, she found the strength to persevere.

“This had a profound emotional impact on me, leaving me heartbroken, and grief-stricken. I grappled with the difficult decision to pause or continue my studies,” said Jones. “I knew my father would have insisted I carry on. Therefore, I drew strength from my faith in God and my mother’s wisdom to continue my journey towards earning two degrees.”

Jones added that her professors provided personal and emotional support, and were willing to make the necessary adjustments to help her continue her studies.

“When certain required courses for my degree were unavailable, my professors allowed me to take them through independent study,” said Jones. “They also allowed me to incorporate additional courses into my degree plan, which fueled my passion for learning, supported my interests, and helped me stay on track for Spring 2024 graduation.”

Being named “Outstanding Student of the Year” reflects not only Jones' passion and perseverance but also showcases the opportunities UHCL offers its students. During her time at the university, Jones studied abroad in Africa and India, won the sociology competition twice, served as co-president of the Alpha Kappa Delta Sociology Honor Society, and volunteered in the community. These experiences have shaped her into the person she is today, both personally and professionally.

“UHCL did an outstanding job preparing me for a government and teaching career by developing my skills and expanding what I am passionate about,” said Jones. “The university is a hidden treasure, but one of the best academic institutions I had the privilege of studying at.”

Jones’ advice to students is to remain organized, determined, consistent, and inquisitive.

"Success in any field requires organization, determination, and consistency,” said Jones. “Never fear asking questions, find a routine that works for you, and be ready to adapt,” she continued. “Life is like a roller coaster with ups and downs, but give your best each day, and remember, there’s always room for improvement."

Virginia Jones’ success underscores the impact of resilience, dedication, and the supportive academic environment at UHCL. As she looks toward the future, Jones’ achievements serve as an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of education, and what can be accomplished through hard work and unwavering commitment.

For more information about the College of Human Sciences and Humanities, visit https://www.uhcl.edu/human-sciences-humanities/

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.

In a landmark act of generosity, University of Houston- Clear Lake (UHCL) alums and former employees Billy and Beverly Wicker are giving back to their alma mater in an extraordinary way, with a $1 million bequest to establish two transformative scholarships. This monumental gift promises to change lives, mirroring the profound impact UHCL had on their paths.

Billy, a 1985 Master of Arts in Human Resources graduate, and Beverly, who earned her Bachelor of Arts in Art and Design in 1989 and a Master’s in Humanities in 1994, met on campus. Billy’s father, Dr. Walter Wicker, was the Director of the Library and one of the initial hires at UHCL. Beverly’s mother Bobby Wilburn, worked for him in the Audio-Visual Department.  One day at UHCL, they introduced Billy and Beverly.  Since then, Billy and Beverly have shared a life built on the foundation of education they received at UHCL.

“Billy and I have experienced firsthand how education can dramatically alter the course of one’s life,” said Beverly. “We hope these scholarships will open such doors for many students, helping them achieve their fullest potential,” Billy added.

The Billy and Beverly Wicker Endowed Scholarship will support undergraduate students who need financial assistance. Preference will be given to high school graduates from Galveston, Dickinson, LaMarque, and Texas City Independent School Districts. The scholarship covers the full cost of attendance or, at a minimum, tuition and fees, and it is renewable for students who maintain a 3.0 GPA and make satisfactory progress toward their degree.

The Billy and Beverly Wicker Endowed Merit Scholarship is aimed at high-performing undergraduate students, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.5. Like the first scholarship, it provides for the full cost of attendance or tuition and fees and offers the same renewal conditions, fostering academic excellence and relieving financial burdens.

These scholarships are not just financial aid; they are lifelines to students who aspire to better their lives through education but lack the resources to do so. UHCL Vice President of Advancement Joe Staley expressed gratitude for the Wickers' foresight and generosity: "Gifts like these do more than support students financially; they uplift entire communities and model the spirit of giving back that is central to our university's mission." 

As the news of this generous donation spreads, the Wickers hope it will inspire others to consider how they, too, can make a difference.

The Wickers' story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring impact of alumni who remain connected and committed to their alma mater's legacy. Through their example, they not only change lives but also sculpt a future where education and opportunity go hand in hand.

From a passionate teacher to a dynamic CEO, Dr. Chad Stevens’ journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and mentorship. Recently appointed as CEO of TinkRworks, a company revolutionizing K-8 STEAM education with innovative projects and curriculum, Stevens credits his success to his foundational experiences at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL).

From a young age, Stevens aspired to be a teacher. Early in his career, mentors encouraged him to think bigger about the impact he could have on students. This drive led him to pursue a Master of Science in Educational Management at UH-Clear Lake, attracted by the university’s reputation, work-life balance, and affordability.

“UHCL was convenient and affordable,” said Stevens. “I had just finished my first year of teaching at Ed White Elementary in Clear Creek Independent School District (ISD),” he continued. “My principal, Glenna Shields, strongly encouraged me to enroll and pursue a career in administration. The ability to take classes after work, close to home, was a significant advantage early on.”

Stevens recalled his classmates and professors being influential during his time at the university. Many of his peers were also teachers, who later pursued administrative roles in area school districts.

“During that time, Clear Creek ISD was one of the fastest-growing school districts in Texas, offering many opportunities for UHCL students,” said Stevens. “Dr. Lawrence Kajs was one of the first people to talk to me about getting my Ph.D., which seemed so out of reach when we first discussed it,” he explained. “He continued to mentor me as I went through the doctoral program later at Texas A&M.”

After earning his Ph.D., Stevens returned to UHCL and taught School Finance as an adjunct professor alongside some of his former professors. He described UHCL as the place where he first stretched himself academically and began appreciating different viewpoints on educational issues.

“At the time, I was the principal at Falcon Pass Elementary, which was just across the street,” he said. “Being able to listen to and appreciate diverse perspectives has helped me throughout my career and life. I think that started at UHCL.”

UHCL elevated Stevens' desire to impact education. Professors helped him realize his potential, instilling the confidence to “bet on himself” in both public and private sectors.

“I’m not sure if that is a skill, but it was crucial given my career path,” said Stevens. “As a teacher, you have a tremendous impact, and I am still in touch with several students I taught or served as an administrator. It is great to see them excel in their careers, and know you had some impact on their trajectory.”

In his private sector career, Stevens has made significant contributions. At CDW-G, he was part of the team that partnered with Google for Education to introduce Chromebooks in schools, a move considered “risky” in 2013. He also helped build the most successful e-Rate program in the U.S. at CDW-G, helping millions of students access better digital learning technologies.

During his time at Amazon Web Services, supporting the ‘Hour of Code’ initiative brought coding to millions of students in 180 countries. At ParentSquare, Stevens and his team grew from serving 2 million to 25 million families on the family engagement platform in three years.

“Knowing the importance of family engagement in schools on student success, that type of growth and impact is overwhelming," said Stevens. “Making an impact inspires me, and I know we can have that kind of opportunity at TinkRworks.”

Transitioning from a teacher to a CEO was surreal for Stevens. When employers began reaching out to him four years ago to potentially lead their companies, he knew his success stemmed from the culmination of having many great mentors and performing well in preceding roles.

“I am not sure anyone really sets out to be a CEO early in their career,” said Stevens. “As my career progressed, becoming a CEO is something I aspired to, but the right job must come to you to be truly successful.”

Stevens’ advice to college students is to follow their passion. The advice has never steered him wrong and he shares it with many students and colleagues he mentors.

“Many people in high school and college told me not to go into education, but it was something I was very passionate about,” said Stevens. “When I transitioned into a technology role within Clear Creek ISD, I became passionate about education technology,” he continued. “Sharing that passion on a larger scale and helping the school district was exciting. In each of my private sector roles, a passion for helping more students, sharing what I knew, and increasing impact drove me.”

Stevens and his team at TinkRworks are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for students to engage in STEAM Project-based learning and envision themselves as future STEAM leaders.

For more information about UHCL’s Educational Management program, visit www.uhcl.edu/education/departments/educational-leadership-policy-analysis/educational-management/.

Internships are a vital way for college students to gain entry-level work experience in their field of study. Over the years, many students from University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) have taken advantage of these opportunities, including graduate student Jordan Jewell. Jewell will earn her joint Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) next month, after securing an internship at HCA Houston Healthcare in Clear Lake. She made the decision to pursue healthcare after frequent visits to the hospital to visit a loved one.

“My grandmother's battle with cancer introduced me to the healthcare administration field,” she said. “Through that experience, I saw administrators as the man behind the scenes, ensuring operations ran smoothly for frontline workers to deliver exceptional care.”

She started working in the home healthcare industry in June 2020, after earning her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from Texas State University. Realizing the need for further education to make a significant impact, she enrolled in UH-Clear Lake’s joint MHA/MBA program in January 2022. The following month, she transitioned to the labor and delivery department at HCA, where she worked nights as a unit secretary. She discovered the internship at the same facility later that year.

“Networking played a vital role in landing the internship,” she said. “While working at HCA, I scheduled a meeting with the unit director and shared my educational background and career aspirations. This led to an introduction to HCA Clear Lake's COO, who then connected me with the project manager overseeing the internship program. Come to find out the program manager is a UHCL MHA program alum.”

Jewell secured an interview soon after and, subsequently, an invitation to join the internship program, with considerable support from Dr. Femi Ayadi, UHCL Professor of Healthcare Administration and coordinator of the university’s healthcare administration internship program.

“Dr. Ayadi provided support throughout the process, from the initial interview to the end of the internship,” Jewell said. “She consistently shares valuable opportunities with MHA students. I would encourage other students to reach out to her with opportunities they may have. She can offer support in many different ways.”

The HCA internship, which ran from June to mid-August 2022, placed Jewell on the nursing administration team. She collaborated with the director of patient experience and the assistant chief nursing officer to create a plan for improving Press Ganey survey scores for power units. This survey is designed to measure patients’ perception of their care and helps healthcare organizations improve safety, quality, and the overall patient experience.

Jewell also worked closely with the food and nutrition department as well as women services leadership to improve the menu offerings to post-partum mothers and their guests. Another component of the internship involved her time in a reading program.

“I participated in the Raising a Reader Program, which offers a book to each newborn at HCA Clear Lake,” said Jewell. “That project taught me how important community outreach is to a hospital. Additionally, the internship program offered insights about the role of ancillary services, such as food and nutrition, supply chain management, and environmental services.”

Jewell highly recommends the program, emphasizing the practical experience and leadership exposure it offered. She added that the internship as a whole allowed her to practice using the tools that she acquired through the MHA program.

“The experience was filled with learning opportunities I can use throughout my career and will provide leverage in my next career move. Most importantly, it presented a glimpse of leadership roles I aspire to fill one day. I am sure you are familiar with the saying ‘dress for the job you want, not for the job you have.’ An internship offers that opportunity and is invaluable to kick-starting a career.”

In August 2023, Jewell began working as a maternal administrative assistant at HCA Clear Lake, but she said she hopes to break into the healthcare quality department, which aligns with her current role. She has also been exploring opportunities in human resources.

With just days left of her graduate academic journey at UHCL, Jewell stresses the importance of networking to other students in the joint MHA/MBA program. 

“It is so important to grow your network and let others know what you have and hope to achieve,” she said. “Make sure to brand and market yourself and allow your network to advertise for you. And never stop learning. Healthcare is ever evolving to stay in the know of current and future trends will help immensely.”

Jewell will be recognized for her completion of the joint MHA/MBA degree program on May 11 during the 10 a.m. ceremony at NRG. Visit the Joint Healthcare Administration MHA/MBA webpage to learn more about the program at UHCL.

University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) and one of its recent graduates, 2^nd Lt. Ryan Stoddard, were both honored at the 2024 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo during Armed Forces Appreciation Day. Armed Forces Appreciation Day honors the brave men and women for their service in the U.S. Military, with over 4,400 military members and their families from across Texas in attendance.  Out of 297 students, Stoddard was distinguished as the top graduate of the Officer Candidate School for the U.S. Marines, and was highly recommended for this prestigious award by his fellow classmates, officers, and military leadership. This honor reflects not only Stoddard’s success but also the quality of education and support provided by UH-Clear Lake.

“He is an ideal candidate of what the military is looking for,” said Assistant Director of Military and Veteran Services John Oyerbides. “To be willing to make the sacrifice for your country is one thing, and to be recognized for it is another. Only 4-6 people get this national award presented to them by the commanding general every year.”

Stoddard was in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve while he attended UHCL. After graduating in May 2023, Stoddard applied to Officer Candidate School and is transitioning to active duty. Oyerbides said it was a “pleasant surprise” to learn the recognition would be a double honor, and the Office of Military and Veteran Services' mantra is to ensure students’ success by making them aware of the school funding and benefits they are entitled to. In addition, winning the award shed light on the university and all of the great programs and resources it offers.

“We’ve really been emphasizing getting out and promoting UHCL and trying to get more veterans,” Oyerbides said. “We have countless opportunities with NASA nearby, Boeing, and others. We have to get the word out, let them know that this is a safe place, and we can help them achieve success,” Oyerbides explained. “We have 50 brand new veterans attending UHCL next semester, and we plan to keep increasing enrollment.”

The Office of Military and Veteran Services provides networking opportunities to veterans and the support they need while transitioning. As a disabled 30-year veteran, Oyerbides said he knows what students are going through. Adjusting can be challenging after being in an environment where other people make decisions for so long.

“In the military you are told what to do, where to go, what to wear, and stick to a schedule. Then all of a sudden, they’re on campus and some become lost,” Oyerbides said. “But our students have financial benefits they are entitled to, disability, mental health counseling, and more. Our goal is to inform them, and we are dedicated to helping them get through school successfully step by step.” 

Oyerbides further noted that the support from UHCL President Richard Walker and Vice President for Student Affairs Tina Powellson in allowing the implementation of his ideas has cultivated an environment ripe with endless growth and possibilities for veteran services.

“The climate at UHCL is what won that award,” he said.

For more information about UHCL’s Military and Veteran Services, visit www.uhcl.edu/veteran-services.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) is mourning the loss of Joyce Delores Taylor, who served as the coordinator of internship programs and senior lecturer in behavioral sciences in UH-Clear Lake’s College of Human Sciences and Humanities. Taylor passed away on Feb. 20, 2024, leaving a significant void in the university community.

"Professor Taylor's passing is a profound loss for our UHCL community,” said UHCL President Richard Walker. “We were fortunate that she chose to build her illustrious career with us. Faculty, staff, the broader community, and especially our students, were the fortunate recipients of her teachings and the embodiment of her character. Her commitment to academic excellence and personal growth for every individual she encountered has left an indelible legacy—one that will resonate and contribute to the university’s success for generations to come."

With three graduate degrees from UHCL in Behavioral Sciences (2004), Criminology (2006), and Cross-Cultural Studies (2008), Taylor was a beloved figure who exemplified excellence and service, earning accolades such as the ‘Marilyn Sims Leadership Service’ Award and the ‘Distinguished Alumni’ Award.

Taylor’s impact was profound, touching every facet of university life. She served as chair of the Alumni Association Executive Council, taught as an adjunct instructor, and was the spirit of countless university events. Her commitment to raising awareness of domestic violence and her participation in thought-provoking productions and lectures underscored her passion for advocacy and mentorship.

Joyce embodied UHCL’s hawk spirit," said UHCL Provost Christopher Maynard. “From earning three master’s degrees to a career as a dedicated colleague and educator in our College of Human Sciences and Humanities through to her efforts to address domestic violence, she combined her talents with hard work and a commitment to making our communities better.”

Beyond UHCL, her dedication extended to the larger community, involving service with the Texas Workforce Investment Council and organizations such as 'Children at Risk' to combat human trafficking. Taylor's infectious enthusiasm for service, her dedication to mentoring students, and her indomitable spirit are the hallmarks of her lasting legacy at UHCL—a legacy of excellence, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to enriching every life she touched.

Taylor is survived by two of her three her daughters and her grandchildren. Her daughter, Jesika, preceded her in death.

As a hazard analyst for emergency planning at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Bernadette Guillermo travels to various Department of Energy (DOE) facilities across the United States, employing her expertise gained from the University of Houston- Clear Lake (UHCL). Today she credits UHCL for her successful career, where she plays a critical role in emergency planning and preparedness.

Bernadette’s love for travel inspired her to leave her native country of the Philippines and start a new journey in the United States. When she decided to attend college for a master’s degree, Bernadette said she compared several universities that offered an industrial hygiene (IH) program. After visiting UHCL, she knew she had found “home.”

“I loved the scenery, quiet atmosphere, and how spacious it was,” said Bernadette. “I just started driving on my own when I started at UHCL, and had to drive from Cypress, Texas the entire time I attended,” she explained. “The drive was worth it.”

Bernadette earned a master’s degree in environmental science specializing in industrial hygiene (Master of Science in Occupational Safety and Health), from UHCL in December 2016. According to Bernadette, her professors were knowledgeable and informative about the internship opportunities UHCL provided. During her first summer semester, she attended a university-hosted meeting where the Health Safety and Environment (HSE) lead of LyondellBasell, who is also a UHCL alumnus, announced an internship opportunity.

“I applied and was offered an internship position in their corporate office in downtown Houston,” said Bernadette.

LyondellBasell has been a long-term partner with the education program at UHCL’s Environmental Institute of Houston.

Bernadette said she was thankful for her mentors in LyondellBasell’s downtown office because they trusted her abilities and gave her the opportunity to get hands-on experience as an industrial hygienist while completing her degree.

“I learned the importance of teamwork, and effective communication skills. Being able to interact with my colleagues in a cohesive environment was imperative to achieve goals,” she said. “I also wasn’t afraid to ask questions. Asking questions gave me understanding to better research the controls and technology applicable to my job.”

Bernadette added that Interim Dean of College of Science and Engineering Robert Phalen served as her mentor even after she graduated, and was very helpful with providing resources, his time, and invaluable feedback.

“When I was working at Celanese, another chemical plant in Texas, I asked Dr. Phalen for help with some IH concerns that I had not encountered before,” said Bernadette. “Even with my application at LANL, he also provided his time in helping me.”

Bernadette not only advanced academically but also personally. She overcame challenges such as learning to drive in Houston, a skill she honed while driving from her home in Cypress.

The skills and experiences she acquired at UHCL also helped her land internships at LyondellBasell’s Corpus Christi, La Porte, and Lake Charles locations, all while being enrolled as a full-time student at UHCL. She said she wanted to complete her degree as soon as possible, and was able to in two years with the accommodations provided by her managers and professors.

“I talked to my managers about my schedule, and they worked with me so I could still attend some classes on-site and go home on weekends to complete my assignments,” she said.

She added that her degree was an in-person program, but her professors allowed her to take the online courses offered in her occupational safety specialization, allowing her to be hybrid.

When Bernadette is not on the clock, she enjoys traveling, trying local foods, and volunteering. Her love for volunteering is the way she gives back to the community. She volunteers in professional groups and at work, and all of the companies and organizations she works with have a volunteer program.

“You get to help the community and do it with other people, who may be instrumental in your next career. I am reemphasizing here, the value of volunteering and having it on your resume,” she said.

Bernadette’s advice to students is to get involved, and take advantage of the resources that UHCL provides them. She gave a few helpful tips for students to be successful:

Tip 1: Get a membership to professional groups. Memberships are often free or a very minimal fee to students.

Tip 2: Participate in meetings and volunteer. This is a good networking opportunity. Volunteering also helps increase your knowledge for a small cost.

Tip 3: Get your resume evaluated. UHCL offers evaluation of resumes and more at Career Services.

Tip 4: Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Get advice from your professors while completing your degree or early in your career.

Tip 5: Attend conferences. There are often big discounts for students that want to attend, and you’ll meet alumni who could potentially be hiring managers.

For more information about UHCL’s Master of Science in Occupational Safety and Health, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/occupational-safety-health-ms.

As a child, Anna Lowery always responded with “a teacher” when asked what she wanted to be when she grew up. Today, she is the one asking the question of a new generation of young students. Lowery teaches 5^th- grade science, social studies, and phonics at Parr Elementary School in League City, Texas, where she has worked since 2014.

After a slight detour, Lowery earned her B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies and M.S. in Multicultural Education from the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL). Although being a teacher was her childhood dream, education was not the first degree she pursued. 

 “I originally entered college as a business administration major but decided after two semesters that it wasn’t the path for me,” she said. “I really enjoyed working with kids and spending time with my younger cousins. In the spring of 2009, I switched majors and began taking child development courses at a local community college. I fell in love with the program and knew I had found my place.”

 She later began working as a camp counselor and childcare employee at the YMCA in League City and Webster, where her “love for children and teaching intensified.”

 As a San Jacinto College – Central student and a Raven, Lowery knew she wanted to further her education to become a teacher while staying close to home. She was familiar with UH-Clear Lake and its College of Education, so in 2011, a Raven became a Hawk; she became an official UHCL student that fall.

 “I knew UHCL was a safe campus with a strong teacher education program,” she said. “I was impressed with the campus and loved the atmosphere and environment.”

 She earned her bachelor’s degree in May of 2014. The same year, she reenrolled at UHCL as a graduate student and earned her master’s degree in May of 2017. She recalls both graduation days and the joy she felt at each ceremony.

“Graduation day in 2014 was really exciting because I knew I was about to hopefully get a job as a teacher,” said Lowery. “I wasn’t employed just yet, but I was really excited to reach that milestone and finally enter the career I wanted. In 2017, I was teaching full-time, so it was a lot of relief and excitement because I knew I’d be able to put 100% toward my career. I am grateful for the knowledge and skills gained at UHCL, which have led to my career success.”

 Lowery credits her professors for these skills and for being supportive and informative. She said the Methods course and Internship I and II programs were beneficial.   

 “Being in the classroom at various campuses, with many different students, allowed me to see different teaching styles, classroom management types, and what a real school day would look like,” said Lowery. “These courses were rigorous and had high expectations with a fair amount of work, but they helped me succeed as I transitioned to being a full-time teacher.”

 Her position as a full-time teacher within Clear Creek Independent School District (CCISD) helped her receive “mini-grants” through the Clear Creek Education Foundation. These grants allowed her to purchase various items for her classroom at Parr Elementary School, including wobble stools, Legos, and character education books. She also received a Teacher Innovative Grant for $2,566, which she used to purchase non-fiction books in science and social studies.

 Her dedication to her students, and her efforts to enhance their learning and that of other students within her school did not go unnoticed by her peers; in 2018, Parr Elementary School awarded Lowery as “Campus Teacher of the Year.”

 To learn more about UHCL’s education department and degree programs, go to www.uhcl.edu/education/departments/.

Later, in 2001, Reeves retired from NASA and worked as the deputy program manager for the Space Shuttle Orbiter with United Space Alliance until 2003. After, he worked as the deputy program manager for the Space Shuttle Program Integration Office and then, as the program manager for Space Shuttle Program Integration with United Space Alliance. He fully retired in 2011.

Reeves earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Oklahoma. He desired to continue his education by taking business courses. He mentioned that during his career, he was able to make use of the skills UH- Clear Lake’s College of Business equipped him with in both his personal and professional life.

“In the mid to late 1970’s I took a few courses in the evenings while I was working to learn more about finance,” said Reeves. “I decided to enroll in the Master of Business Administration program, which enabled me to advance in management at NASA and the United Space Alliance.”

Reeves added that the MBA program at UHCL also gave him the tools he needed to prosper personally, as it helped him understand his own finances and provided insight into investment opportunities.

Reeves said the professors during his time at the university were knowledgeable and always accommodating. Despite challenges, faculty and staff remained committed to Reeves’s education, and provided solutions.

 “I was in the Earth Resources Aircraft program, and my office was at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base,” Reeves said. “I served as a missions manager, and flying in high-altitude airplanes required a lot of business travel,” Reeves explained. “There were times that I would be away, and I was able to make up courses I missed while traveling.”

 The Jonesboro, Ark. native currently resides in Friendswood, Texas, and enjoys working around his yard, completing DIY projects, spending time with his wife, and keeping up his home. He serves as president of the Manned Spaceflight Operations Association (MSOA), a nonprofit organization that recognizes and honors those who planned, trained, and supported the many missions flown out of the Houston Mission Control Center. MSOA supports the preservation and maintenance of the control center and its equipment, as well as the communication of the control center’s history and the benefits of space exploration to society.

Whether flying an aircraft or conducting audits, Reeves took the necessary steps that prepared him for his work. He said his advice for students is to never quit learning.

“The technology around us is constantly changing,” he said. “My advice to anybody, is to take courses or get into helpful programs like I did. All of it will help you and your career. You will be very successful in life if you do that.”

For more information about UHCL’s Master of Business Administration program, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/business-administration-mba.

When John Paul Garcia finished high school, he had a full academic scholarship to University of Houston (UH) to study engineering. But in 1994, he paused his education and entered the workforce. Garcia intended to finish school, but with his growing family and a long work commute, the timing was very compressed for the Houston native. Although things turned out differently than he expected, he knew he wanted to finish what he started.

 Once Garcia proceeded with his quest to complete his degree, he decided to attend the University of Houston- Clear Lake (UHCL). Not only did he acquire one degree, but he acquired two. Garcia received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in 2016, and a Master of Science in Computer Science in 2018.  

“UH-Clear Lake was a natural decision for me,” Garcia said. “In 1995, I promised myself I would finish my education no matter what life threw at me. I am nothing if not persistent.”  

When Garcia started school at UHCL in 2013, he had already built a cybersecurity career bringing technology solutions to large companies in Houston. But he said he still had to keep his promise to himself. According to Garcia, UHCL offered a rigorous curriculum that aided his professional development and gave him the confidence to tackle any challenge in the computing sector.

“Computer Science is a field of study that is applicable in most professional settings,” said Garcia. “I've started a single person consultancy called ‘Office Productivity Solutions’ where I help companies get the most from their current and future technology investments securely and sustainably. UHCL equipped me with a skillset that has allowed me to pursue these objectives.” 

During his collegiate journey, Garcia said he experienced some minor setbacks.  

“There were some family health issues. Fortunately, UHCL served as a support system, enabling me to work through issues I had in my personal life. No question about it, the staff at UHCL are outstanding,” said Garcia.

While attending UHCL, Garcia recalled two faculty members who influenced him the most.  

“Dr. Sharon Hall and I coincidentally have a common friend, and she was a wonderful mentor in forming my plans,” said Garcia. “Dr. Al- Mubaid was also always willing to help when it came to focusing on my career plans and completing the curriculum.” 

Garcia currently runs his cybersecurity business, enjoys exercising and playing chess. The avid runner has completed over 20 marathons and loves all things cybersecurity.        

 “I’ve always loved puzzles, so cybersecurity ‘fills the bill.’ It requires a lot of out-of-the- box thinking and reverse engineering of systems and attack vectors,” Garcia said. “I love the idea of protecting businesses and systems; that’s what cybersecurity is all about.” 

Garcia developed a passion for cybersecurity at a young age and built his first computer at 15. Over the years, he has completed risk assessments, deployed secure wireless networks, enabled remote access using encrypted security keys, and even migrated data across the public internet using VPNs. He credits UHCL for helping prepare him for this work, and wants students to know that UHCL is always in their corner and to take advantage of all the resources available to complete their studies.

 He added that UH has a nationally broadcasted radio segment, “The Engines of Our Ingenuity,” that continues to inspire him to develop great solutions, and is worth a listen for students needing creative stimulation. 

For more information about UHCL’s Computer Science program, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/computer-science-bs 

When Lori Klein Quinn transferred to University of Houston-Clear Lake back in the 1970s, she was looking to create a new future for herself by enrolling in a newly-opened university that offered a degree plan that interested her. Now, as the mayor of Tomball, Texas, she said she believes much of her success and inspiration to be active in her community stems from the Bachelor of Science in Accounting she received way back in 1977.

Klein Quinn took her expertise in accounting and used it to begin a long history of helping to improve the financial lives of others in her community. She  previously served on Tomball City Council, served as president of the ‘Women’s Business Forum’ and the ‘Tomball Business and Professional Women’, is a founding board member of the North Harris Community College District Foundation, and is a retired certified public accountant and certified financial planner for over 41 years.

“I was very impressed with the accounting program at UH-Clear Lake,” she said. “I loved the accounting curriculum because it had a business emphasis. I especially enjoyed my senior business policy class. Local businesses reached out to our class for assistance, and we students formed teams to help them.”

She said they learned how to make businesses more profitable, and how to identify potential issues. “I learned so much in that one course, that it helped me achieve success in my own small business later in life,” she remembered.

Klein Quinn said students pursuing a degree in accounting should not be afraid to walk through the door, even with regulations, obstacles and constant changes.

“Accounting is in everyone’s personal and business life. You can make a real difference,” she explained.

Outside of the classroom, UHCL’s location, setting and serene nature and alumni engagement have all fueled Klein Quinn to stay connected to the campus.

“UHCL gives me peace. I would take my friends and family to campus and give them a tour,” she said. “I became more connected when I was invited to speak at an elected official’s forum for the students, and reconnected with the alumni association.”

Klein Quinn added that she is still applying what she learned at UHCL in her life today.

“After working for several accounting firms, I started my own business at age 29, which I recently sold after almost 40 years in the industry,” she continued. “My firm was about serving others and using our platform to help the community. I learned these skills at UHCL, and use now in my role as mayor of Tomball, Texas.”

Klein Quinn said there are some truisms that she’s found to be helpful on her journey to success.

“Dig through till you find the facts, have confidence in yourself, failure is just a chance to begin again, don’t be afraid to move forward and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve your dreams,” Klein Quinn said. “Finally, don’t forget to keep your three F’s in order; faith, family, and finances.”

For more information about UHCL’s College of Business, visit www.uhcl.edu/business/. For more information about connecting with UHCL alumni, visit www.uhcl.edu/alumni/

University of Houston-Clear Lake is proud to have alumni who have contributed to their community outside of Texas as well as outside the country. Annabel Dixon is one such alumna. After earning her MBA in International Business and Master of Science in Finance in 2006, she held two positions at large oil companies in Doha, Qatar. One was as a business performance consultant and the other was as a senior business advisor/team manager/project manager from  2014-2016.

Dixon has more than 24 years of experience concentrated in business operations and program management, with 14 years of mid-level management experience. Currently, she works at General Motors as the sustainability coordinator for China and Europe. In this role, she serves as the subject matter expert in the U.S. on China and Europe’s overall environmental, social, and governance (ESG) status, targets, and interpretation of policies and central government direction.

Bringing international experience to the U.S.

Her decision to pursue her MBA at UH-Clear Lake stemmed from her time working in China, where she was born. “I moved to the U.S. in April 2002 and lived in the Clear Lake area,” she said. “I had 10 years of international experience in the management of major capital projects in China, but I felt I was hitting the career ceiling with limited business training. I only had a B.A. in English Literature and Language in China. I admired the people who had MBAs; it seems they were very decisive in business decisions as corporation managers.” 

She began taking MBA courses and became especially interested in finance. Although a friend of hers questioned her decision to pursue an MBA in the U.S. as an immigrant, her family was very supportive because of her work history which included working with diverse teams. Their encouragement fueled her decision to study international business at UHCL.

Empowering students to achieve their goals

She said that her time at UHCL gave her a sense of empowerment, which is a key factor in what keeps her connected to the university. “I felt UHCL empowered me not only with the degrees, but the methodologies that helped me solve the practical issues in the real corporate world,” she said. “My education at UHCL empowered me to be a much stronger and confident business professional.”

She also credits her professors and other UHCL alumni for sharing their inspirational stories as students, and she hopes to inspires others in the same way. “I would like to share my experience from the real world with students to help them envision their future career path,” she said.

In addition to her academic and career accomplishments, Dixon has also inspired others on a personal level. She ran her first marathon in Houston when she was 44, followed by another five the same year, including the 2013 Boston Marathon on Patriot’s Day. Although the tragic events of that day shook the nation, she didn’t let it stop her from completing the MS 150 bike ride from Houston to Austin later that month. The following year, she ran nearly a dozen ultra-marathons ranging from 31 miles to 100 miles. As Dixon said to UHCL students in one of her speeches, ”You are the only limitation!”

Her achievements before, during, and after her time as a UHCL student serve as a testament of how the university can contribute to a student’s overall success in every aspect of life.

For more information about UHCL's MBA programs, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/business-administration-mba.

“Getting an MBA was always my plan,” said Shaun Mayo. “I never thought I’d leave Houston for any reason, and I always wanted to get  an MBA because I believed it would set my career on a good trajectory. I chose University of Houston-Clear Lake because it was local, and I was impressed with the rigor of the program and its high placement rate. Everything UH-Clear Lake had was very attractive to me.”

He started his graduate journey in UHCL’s joint MHA/MBA program, then decided to switch the healthcare administration piece with a concentration in human resources.

Mayo, now the Chief People Office for the Arizona Cardinals, said that his intention to move steadily forward in his career in human resources has become a reality. “My entire career prior to sports and entertainment was in retail in Houston,” he said. “I started in human resources at Kohl’s in League City, then moved to Macy’s, JC Penney, and Walmart. Seven years ago, I came to Phoenix and began working with the Cardinals. It all started with my degree program at UHCL.”

When he reflects upon his career, Mayo said that the experiences he gained through his coursework were a key element of his preparation. “I didn’t have many role models or people to guide me when I was growing up,” he said. “I learned something in one of my classes that I use to this day, about how to interact and talk and meet people. There was a book called ‘When the Little Things Count…and They Always Count,’ by Barbara Pachter. It was required reading.”

The book has continued to resonate with him. In his role as the team’s liaison for community and civic initiatives that often involve young students, he said he refers to the book frequently. “I purchase copies of this book and give it to students, even today,” he said. “I often think of the professor who assigned it to us, because it’s one of the most important things I ever read. It’s helped me understand how to operate and work in a professional environment.”

Although his area of concentration is human resources, he said that his MBA courses, particularly the projects he worked on, helped him succeed. “I’m not in the traditional business operations lane; I am in more of a support role,” he said. “But what I bring from my graduate courses is an understanding of the business that I’m supporting. The work I did at UHCL prepared me to understand that part of the job. This is why I’m able to do what I do now.”

Mayo said he had returned to UHCL for speaking engagement a few times over the past years. “I am happy to stay connected and give back to the university that has given me so much,” he said. “A core element of who I am is to be a part of the path for others’ success.”

 For more information about UHCL's MBA  with Human Resource Management Concentration, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/business-administration-mba-human-resource-management-concentration.

Healthcare clinicians have the ability to effect improvements in individual outcomes and in public health, but only if they are supported and empowered by competent, caring healthcare administrators who have the skills to minimize the myriad complications they face each day. Mathew Timmons is just such a healthcare administrator. Timmons received his joint Master of Healthcare Administration/Master of Business Administration from UHCL in 2005 and has worked almost 25 years in healthcare administration, including 22 years at Texas Children’s Hospital and recently a promotion to Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Children’s Hospital New Orleans.

“I really love what I do,” he said.

“I’m responsible for all hospital operations, including peri-operative services and the Heart Center, as well as hospital-based services like radiology, pathology, therapy, security, facilities, and food and dietary services,” Timmons said. “I also am responsible for a 51-bed pediatric behavioral health hospital. Children’s New Orleans also has partnerships with multiple community-based organizations that provide support and care for abused children, autistic children, and children in the juvenile justice intervention center. We work with early development centers and public and private schools to help increase healthcare access to children who would otherwise not receive healthcare.”

Timmons acknowledged that although his purview encompasses all the hospital’s operations, he loved his work. “My education and training at UH-Clear Lake prepared me well for what I do now,” he said. “The foundations that I was taught during my MHA/MBA courses, as well as the administrative fellowship that was required, laid the groundwork for many things that I rely on now.”

He said that the education itself opened many doors for him. “My education is what allowed me to be considered for a leadership position in the first place,” he said. “I believe the teaching methods my professors used, putting us in groups and requiring us to work together on projects built a skill set from which I have been able to grow throughout my professional life.”
 

Through those courses, Timmons said he learned key skills, such as how to make data-driven decisions and how to create operational strategies, but he also discovered the value of working as a team and listening to the thoughts and ideas that others had to offer. “We all had our own professional experiences,” he said. “I learned a lot about how individuals contribute to a group’s success. My professors’ use of this method of teaching was more beneficial to me than much of what we learned in textbooks.”

Another significant advantage Timmons received while at UHCL was a lesson in the importance of engaging with the university’s alumni network of hospital administrators. “Being part of that group helped open a lot of doors for me in my career,” he said. “We all went to the same graduate school and it seemed as if I had met so many people through a class or an alumni event. I credit my graduate education as well as the network beyond my program. Those are big reasons why I was able to progress in my career.”

He said that even over two decades into his career, he still often reflects upon what he learned in his classes at UHCL. “There have been many times when I have worked on things related to healthcare finance that I have drawn upon what I learned from my classes,” he said. “Real world experience is different from being in a class, but that’s where you get the foundation and fundamentals. That is what prepared me for the scenarios I face today, and when I have those moments, I remember what I did in class and what I encountered in my professional life.”

He added that his professors each had a profound impact upon him. “All my instructors had a niche in which they contributed to our education,” he said. “I remember them very fondly. They were invested in my success, as well as the success of the other students in the program.”

To learn more about UHCL's Joint Healthcare MHA/MBA program, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/healthcare-administration-business-adminstration-mha-mba

After nearly 30 years in law enforcement, Landis J. Craven’s superiors at the Texas City Police Department told him that when he became captain, there would not be a possibility to advance  any further without a college degree.

“That’s when I decided to get into college,” said Craven. “I completed my associate’s in criminal justice at Alvin Community College, then transferred to University of Houston-Clear Lake and started my Bachelor of Science in Public Service Leadership, which I completed in 2022. I chose that instead of criminology because I wanted to expand myself. It was the best decision I could have made.”

He said it had been an adjustment to return to formal, structured school after so many years, but he had no problem finding peers who were also non-traditional students already in the workforce. “I felt embraced,” he said. “I think the other students liked that I was older and more experienced. I was most worried about my math class. I took Criminal Statistics. It was challenging, but I made it through.”

He said all his classes had been impactful, especially his sociology courses focusing on topics related to diversity. “They were very insightful,” he said. “But every class I took emphasized leadership development, conflict resolution, and effective communication. All of it helps me as a law enforcement officer.”

In fact, Craven noted, there was not a single course he had taken that he wasn’t currently applying daily in his professional life. With his UH-Clear Lake degree in hand, he knew he was ready for the job when he was promoted to Texas City’s Chief of Police and sworn in on Sept. 1.

“UHCL prepared me for the very role I have now,” he said. “Without the curriculum, and the skill set that I received, my training in ethical decision making and community engagement, I could not do my job. Every day, I use what I learned from every single course I took. They all benefited me.”

Knowing that two Houston Chiefs of Police—Charles McClelland, Jr. and the current chief, Troy Finner, were both UHCL alumni confirmed Craven had chosen the right university. “UHCL graduates police chiefs,” he said. “I knew I was right on track.”   

Although it wasn’t easy to work full time and go to school, Craven said he’d found professors who were invested in his success. “I had a number of classes with (Clinical Associate Professor in Public Leadership) Comeka Anderson Diaz,” he said. “She understood that she was working with students who had things going on in their jobs. That’s why she’s one professor who really stood out for me during my time at UHCL.”

Craven said that any hesitation he had about going to college disappeared after his UHCL experience. “I am inspired to continue my education now,” he said. “I can’t stop! I am working on my master’s degree and now, we have three captains in our department and they're all in college, too.”

He added that he hoped he’d had a role in inspiring them to advance their education. “Especially now, when they come in my office, they see that over there,” he said, pointing to his framed UHCL diploma on the wall.

For more information about UHCL’s Bachelor of Science in Public Service Leadership, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/public-service-leadership-bs.

Through leadership opportunities, students set goals, delegate responsibilities, and develop critical thinking, problem- solving and decision- making abilities. Just ask University of Houston- Clear Lake alumna Brianna Knowlton, who said that the opportunities she received to develop her leadership abilities has made a difference in her life.

“I was able to join many organizations and further myself on campus. For example, planning and prompting the events I host at HCA Houston Healthcare is what I did for the Healthcare Students Association on campus,” Knowlton said.

During Knowlton’s time at UHCL, she served in many organizations including, Hawks for Community, the Servant Leader Scholar Program, and with the National Society of Leadership Club, where she was one of very few students that completed all of the certifications at the national level.

Knowlton obtained her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration in May 2023, and is currently pursuing her Master of Business Administration at Texas A&M International University. She said she chose to develop her leadership skills at UHCL because of the competitive Healthcare Administration program.

“So much of my time on campus allowed me to develop and grow as a leader,” she said. “I use those skills daily at work and am so grateful I pushed myself out of my comfort zone during my undergraduate years.”

Knowlton added that her drive to be an involved leader stemmed from volunteering with Future Farmers of America’s livestock shows and events nationwide. She was always inspired by the hard work and dedication groups put into those events, and it made her want to be “that” person in her community.

“During the summer after junior year, I started volunteering at Houston Physicians Hospital to give back to my community in the healthcare administration sector,” she said. “I encourage students to get involved in leadership on campus through the various organizations and networking opportunities. Also, to get out of their comfort zone and push themselves to do more than required.”

Knowlton said that Professor of Healthcare Administration Ashish Chandra, and the other professors in the Healthcare Administration program were incredibly encouraging during her tenure at UHCL. She is thankful for her professors, and her experience at UHCL because it impacted who she is today.

“During undergrad I started a photography business, Brianna Katherine Photography, that allows me to express my creativity and was just voted ‘Best Photographer in Pasadena’ by community votes for 2023,” she said. “My ultimate goal is to work in business relations for a healthcare organization or healthcare marketing and continue growing my photography business.”

For more information about UHCL’s student leadership opportunities, visit www.uhcl.edu/student-affairs/student-engagement/student-involvement/.

“I want to see more color, flavor and life at UHCL. Art is the way this can be accomplished,” Moya said. “For the Hispanic Heritage Month kick-off event, the Art School teachers and art education students will be facilitating activities with the Hispanic Heritage Fair.”

UHCL alumna Elizabeth Unmazor, is one of the artists painting for Hispanic Heritage Month. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Grades EC-12 Art Certification in 2019. Since then, Unmazor has taught as an elementary art school teacher and now works as a full-time professional artist. Moya said he wanted to recruit someone whose work and work ethic he was familiar with.

“Liz was a former student of mine. She stood out and I always admired the quality of work Liz displayed while at UHCL,” Moya said. “Over the years, I have been able to see her progress more and more.”

As a first-generation college student, Unmazor said she is honored to give back to the UHCL community. With her Salvadoran roots, she wanted to create a painting that best defined who she is.

“It’s really cool that a piece of me gets to stay at UHCL. It feels great to give back where I spent a lot of my time in my early twenties,” Unmazor said. “Hispanic Heritage Month to me means, not forgetting where I come from. Although I was born in the U.S., my parents being from El Salvador is a huge part of me.”

Unmazor added that her ‘The Explorer’ painting, is a self-portrait she took in Peru while solo-traveling. It embodies who she is, and she loves being surrounded by nature and exploring new places.

“I included the animals from Central America because that’s where my family is from. I was born in Houston, so that is why I included the cactus and blue bonnet.”

Jake Messa, the other artist painting for Hispanic Heritage Month, previously collaborated with the Art School on the ‘Transcendent Dreams’ mural located in the Arbor Building. Moya said he brought Messa back for this project because he believes in his work and talent.

“We talk about how sometimes he feels like an underdog, but I know it is only a matter of time until he’s the top dog,” Moya said. “His dedication and talent were only emphasized with his work on the mural in our hallway.”

Jake said his ‘The Nomad: A Huichol Style Astronaut’ painting is a combination of the past and the future, done in a style that best represented him.

“When I first started doing murals again, I got this big gig that I had to do Huichol style, which led me into digging into my Mexican roots. I wanted to do that again. My painting is a Huichol style astronaut done in my style,” Messa said.

Huichol art broadly groups the most traditional and most recent innovations in the folk art and handcrafts produced by the Huichol people, who live in the states of Jalisco, Durango, Zacatecas and Nayarit in Mexico. The unifying factor of the work is the colorful decoration using symbols and designs which date back centuries.

“To create a fusion, I drew inspiration from Aztec and Huichol expressions,” Messa said. “I added an astronaut to represent Houston's connection with space. It's a unique blend of history and possibility.” 

Messa said for a long time, he ran from who he was and wanted to be somebody else. As he got back into art again and finding himself, he embraces his past and culture through his work.

“This is who I am. I wanted to inspire the students here at UHCL with this painting and it’s the first time I get to do something I really want to do," he said.

Both artists attended the Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off Event this past Saturday, Sep 16. They served on the artist panel and engaged with the community for an evening of fun and tradition. ‘The Explorer’ will be housed in the Arbor Building near the Art School, and ‘The Nomad: A Huichol Style Astronaut’ will be in the Bayou Building. The university is a designated Hispanic Serving Institution and Minority Serving Institution, and is committed to every student feeling a sense of belonging.

For more information about UHCL’s upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month events, visit www.uhcl.edu/hispanic-heritage-month. For more information about the Art School visit, www.uhcl.edu/childrens-art-school/

University of Houston-Clear Lake’s commencement ceremonies are always packed with graduates and their families, but the spring 2023 event, held at NRG Arena on May 13, was a bit more crowded than usual. That’s because 1,193 students received their diploma—the highest number the university has ever graduated.

UH-Clear Lake is a designated Hispanic-Serving and Minority-Serving Institution, with over half its population transfer and first-generation students, and first-time-in-college students. Keeping students engaged and supported throughout their academic journey is among its top priorities.

Associate Vice President of Student Success and Initiatives Tim Richardson said that of all UH-Clear Lake’s initiatives to influence students toward success, the most important one is that the university community cares for its students.

“We have a very caring campus,” Richardson said. “Our numbers have been trending upward over the last few semesters. The first credit goes to the students. We have a large non-traditional student population; they work and have families and have so much to balance, and we’re on the heels of COVID. We know what they’ve been going through.”

There are a range of initiatives through the university’s Division of Student Affairs, including academic advisors, tutoring staff in the Student Success Center, the Writing Center, the Accessibility Support Center and more, that exist to stand in the gaps when students encounter challenges that could actually derail them from their academic path.

“We have done a lot of work revising academic advising to be a much more proactive model,” Richardson said. “We are doing more than just telling students to register for classes. It’s a more holistic approach; we want to know how they’re doing. We’re partnering with them in understanding how best to walk with them through to end.”

The redesign of academic advising, Richardson explained, has improved communication and reduced advisors’ caseloads. “All this adds up to more time and opportunity for staff and students to meaningfully connect,” he said. “There is time built in so they’re not just talking about classes. Staff and advisors are asking more about what’s going on in students’ lives and directing them to services that might be beneficial.”

He added that there has been reorganization in the Student Success and Math Centers. “We partner with faculty and we can embed a tutor in certain courses, and they engage with students while in the class,” he said. “We can make sure students work with faculty to receive just-in-time support during class. That’s been successful and exciting.”

 Vice President for Student Affairs Tina Powellson said that additional financial resources available in the Office of Student Advocacy help students when they encounter an unforeseen circumstance, such as the loss of a job or an expensive car repair, that could cause a student to stop coming to class.

 “The Hawk Emergency Fund grant and the Basic Needs grant addresses students with food and shelter insecurities, as well as a technology package so that students who need laptops can receive them,” she said. “We believe students should have holistic support. When they enroll, they find the services that will help them be successful. We have great classes, but we also have wraparound care to make sure they can get to the end.”

Richardson said the division was committed to continuing this upwardly-trending number of successful graduates by creating new initiatives that target at-risk populations within the student body.

“We are designing a peer-mentoring program this summer as targeted programming to address achievement gaps in the fall,” he said. “We have seen the clear benefits of peer mentorship for at-risk students, and we are finding more ways to expand these programs.”

The Summer Engagement Academy is a new Student Success Center initiative that Richardson said would support incoming students by giving them opportunity to get oriented to campus while taking two credit-bearing courses to ensure they have a smoother, more successful transition from high school to university.

“We build a net,” he said. “Students face difficulties. No support system we have can stand alone. We work collaboratively. There’s not a door we won’t knock on for our students, and there’s no faculty member I couldn’t call and ask for help for a student.”

When students hold up signs of gratitude at commencement, they may be thanking their professors, but Richardson said it’s really about their accomplishment.

“They’re the ones who got there,” he said. “We are here to help them value the ownership of their education. The reason we had such a huge commencement is because of the care we have built in our campus community, and students know they are at the center of that.”

The Student Success Center offers academic coaching, tutoring and other initiatives to keep students on track. Learn more at www.uhcl.edu/student-success-center/.

Rachel Alex did not set out to become a teacher. It’s a profession and a calling that she says chose her rather than the other way around. Now, as she received her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from University of Houston-Clear Lake on May 13, Alex reflected on her journey as well as her experience as part of the College of Education’s largest-ever cohort of doctoral students to graduate.

“I am originally from Los Angeles, but I moved to a small town in Texas,” she said. “There was not much there for me with two small children, but I wanted to work, so I substituted in the school.”

That’s when Alex  began falling in love with the possibilities that existed each day with the students in her classroom. “It wasn’t just about what I could give them,” she said. “It was about what they gave me. To have that feeling that I could see something in them, and they needed me, too. I found myself in a new space and it felt natural, so I decided to be a teacher. I went back and completed my education degree.”

After that,  she never looked back. “I have never regretted that decision,” she said. “This is my life. It chose me. I didn’t know this was what I was going to do.”

She began teaching middle school math in Dayton Independent School District in 1999. “I was on maternity leave and was not even certified yet, but I got a call and was asked if I could take a class for the remainder of the year,” she said. “I got emergency certified and took the class.”

She remembered a principal with whom she had a difficult relationship. “I found out he liked me because I challenged him,” she said. “He was the one who told me to take the next step in leadership in my career, so in 2003, I completed my master’s with principal’s certification. I wasn’t expecting that from him. This was a man  I did not respect, but he saw something in me.”

Until then, she had been content in the classroom, but that principal was the catalyst for her to get her master’s and started her trajectory into leadership.

For the last six years, Alex has been a senior leadership specialist at the Region 4 Education Service Center. It is one of 20 regional education service centers designated by the Texas Education Agency to assist public school and charter districts in improving student performance. “Everything that’s about team building, coaching new and seasoned administrators, evaluation, and anything that supports leadership growth on campus and in districts, that’s what I do,” she explained.

Region 4 covers school districts from Tomball to Hardin, and from Galveston to Sweeney and everything in between.

With achieving a doctorate always in mind, Alex had been interacting with professors from UHCL who came to the service center to become certified in different areas. “I happened to have met Dr. Tom Cothern, a professor in the College of Education at UHCL who has since retired,” she said. “We had gotten to know each other, and he said I would be an excellent candidate for a doctoral program.”

And looking back, Alex said this was one of many things along the way that happened because someone saw something in her.

“He put me in touch with (Associate Professor of Educational Leadership and Doctoral Program Director) Antonio Corrales,” she said. “Dr. Cothern told me that UHCL had a great doctoral program. I spoke with Dr. Corrales and the rest is history.”

She started in the 2020 cohort, and graduated with 14 others—the largest number of doctoral candidates to graduate from the College of Education. Many of them started and finished together. Her cohort was successful because it met often, wrote goals, held each other accountable, and became each other’s support system.

“Your family and friends can support you, but no one outside of the cohort understands how much work it takes,” she said. “To have a group like that come together is one of the most powerful things that can happen. My cohort was incredible.”

She began her coursework with certain expectations. “But what I expected was not what I got,” she said. “I thought I’d get a doctorate. But what I also got was a close connection with brilliant colleagues and professors. Every one of them believed in their students. I didn’t know I would love them as much as I loved the classes.”

She also found that writing a dissertation is nothing like writing anything else.

“We go into our program knowing that our courses will be challenging, but we’ve completed courses before. We knew we could write essays and other kinds of papers because we’ve always done those in the past,” she explained. “But when I accepted that I did not know anything about how to write a dissertation, that’s when it started working. You have to humble yourself to the process. A dissertation is a whole other level of writing and research, and until you’ve done one, you don’t know. You have to take your pride out of the equation.”

At age 52, Alex  learned one more thing: “I’m not too old to learn,” she declared. “I didn’t need a doctorate to do my job better. But it adds credibility and influences the next steps in my life. I have added to the body of literature. My opinion has research behind it. You can’t say you’re an expert without it; otherwise you’ve just written an essay. An essay is not a doctorate.”

Going forward, Alex  hopes to launch a consulting business as a leadership coach, and will return to UHCL as an adjunct professor this summer. “I want to be part of this experience for others,” she said. “I have too much to offer. UHCL has been so good to me. I want to give back.”

UHCL's College of Education offers two doctorates in education. For more information, visit www.uhcl.edu/education/.

On May 13, Farinacci received her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with Core Subjects EC-6 and ESL Supplemental from University of Houston-Clear Lake. “I’m really glad this is where I got my degree,” she said. “I grew up in Pearland and I did not want to go to college far away from home. I met someone who was majoring in education at UH-Clear Lake and she said her experience was rigorous, but very satisfying. That had a lot of influence on my decision.”

She said she’d had many courses with (Assistant Professor of Studies in Language and Culture) Leslie Gauna, who inspired her and kept her going. “Dr. Gauna molded me into who I am now as a teacher, and she taught me what I want to carry into the classroom in terms of diversity and multiculturalism,” she said. “She was my most impactful professor.”

She said each of her professors were willing to go the extra mile. “I had the feeling that in college, my professors wouldn’t care so much about me,” she said. “But every step of the way, even through COVID, my professors were reassuring and supportive and told me to keep on pushing.”

Receiving a teaching internship in Pearland Independent School District  was important to her. “It meant a lot to me to intern in my home district, because I gained so much there,” she explained. “It’s so important to me to give back to my community. I would not be here without the teachers I had growing up. And now, I’m going to be starting my teaching career here.”

Before her internship at E.A. Lawhon Elementary, she thought she might want to teach kindergarten. She was a little worried that her students might have difficulty with her name.

“At the time, I thought ‘Farinacci’ might be a struggle for little kids, so I allowed them to call me Ms. Fairy,” she said. “I had an idea to create a library in my classroom with a magical forest theme. Then I got matched to a third-grade teacher for my internship and I didn’t think the older kids would want to call me Ms. Fairy, but they did. So, now I’m Ms. Fairy.”

She said she would be getting married in September, but for school, she would remain Ms. Fairy. “My fiancé says he doesn’t mind being called ‘Mr. Fairy,’” she joked.

In the fall, she will begin her first year teaching third grade at H.C. Carleston Elementary in Pearland I.S.D. “I have woven the ‘Ms. Fairy’ theme into my future classroom,” she said. “In my mind, I’m envisioning a reading corner with a tree and butterflies. I have a giant wooden ‘F’ with stained glass that a parent painted for me, with a fairy. It’s beautiful.”

Farinacci said she was taking much more than fairies and butterflies into her new classroom. “The most important thing I learned from my time at UHCL is that I need to have good relationships with my students,” she said. “Without that, it doesn’t matter how great the lessons are. Students need to know they are cared for and respected. I learned from my professors that students need to feel valued. Any good instruction will begin with building good relationships.”

She said that although she has graduated, her time at UHCL is not complete. “I’m counting down until I go back for my  master’s degree,” she said.

For more information about undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs available in  UHCL's College of Education, visit www.uhcl.edu/education/.

Associate Professor in Anthropology and Cross-Cultural Studies Maria Curtis said she makes sure she goes to one ceremony a year, if not each semester. She was among approximately  80 professors who attended one of the day’s two sessions.

“I am the first person in my family to walk across a stage and graduate, and I very clearly remember the look on my parents’, grandparents’ and siblings’ faces when 
I graduated, and I realized how meaningful that was,” she said. “I come from a working-class family. They encouraged me to go to school. I had a job—sometimes multiple jobs, and I paid my way and I had scholarships.”

She said that’s when she learned that beyond being in college, education was supposed to bring a kind of ease to life. “You have more options, and you don’t have to have that paycheck-to-paycheck mindset. You can have time to think and do other things,” she said. “It’s fine to be  hard working and I appreciate my parents instilled that in me, but the worry about how to pay for things was not easy. I never thought of myself as a person who would fit into the educational sphere, but then I heard about a scholarship offered through my grandfather’s employer, who had worked very hard in his life.”

 Her grandfather was the one who encouraged her to apply for this scholarship so that she could work less and study more. “The scholarship allowed me to work less and join a research group with my anthropology professor,” she recalled.

She said that was the scholarship that made her think about going on to graduate school and even studying abroad—two things no one in her family had ever done.

“When I graduated, that’s when it dawned on me what a big deal it was. My family really honored it. My grandmother was the child of sharecroppers. She was just beside herself when I graduated.  There are no words to explain how much it meant to her. She said that my education had given me a different confidence, which I hadn’t realized.”

As an anthropology professor, Curtis said that she’d taught students from all over the university because of the diversity course requirement.

“I’m the one who’s reading the list of students graduating in the College of Human Sciences and Humanities,” she said. “I’m so excited to see how many students I know. I think about each student’s struggles and their ups and downs. We all had them. A lot of our job as professors is to just to tell students to keep going and that they can do it.”

She said she reflected on the fact that as she read the names, there was a tremendous lifetime accomplishment behind each one, as well as for the family members sitting in the crowd. “It never bothers me when people are screaming in the audience,” she said. “They are so excited. There is so much joy. They have earned this day.”

 Curtis said that in reading the names before graduation, she identified at least 20 different languages.

“It is incredible to think about our student diversity and take in the fact that there were proud parents and grandparents in the audience whose hopes for their graduates may have once started in so many distant places,” she said.

And as she listens to the shouts from happy family members in the audience, Curtis said she was happy to be with her colleagues in that moment.

“There is a day-to-day grind during the semester with exams, grading, and prepping for teaching, but to see my colleagues in such a happy moment, it’s very special, and it’s an important reminder of why we are here,” she said. “Most of our students are in the same situation I was in. Students think professors operate in a different dimension where things are somehow easier for us, but they don’t realize we faced similar struggles to get our degrees and how much we identify with them.”

And that, she said, is why she goes to commencement.

“I’m reading some of the names of my own students and I’m so excited about that,” she said. “Even if they’re not in my program, I have had many in my classes and I am honored to witness this important rite of passage.”

 She said students often have self-confidence issues to overcome and this is why graduation is so beautiful—they have stuck with it, they did their best, and they grew and persevered. 

“They probably learned that the journey to the end of degree is not about perfection but staying the path, learning new content material, but also learning about how to tap into their own unique strengths,” she said. “They did the work, they made it, and now they’re here.”

The 2020 Covid-19 pandemic created many setbacks in people’s lives, but none of them stopped University of Houston - Clear Lake alumna, Vivian Quintero from achieving her academic goal.  Despite the unknowns, challenges, and adjusting to new norms, the Houston, Texas native completed her Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies at UH- Clear Lake in spring 2020 and got accepted into New England Law | Boston the same semester.  

 “I was making decisions blindly because no one I knew ever experienced anything like that before,” Quintero said. “Not only did the pandemic take away my experience as a graduate, but also as a future law student because I completed my first year of law school online. There were a lot of doubts.”  

When she was finishing her credits at San Jacinto College to transfer into a four-year program, she discovered that UHCL was the best fit. Upon enrolling, she utilized available resources that opened doors for her.  

 “UHCL has a unique introduction to the law that I could not find with other universities. UHCL offered the ability not only to learn about different areas of the law, but also offered the ability to intern at different government offices,” she said. “I interned at the Galveston County District Attorney’s office. I think aside from the academics, UHCL also offered professional legal experience.”  

 She added that (Associate Professor of Legal Studies) Vanessa Johnson influenced her and opened her eyes to many possibilities.

“Prof. Johnson is an attorney. Attending her classes and getting the experience from an attorney directly created that motivation to keep going and reach a level like hers,” she explained. “If it were not for Prof. Johnson, I would not have met Melinda Metz and Linda Telfah, who work at the Galveston County District Attorney’s office. They influenced me as well. They all opened my eyes to what an attorney can do for people.”

She said that her classes in the Legal Studies program were important, but her internship experience at the Galveston County D.A. really allowed her to see the power attorneys can have, and how they can use it for good.

“I would not have had that experience if Prof. Johnson had not opened that door for me,” she said.

Being Latina, Quintero knew how important it would be to have minority representation in the legal profession.   

“There is a space for everyone no matter their shape, background, color, or education level in the legal world. UHCL helped me see that through the opportunities they offer,” she said.  “The intense process with the LSAT exam and applying to numerous law schools to see who would admit me is very intimidating. UHCL helped remove that intimidation because of the resources that were given to me through the Legal Studies program.”  

She added that as a first-generation  Latina, and the first lawyer in her whole family, UHCL offered her everything she needed to succeed. “I could not have achieved that without the resources and assistance that were available to me,” she said.  

Quintero advises students to never settle for less. “UHCL offers so much more when you strive to ask questions and become more informed. I would not have known all about what the Legal Studies program offers if I had not reached out to UHCL directly,” she said. “They were more than happy to help me. UHCL offered me so much and more, and I am forever grateful for that.”  

Quintero currently is a court-appointed attorney with the Department of Justice, offering U.S. citizens legal support through the court system. She will be graduating from New England Law Boston this spring. For more information about UHCL's Legal Studies B.S. Program visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/legal-studies-bs 

Stephanie Martinez became a mother a bit sooner than she expected. She had begun her associate degree at San Jacinto College with a small child, and when her second child was born, and then a third, staying in class became even more challenging.

 But now, as she completes her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with Core Concentration in Early Childhood-6 with Bilingual Supplemental from University of Houston-Clear Lake, she is sharing some of the insights she gained both in and out of the classroom as commencement speaker for the Class of 2023.

“I was so shocked to be asked to be speaker, but so honored,” she said. “I worked hard to be a leader in the Bilingual Education Student Organization, where I was vice president and then president.  I worked hard to be a leader and an example to my children.”

She said her journey toward completing her degree had been difficult. “I had my first baby when I was 17,” she said. “I decided to go to college for nursing, but then after my second child, I stayed home and raised them. I thought it was more important to do that, but after I decided to return in 2018, I found out I was pregnant again.”

The semester after giving birth to her youngest son, she went back to San Jacinto and finally got her associate’s in 2021. “I changed my major to teaching because as a mother, I had seen kids at school who were lacking things and needed help,” she said. “I feel like I have a lot of care to give children, so why not be a teacher and help them be successful?”

She transferred to UH-Clear Lake and said that with the new baby, she could not have continued her coursework without the help of her husband and two older children. “It was very difficult to stay up all night and do homework, after having spent the whole day doing mom things and trying to be supportive of the kids,” she said.

“My older kids gave up playing sports so they could help me and I could focus on school. Now I’m the mother of teens and I can’t leave them to just fend for themselves,” she said. “You can’t expect them to stay on track while you’re getting your life together for them, so I tried to set an example and motivate them to continue their education. That’s why my older sons have their own dreams of being a doctor and an engineer.”

She said a pivotal part of her time at UH-Clear Lake was her participation in BESO. “It was really important for me to be in that organization,” she said. “We are able to show a little more Hispanic culture and advocate for children who want to keep their native language and be multilingual and multicultural. It’s important because some of us lost our language while we were getting our education and we don’t want that to happen to others.”

Her experience in BESO, she said, would help become a better teacher. “It taught me a lot about leadership and being there for the kids,” she said.

For others who are also trying to find a way back to their education while raising small children, Martinez said anything is possible as long as there’s a will for it. “I felt very supported at UHCL,” she said. “I am a first-generation college student and I was a young mother. The odds were not in my favor, but here there is an awesome faculty who make you feel like you matter.”

She said transferring to UHCL had been a good decision. “Actually, it was the best decision,” she said. “Professors here are invested in your success. If you’re willing to give it the time, you can accomplish this.”

Martinez is currently interviewing for a teaching position in area school districts, and hopes to be either a second grade or fifth grade teacher in the fall.

For more information about UHCL's College of Education, go online. 

Joining the Hawk Leadership Institute was one of the best things Marian Lai did when she enrolled after transferring to University of Houston-Clear Lake with her associate degree from Robert Turner College and Career High School in Pearland. The skills she learned in HLI improved her confidence and taught her to embrace her abilities. She’s keeping those in mind as she moves forward with her final assignment as a student at UH-Clear Lake--delivering the commencement speech to the spring Class of 2023.

“When I was told I would be the speaker for commencement, I felt really proud,” Lai said. “Knowing my GPA wasn’t as high as I wanted it to be, I’m glad the search committee took my overall essay into consideration. It was such a full-circle moment for me, as my best friend and I spoke at our high school graduation, and now we will both be speaking at our college graduation.”

Even though the moment would be nerve-racking, Lai said she was grateful. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment and I’m honored to be able to speak in front of my class,” she said.

Lai said she wasn’t the most self-confident person in high school, and the COVID lockdown was extremely difficult. “I definitely have an artistic side, so I started a cookie business,” she said. “I was just bored and stumbled on the idea to make cookies. I started an Instagram page called Iced by Marian and I got a following. I made over $35,000 from baking and decorating cookies and it helped fund my college tuition.”

When she got to UHCL, her participation in the HLI helped her continue her momentum of building her confidence and developing her leadership skills. “I became a student employee in the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership and a peer mentor in HLI,” she said. “That’s where I learned a lot more about myself, how to be a leader, how to benefit from others, and allow them to learn from me as well. There were also a lot of community service opportunities that were helpful.”

Lai’s next step after graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences is to begin a nursing program at Chamberlain University. “Throughout high school, I knew I wanted to work in health care, and I became a registered dental assistant, but it wasn’t for me,” she said. “I found nursing and someday, I’d like to work in a neo-natal intensive care unit as a pediatric nurse.”

Along with her new diploma, Lai says she is taking plenty of confidence with her to her next university. “I came to UHCL to get an education and to build connections, and that’s what I did,” she said. “It was a very good decision to come here. If I had to decide again, I’d do the same.”

UHCL’s spring commencement will be held Saturday, May 13 at NRG Arena, 1 NRG Parkway, Houston. There will be two sessions: the first, for the Colleges of Business and Education, will be at 10 a.m. The second, for the Colleges of Human Sciences and Humanities and Science and Engineering, will be at 2 p.m. For more information, go online. 

Just ahead of University of Houston-Clear Lake’s spring 2023 commencement, graduating students and their families and friends were invited to a drive-thru Soaring Hawks celebration in the circular drive in front of the Bayou Building. Over 400 alumni-to-be registered for the event, organized by UH-Clear Lake’s Director of Alumni Relations Kendra Hakanson.

“Students are very busy, especially those who are looking forward to commencement in less than two weeks,” Hakanson said. “We were looking for a way to congratulate our graduates and welcome them into the Alumni Association in a fun and easily accessible way.”

Since opening its doors almost 50 years ago, over 78,000 people have walked across the stage to receive a diploma. Now, the university offers over 90 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. This semester, 1,269 students have applied for graduation—the university’s highest-ever number of graduates in a semester.

“Our hope is that these new graduates know that their connection to their university does not end when they have walked across the stage,” Hakanson said. “It’s the beginning of a lifelong relationship as an alumnus, and we hope the ‘swag bag’ we gave each soaring Hawk is a reminder of that. Staying connected to UHCL can look different for everyone, and our goal is to make enough opportunities available so there’s plenty to choose from.”

She said alumni are often asked to engage with students through classroom speaking, mentoring, internships and even hiring newly-graduated students into their businesses. “We also like to see our alumni volunteering, nominating fellow alumni for awards, or serving on committees,” she said. “We hope to see our new graduates back on campus very soon.”

For more information about UHCL's spring commencement, go online. 

Christie Whitaker said she’d always known she wanted to write a book for children. But it was a children’s literature class at University of Houston-Clear Lake that inspired her to take an idea she had about Papilio, a tiny butterfly she liked to draw, on an adventure that started out as her final class project, then went to a publisher, and is now on the shelves in the children’s section of local public libraries.

“While I was working on my undergraduate degree in UH-Clear Lake’s College of Education, the class that really turned something on for me was my children’s literature class,” Whitaker said. “It was by far my favorite course. We went over all different authors and genres, and talked about comprehension and vocabulary.”

Her professor asked the class to create a book of any genre targeting the grade level they hoped to teach. “I loved this project more than anything I did in my education degree plan,” she said. “We were supposed to write the book, then read it to the class with enthusiasm, as though we were the teacher. It was nerve racking, but it was a great help to do this project, and it made me see this is what I wanted to do. I’ve always known I had a book in me.”

Her story, “Papilio’s Great Flight,” was inspired by her favorite children’s authors, Eric Carle and Dr. Seuss. Whitaker said she’d based the story on something she’d always loved –doodling butterflies.

“I was always drawing and doodling butterflies, and I researched the smallest butterflies and found it’s the Western Pygmy Blue butterfly. It’s very tiny and it lives in Venezuela,” she said. “So, I based my story’s setting there and made it instructional, with vocabulary terms and I also showed them what the characters really look like at the end of the book.”

The tiny butterfly, whom she named Papilio, is teased for being small and must hide from an emerald green python, who is the villain in the story. “It’s about being kind and inclusive of others, regardless of differences,” she said. “Papilio’s small size helped him hide from the snake and he saves the bigger butterflies from the snake, for which they thank him in the end. It’s about not giving up and striving no matter what the obstacles. I wanted it to be educational, but relatable.”

She made an A on the project, and was told to hold onto the story because it was worthy of publishing. “To hear a professor say my work could be published was really great,” she said.

After graduating in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Education with Core Subjects EC-6 and ESL Supplemental, Whitaker got a job in Calhoun County Independent School District as a kindergarten teacher. Later, her family moved to Galveston and she taught in Galveston ISD. She has taught a total of eight years.

“I said I would hold on to my book because I already had a job secured and I had to take time off to have a baby,” she said. “During that time, I contacted publishers and ended up with Dorrance Publishers. I sent them a laminated book from Home Depot and I did the illustrations myself using computer paper and colored pencil. I was worried about all that, but they liked it.”

She said she’d sent them just one page and told them about her book, but then they called her. “I told them the storyline and we had a lengthy conversation about the process. I took a leap of faith and decided to do it.”

Currently, Whitaker is at home with two small children, but has been invited to read her story in libraries and is planning another book with Papilio taking another daring adventure.

“We’ll do something different this time,” she said. “But the message will always be about being kind and inclusive to people who seem different.”

“Papilio's Great Flight”  is available on Amazon. For more information about UHCL’s College of Education, go online.