Distinguished Alumni Award recipient James Robert “JR” Lay, ’04 BS, ’06 MBA, has built a career helping people and organizations navigate growth and change. His own experience taught him that meaningful growth begins with people.

On a stormy evening in 2004, James Robert “JR” Lay attended a University of Houston-Clear Lake marketing and management event as both a student and a young entrepreneur. He had recently started building websites and came hoping to recruit other students, but attendance was sparse and the evening appeared unlikely to produce much.

Shortly before the event ended, JR met Thomas Hast, then vice president of marketing for JSC Federal Credit Union, now Wellby Financial. A conversation led to a website project, giving JR his first credit-union client and directing his young company toward the financial-services industry.

That connection became the beginning of a career spanning more than 25 years. Over the next two decades, JR built businesses and advised financial institutions across the country and internationally while expanding his work into writing, podcasting and speaking. He became a two-time bestselling author, launched a podcast ranked among the top 3% globally and became a keynote speaker on stages around the world. After building a seven-figure advisory business and the Banking on Digital Growth platform, the business was acquired in 2025. Today, JR is the founder of Built Authority, where he draws on the experience of his own entrepreneurial journey to help other founders become the known and trusted voice in their market.

Those accomplishments and his continued investment in UHCL have earned JR the UHCL Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Award. The recognition honors graduates whose professional accomplishments and contributions to society bring credit to the university.

JR’s career demonstrates that distinction, but its defining feature has not been uninterrupted success. It has been his willingness to reconsider what success means, confront what is not working and use those lessons to help others change.

At UHCL, JR earned a bachelor’s degree in management information systems and an MBA with a marketing focus. His studies helped him connect technology and business strategy with something more fundamental: understanding people.

“Marketing always comes back to people,” JR said. “What do they want? What do they need? What are their questions? What are their concerns? Then you provide them a path to help them get what they want.”

That understanding helped JR build an agency serving credit unions in Houston and eventually across the country. By 2012, the company had reached seven figures and employed approximately 13 people. From the outside, it appeared he had achieved the entrepreneurial success he wanted.

Internally, however, the business was growing faster than JR’s ability to sustain it. Work consumed his time, strained his family and contributed to personal choices he now discusses with candor. A difficult conversation with his wife forced him to confront the difference between the success he projected and the life he was actually living.

With guidance from an adviser, JR dismantled and rebuilt the business with a different understanding of growth. The same adviser asked when he planned to write a book, planting an idea that would later expand JR’s reach from consulting into writing, podcasting and speaking.

His first book, Banking on Digital Growth, was scheduled for publication in March 2020. When the COVID-19 pandemic canceled the speaking tour intended to support its launch, JR created a podcast instead. What began as a response to disruption became another way to reach financial-services leaders and help them navigate technological and cultural change.

The podcast, advisory work and speaking opportunities expanded, but professional momentum again prompted a more difficult question. After JR returned from another trip, his young son asked why he always came home with “a dark cloud” over his head. The question revealed that the work no longer gave JR the fulfillment it once had.

The experience prompted JR to continue reconsidering what growth meant and how he wanted to use what he had learned. In the years that followed, he expanded the Banking on Digital Growth platform through his books, podcast, speaking and advisory work before the business was ultimately acquired in 2025. That transition opened a new chapter for JR: helping other experienced entrepreneurs apply the lessons they’ve learned through both achievement and adversity.

“The greatest fulfillment that you can get is when you transform someone else’s life,” JR said. “That’s the impact.”

That idea now sits at the center of JR’s work through Built Authority. His own experience taught him that some of an entrepreneur’s greatest assets are not simply the businesses they build, but the perspective, judgment and wisdom they develop along the way. He now helps entrepreneurs turn that experience into ideas and intellectual property that can be shared through books, speaking and other platforms.

JR has carried that commitment back to UHCL. He previously served on the Alumni Association Executive Council, recruited UHCL students as his business grew and has returned to campus as a guest lecturer. He remembers how hearing entrepreneur Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale speak in one of his classes allowed him to imagine new possibilities for himself.

“I thought, ‘I want to do that one day. I want to go and help people,’” JR said. “You just never know the impact that you’re going to make on someone. The most important thing is to be yourself, show up, tell your story and tell the truth.”

JR once attended an Alumni Celebration and imagined himself eventually receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award. Looking back, he recognizes that his ambition at the time was tied partly to ego and the desire for external validation. Receiving the award now has prompted a different kind of reflection.

“My first thought was, ‘I’m not that distinguished,’” he said. “I still feel like I’m just getting started. There is so much more to learn and so much more to give.”

That perspective does not diminish the accomplishments the award recognizes. It helps explain their meaning. JR’s distinction lies not only in the businesses he has built or the audiences he has reached, but in his willingness to turn hard-earned lessons into guidance that helps other people move forward.

His experience also demonstrates what can begin when education connects knowledge with opportunity. A conversation at a nearly empty UHCL event helped launch JR’s career, but the larger effect continues through the clients, entrepreneurs and students he now challenges to think differently about what they have learned, what they can contribute and how their experience can create value for others.

Distinguished Alumni Award recipient Troy Finner, ’09 MA, credits his UHCL education with preparing him to lead through complex challenges, build community trust and create opportunities for others.

When Troy Finner enrolled in University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Master of Arts in Criminology program, he was already a lieutenant with the Houston Police Department. He worked approximately 62 hours each week, balancing his police duties and additional employment with classes and family responsibilities.

Finner did not yet know he would eventually lead two police departments. He understood, however, that continuing his education could prepare him for greater responsibility. UHCL helped make that education attainable by offering many of his courses at the CAPE Center, allowing him to pursue a graduate degree while continuing to work full time and support his family.

“I don’t know how I did it, but by the grace of God and a lot of support from family members, close friends and thoughtful, caring professors, I did,” Finner said. “Had it not been for the accommodations of the University of Houston-Clear Lake, I would never have reached the level I was able to reach.”

Finner went on to become executive assistant chief and chief of the Houston Police Department and now serves as police chief for Missouri City. His professional leadership and contributions to community have earned him the UHCL Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Award, which honors graduates whose accomplishments and service have made substantial contributions to society and brought credit to the university.

The scale of Finner’s leadership reflects that distinction. As Houston police chief from 2021 to 2024, he led the largest municipal police department in Texas, overseeing more than 5,000 sworn officers and over 900 civilian employees during a period marked by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened concerns about violent crime. In 2022, HPD reported declines in homicides, robberies, aggravated assaults and rapes.

Finner measures that work less by the size of the department he led than by what greater responsibility allowed him to make possible. As he advanced, he gained more opportunities to enter difficult situations, bring people together and help create better outcomes.

“I love big problems, big solutions,” he said. “Having the ability to reach your hand into something that needs fixing and being part of that process, gathering people, establishing relationships and putting protocols in place, is so powerful and rewarding to me.”

His UHCL degree satisfied an educational requirement for promotion to assistant chief, but its value extended beyond opening the next professional door. Graduate study challenged Finner to examine the history, experiences and perceptions that shape relationships between law enforcement and the communities officers serve.

A course on race and crime taught by Dr. Everett Penn was particularly influential. Finner remembers the workload as demanding, especially while managing the responsibilities of work and family, but the course gave him a fuller understanding of issues he would later confront as a police leader.

Penn approached difficult historical subjects with facts and care, Finner said. The course created room to acknowledge past injustices and examine how they continue to shape people’s experiences without allowing the conversation to end in division. Students were instead challenged to consider what could be learned and how communities could move forward together.

“It made me more complete,” Finner said. “It helped me understand the history of race and crime, how those things relate, the effect they have on people and how they can divide people. But most importantly, how do we move forward?”

That question became central to Finner’s leadership. He came to understand that authority alone cannot produce safer or stronger communities. Effective policing depends upon relationships developed through listening, presence and respect.

Finner describes those relationships as an oak tree. Trust cultivated over many years can withstand periods of conflict and public scrutiny because its roots extend deeper than any single event.

“When people know who you are, and they trust you and respect you, no matter what storm is blowing, that oak tree is always going to be deeply rooted,” he said. “You’re going to lose some leaves. You’re going to lose a few branches, but it’s going to stay planted in the ground.”

Developing those roots requires work that often happens outside public view. Finner points to visiting families during their worst moments, listening to residents whose experiences differ from his own and being present during protests to protect both public safety and the right of people to be heard.

“When we give importance to a person’s perception and life experiences, we can build bridges,” he said. “True community policing is listening to people, hearing them and respecting where they are in life at that moment.”

That commitment also extends to young people. Finner credits parents, relatives, teachers, coaches and neighbors with providing the encouragement and accountability that helped him succeed. He believes officers and other professionals have a responsibility to form meaningful relationships with young people before they encounter a crisis or enter the justice system.

Finner has advocated for youth mentoring programs that help strengthen trust and communication between young people and law enforcement. He describes that support not as a handout, but as a hand up, intended to help young people develop the confidence, judgment and independence to shape their own futures.

“We reach in and pull them up, but we teach them how to be independent and how to think independently,” Finner said. “Nobody is going to make it if they are just left to the side to fend for themselves.”

For younger officers and future public-service leaders, Finner offers a principle that is simple to state and difficult to practice consistently: Do what is right. That requires studying the facts, resisting pressure, using authority responsibly and treating people with dignity, particularly when circumstances are tense.

Finner’s selection for the Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes more than his rise from patrol officer to chief. It reflects how he has applied education, experience and increasing responsibility to confront complex problems, strengthen community relationships and help prepare others to lead.

What began as a working lieutenant’s determination to earn a graduate degree became greater capacity to serve. Finner’s experience shows how access to education can expand one person’s reach from the classroom, to an organization, to the lives of the people and communities that leader is prepared to understand, protect and bring together.

UHCL’s 2026 Early Achievement Award recipient applies human factors research to create products that better serve people.

When technology delivers sensitive health information, seemingly small decisions can carry enormous consequences. The wording of an alert or even its vibration pattern can affect whether someone understands what is happening and knows what to do next. For Angie Avera, ’17 MS, those moments demonstrate why people must remain at the center of product development.

“The whole purpose of products and technology is to make our lives easier and better,” Avera said. “To be able to root what we are doing in a real need and design something to solve that need is so beautiful.”

That commitment has guided Avera’s rapid progression from graduate student to research leader at two of the world’s most recognizable technology companies. In recognition of her professional accomplishments, the University of Houston-Clear Lake Alumni Association selected Avera to receive its 2026 Early Achievement Award, which honors graduates age 45 or younger who have distinguished themselves in their professional lives.

Avera did not begin college knowing that human factors research would become her profession. While earning her bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas at Austin, she explored several disciplines before settling on human development. After graduation, she taught kindergarten English in Thailand before returning home still uncertain about what would come next.

Her first exposure to human factors research came through a project examining human behavior in personal computing. The study measured whether the additional surface area provided by larger laptop touchpads affected how people used them and performed certain tasks. Avera presented the work at a regional conference organized by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society. She remains active in the organization and spoke at its international conference in 2025.

“I was interested in doing work that would do good in the world,” Avera said. “The whole discipline is about building the world around us to suit us and creating products that are safe and easy to use, products that help people do what they are trying to do.”

There, Avera met UHCL professor Nicholas C. Kelling and learned about the university’s applied cognitive psychology program, now offered as the Psychology M.S. with a Human Factors concentration. The program offered the scientific grounding she needed in judgment and decision-making, along with an understanding of sensation and perception. It also emphasized applying that knowledge to challenges outside the classroom.

Faculty members placed students in situations that reflected professional practice. Avera worked on a class project with HP and practiced presenting research to demanding stakeholders, learning how to translate evidence into recommendations that product teams could use. She also completed internships with Houston Methodist, a startup and HP, each made possible through relationships connected to the program.

“Without the applied pieces, I wouldn’t have been as ready to jump into the job that I got at Apple right after graduate school,” Avera said. “The program was designed in a way that absolutely prepared me for my career.”

At Apple, Avera contributed to research supporting health and safety features, including fall and atrial fibrillation detection for the Apple Watch. The work required more than determining whether the technology functioned correctly. Researchers also had to understand how people might respond to unfamiliar or frightening information and how the product could guide them toward an appropriate next step.

After the fall detection feature launched, Avera began hearing from people who believed it had helped save their lives or the lives of family members. Those accounts allowed her to see how the research skills she developed at UHCL could influence someone’s well-being far beyond a laboratory or product-development meeting.

“It makes me proud to know that what we work on touches so many people’s lives,” she said. “It is a big responsibility.”

Avera later joined Peloton, where her role has expanded from conducting research to leading research strategy and developing other researchers. She helped guide research for Peloton Strength+, an app built from the ground up as the company expanded into a new area. Her work has also helped teams understand what encourages people to begin exercising and maintain or return to a routine.

For Avera, meaningful research gives a voice to people who might otherwise be absent from product-development decisions. Without it, teams can design around their own experiences and assumptions, potentially overlooking people who think or interact with technology differently.

“When you do research well, ideally you get products that are actually safe and effective for more people,” she said. “It helps the whole team innovate. It helps us build things that solve problems, rather than design for design’s sake or build for building’s sake.”

As Avera’s influence has grown, so has her responsibility for creating opportunities for others. She now considers coaching and mentoring researchers among the most rewarding parts of her work because it allows her to extend the same kind of support that helped her enter the field.

One member of her team first contacted Avera through LinkedIn and told her, “You have my dream job.” Avera agreed to an informational conversation, and the two stayed connected. When a position later became available, the researcher applied and was hired.

“Now she has her own dream job, which is so cool,” Avera said. “When people reach out for those informational conversations, whether it is a student or someone new to the field, I try to remember that you should want to give back in the same way someone helped you get your foot in the door.”

Avera has maintained that same connection to UHCL by staying in contact with faculty, speaking to classes and meeting with students. Receiving an alumni award also carries special meaning for her family. Her mother, Christy Harper, ’92 BS, ’94 MA, received UHCL’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2016.

Avera views the Early Achievement Award not as a conclusion, but as recognition of a foundation that continues to shape her work. The education and professional relationships she found at UHCL helped her enter a field in which understanding people can lead to safer technology and experiences that improve lives. She is now building on that foundation by making sure the next generation of researchers has opportunities to do the same.

“I don’t think I would have ended up at Apple, and I wouldn’t be at Peloton, if I hadn’t been in that program with those professors at that time,” Avera said. “It all is connected.”

Outstanding Professor Award recipient Heather Kanenberg, Ph.D., combines high expectations with personal support, helping students develop the confidence and professional identity to advocate for others.

Heather Kanenberg watches for the moment when a student begins to believe their voice matters. A student who once hesitated to speak starts contributing more often. Another becomes comfortable asking a question when something is unclear. Over time, students who doubted whether their ideas belonged in the conversation begin to recognize what they have to contribute.

For Kanenberg, program director and professor of social work in University of Houston-Clear Lake’s College of Human Sciences and Humanities, those changes represent more than classroom participation. They show students developing the confidence they will need to advocate for clients, influence policy and serve their communities.

“It’s a joy to see students over the course of their time in the program become more vocal, more confident or assertive in their ideas,” Kanenberg said. “I need to hear you. You’ve got to speak. You have important points to share.”

Kanenberg’s commitment to students has earned her the UHCL Alumni Association’s Outstanding Professor Award. The recognition honors professors who inspire students through teaching, mentoring and active involvement while helping create a sense of community across the university.

Her approach combines encouragement with high expectations. Students need to know their professors are invested in their success, Kanenberg said, but preparing to serve others also requires rigor, responsibility and a willingness to grow.

“I try to be the kind of professor who is supportive and encouraging, but also sets high expectations,” she said. “I love being able to be a part of the students’ development and watching them blossom into the professional social workers they are going to be.”

Students have described Kanenberg as accessible, responsive and willing to make room for their perspectives. Her door is open when they need guidance, and she makes herself available to review drafts, discuss feedback and help students work through challenges inside and outside the classroom.

Those practices extend beyond effective instruction because they reflect the profession her students are preparing to enter. Listening, meeting people where they are and respecting the experiences they bring are foundational principles of social work.

“Making space for others is really at the core of how social workers do their work,” Kanenberg said. “I am always trying to model for students who are learning what social work is and what one social worker can look like.”

Students are not simply acquiring information in Kanenberg’s classroom. They are developing a professional identity shaped by how they are heard, challenged and supported. Their questions also influence her, prompting her to examine topics more deeply, adapt her methods and connect course material to the lives students lead and the communities they will serve.

Kanenberg has watched the students in her program change over time, including a shift toward more traditional college-age students. Yet many continue to balance employment, caregiving, family responsibilities and other demands. Understanding who they are helps her make the material relevant without lowering the expectations of the profession they are preparing to enter.

Their development becomes especially visible during the internships required to complete the social work degree. Kanenberg delights in students stopping by her office to share what they have learned, how they are applying ideas from the classroom and where professional practice has challenged their assumptions.

“Having them come by the office and tell me what they’re getting to do in the community with clients or with their colleagues, and the way they’re using what they’ve learned, is the most fun,” she said.

The results can also be seen when students use their growing confidence to advocate for change, share their experiences with elected officials or engage community leaders. What begins as finding the courage to speak in class can become the ability to speak on behalf of people whose needs might otherwise go unheard.

Kanenberg’s investment in students extends beyond her courses. She has advised the Social Work Student Organization and Phi Alpha Social Work honor society, guided students through the Bachelor of Social Work program and supported the internship experiences that connect academic preparation with community practice. Her work has previously earned her recognition as UHCL’s Faculty Advisor of the Year.

Her university service also reflects the broader qualities recognized by the Outstanding Professor Award. Through faculty leadership and broader university service, Kanenberg has worked to understand how institutional priorities and decisions shape the student experience.

That broader view helps her anticipate how changes may affect students, explain what is happening and connect them with people who can help. It has also strengthened her relationships with faculty and staff whose dedication reinforces what she considers one of UHCL’s defining qualities.

“You are not going to be a face in the crowd,” she tells students. “If you miss a class, I am going to check in with you and ask if you are alright or if there is something you need.”

Kanenberg discovered what teaching could make possible after a mentor invited her to serve as an adjunct at UHCL. By her second week in the classroom, she knew she wanted to make it her career.

Her commitment to UHCL became even clearer after her partner’s work took their family to Northern Virginia in 2010. Kanenberg left believing she was walking away from the best job she would ever have. When the family returned three years later, an opening allowed her to compete in a national search for her former position and come back to the university.

Nearly 20 years into her teaching career, students continue to sustain her commitment. Their determination to earn a degree, develop professionally and improve the lives of others continually challenges her to become a better educator.

The Outstanding Professor Award recognizes Kanenberg’s teaching, mentoring and service, but the strongest evidence of what makes her outstanding can be found in her students. Each one who leaves UHCL more confident in what they know, more willing to use their voice and better prepared to make room for the voices of others carries her influence into the agencies and communities where social workers turn listening into action.

How UHCL’s MHA/MBA program is helping a Houston physician expand his perspective on healthcare leadership 

By the time Dr. Rajan Gadhia enrolled at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, he had already built a career many would consider firmly established. 

A vascular neurologist at Houston Methodist, Gadhia had helped develop and expand a virtual neurology program that brings specialized stroke expertise to patients across the health system. He directs the program, trains future neurologists and holds leadership roles spanning stroke care, concussion treatment and medical education. 

But the more Gadhia worked to improve how care was delivered, the more he began to see another side of healthcare. 

“I feel like we have such a microscopic view of things,” he said of working within a particular profession. “You may be good at what you’re doing right now,” but seeing what else is possible requires exposure to different perspectives. 

For Gadhia, that realization eventually brought him to UHCL’s joint Master of Healthcare Administration/Master of Business Administration program. 

Expanding access to expertise 
Gadhia’s interest in healthcare began early. His mother managed operations for specialty medical practices in Houston, and as a teenager, he spent summers helping in those offices. After shadowing a physician in a hospital, he knew he wanted to practice medicine. 

He completed medical school and neurology training before pursuing a vascular neurology fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. His time there included training in telestroke, then an emerging approach to delivering specialized neurological care remotely. 

Gadhia returned to Houston Methodist with an idea. 

His goal was straightforward: A patient experiencing a stroke should have access to the same level of specialized neurological care regardless of which Houston Methodist emergency room they enter or what time they arrive. 
The virtual neurology program began at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital and eventually expanded across all seven Houston Methodist hospitals and approximately 10 freestanding emergency rooms. 

“We can bring the expert to the bedside 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year,” Gadhia said. 

The experience also exposed him to something medical training had not fully prepared him for. 

Building and expanding a program required more than clinical expertise. It meant developing budgets, demonstrating value, working with hospital executives and making decisions about how limited resources could have the greatest impact. 

As Gadhia began thinking about larger questions of healthcare access and how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence could shape medicine, he wanted to better understand how those decisions are made. 

“I thought I could bring a different side of this,” he said. 

Learning the other side of healthcare 
Gadhia knew he wanted to pursue an MBA, but conversations with mentors and other healthcare professionals led him to UHCL and its dual MHA/MBA program. 

The distinction mattered to him. An MBA could provide a foundation in finance, organizational strategy and business. The MHA offered a deeper understanding of healthcare policy, payer systems, value-based care and the forces reshaping the industry. 

For a physician interested in influencing healthcare beyond individual patient encounters, he wanted both. 

“I don’t think that there’s ever a time where investing in more knowledge is ever going to be a bad thing,” Gadhia said. 

The connection between the classroom and his professional life came quickly. 

In a leadership course, Gadhia and his classmates role-played conversations among physicians, administrators and other stakeholders. At the same time, his own department was experiencing changes in leadership. 

His classmates were not physicians, and their questions forced him to reconsider how he communicated needs that might seem obvious from a clinician’s perspective. 

“Not everyone understands exactly what I’m saying,” he recalled realizing. “So I need to break it down and make it very clear.” 

Finance courses provided another shift in perspective. Gadhia learned to read budgets and statements of operations and gained a greater understanding of the responsibilities facing administrators managing expenses, revenue and resources. 

Rather than viewing a clinical need only through the lens of what would provide the best care, he could better understand the larger organizational question: Why should the institution make this investment, what resources will it require and how does it advance a longer-term strategy? 

“I was able to step back and say, ‘I get it. Everyone is just playing their part,’” he said. 

Investing in what comes next 
Gadhia expects to complete the MHA/MBA program in December. Finishing it while maintaining a clinical practice, raising two young children and fulfilling his leadership responsibilities has required sacrifice. 

He describes the experience as a “labor of love.” 

“I didn’t need to go back to get an MBA/MHA to continue being a physician,” he said. “I needed it to be able to get to the next level and to be able to grow.” 

For Gadhia, that next level is not necessarily a new title. It is the ability to enter conversations about the future of healthcare equipped to understand both the clinical and organizational sides of the decisions being made. 

He can now look at a budget or statement of operations, understand what it means, question it and contribute to a broader discussion about an organization’s goals and strategy. 

Three years ago, he said, he could not have done that. 

Now, as Gadhia looks toward the next challenges facing healthcare, he sees his medical expertise and his UHCL education as complementary tools for addressing them. 

“You will never go wrong investing in knowledge,” he said. 
 

The University of Houston-Clear Lake Psychological Services Clinic will offer free mental health screenings to the public from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, in recognition of World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10.

The screenings are intended to help participants identify possible signs of mental health concerns and determine whether additional support or services may be appropriate. Adults may participate, as well as adolescents whose parent or guardian is present to provide written consent.

Screenings take approximately 20 to 30 minutes and include a brief interview and rating scales. Based on the results, clinic staff may provide participants with informational resources, recommendations or referrals for additional services.

Appointments are not required but are requested and may be scheduled by calling the clinic at 281-283-3330. Screenings will take place at the Psychological Services Clinic in the Arbor South Building on the UHCL campus, 2700 Bay Area Blvd. A voucher for free parking will be available to participants who park in designated visitor spaces in front of Arbor South.

“Mental health screenings can provide people with an important first step in understanding what they may be experiencing and whether additional support could be helpful,” said James Upright, Ph.D., director of the Psychological Services Clinic. “For many people, knowing where to begin can be one of the barriers to seeking care.”

The free screening event reflects the clinic’s broader role as a community mental health resource. The PSC provides psychological evaluations and therapy services to UHCL students and members of the surrounding community, with fees structured on a sliding scale to make services more affordable and accessible.

Upright said the clinic often serves individuals and families who may be uninsured, underinsured or seeking lower-cost options for psychological services. The clinic also provides a local resource for residents in the southeast Houston and Bay Area region who might otherwise need to travel farther for care.

“We want people in this community to know there is an accessible mental health resource here at UHCL,” Upright said. “The clinic allows us to serve individuals and families while also giving our graduate students meaningful, supervised clinical experience as they prepare to enter the mental health workforce.”

Services at the PSC are provided by graduate students studying clinical psychology and school psychology under the direct supervision of licensed UHCL faculty and staff.

Upright said the clinic sees a wide range of concerns among children, adolescents and adults, including anxiety, depression, attention and learning concerns, developmental and social-communication concerns, and stress associated with major life circumstances and caregiving responsibilities.

For individuals who may be unsure whether their experiences warrant additional care, a screening can help provide information and direction.

“Sometimes the most important thing a screening can do is help someone recognize that what they are experiencing is worth paying attention to,” Upright said. “From there, we can help connect them with appropriate services and resources.”

Individuals who require an accommodation to participate should contact the clinic in advance at 281-283-3330 or uhclpsc@uhcl.edu.

Before Alti Rahman was helping shape strategy and innovation in cancer care, he was working directly with people navigating another complex part of the healthcare system. As a mental health case worker in Dallas, Rahman helped clients transition from inpatient to outpatient care. The work often extended well beyond connecting someone with treatment. He saw firsthand how access to transportation, nutritious food and stable housing could influence whether someone was able to successfully move forward. 

The experience changed the direction of his career. Rahman had been pursuing a master's degree in professional counseling, but his work exposed him to the administrative complexities surrounding care. He began thinking about where he could have the greatest impact: delivering care within the existing system or helping address some of the policies and processes that shaped how that care was delivered. 

"If I want to make true change," Rahman recalled thinking, "can I influence administrative policies that create restrictions and obstructions in care processes?" 

He changed course, returned to Houston and began researching healthcare administration programs. That search brought him to the University of Houston-Clear Lake, where he was able to connect his interest in population health and the social factors affecting patients with a deeper understanding of healthcare administration. 

Finding a Path into Oncology 
At UHCL, an internship opportunity would help shape the next chapter of Rahman's career. Through a connection facilitated by the Healthcare Administration program, he secured an internship with Oncology Consultants, a Houston-area community oncology practice. His first assignment was hardly theoretical: A major health insurer had placed the practice out of network, and Rahman was tasked with helping analyze the data and understand why. 

The project offered an early introduction to the intersection of patient care, payment systems and healthcare operations. "That gave me all the confidence that not only did I like the private practice space, but I loved the complexity of oncology," he said. The internship became the beginning of nearly 15 years with Oncology Consultants. 

Cancer care appealed to Rahman in part because of that complexity. A patient's journey can involve physicians, hospitals, surgeons, insurers and other providers while also being influenced by behavioral, social, environmental and genetic factors. Improving care requires those different pieces to work together. Yet behind all that complexity, Rahman said, is something deeply personal. 

Decisions That Reach the Patient 
For healthcare administrators, discussions about operations, costs, treatment options and organizational strategy can involve systems and numbers. For patients and their families, those decisions can affect some of the most important moments of their lives. 

"Many times the cancer patient is thinking through their journey from a perspective of key milestones," Rahman said. A patient may be hoping to reach a child's next birthday, see a grandchild graduate from kindergarten or attend a child's wedding. Advances in cancer treatment are creating more opportunities for patients to reach those milestones, he said, while the growth of precision medicine is increasingly allowing treatment decisions to account for the unique characteristics of an individual patient and their cancer. 

That patient-centered perspective has remained important as Rahman's responsibilities have expanded. Today, as chief strategy and innovation officer for American Oncology Network, Rahman helps establish strategic priorities and monitor their execution. The role has also expanded the scale at which he can think about cancer care. After spending much of his career focused on a practice in Texas, he now works within a network with a presence across much of the country. 

"It's truly a privilege," he said, "to understand and perhaps create some influence across almost half the states in the country in terms of cancer patient experience." 

Preparing for What's Next 
Rahman sees significant change ahead for healthcare, particularly as the industry confronts workforce shortages while caring for a growing population of patients. Technology, including artificial intelligence, could be part of the response by helping clinicians navigate the enormous amount of information involved in modern medicine while reducing some of the administrative complexity that can take time and attention away from patient care. 

In oncology, where treatments are increasingly tailored to the individual characteristics of a patient's cancer, that ability could become increasingly important. But for all the technology reshaping the field, Rahman believes one fundamental element of healthcare remains unchanged. " Despite advances in technology, healthcare will always be a people- and relationship-oriented industry," he said. 

It is a lesson that also connects back to his experience at UHCL. Rahman said the Healthcare Administration program helped him understand healthcare payment models and operations while reinforcing the importance of continuing to learn in an industry that can change dramatically in a short period of time. Going to class, completing projects and finishing an internship are only a beginning; healthcare professionals have to continue learning throughout their careers. 

That message was among those Rahman brought back to UHCL when he recently returned to speak with current Healthcare Administration students. Walking a different campus than the one he remembered and reconnecting with former professors, he found that students today have tools that barely existed when he was beginning his career. They can follow industry leaders, encounter new ideas and build professional networks online, but Rahman reminded them that digital connections cannot entirely replace something he learned early in his career. 

"You don't want to lose the importance of human connectivity and networking," he said. 

That principle stretches from the classroom to the executive suite and, ultimately, back to the patient. Healthcare will continue to change as technology advances, new treatments emerge and organizations adapt, but for Rahman, the reason for navigating all that complexity remains consistent: creating a healthcare system that works better for the individual person depending on it. 

For a long time, Sadia Nizam wondered how the different parts of her life fit together. She had studied medicine, spent years raising three children and then returned to college to pursue an entirely different calling in education.

Now, as she prepares to graduate from the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Master of Arts in Teaching program, Sadia sees those experiences differently. None of them, she says, were wasted. Each is contributing to the teacher she is becoming.

Sadia earned a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in Pakistan, building a strong foundation in science, critical thinking and problem-solving. After moving to the United States, she became deeply involved in her children’s education and encouraged their participation in science fairs, conferences and other STEM programs.

Watching her children learn also gave Sadia a close-up view of the influence educators can have on a child’s confidence, curiosity and future. Over time, she realized she wanted to have that same impact on other children.

“Teaching and helping children learn was where I truly wanted to be and where I belong,” Sadia said.

Her husband encouraged her to pursue that realization, offering to take on more responsibilities at home so she could return to school. His advice also helped her see that changing directions did not mean starting over. She was bringing everything she had already learned and experienced with her.

Her path at UHCL required similar persistence. Sadia initially sought admission to the MAT program but instead began in the post-baccalaureate teacher certification program in spring 2025. She maintained a 4.0 GPA while continuing to pursue her original goal and, with encouragement from College of Education faculty, transitioned into the MAT program in January 2026.

For Sadia, the program has provided a bridge between understanding science and understanding how children learn.

“I know the science, but I didn’t know how to teach,” she said. “The MAT program gave me the foundation.”

That foundation became tangible during field experiences in area schools. While working with fourth-grade students in mathematics, Sadia conducted one-on-one conferences and small-group instruction. She remembers the satisfaction of watching students finally understand concepts they had struggled to grasp.

“When they get it, and the happiness you get and the accomplishment they get, it’s amazing,” she said. “I was like, ‘Yeah, I want to do this.’”

Those experiences are shaping the classroom Sadia hopes to create, one where students feel safe asking questions, trying something new and making mistakes. She especially wants children to understand that STEM is not reserved for scientists and engineers.

For young students, she said, STEM can begin with simple questions about what they notice, what they think will happen or how they might make something work better. Building, sorting, comparing, measuring, observing, testing and redesigning all tap into something children already possess.

“Children are naturally curious,” Sadia said.

Sadia has intentionally sought opportunities to develop that curiosity in herself as well. Dr. Omah Williams-Duncan, her science methods professor, connected her with STEM experiences including NASA-related events and UHCL’s KidsU, where Sadia worked with students from kindergarten through seventh grade. Dr. Sue Chapman supported her development in mathematics education and recommended her for the Cynthia L. Schneider Mathematics Preservice Teacher Scholarship, which Sadia was selected to receive.

Another mentor, Nicole Ram, STEM coach at Melillo Middle School, shared the opportunity that led to Sadia’s latest achievement: selection for the inaugural NASA Texas Space Grant Consortium (TSGC) STEM Ambassador for the 2026–2027 academic year.

Through the program, Sadia will promote STEM education on campuses, in schools and throughout the community while connecting students with opportunities including grants and scholarships. For Sadia, her selection also reinforced something she has experienced repeatedly during her own journey: the difference one person can make by recognizing someone’s potential and opening a door.

That includes faculty members such as Dr. Rebecca Huss-Keeler, who encouraged Sadia not to give up on her goal of entering the MAT program, and Dr. Carol Waters, who helped her navigate the transition and develop a path toward completing her degree.

“I think one thing I’ve learned from all of them is how powerful it can be when an educator notices someone’s potential and connects them with an opportunity,” Sadia said.

Now completing her clinical teaching and expecting to graduate in December, Sadia is already considering what comes next. She is interested in eventually pursuing a doctoral degree at UHCL and hopes to one day mentor and encourage future educators herself.

It would bring her journey full circle. Sadia entered education after seeing what teachers could make possible for her own children. Along the way, educators and mentors did the same for her. Now she is preparing to become the person who sees potential in a student, encourages curiosity and opens a door that might change the direction of someone else’s life.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake has been approved to join the Texas Leadership Scholars Program for the Fall 2027 cohort, giving current Texas high school seniors a new opportunity to pursue the statewide scholarship and leadership program at UHCL.

The Texas Leadership Scholars Program supports high-achieving students with financial need through a combination of financial assistance and high-impact experiences, including mentoring, leadership development, undergraduate research and professional development.

“Joining the Texas Leadership Scholars Program reflects our commitment to expanding opportunity while ensuring students have the support and experiences they need to succeed,” UHCL President Richard Walker said. “We look forward to welcoming our first scholars and helping them develop their talents, pursue their ambitions and prepare to make a difference in their professions and communities.”

Each year, 250 students statewide are selected as Texas Leadership Scholars. Eligible students must demonstrate financial need and academic achievement as well as leadership and service in their high school or community.

Texas Leadership Scholars may receive renewable financial support for up to four years or eight long semesters, provided they continue to meet program requirements. Participating institutions ensure that board-designated tuition and fees are covered through a combination of federal, state and institutional aid, based on financial need. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board also provides scholars with housing and food support based on the average cost at their institution.

The program extends beyond financial assistance. Scholars participate in mentoring and professional development and have opportunities to pursue undergraduate research, job shadowing, networking, leadership programming and summer experiences. They also become part of a statewide network designed to support their academic, personal and professional development.

“At its core, this program is about helping students turn opportunity into long-term success,” said Eric Tack, UHCL associate vice president for Student Success. “Our scholars will have access not only to financial support, but also to mentors, leadership experiences and opportunities that help them build confidence, make meaningful connections and prepare for what comes after graduation.”

Applications for the fall 2027 Texas Leadership Scholars cohort open Oct. 1, 2026, and close Feb. 16, 2027. Applicants must be graduating seniors from accredited Texas public high schools, including open-enrollment charter schools, and meet the program’s financial need, academic, leadership and enrollment requirements.

Students applying for the program may rank up to three participating universities to which they have applied, including UHCL. Students selected for a Texas Leadership Scholars award must enroll full time at the participating institution that awards the scholarship to become part of that institution’s scholar cohort.

Students receive access to the Texas Leadership Scholars application through a staff member at their high school.

For more information about eligibility and the application process, visit the Texas Leadership Scholars Program website.

University welcomes one of its largest freshman classes and its largest transfer cohort in five years

The University of Houston-Clear Lake welcomed one of the largest freshman classes in its history this fall, with Official Reporting Day data showing a 17% increase in first-time freshmen over Fall 2025.

Transfer enrollment also increased 7.5%, giving UHCL its largest incoming transfer class since 2021. Together, UHCL enrolled over 1,500 new undergraduates. The gains reflect growing momentum among students who choose UHCL to begin their college experience or to continue their education after attending another institution.

“The growth of our freshman and transfer student populations reflects increasing confidence in UHCL and the education we provide,” UHCL President Richard Walker said. “More students are choosing UHCL as the place to pursue their ambitions, prepare for meaningful careers, and build a stronger future for themselves and their communities.”

Overall enrollment remained relatively stable at over 7,900 students. While headcount remained near last year’s level, semester credit hours increased for the second consecutive fall.

Semester credit hours reflect the total amount of coursework in which students are enrolled and provide another important measure of enrollment strength and student progress. The increase indicates that UHCL students are carrying a greater collective academic course load as they advance toward completing their degrees.

The growth in first-time freshmen continues UHCL’s evolution as a destination for students entering college directly from high school. At the same time, the increase in transfer students reinforces one of the university’s longstanding strengths. Transfer students make up a significant portion of UHCL’s undergraduate population, and the university continues working with community colleges and other educational partners to create clearer pathways toward earning a bachelor’s degree.

“These results reflect the focused work happening across the university to reach students earlier, simplify the enrollment process, and help them understand the opportunities available at UHCL,” said Ann Theodori, vice president for strategic enrollment management. “The growth is especially meaningful because it includes students entering through different pathways. Whether they are beginning college with us or transferring to complete their degree, our responsibility is to support them from enrollment through graduation.”

The Fall 2026 results reflect continued efforts to expand access, strengthen recruitment, and make earning a four-year degree more attainable. Through increased outreach, stronger educational partnerships, and affordability initiatives, UHCL is creating clearer pathways for students to enter college, remain on track, and earn their degrees.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake is among the top public universities and best value colleges in Texas, with several rankings climbing significantly in the 2027 Niche College Rankings.

UHCL ranked No. 7 among Top Public Universities in Texas and No. 7 among Best Value Colleges in Texas, improving from No. 11 in both categories last year. The university also earned the No. 1 spot among Best Value Colleges in the Houston area.

The university also climbed to No. 11 on the Best Colleges in Texas list, up from No. 17 last year, placing UHCL among the state's leading institutions across public and private universities.

“These rankings reinforce what we want every student and family to know about UHCL. A high-quality university education can be within reach,” UHCL President Richard Walker said. “Our focus is on providing students with the academic experiences, support and opportunities they need to succeed, while ensuring the investment they make in their education creates lasting value.”

UHCL also made significant gains nationally. The university moved into the top 100 public universities in America at No. 89, up from No. 127 last year, and climbed 93 spots to No. 192 among Best Colleges in America.

UHCL's national Best Value ranking showed similar momentum, rising 52 places from No. 121 to No. 69. Niche gave the university an A- for value, with the 2027 ranking representing UHCL's strongest position in the five years included in the report.

The recognition comes as UHCL continues to expand opportunities for students through new academic programs, industry and community partnerships, and efforts to make a four-year degree more accessible and affordable.

Niche's Best Colleges rankings combine academic, admissions, financial and student-life data from sources including the U.S. Department of Education with reviews from students and alumni. Academic quality carries the greatest weight in the Best Colleges methodology, followed by value, which considers factors such as student debt, alumni earnings and students' perceptions of the value of their education.

New agreement creates direct pathway to UHCL for eligible Dickinson ISD students beginning with Fall 2027 applicants

The University of Houston-Clear Lake and Dickinson Independent School District today launched a new Guaranteed Admission partnership creating a clear, direct pathway to a four-year university for eligible Dickinson ISD students. 

The agreement, UHCL's first Guaranteed Admission partnership with a school district, has the potential to benefit approximately 515 Dickinson ISD seniors. University and district leaders formally recognized the partnership during a signing ceremony on Thursday, August 27, at UHCL.

"Students should be able to see a clear path from where they are today to where they want to go next," UHCL President Richard Walker said. “Through this partnership with Dickinson ISD, we're helping remove uncertainty from that journey. Combined with our efforts to make a college education more affordable, we're showing students and families that a four-year degree at UHCL is within reach.”

Beginning with the Fall 2027 application cycle, participating Dickinson ISD students with a calculated unweighted GPA of at least 2.75 on a 4.0 scale can secure guaranteed admission to UHCL by completing the university's application and submitting an official transcript. SAT or ACT scores are optional for admission, and the university's $45 application fee will be waived for qualified students. Some academic programs may have additional admission requirements.

“This partnership with the University of Houston-Clear Lake is about more than automatic admission—it is about opening doors and helping our students see what is possible for their future,” Dickinson ISD Superintendent Dr. Rebecca Brown said. “When a student knows that a four-year university is within reach, right here in our own community, college becomes more than a dream; it becomes a real and attainable plan. We want every Gator to graduate knowing they have options, opportunities, and people who believe in their potential.”

The Guaranteed Admission partnership is part of UHCL's broader effort to expand both access and affordability for students throughout the region. Beginning in Fall 2027, qualifying Texas students from families with adjusted gross incomes of up to $100,000 may have tuition and mandatory fees covered through UHCL's expanded Hawk Promise program.

Together, Guaranteed Admission and Hawk Promise address two significant considerations for students and families: providing a clear pathway to admission and helping make earning a four-year degree more affordable. Students must independently meet the eligibility requirements for each program. 

Through the partnership, Dickinson ISD students will also be connected with UHCL admissions counselors and information about academic programs, campus life, scholarships and financial aid as they prepare for college.

Students and families can learn more about Guaranteed Admission at https://www.uhcl.edu/admissions/apply/freshman/guaranteed-admission and Hawk Promise at https://www.uhcl.edu/costs-aid/types/hawk-promise.

Gaining professional experience can be an important step toward launching a career, but for students balancing classes, jobs and other responsibilities, fitting a traditional internship into an already busy schedule isn't always easy.

The Center for Career Development, part of the Division of Student Affairs at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, is expanding the ways students can gain that experience through a new micro-internship program offering short-term, paid professional projects that can be completed virtually and on a flexible schedule.

"Many of our students are already working, and a traditional internship may not always fit into their schedules," said Dr. LaMar Black, director of UHCL's Center for Career Development. "Micro-internships give them another way to gain experience in their field of study and build skills that can help prepare them for the workforce."

Dr. Tina Powellson, vice president for Student Affairs, said the program reflects the Division of Student Affairs’ commitment to student success. 

“Micro-internships reflect the Division of Student Affairs’ vision of expanding access to transformative opportunities that support students’ academic, personal and professional success,” Powellson said. “By connecting classroom learning with real-world experience, this innovative approach helps students build career readiness, develop professional skills and pursue their goals without the traditional time commitment of an internship.” 

Micro-internships allow students to work on real-world projects for employers without the time commitment of a traditional semester-long internship. Projects may last anywhere from a week to several weeks and are designed to give students practical experience they can add to their résumés and discuss with future employers.

Through UHCL's partnership with Parker Dewey, students can explore available projects and apply for opportunities that align with their interests, skills and career goals. Employers review applicants and select students to complete their projects.

Because the projects are virtual and do not require designated work hours, students can complete the work around their existing schedules.

That flexibility is particularly relevant at UHCL, Black said, where many students are balancing their education with employment and other responsibilities.

"We want students to have opportunities to gain experience within their field of study, even if they aren't able to commit to a traditional internship," Black said. "These projects give students another pathway to build that experience and become more marketable as they transition into the workforce."

The program is also open to UHCL's international students, providing another avenue for students who may encounter additional limitations when pursuing traditional internship opportunities.

The micro-internship initiative is part of a broader effort by the Center for Career Development to connect students' academic experiences with their professional goals. The center provides career coaching, résumé and interview assistance, internship and job search support, career fairs, networking opportunities and other resources designed to help students prepare for the workforce.

For Black, the long-term measure of success will be how many students use micro-internships to gain experiences they might not otherwise have been able to pursue.

"Success is seeing UHCL students take advantage of these opportunities," Black said. "We want them gaining experience in their fields and building the workforce knowledge they'll need when they take that next step."

Students interested in micro-internships and other career resources can learn more through the UHCL Center for Career Development.

Family income eligibility increases to $100,000 beginning with the Fall 2027 application cycle

Beginning with the Fall 2027 application cycle, the University of Houston-Clear Lake will increase the family income eligibility threshold for its Hawk Promise program, allowing more Texas students to qualify for tuition and mandatory fee support.

Eligible first-time-in-college freshmen and transfer students from families with adjusted gross incomes (AGI) of up to $100,000 may qualify to have their tuition and mandatory fees covered through Hawk Promise. The previous family income threshold was $65,000.

The expanded eligibility reflects UHCL's continued commitment to increasing access to higher education and making a bachelor's degree more affordable for students and families across Texas.

"At UHCL, we believe every student should have the opportunity to earn a college degree without financial barriers standing in the way," said President Richard Walker. “Increasing the Hawk Promise income threshold allows us to support more students and families while advancing our mission of expanding access to higher education.” 

Hawk Promise has long supported first-time-in-college students and expanded to include eligible transfer students beginning in Fall 2026. The increased income threshold further broadens access to the program, particularly for middle-income families who may not have previously qualified for assistance.

Transfer students are a defining part of the UHCL community, representing approximately 70% of the university's undergraduate student population. Many begin their educational journey at community colleges or other institutions before transferring to UHCL to complete a bachelor's degree.

"Expanding Hawk Promise to transfer students has been an important step in increasing access to a UHCL education," said Dr. Ann Theodori, vice president for strategic enrollment management. “Combined with the higher income threshold, the Hawk Promise allows us to support more students on their path to a bachelor's degree.”

Students are automatically considered for Hawk Promise through the admissions and financial aid process. A separate Hawk Promise application is not required.

To be eligible, students must meet the program's residency, enrollment, academic and financial aid requirements. Prospective students planning to enroll beginning with the Fall 2027 application cycle are encouraged to apply for admission and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible.

Complete eligibility requirements and application deadlines are available on the UHCL Hawk Promise webpage.

Through an internship with V2X, leadership experiences and a network of campus mentors, UHCL finance student Aiman Fatima discovered a career path she never imagined while proving that determination can open unexpected doors.

At 15, Aiman Fatima's education came to an unexpected stop.

Forced to leave high school and move to Pakistan, she refused to let that be the end of her story. Determined to continue her education, she learned to read and write Urdu so she could complete Pakistan's board examinations, passing all 14 exams. When she later returned to the United States, she discovered those credentials would not transfer, requiring her to begin again.

Fatima earned her GED, completed an associate degree in real estate from Houston Community College, obtained her real estate license and, while raising her young son, transferred to the University of Houston-Clear Lake to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Finance.

Today, she is preparing to graduate while gaining hands-on experience through an internship with V2X, where she supports federal procurement for a contract within the NASA Johnson Space Center ecosystem.

"I never thought as a high school dropout I would be working in anything like this," Fatima said.

The opportunity came through UHCL's Strategic Partnerships Office after program manager Bernie Streeter connected her with the internship.

"I was trying to find a work-study that could help cover some of the costs," Fatima said. "Thankfully this one came up."

The internship has introduced Fatima to a side of the aerospace industry she had never considered. Working alongside procurement professionals, she reviews purchasing requests, helps ensure compliance with federal requirements and supports logistics operations while gaining experience with the systems and processes used throughout the industry.

"Procurement was something I hadn't even thought about," she said. "Getting my finance degree, the only things that came to my mind were financial investment or analysis or working in a bank somewhere. This is something new, and I actually really enjoy it."

For Fatima, the internship has reinforced what she is learning in the classroom while opening the door to new career possibilities.

"The education that I'm getting from UHCL right now, it's more theory-based, whereas this internship is giving me a different perspective," she said. "We get to work in systems that companies are actually using and gain experience that's not something we're getting at UHCL."

Under the guidance of her manager, Lori Boydston, Fatima has explored career paths in procurement, contract management and aerospace operations while learning about professional certifications that can help advance her career.

"When I first heard about this facility, I didn't even know it existed," Fatima said. "Working here helped me realize there are other aerospace companies you can work for like KBR, Boeing and Raytheon. Now I can actually look into them and think, 'Hey, I can work here.'"

While her internship prepared her professionally, getting involved on campus transformed her college experience.

After spending much of her first year taking online classes, Fatima joined the Campus Activities Board (CAB) to meet other students and become more involved on campus. She now serves as vice president after previously serving as Hawks Spirit and Traditions coordinator.

"My only goal at that time was, 'I need to get out and interact with people,'" she said.

Through CAB, Fatima attended the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) Leadership Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, where she developed leadership and communication skills she continues to use in the classroom, during her internship and in everyday life. She credits Calvin Nguyen and Dr. Jordan Jones in Student Engagement for encouraging her growth as a student leader and introducing her to additional opportunities, including the Hawk Leadership Institute.

"Working with CAB has forced me to step up and be more open to public speaking, be more open to initiating conversations," Fatima said. "You're going to make connections, you're going to socialize and you have to make people feel comfortable."

Fatima said getting involved on campus also introduced her to people and resources that shaped her UHCL experience.

"If you're not putting yourself out there, you're unaware of these opportunities," she said. "Working on campus allowed me to create connections. I learned about scholarships, internships and resources that I otherwise would not have known about."

She also credits Professor Donna Bright Noll with helping her develop confidence as a communicator and encouraging her to embrace public speaking.

Ultimately, Fatima believes her journey is about more than overcoming obstacles.

"I don't think it's about the hardships I faced, but rather about the choice to never give up," she said. "Life has thrown a lot at me, but I never let it stop me."

After graduation, Fatima hopes to continue building a career in aerospace procurement or contract management before returning to UHCL to pursue her Master of Business Administration.

More than anything, she hopes her son sees what perseverance can accomplish.

"I want to be someone my son looks up to," she said. "I want to show him by example that giving up is never an option, that you have to keep trying and that you will get there eventually."

Looking back, Fatima says every opportunity built on the one before it.

"My story is proof that where there is a will, there is a way, and you have to seize every single opportunity you get," she said.

Added this year: the opportunity for UHCL students to produce and put on their own work through The Storytellers, an all-student troupe that gives up-and-coming writers, directors, and other performers the opportunity to pursue their craft. On November 13-14, The Storytellers will showcase “Dakota Gray,” an adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s “The Picture of Dorian Gray.” Reimagined with a Y2K twist, “Dakota Gray” follows a rising model who has her wish for eternal youth fulfilled. As her career and lifestyle soar, however, the hidden cost of her pleasure-filled life slowly corrupts her soul.

“We’re pleased to see The Storytellers return this year, this time with an all-student creative team, cast, and crew,” Davis said. “The theater is proud to provide UHCL students the space to display their artistry, get performance experience, and showcase their talent to the public.”

Also returning to the Bayou Theater will be the Classical Series with the Mercury Chamber Orchestra (MCO) in three separate performances: a program of Bach and Mendelssohn on October 28; Mozart and Dvorak on January 20, 2027; and “Music from Quebec” with music shaped by the fusion of French roots and Celtic influences on March 15, 2027. “Bayou Theater audiences have grown to cherish the Mercury Chamber Orchestra, and this season’s performances will continue that love affair,” Davis said.

Houston’s Main Street Theater for Youth also returns to the Bayou on February 26 with “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,” a fast-paced slapstick adventure especially appealing to grade-school kids and anyone else who loves to laugh. “This charming production is a perfect first-theater experience for young audiences,” Davis said.

A variety of ticket packages are available, and parking is provided at no cost to theater-goers. Tickets can be purchased beginning July 17 at uhcl.edu/bayou-theater or by calling 281-283-3024. To stay informed about upcoming events, sign up for the Bayou Theater’s monthly Arts Connect Newsletter.

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.

For years, commencement at the University of Houston-Clear Lake was familiar territory for Dr. Uttam Pokharel.

As an associate professor of chemistry in UHCL’s College of Science and Engineering, he had watched countless students prepare to cross the stage. He had attended ceremonies as faculty, celebrated graduates from the audience, and experienced the excitement that fills the arena each spring.

But this year felt different.

This time, his daughter, Shradha Pokharel, was among the graduates.

“We all went together as a family in the same car,” Shradha said. “That was definitely a very special and unique moment for me because it’s like I am graduating, but then also my dad is in his regalia as a faculty member. So it’s both of us going together.”

For Uttam, the moment carried years of memories with it.

“I remember all those days when she was going to her first class, first school day, up to that point,” he said. “I memorized all those events, all those dates. That was very special for me. It was emotional.”

The journey that brought them both to UHCL started long before commencement day.

Shradha was about three years old when the family came to the United States from Nepal while Uttam pursued his academic career. Over the years, the family moved to different cities as his career evolved, eventually leading them to UHCL.

“Wherever I took her, she adapted,” Uttam said. “That is her qualification.”

By the time Shradha arrived at UHCL as a student, higher education was already a familiar part of her life. She had grown up watching her father teach, conduct research, and attend professional chemistry conferences. Those experiences helped spark her own interest in science.

“I was always very interested in chemistry as a child,” she said. “As early as third or fourth grade, I started memorizing the periodic table.”

That interest continued to grow through high school and into college, eventually leading her toward organic chemistry and work as a tutor helping fellow students navigate one of science’s more challenging subjects.

“I definitely felt a very big passion toward organic chemistry,” she said. “I hope I can share that passion with my students and help them break down the concepts better.”

Today, Shradha is preparing for her next step: applying to pharmacy school, where she hopes to combine her love of chemistry with her desire to help others through healthcare.

For Uttam, seeing his daughter pursue a path connected to science has been a source of pride, particularly because he said her success has always been driven by her own determination.

“She is a very honest student and very hardworking,” he said. “Even if we live in the same house, she was never dependent on my help academically. Typically, she does not ask those types of things.”

Despite sharing the same campus and even the same discipline, both father and daughter said they intentionally maintained professional boundaries at the university.

“She used to call me ‘doctor’ while she was in class, and I treated her in the same way,” Uttam said. “We completely maintained the professional distance when we were on campus.”

Shradha agreed.

“I didn’t really see it as, ‘Oh, my dad is up there teaching,’” she said. “I was like, ‘Oh, Doctor Pokharel is up there teaching.’”

Outside the classroom, however, the relationship shifted naturally back to father and daughter. The two often traveled to campus together, sharing rides and daily routines that became part of their experience at UHCL.

“I think it’s also the little things,” Shradha said. “Going in the same car together and coming back home in the same car together. Those are also memories that we have.”

During commencement, one of those moments became especially meaningful for her.

“As soon as I came into the arena, I was looking over and trying to find my family members,” she said. “Of course, I also tried to find my dad. He was sitting at the very front.”

Later, as she crossed the stage, she spotted him again.

“He was recording me at that time as I was getting my diploma,” she said.

For Uttam, the ceremony represented more than a graduation. It was the culmination of years spent watching his daughter grow both personally and academically.

“As a professor, I deal with several students,” he said. “It gave me an opportunity to closely observe where my child is academically and understand her real potential.”

When asked to describe each other in just one word, their answers reflected the qualities they most admired.

“Hardworking,” Shradha said of her father.

“Adaptable,” Uttam said of his daughter.

Together, those qualities helped shape a journey that brought both father and daughter to the same commencement stage, each experiencing the moment from a different perspective, but sharing the same pride in how far they had come.

Keamia Rasa did not arrive at the University of Houston-Clear Lake with a rigid plan for her future.

What she did have was curiosity, a background shaped by high-level athletics, and a growing interest in human performance and space exploration.

Before coming to UHCL, Rasa competed as a Canadian national team sailor, an experience that taught her discipline, resilience, and adaptability long before she stepped into a research environment.

“That ability to not be afraid to make mistakes and be receptive to feedback has made me a better student and a better researcher,” she said. “You have to be coachable. You have to be able to adjust and keep moving forward.”

After several major life transitions, including time spent working as a trainer and raising a family, Rasa eventually settled in Houston and made the decision to return to school. She chose UHCL partly because of its proximity to the region’s growing space industry, though at the time she was still uncertain what direction her academic and professional path might take.

“I knew I wanted to do kinesiology and exercise science,” she said. “I just didn’t know what that was going to look like when I first came here.”

That clarity began to emerge through conversations with faculty in UHCL’s exercise and health science program. Rasa quickly found herself drawn not only to the classroom experience, but also to the accessibility of professors and the opportunity to engage more deeply with research.

“I’m always the person asking questions,” she said. “I’ll sit in the front of the classroom, go to office hours, and keep asking questions because I want to learn more.”

Those conversations eventually led her to the university’s Health and Human Performance Institute (HHPI), where she became involved in research connected to exercise science and human spaceflight.

Through HHPI, Rasa became involved in exercise-based human performance research connected to astronaut training, including work involving the Orion Flywheel and other NASA initiatives.

For Rasa, the experience opened an entirely new perspective on what kinesiology and exercise science could become.

“The research side of things and the human spaceflight factors here were the piece of the puzzle that clicked for me,” she said.

Her involvement in research has included everything from helping develop research questions and submitting Institutional Review Board proposals to collecting data and contributing to manuscript development.

“It’s all been fascinating,” she said. “Learning how to ask questions, think through problems, and go through the entire research process has been a really formative part of my experience here.”

That hands-on experience ultimately influenced her decision to continue her education at UHCL through the university’s Master of Business Administration program focused on the commercialization of space.

Initially unsure whether to pursue a traditional science-focused graduate degree or an MBA, Rasa says conversations with faculty mentors helped her recognize the importance of understanding both the human performance and operational sides of the rapidly evolving space industry.

“I didn’t know what I didn’t know,” she said. “Going into the MBA, I realized how enormous this industry really is.”

Now working as a graduate assistant through HHPI, Rasa also plays a major role supporting the annual Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance Summit (SHOP), where students interact directly with astronauts, researchers, and leaders shaping the future of human spaceflight.

Her connection to the conference began several years ago as a volunteer. Today, she helps coordinate UHCL student volunteers and serves as a bridge between students and professionals working throughout the industry.

“Being able to be in the room where those conversations are happening is incredibly valuable,” she said. “You never know where those connections will lead.”

For Rasa, one of the most meaningful realizations has been understanding that the space industry, despite its global scale and technical complexity, remains deeply human at its core.

“When I first stepped into that environment, it felt intimidating,” she said. “But you realize we’re all just people. These people just happen to be doing amazing things.”

That exposure has strengthened both her confidence and her sense of purpose. While she does not claim to know exactly where her path will lead, she knows she wants to contribute to the future of human spaceflight in some capacity.

“I want to be part of pushing the limits of our capacities as humans,” she said. “Whether that’s on the human performance side, the business side, or somewhere else entirely, I just want to be part of it.”

For students considering UHCL, Rasa believes curiosity and initiative matter just as much as certainty.

“You don’t know if you don’t ask,” she said. “There are so many opportunities happening around you here, but sometimes you have to be willing to ask questions and step into those spaces.”

Reflecting on her time at UHCL, Rasa says one of the most unexpected parts of the experience has been the community she found within HHPI itself.

As one of the older graduate assistants in the program, she jokes that many of the students affectionately refer to her as “team mom.” But beyond the humor, she says watching younger students discover their own passions and opportunities has become one of the most rewarding parts of her experience.

“They have that curiosity and that drive,” she said. “Seeing that excitement and knowing they’re right at the start of something really special has been an incredible experience.”

The funding, awarded through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s 2026-28 Autism Grant Program, supports the provision of training services that enable parents or other home-based caregivers to deliver evidence-based treatments to their children with autism spectrum disorder.

Demand for autism and developmental services often exceeds available capacity, leaving families waiting for support. Connecting the Dots helps address that gap by extending care beyond traditional clinical settings and equipping families with tools they can use at home.

“This grant represents a significant investment we can make for the families we serve at the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities,” said Dr. Glenn Sanford, dean of the College of Human Sciences and Humanities at UHCL. “Connecting the Dots empowers parents and caregivers by giving them the tools, confidence, and evidence-based strategies to support their children. It is part of our broader approach to autism spectrum disorder that integrates treatment, education, research, and support.”

The Autism Grant Program awards funding every two years through a competitive application process. UHCL has received AGP grants in every grant cycle since the program was established by the Texas Legislature in 2016.

UHCL and the University of Texas at Austin Department of Special Education each received the highest amount awarded in AGP funding, $500,000. Also receiving grants were the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Texas Tech University, the UT at Austin Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Services, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

In addition to Parent-Directed Treatment, the AGP supports Board-Certified Behavior Analyst Training for Teachers and Paraprofessionals and Innovative Autism Treatment Model development. More than $7.33 million in 14 separate awards were distributed across the three categories.

UHCL’s Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, founded in 2008, plays a crucial role in teaching future leaders in the field, conducting world-class research to discover future treatments, and supporting families in the surrounding community. The center is located in the Arbor South Building on the UHCL campus at 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the center website at Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities | University of Houston-Clear Lake. 

The University of Houston–Clear Lake is continuing to strengthen its support for veterans and military-connected students after receiving a $200,000 College Credit for Heroes (CCH) grant through the Texas Workforce Commission. The funding will help expand academic pathways, streamline military credit evaluations, and connect students more directly to workforce opportunities across Texas.

The grant initiative was led by Luis Polanco De Leon, director of UHCL’s Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Veteran & Military Resource Center, whose work has focused on building systems that recognize military experience as a valuable foundation for higher education and career advancement.

“The Veteran & Military Resource Center is honored to help bring this grant to UHCL through the Texas Workforce Commission,” Polanco De Leon said. “This funding reflects UHCL’s continued commitment to supporting veterans and military-affiliated students by creating stronger pathways between military experience, higher education, and career success.”

Polanco De Leon added that the grant will help expand opportunities for military-connected students to receive academic credit for their service and training while strengthening the resources and support available to them throughout their educational journey.

“We are grateful for the collaboration and support from university leadership and our community partners who continue investing in the success of those who have served,” he said.

Building pathways from service to success

The College Credit for Heroes initiative was created to help veterans and service members transition more seamlessly into higher education by translating military training, coursework, and occupational experience into college credit. For many military-connected students, that means avoiding repeated coursework, reducing education costs, and accelerating the path toward graduation and employment.

At UHCL, the effort has become part of a broader mission to rethink how institutions serve military-affiliated students, not simply by welcoming them to campus, but by intentionally designing systems that acknowledge the value of their lived experience from the moment they apply.

Since receiving its initial Tier I CCH funding in 2023, UHCL has approved 50 military course equivalencies and awarded more than 100 semester credit hours to veteran students, with more than 270 transfer hours applied toward degree completion. The new funding will allow UHCL to expand those efforts significantly over the next two years.

Planned initiatives include enhanced automation of military credit tracking within the university’s PeopleSoft system, expanded faculty training on the American Council on Education Military Guide, broader outreach to military communities, and deeper collaboration with workforce and employer partners throughout the Gulf Coast region.

Expanding access for military-connected students

UHCL currently serves more than 700 military-connected students annually, including veterans, active-duty service members, Guard and Reserve personnel, and military dependents. Through the CCH program, students can apply military training toward degree pathways in business, management, information technology, healthcare services, and public service leadership —fields aligned with high-demand workforce needs across Texas.

The university also plans to expand Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) opportunities for students whose military experience may not traditionally translate into academic credit, particularly Combat Arms veterans. Through PLA, students can demonstrate college-level knowledge gained through military training, leadership experience, and technical service outside of a traditional classroom setting. The goal is to create additional pathways for students to receive recognition for the skills and expertise developed during their service.

University leaders say the grant reflects a growing recognition that military-connected students bring substantial professional and leadership experience into the classroom, perspectives that can strengthen academic environments and the regional workforce.

“The Division of Student Affairs is deeply committed to honoring the service and sacrifice of our veterans and military-connected students by ensuring their experiences are recognized as valuable contributions to both higher education and the workforce,” said Dr. Tina Powellson, UHCL’s vice president for Student Affairs. “This grant strengthens our ability to remove barriers, expand opportunity, and create meaningful pathways from military service to academic and professional success. We are proud to continue building a campus culture that supports those who have served our country and empowers them to thrive.”

A hub of support beyond the classroom

Beyond academics, UHCL’s Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Veteran & Military Resource Center serves as a central support hub for military-affiliated students, connecting them with advising, career services, benefits assistance, transfer support, and community partnerships. Through collaborations with organizations such as Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base, the Texas Army National Guard, workforce boards, and veteran-serving agencies, UHCL continues building a network designed to support students from enrollment through career placement.

As the university expands its College Credit for Heroes efforts, the focus remains on reducing barriers and creating clearer, more accessible pathways for those who have served.

Rather than asking military-connected students to start over, UHCL’s approach recognizes the education already earned through service and helps students turn that experience into momentum toward a degree, a profession, and long-term success.

For more information about the College Credit for Heroes program and veteran support services at UHCL, visit www.uhcl.edu/vmrc/.

Inside the Spaceflight Human Performance and Optimization (SHOP) summit, scientists, researchers, and industry leaders explore how the human body adapts in extreme environments and how those insights apply beyond spaceflight.

Moving between sessions, supporting speakers, and engaging in discussions, students from the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) are immersed in an environment that extends beyond the classroom. It places them inside a field many are only beginning to understand, offering a clearer view of how their studies connect to the work happening around them.

At UHCL, experiences like SHOP are part of a broader, intentional approach to experiential learning, where students engage directly in research, industry, and applied environments early in their academic journey.

For Valeria Salinas, a graduate student in exercise and health sciences with a concentration in clinical exercise physiology, the experience has been eye-opening.

“This is my first time at SHOP and my first time really interacting with people in this field,” Salinas said. “It’s been a great opportunity to step out, meet people, and start building connections.”

As she listened to panel discussions and spoke with professionals from across the industry, those connections began to take shape.

“You hear from people about what they do and how they got there,” she said. “It helps you start to see where you could fit.”

That sense of connection is what makes experiences like this different from the classroom. Concepts that once felt separate start to connect in a more tangible way.

“It’s nice to put the big picture together,” Salinas said.

For Cameron Lynch, an undergraduate student majoring in kinesiology and biology, the experience has been just as impactful, but in a different way.

“I’ve been trying to get involved in research for a while, and once I got into human performance, it was the coolest thing ever,” Lynch said.

The conversations and research presented throughout the conference expanded his thinking.

“After every session, we’re thinking, ‘We could study this. We could test this,’” he said. “It really opens your eyes to how many possibilities are out there.”

That exposure has also reshaped how he thinks about his future.

“I thought I knew what I wanted to do, and then I started working in this space and realized I hadn’t even considered a lot of these things before,” Lynch said. “Over time, it’s helped guide what I want my path to look like and what I want to contribute to.”

For Isabel “Bel” Lopez, an undergraduate kinesiology student with a focus in exercise science, the experience has reinforced her direction.

“I’m really focused on research, so being here and seeing how different studies are run has been really valuable,” Lopez said.

Seeing the range of work across disciplines stood out immediately.

“Everybody here is studying space, but in completely different ways,” she said. “That really stood out to me.”

That perspective has helped solidify her path forward.

“It’s pushed me more toward research and wanting to grow in that area,” Lopez said. “It’s given me reassurance that this is the right path. I may not know exactly what area yet, but I know I’m heading in the right direction.”

For Claudia Box, a graduate student pursuing a joint healthcare administration and business administration degree, the impact comes from seeing how everything connects.

“You start to see how everything connects,” Box said. “What you learn academically and what happens in the real world aren’t separate. They come together in ways you don’t always realize until you experience it.”

That connection, she said, only happens when students actively engage.

“It creates a bridge that you don’t get if you don’t take the time to make opportunities for yourself,” Box said. “You have to go out, introduce yourself, and engage. That’s how you start to see all the connections that are possible.”

From her role coordinating volunteers, Keamia Rasa has seen that impact play out across the entire group. A graduate assistant with the Health and Human Performance Institute (HHPI) and a student in the Commercialization of Space MBA program, Rasa began as a volunteer herself before stepping into a leadership role.

“Students are really taking advantage of it,” Rasa said. “They’re sitting in on sessions, talking to panelists, and engaging in the conversations. That’s a big part of the experience.”

She has also seen students grow more confident over time.

“We’ve seen students step up in a big way,” Rasa said. “They’re taking on leadership roles, helping run the event, and already excited to come back and do it again.”

For many students, one of the most important takeaways is access.

“It can feel intimidating at first, but everyone here is approachable,” Rasa said. “You can talk to people whose work you’ve read or studied and realize they’re open to those conversations.”

That shift can change how students see both the field and themselves within it.

“Titles aside, we’re all people,” she said. “And that makes a big difference for students.”

By the end of the conference, students had a clearer sense of how their studies and interests connected to the work happening around them and where those paths might eventually lead.

As space exploration accelerates, one reality is becoming increasingly clear: the greatest challenge is not getting to space, it is sustaining the human body once we get there.

That challenge is at the center of the 2026 Spaceflight Human Optimization and Performance (SHOP) summit, a growing gathering of scientists, engineers, and performance experts, founded in partnership with KBR and University of Houston–Clear Lake’s Health and Human Performance Institute (HHPI), working to better understand how humans can live, work, and perform beyond Earth.

At the center of SHOP is Corey Twine, director and co-founder of the event and an Astronaut Strength, Conditioning, and Rehabilitation (ASCR) specialist supporting NASA’s Johnson Space Center through KBR. With experience spanning multiple eras of human spaceflight, including work supporting Space Shuttle missions, Twine’s focus is on preparing astronauts for the physical demands of operating in extreme environments.

“This is really about human performance at its most fundamental level,” Twine said. “If we want to become less dependent on Earth-based support systems, we have to understand how to maintain human health, function, and operational capacity during extended periods beyond the planet”

The urgency behind these conversations is driven by rapid change across the spaceflight landscape. With NASA’s Moon to Mars ambitions and the rise of commercial spaceflight, the pace of innovation is accelerating, and so is the need to solve the human side of the equation.

“The landscape of spaceflight is changing, and the pace of that change is rapid,” Twine said. “Spaceflight is hard, and solving these challenges requires collaboration.”

That collaboration is exactly what SHOP is designed to foster, bringing together expertise across physiology, engineering, medicine, and performance science to move beyond isolated research and toward coordinated solutions.

That complexity is at the center of the conversations taking place throughout SHOP.

The Challenge: A Complex, Multi-System Problem

Across sessions, a consistent theme emerges. Human performance in space is not defined by a single issue, but by the interaction of multiple systems.

“These are systems that can change quietly over time, but with real implications for performance and mission success,” said Stuart Lee, Associate Element Scientist for Human Health Countermeasures in NASA’s Human Research Program.

Researchers are examining changes across cardiovascular function, neuro-ocular health, sensorimotor adaptation, and immune response. Each system plays a role, but it is their interaction that ultimately determines how well astronauts can function during and after missions.

That complexity only increases as missions extend in duration and distance.

“We need to keep humans healthy and able to perform no matter where they are going,” said Jancy McPhee, Associate Chief Scientist for NASA’s Human Research Program. “It is not just one factor. It is how multiple systems come together.”

No Single Solution

If the problem is complex, the solution must be as well.

“I do not think it is going to be a single solution,” said Tara Ruttley of Blue Origin. “It is going to be a portfolio of approaches that adapt to different people and different environments.”

That need for adaptability is driven in part by variability.

“There is significant individual variability in how people respond,” said Meghan Everett of Vast.

As more people from different backgrounds enter spaceflight, that variability becomes even more pronounced, requiring systems that are flexible, responsive, and personalized.

“It’s not just one solution,” said Kate Flickinger, TRISH Postdoctoral Fellow, Lab Manager, and Principal Physiologist at the University of Pittsburgh. “It’s taking multiple tools and getting everything you can out of them.”

That need for integrated, adaptable approaches extends beyond spaceflight and into broader questions of human performance and health. Addressing those challenges requires the kind of interdisciplinary research and applied focus being advanced through efforts like the Health and Human Performance Institute at the University of Houston–Clear Lake.

Beyond Space: Why This Work Matters on Earth

William E. Amonette, co-founder of the conference and Executive Director of the Health and Human Performance Institute, has helped shape both the growth of SHOP and the university’s role in this evolving field.

Through HHPI, UHCL is advancing applied and translational research that connects spaceflight, health, and human performance, spanning athletic, clinical, and neurological populations.

“Spaceflight is really an accelerated model of aging and mimics many other degenerative diseases and conditions,” Amonette said. “By studying what happens in space, we are learning more about how the human body responds to stress, decline, and recovery, while identifying countermeasures that help prevent decline and support faster recovery. Those lessons apply directly here on Earth.”

That connection extends into the workforce. UHCL has helped prepare students for roles supporting NASA and its partners, reflecting the growing demand for professionals trained at the intersection of human performance, health, and spaceflight.

“Ninety percent of the people in the room do not work in spaceflight,” Amonette said. “They are here because they can take what they learn and apply it back to their own field.”

More Than Conversation

At its core, SHOP reflects a shift in how spaceflight challenges are approached, not in isolation, but through collaboration across disciplines and sectors.

“We do not want to just be here to talk,” Twine said. “We want to build something, frameworks, outcomes, solutions that help move the mission forward.”

As space exploration pushes further, those conversations, and the work happening at institutions like the University of Houston–Clear Lake, will play a critical role in shaping not only the future of human spaceflight, but how we understand and improve human performance here on Earth.

For 10 University of Houston-Clear Lake students, saying “yes” to an unpaid internship this spring came with a cost: fewer work hours, tighter budgets, and added financial pressure.

The UHCL Bright Futures Intern Scholarship helped ease that burden, providing up to $1,300 to students completing unpaid, credit-based internships in their fields of study. Created to reduce financial barriers and expand access to hands-on learning, the scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled in qualifying internship courses.

This semester’s recipients are Xiomarica Crawley, Areli Gorrostieta, Alexandra Benitez Briseno, Esmeralda Bustos, Evelyn Castillo, Andrea Gutierrez, Carmen Gutierrez Hernandez, Katherine Mai, Akpene Yaa Dawa Sekyi, and Carylon Wyant.

For many of them, the award was more than financial assistance; it was reassurance that their decision to pursue hands-on experience was possible.

Choosing growth over a paycheck

Esmeralda Bustos, a communication major completing her final semester, said accepting an unpaid internship carried significant risk.

“Receiving this scholarship honestly took a huge weight off my shoulders,” she said. “I chose to accept an unpaid internship at Texas Weddings Magazine during my final semester because I knew it would give me the real-world experience I needed for my career. But that decision also meant losing two to three days of income each week.”

With rent, car payments, utilities, groceries, gas, and medical expenses to cover, Bustos said the financial gap felt overwhelming. The Bright Futures Intern Scholarship helped close that gap.

“After receiving the scholarship, I was able to shift my focus,” she said. “I could walk into my internship thinking about how to grow, contribute, and learn, not how I was going to pay for my next specialist appointment or make up missed work hours.”

Bustos has balanced school, two jobs, an unpaid internship, and ongoing health appointments. She said the scholarship did not erase every challenge, but it gave her “breathing room,” space to prioritize her health while staying committed to graduating strong.

“There have been afternoons when I would normally be clocking in at one of my jobs, and instead I was fully present at my internship,” she said. “Instead of rushing out or worrying about lost wages, I could stay engaged in conversations, ask questions, and really absorb what I was learning.”

Her internship has also marked a shift in how she sees herself professionally. While previous roles at Burlington, Kroger, and 7Brew strengthened her adaptability and communication skills, she said the internship has helped her think more critically and communicate in a manner aligned with her degree.

“It’s helped me start seeing myself not just as a student or employee, but as a future professional,” Bustos said.

A renewed sense of purpose

For Katherine Mai, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Education, the scholarship motivated her at a pivotal moment in her academic journey.

“When receiving the scholarship, I was overjoyed, and it did boost my motivation to continue my schooling,” she said. After taking a long break from school, she admitted she was “a bit rusty,” and the financial support eased her transition back into academic life.

Mai, who is completing a teaching internship at the Pearland Independent School District (ISD), said the scholarship allowed her to focus more fully on her responsibilities without the same financial strain. Before receiving the award, she had paused therapy sessions for one to two months due to cost. With the additional support, she felt more confident and healthier in pursuing her needs without guilt.

“I am also caring for my sick grandfather, and he found joy in the fact that I was able to receive this scholarship,” she said, explaining that it gave her family hope and encouragement during a difficult time.

During her internship, Mai said she learned the importance of vigilance, flexibility, and giving herself grace under pressure.

“When it came to teaching, I felt I had to maximize every outlet possible to cater to someone else’s family and child while neglecting my own because I was too overstimulated,” she said. “There will always be a tomorrow with endless to-dos. It’s just important to refresh perspective to make it more manageable.”

Being named a Bright Futures Intern Scholarship recipient, Mai added, means knowing that “someone truly empathizes with my situation and that I am not without resources.”

Investing in opportunity

The Bright Futures Intern Scholarship specifically supports students participating in unpaid internships tied to academic credit, with preference given to those who demonstrate financial need through FAFSA or TASFA applications. Awards are based on available funding and student interest. For this spring’s recipients, the impact extends beyond an award. It has meant the difference between turning down an opportunity and stepping fully into it.

Bustos said receiving the scholarship gave her the confidence to pursue an unpaid internship that once felt out of reach.

“Choosing an unpaid internship felt risky,” she said. “Receiving the scholarship reminded me that someone believed in my potential enough to invest in it. That gave me confidence to keep pushing forward instead of playing it safe.”

She hopes other students facing similar pressures will apply.

“Balancing work, school, health, and finances isn’t easy,” Bustos said. “But there are resources out there, and applying for help doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re determined. Don’t count yourself out before giving yourself a chance.”

Bernie Streeter, Strategic Partnerships program manager, said that the Bright Futures Intern Scholarship does more than ease financial stress. It empowers students to remain focused, complete their degrees, and fully engage in meaningful, real-world work within the industries they have worked so hard to enter.

“By reducing economic barriers, we create space for recipients to grow, thrive, and step confidently into their professional purpose,” she said.

As the spring 2026 cohort continues their internships, the Bright Futures Intern Scholarship at UHCL serves as a reminder that experiential learning should be accessible and that sometimes, a single investment can open the door to a student’s next chapter.

Participating in an unpaid internship for academic credit this summer? Apply for scholarship funding to support your experience. Intern Scholarships are awarded every semester, and the summer 2026 application will be open from April 27 to May 29, 2026. Students can apply online by logging into E-Services and selecting “Financial Aid” to access UHCL scholarships.

 For more information about internship opportunities or the Bright Futures Intern Scholarship, contact Strategic Partnerships at strategicpartner@uhcl.edu or 281-283-2074.

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.

Running from April 13 through April 18, the week features a series of events that highlight UHCL’s commitment to service, leadership, and community engagement.

Donation drive supports local families

Kicking off the week is the ONSP Donation Drive, taking place April 13–17. Organized by Orientation & New Student Programs (ONSP), the drive supports students and families in need.

Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to donate essential items, including baby food, diapers, wipes, and personal care products. Donation bins are located throughout campus for convenience, and items may also be dropped off at the ONSP office in the Student Services and Classroom Building (SSCB), room 1.201.02.

A Spring 2026 Clothing Drive is also being held to support students in need of professional attire. Gently used or new professional clothing may be donated to the Career Closet at the Center for Career Development in SSCB 3109.

Creating space for connection

On Tuesday, April 14, students can participate in The Art of Belonging, a creative workshop that blends mental health awareness with hands-on art activities and group discussion.

Hosted in SSCB room 2.103 (SOCAL) from 4 to 5 p.m., the event offers a supportive environment for students to reflect, connect, and express themselves, reinforcing that community care is an essential part of service.

Hands-on service across campus

Service Week also offers students multiple opportunities to roll up their sleeves and make a visible impact on campus.

On Tuesday, April 14, students are invited to join Hawks 4 Community (H4C) and the Environmental Institute of Houston (EIH) for a campus service day held from 9–11 a.m. Volunteers will help weed and mulch flower beds, plant native plants, maintain pathways, and trim trees and bushes, all while connecting with staff and contributing to a more beautiful campus environment.

On Wednesday, April 15, students can continue their impact at the Native Garden Maintenance Event from 9–11 a.m., a hands-on opportunity to care for the Green Thumb League’s native garden on campus. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, bring a reusable water bottle, and wear closed-toe shoes. The event also provides a great way to earn volunteer hours while supporting sustainability efforts.

Exploring opportunities at the Community Engagement Fair

The Community Engagement Fair on Wednesday, April 15, invites students to connect with local nonprofits and campus organizations in the Bayou Building Atrium from 2–4:30 p.m.

The event provides opportunities to explore internships, volunteer roles, and service projects, helping students turn their interests into meaningful action while building leadership skills and professional experience.

An evening of reflection and impact

On Thursday, April 16, from 6–8 p.m., students can attend Community Impact Night, an inspiring evening focused on service and civic responsibility.

Over a shared dinner, participants will hear from nonprofit leaders and fellow students about how community engagement creates real-world change and supports personal growth. The event aims to leave attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer understanding of the impact they can make.

The Big Event

Service Week concludes with The Big Event on Saturday, April 18, UHCL’s largest annual day of service.

From 8 a.m.–1 p.m., students, faculty, and staff will work alongside community partners on projects that address real local needs. The event emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and the powerful impact of collective service.

A week of purpose

Service Week is more than a lineup of events at UHCL. It reflects the university’s values in action. Through donations, dialogue, and direct service, the campus community is demonstrating how small efforts can lead to meaningful change.

Students are encouraged to get involved, give back, and be part of a tradition that continues to strengthen both campus and community.

For more information and to register for events, visit HawkLink under the Events tab.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake has named Dr. Mohamed Abdelrahman Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost after approval was granted by the University of Houston System Board of Regents April 13. Abdelrahman’s official start date will be July 1.

At UHCL, Abdelrahman will serve as the university’s chief academic officer, providing leadership for UHCL’s academic programs, faculty affairs, research and scholarly activity, and initiatives that support student success and institutional effectiveness.

“Dr. Abdelrahman is an experienced leader who understands how to build and lead strong academic organizations and student success initiatives,” said UHCL President Richard Walker. “He brings a collaborative approach and a clear commitment to excellence that will serve our students, faculty, and university well.”

Currently the Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, Abdelrahman said he was drawn to UH-Clear Lake because of its “strong academic foundation, its location in one of the most dynamic regions in the United States, and its academic portfolio, which aligns well with my own experience. I was also attracted to its potential for continued advancement — particularly in areas like workforce-aligned programs, applied research, and community partnerships.” 

He said one of his priorities in the new role will be taking time to listen and learn the university’s culture. “My goal will be to capitalize on UHCL’s strong foundation and continue advancing student success, academic quality, and research and innovation. Understanding the culture, engaging with faculty, staff, and students, and identifying the right priorities are essential steps before making decisions.”

At Texas A&M-San Antonio, Abdelrahman oversees the university’s academic colleges, library, research and health sciences, institutional research, institutional effectiveness, and student success and retention initiatives. In this role, he has led efforts to strengthen student success, expand academic programs, and enhance research and academic innovation across the university while providing strategic oversight of academic and research portfolios exceeding $50 million.

During his tenure at Texas A&M-San Antonio, Abdelrahman has supported the launch of multiple new undergraduate and graduate programs, advanced initiatives to improve advising and retention, and helped establish new structures to support graduate education and research development. He has also fostered partnerships with regional school districts, community colleges, and industry partners to expand academic pathways and better align academic programs with workforce needs.

Abdelrahman brings nearly 30 years of experience in higher education as a faculty member, researcher, and senior academic leader. Prior to his current role, he served as Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs at Colorado State University Pueblo, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Arkansas Tech University, and Associate Vice President for Research and Dean of Graduate Studies at Texas A&M University–Kingsville.

Among his leadership accomplishments, Abdelrahman has helped secure more than $25 million in federal, state, and private funding to strengthen academic programs and student success initiatives and has led the development of new educational frameworks and interdisciplinary academic structures designed to enhance collaboration and respond to evolving workforce and regional needs.

Abdelrahman previously served as a tenured full professor at Tennessee Technological University and was a Fulbright Scholar at the University of Qatar. His research focuses on industrial sensing and control systems, engineering education, and experiential learning. He has authored or co-authored more than 100 publications and technical reports and holds three patents.

He holds a Ph.D. in Nuclear Science and Engineering and a Master of Science in Measurements and Controls Engineering from Idaho State University, as well as a Master of Science in Engineering Physics and a Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering from Cairo University.

 The 3-Step Orientation Scholarships provide up to $1,000 to eligible students who attend orientation and then complete advising requirements on time. Eligible students are newly admitted first-year and transfer undergrads starting in either summer or fall 2026. They also must enroll in at least 6 semester credit hours and maintain that enrollment through the official University Census Day when official enrollment counts for the semester are recorded.

 “The 3-Step Orientation Scholarships are designed to make the transition to UHCL more affordable, accessible, and impactful for our incoming students,” said Tyler Hall, Director of Orientation and New Student Programs. “First-year and transfer students who complete their admission and enrollment requirements early build momentum before their first semester even begins, and these scholarships serve as an investment in their success from day one.”

 UHCL continues to provide an excellent return on a student’s investment, ranking 11^th on the 2026 list of Best Value Colleges in Texas.  Annual cost of attendance is $10,018 for in-state students and $26,698 for out-of-state students, and a total of more than $26.6 million in financial aid was awarded in 2025. Nearly nine out of every 10 graduates either land a job or start graduate school within a year of earning a UHCL undergraduate degree.

 As the name indicates, the scholarships are tied to UHCL’s New Student Orientation programs that help students transition smoothly into college life. No formal scholarship application form is required. The scholarships are open to admitted students who fulfill the requirements for each:

•  Step 1: Orientation Launchpad Scholarship, $250 
  Open to students who complete the mandatory Orientation Launchpad modules and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by April 25.
• Step 2: Admitted Student Day Scholarship, $500 
  Open to students who fulfill the requirements of Step 1 plus register for and attend Admitted Students Day on April 25; clear any registration hold on their account; and meet with an academic advisor and enroll in at least 6 semester credit hours for either summer 2026 or Fall 2026.
• Step 3: New Student Orientation Scholarship, $250 
  Open to students who fulfill the requirements of Step 1 plus submit their FAFSA; meet with their advisor and enroll in at least 6 credit hours; and attend either of UHCL's Orientation sessions on June 9 or June 26.

For details about how to qualify for and obtain the 3-Step Orientation Scholarships, contact the Office of Financial Aid at uhcl_fao@uhcl.edu or 281-283-2480. 
 

What if the biggest barriers to student success are not inside classrooms at all, but hidden in city zoning maps, transportation routes, and policies that quietly decide who gets access to opportunity?

At the 2026 annual meeting of the Southwestern Educational Research Association (SERA), two scholars from the University of Houston–Clear Lake proved that transforming education may require rethinking the systems far beyond school walls.

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EDLS) students Kanestra Bland and Lisa Hudson were named recipients of the prestigious Deans’ Awards for Exceptional Graduate Student Research. For Bland and Hudson, the recognition affirms years of study, reflection, and lived experience, but more importantly, it underscores the urgency of the issues they are tackling.

The Effects of Local Government and Youth-Friendly Cities on African American Students in Poverty

Bland’s path to UHCL was personal long before it became professional.

“I was first introduced to the University of Houston-Clear Lake as a young girl because it’s where my father earned his master’s in education,” she said.

Now a middle school principal, Bland returned to pursue her doctorate in the EDLS program with a clear intention: to expand her impact beyond a single school building.

“As a campus principal, I wanted a doctoral experience that would challenge my thinking while remaining grounded in real-world impact,” she said. “UHCL offered both academic rigor and a deep connection to the communities we serve.”

Her research pushes that community connection even further, past district offices and into city government.

“When I became a principal, I recognized that the campus I would be serving was fighting many obstacles,” Bland explained. “The obstacles most often noted were the ones inside the campus and the district. However, I knew that the problem was bigger. I started asking, ‘Who forgot about the children?’”

That question now anchors her study of local government policies and youth-friendly city initiatives and how they shape educational opportunities for African American students living in poverty.

“If we want transformational change, we must look beyond campus walls,” Bland said.

Bland’s work challenges traditional educational research by situating equity within municipal leadership and policy decisions — zoning, transportation, recreation, and city planning — rather than focusing solely on schools.

“I hope local leaders begin asking a different set of questions,” she said. “How do our zoning, transportation, contract selections, and recreation policies influence educational opportunity? Are we including schools and local youth as strategic partners in city planning?”

Though she describes herself as “very early in the work,” Bland believes the gaps in the research are clear. With guidance from faculty mentors, including Dr. Michelle Peters, Dr. Antonio Corrales, and Dr. Jennifer Grace, she has refined her research questions and strengthened her scholarly voice.

“The EDLS program is pushing me to move from descriptive writing to analytical synthesis,” she said. “You revise. You refine. You persist.”

When she learned she had been selected for the Deans' Award, her reaction was simple: “I was surprised, honored, and humbled. My first thought was, ‘Me?’”

But the recognition reinforces her broader mission.

“The work is about ensuring that where a child lives does not determine the quality of opportunity they receive,” Bland said. “Demographics don’t have to determine destiny.”

Overcoming Barriers to Dual Credit Access

While Bland’s research focuses on city systems, Hudson’s scholarship centers on access within the educational pipeline itself, specifically dual credit programs.

Hudson chose UHCL because of its strong reputation for preparing practitioners in educational leadership.

“I recognized that to be successful as a leader in higher education, I needed a strong academic foundation in the field,” she said. “Higher education leadership is unique in many respects, requiring a deep understanding of governance, policy, finance, and institutional culture.”

Her interest in dual credit began not in a research seminar, but at home.

“My interest in dual credit came as a result of my own experience as a parent and not having the awareness about the program,” Hudson said. “Once I became aware of the program and its benefits, I was intrigued.”

Dual credit allows high school students to earn college credit while completing high school coursework. Research shows students who complete dual credit courses are more likely to matriculate, persist to graduation, and reduce overall college costs. Yet Hudson’s research highlights what she calls a “Dual-Credit Paradox.”

“There is the promise of ‘high impact’ but the reality of ‘unequal reach,’” she said.

Her study identifies three primary barriers: non-standardized implementation, geographic and institutional limitations affecting lower-income and minority-serving schools, and restrictive policy and eligibility requirements.

“Dual credit is often promoted as an access strategy,” Hudson said. “However, not all students have equal opportunities to enroll.”

She argues that social capital — access to information, guidance, and networks — plays a critical role in determining who benefits.

“The conversation has to shift from participation numbers to equitable design,” she said.

Hudson credits the rigor of the EDLS program and mentorship from professors such as Dr. Amanda Lanclos-Smith, Dr. Peters, and Dr. Grace with strengthening her methodology and analytical approach.

“Professors challenged me consistently to interrogate assumptions,” she said. “Through intensive feedback and scholarly dialogue, I developed stronger analytical rigor and a deeper understanding of equity-centered research methodologies.”

Hudson also carries a personal legacy at UHCL. Her mother, Dr. Joan Pedro, is a former dean of the College of Education (COE). Still, Hudson says her passion for leadership solidified while teaching at YTEPP, a vocational institute she once attended as a student.

“I understood their uncertainties, ambitions, and desire for opportunity because I had once stood in their shoes,” she said. “That experience ignited my commitment not only to teaching but to leadership that creates access and transformative opportunities.”

Receiving the Deans’ Award, she said, affirmed the quality and the urgency of her work.

“It highlights the importance of studying equity in access,” Hudson said. “Policies designed to increase opportunity must truly serve all students.”

Scholarship With Purpose

The SERA Deans’ Awards recognize graduate research that advances educational theory and contributes meaningfully to the field. For UHCL to have both of its nominees selected underscores the strength of its doctoral scholars and the EDLS program’s emphasis on research grounded in practice.

Bland and Hudson are studying different systems, but their work converges around a shared belief: opportunity must be intentional.

For Bland, that means asking cities to align policy with student outcomes.
For Hudson, it means designing access initiatives that reach the students they promise to serve. Both scholars see research not as an academic exercise, but as a tool for change.

“I want to get the research in front of people,” Bland said. “I don’t want it to just be a document.”

Hudson echoes that sentiment. “The scholarly evidence we produce has the power to address real-world problems that can ultimately change lives,” she said.

At UHCL, those lives and the systems that shape them are at the center of the work. 

The future of education needs bold leaders. Explore UHCL’s EDLS program at www.uhcl.edu/education/departments/transformative-leadership-counseling-and-innovation/doctoral-educational-leadership/ to become one.

For most universities, impact is measured in graduation rates and career outcomes. At the University of Houston-Clear Lake, it’s also measured in second chances. Now, a $300,000 investment promises to make those transformations stronger, more connected, and more future-focused than ever before.

UHCL’s College of Human Sciences and Humanities (HSH) has received a three-year, $300,000 grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to expand and deepen its Transforming Lives by Degrees (TLD) program, a nationally recognized prison education initiative offered at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s Ramsey Unit.

The grant will enhance academic support, strengthen career readiness, and expand collaborative learning opportunities for the 80 students currently enrolled in TLD, who are pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Humanities and bachelor’s degrees in Behavioral Sciences.

“Our TLD students value and recognize the power of education, as it fundamentally alters the paths they have traveled in the past and allows them to reimagine their futures,” said Dr. Amy Lucas, department chair of communication and social-cultural science and associate professor of sociology. “They graduate not only with a degree, but also with a sense of purpose and a desire to continue learning, developing, and growing,” she continued. “The expanded services and support the program will be able to offer, thanks to the Mellon Grant, will make those reimagined futures more likely to be realized.”

Building Degrees and Futures

Offered face-to-face inside the Ramsey Unit in partnership with Alvin Community College, TLD allows students to complete upper-level coursework toward fully accredited UHCL degrees. Its curriculum mirrors that of the Clear Lake campus, upholding identical academic standards and reinforcing the university’s commitment to excellence and equity in higher education.

But the Mellon-funded expansion goes beyond coursework. A new full-time wrap-around services coordinator will work alongside TDCJ reentry staff, UHCL Career Services, and community partners to help students prepare for life after release — assisting with financial aid paperwork, employment preparation, housing transitions, and access to community resources. The position will also seek additional external funding to sustain and grow the program.

The grant will also fund a Humanities graduate teaching assistant who will provide tutoring, mentoring, and research support, serving as a crucial bridge between incarcerated students and UHCL’s library resources. With anticipated technology upgrades within TDCJ facilities, students are expected to gain increased access to computers and limited internet resources, opening doors to online research databases, digital storytelling tools, and portfolio development in the digital humanities.

Together, these efforts position students not only to earn degrees but to graduate with the communication, critical thinking, and technological skills employers value.

“The TLD program fits the mission of UHCL as a regional comprehensive institution because it’s designed to ensure that we serve all members of our community,” said Dean of HSH Glenn Sanford. 

Sanford added that these investments in education have long-term positive effects by reducing recidivism, lowering reincarceration rates, and decreasing reliance on social services, as individuals who leave prison with a college degree are far more likely to become productive members of society and serve as role models demonstrating the transformative power of education.

Collaboration at the Core

Collaboration is foundational to the program’s success. UHCL works closely with Alvin Community College to ensure seamless transitions from associate to bachelor’s programs. Advisors coordinate course planning; faculty from both institutions jointly host graduation ceremonies; and the institutions are launching shared annual security training to streamline faculty access to the unit.

The Mellon Grant will also fund a new Faculty Fellowship designed to strengthen pedagogy and create a TLD Community of Practice, a monthly gathering where faculty teaching inside the unit collaborate, share resources, and refine innovative teaching strategies. The fellowship will help integrate UHCL’s Common Reader program into TLD courses, fostering dialogue between incarcerated students and their peers on the Clear Lake campus.

Through recorded student research presentations, shared discussions, and even art exhibitions featuring incarcerated students’ work in UHCL’s Art Gallery, the program works to build intellectual community across physical divides.

A Proven Model, Poised to Grow

TLD’s impact is well established. UHCL participated in the U.S. Department of Education’s Second Chance Pell Grant pilot program and has earned regional recognition for academic excellence and public service. In 2024, the City of Houston and Harris County issued proclamations celebrating the TLD program’s 50th anniversary and its contributions to the region.

The Mellon Grant signals national confidence in UHCL’s approach, one that treats incarcerated students not as statistics, but as scholars.

The College of HSH has demonstrated its long-term commitment by moving key positions into its permanent operating budget, embedding prison teaching into faculty expectations, and prioritizing sustainability beyond the life of the grant.

As UHCL looks ahead, the investment represents more than expanded services. It affirms a philosophy: that rigorous liberal arts education grounded in dialogue, dignity, and community can prepare students for meaningful careers, thoughtful citizenship, and lasting personal transformation.

Behind the walls of a prison classroom, futures are being rewritten. With the Mellon Foundation’s support, UHCL is ensuring those new chapters are built to last.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake has selected a highly accomplished leader with 35 years of experience as its next Dean of the College of Education.

The appointment of Dr. Stephanie Biagetti, currently Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Graduate Studies at California State University, Sacramento, was announced by Dr. Edward R. Waller, Interim Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost after approval was granted by the University of Houston System Board of Regents February 26. Biagetti’s official start date will be June 1.

“Dr. Biagetti was the top choice in a national search to lead faculty and staff in empowering our students to reach their academic goals,” Waller said. “Drawing from her extensive background as an educator and administrator, Dr. Biagetti has a proven ability to connect initiatives with priorities, fostering collaboration and institutional alignment to support college and university goals. Her leadership style emphasizes student engagement and innovation to ensure strategies are both data-driven and focused on student experiences and success.”

In her new role at UHCL, Biagetti will lead initiatives to champion the university’s mission to foster lifelong learning and prepare graduates to make meaningful contributions to their communities. She will work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and partners to elevate the College’s reputation for innovation and impact, strengthening its commitment to teacher preparation and leadership development. She is eager to bring her vision and experience to UHCL to build upon its legacy of leadership and to shape the College of Education’s next chapter of educational excellence.

 “The University of Houston-Clear Lake has a robust legacy in educating and training teachers and administrators to lead Texas schools,” Biagetti said. “I am honored to be chosen as Dean and join with the College of Education faculty and staff in preparing students to become a powerful force for change in and out of the classroom.”

Biagetti possesses 23 years of higher education experience, 11 years of college administrative experience, and 7 years as an Associate Dean. In her current role, she oversees a broad portfolio encompassing academic policy, budgeting, program review, wrap-around student support services, curriculum development, and personnel management. 

She oversaw programs that directly increased graduate program application numbers and improved graduate student engagement, retention, and completion, including the Graduate Preparation Academy for undergraduates and the Graduate Student Research Showcase. She led university-wide efforts to align assessment of learning outcomes with accreditation expectations. She also facilitated development of initiatives that produced measurable increases in enrollment, student engagement, and graduation rates. 

Biagetti holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Urban Schooling (Assessment Curriculum and Teaching Studies), a Master of Education, and a Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies with a Minor emphasis in Mathematics, all from the University of California, Los Angeles.

In addition to Sacramento State, Biagetti has experience with the University of California, Davis; California State University, Fullerton; UCLA; the University of California Office of the President; and Santa Monica (California) High School and Viewpoint School. She has served as a principal or co-principal investigator on seven research projects and lead or co-lead on another 10 projects and initiatives. She is also an author or co-author of more than 25 peer-reviewed journal articles.

The global aerospace company has donated $20,000 to the Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Veteran and Military Resource Center (VMRC), part of UHCL’s Division of Student Affairs. The center provides personalized, comprehensive support for students with military affiliations to advance Student Affairs’ mission to provide a holistic student experience. The funding will support several programs at the center:

> Boots to Suits which helps military-connected students transition into professional life with business attire assistance and workshops on resume building, interviewing techniques, and other job preparedness activities

>The annual Military-Connected Year-End Celebration hosted by the VMRC to recognize and honor military-connected students

>UHCL’s chapter of Student Veterans of America, one of 1,600 such chapters in all 50 states and three countries with more than 600,000 members

>Support to student assistants who work in the VMRC, all of whom are military-connected students

“It’s an honor to be part of this program,” said Michael Lawson, Senior Manager of Boeing Global Engagement. “As a company, we actively recruit (employees) from the veteran population. So, we are very passionate about supporting programs that help students transition from military to civilian life.

“The talent that comes out of the veteran population is important to us and part of our culture.”

UHCL President Richard Walker accepted the donation on behalf of UHCL. “Thank you to the Boeing team for this gift. Our partnership with Boeing is important to us as a strategic relationship that helps us help our students, and we greatly appreciate their support.

“We have a very strong veteran population here, and it keeps growing,” Walker said. “With support from partners like Boeing, our Veteran and Military Resource Center team can take care of this population.”

One student currently among the more than 500 military-connected students taking advantage of the VMRC’s services is Amanda Gumban, a senior majoring in criminology who expects to graduate in May.

“I am in the ROTC program, and the center has helped me access the benefits it offers to students like me,” Gumban said. “I have participated in the Boots to Suits program for help with writing my resume and strengthening my job skills.

“I will be commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Air Force at graduation and have been selected as a criminal investigator in the Air Force Office of Special Investigations within the Department of War.”

Eric Irving served in the Coast Guard from 2016 to 2024. Today, he is a junior majoring in management information systems at UHCL. He praised the center for its helpfulness to veterans.

“I wanted to apply my G.I. Bill benefits but didn’t know everything about how to do it,” Irving said. “The people in the center were extremely nice and welcoming to me, especially Luis (VMRC Director Luis Polanco De Leon).

“I was prepared to go job hunting outside the university, using the skills I gained from the center, but I was chosen for one of the jobs in the center. It’s been an almost seamless transition for me.”

The VMRC is well recognized for its work with military-connected students. Because of the center’s work, UHCL is a Military Friendly School at the national level and was named to the Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges list. UHCL also earned the Veterans Education Excellence Recognition Award from the Texas Veterans Commission.

“The support from Boeing and the accolades we have received highlight our strong student success metrics, our military-specific resources, and meaningful financial assistance we provide to military-connected students and families,” said De Leon. “I am grateful to Boeing and to the entire team in the Veterans and Military Resource Center for their hard work and dedication to ensure military-connected students receive the support and service they deserve.”

Hosted by the University of Houston–Clear Lake’s Center for Educational Programs, the 10th Annual Greater Houston Area STEM Conference is set to return Saturday, March 28, 2026, bringing together educators, students, and industry leaders for a full day of innovation and collaboration.

Held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. in the Bayou Building, the milestone conference marks a decade of connecting STEM professionals across Texas and the Gulf Coast under this year’s theme: “Innovate. Integrate. Inspire.”

Participants will experience hands-on workshops, interactive seminars, and dynamic panel discussions designed for PK–16 audiences, including in-service teachers, school administrators, teacher educators, pre-service teachers, informal educators, and STEM industry education liaisons. Sessions are aligned with state and national STEM standards and focus on practical strategies that spark curiosity, strengthen critical thinking, and connect classroom learning to real-world careers.

Attendees will also receive digital handouts, opportunities for door prizes, and up to seven hours of CPE/SBEC credit for full-day participation. Lunch is included with registration.

Early bird registration is open through Feb. 28. General admission is $40, with a discounted $35 rate for students. The reduced rate is applied during checkout. A vegetarian lunch option is available through a separate online form.

Dr. Carol Waters, UHCL associate professor of STEM education and conference organizer, said the event continues to grow as a regional hub for collaboration and forward-thinking practice.

“Whether you're preparing future scientists and engineers, leading innovative programs, or supporting STEM in the community, we’d love to have you in our network,” she said.

Those interested in attending can register online at https://apps.uhcl.edu/ECommerce/Schedule/Details/44d51c77-e197-f011-81aa-0050561ddc0a. For additional information regarding registration, contact the Center for Educational Programs at 281-283-3530 or via email at CEP@uhcl.edu.

The event connects readers with writers across a wide range of genres, including nonfiction, memoir, poetry, fantasy, historical fiction, and children’s educational literature. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet authors, explore new titles, buy books, and engage with members of the local literary community.

Featured authors include Dawn Owens, a publisher presenting more than 15 nonfiction titles; Herb Baker, author of “From Apollo to Artemis: Stories From My 50 Years With NASA,” a memoir documenting five decades of work with NASA; and Taylor Enochs, whose poetry collection “I Shouldn’t Say This, But…” explores themes of honesty and vulnerability, along with several additional local authors representing a range of genres and audiences. Other authors scheduled to appear and their works are:

·         Victoria Fields, “Basil and Bixie” series (elementary science, children’s educational book)

·         William Peak Gaupp, “The Fall of 69” (fiction)

·         Alia Hewitt, “Betrayer’s Game” (historical fiction)

·         Samara Kalz, “Visions of Eterna” (young adult fantasy)

·         Lindsey Powell, “The Violet Mage” (adult fiction, romantic fantasy)

·         Beth Richards, “A Waltz Through Time” (historical fiction)

·         Erika Andrade Smith, “Papas y Papas” and “Paletas 1-2-3” (children’s concept board books)

·         Rick Tabor, “Children of the Scroll” (fantasy thriller)

·         Amy Vogel, “Teleosis,” “The Assist,” and “Feminine Rising” (fiction)

·         Micole Williams, “Tangled Web of True Love Tales” and “Toxic Ties” (fiction and nonfiction)

·         Thomas Woltz, “Finding My Road” (nonfiction, memoir)

“This event is about creating space for our community to come together around books, conversation, and shared experiences,” said Shannon Samuelson, director of professional and continuing education at UHCL at Pearland. “Fall in Love With Reading” is an invitation to connect through stories.”

The event is open to students, faculty, staff, and members of the public as part of UHCL’s ongoing efforts to promote literacy, creativity, and community connection.

For more information and event updates, contact Shannon Samuelson at SamuelsonS@UHCL.edu.

The Psychological Services Clinic at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) will provide free mental health screenings to the public from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on World Mental Health Day, Friday, Oct. 10.

Screenings will be offered to adults and to adolescents with a parent or guardian present to provide written consent. The screenings will be available at the clinic in the Arbor South Building on the UHCL campus, 2700 Bay Area Blvd. Appointments in advance are not required but are requested by calling the clinic at 281-283-3330.

A voucher for free parking will be available to participants after parking in designated visitor spaces in front of the Arbor South Building. Additionally, any individual requiring an accommodation to participate should contact the clinic in advance at 281-283-3330 or uhclpsc@uhcl.edu.

Mental health screenings provide a brief and easy way to recognize when a person may be experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition and help guide them toward appropriate services and resources, said clinic director James Upright, PhD.

“It is estimated that more than one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness, and current research indicates that between 25% and 33% of adults report having unmet mental health treatment needs,” said Upright, who is both a licensed psychologist and licensed school psychologist. “Free screening events such as this can provide participants with valuable information about the current state of their mental health and information on resources they can use if needed.”

UHCL’s Psychological Services Clinic provides comprehensive mental health assessment and evidence-based treatment to UHCL students, the Bay Area community and the greater Houston-Galveston region. Fees are structured on a sliding scale for affordability and accessibility. Services at the clinic are provided by graduate students studying clinical and school psychology under the direct supervision of licensed faculty and staff in the UHCL Department of Psychological and Behavioral Health Sciences.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) has been selected to join the prestigious FamilyU 2025 Cohort, a competitive two-year initiative led by the national nonprofit Generation Hope. Designed to improve outcomes for parenting students in higher education, the program will provide UHCL with expert support and resources to strengthen its institutional services for student parents.

A six-member cross-functional team from across the university, including the Division of Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, Financial Aid, Facilities, and Institutional Research, will lead UHCL’s participation in the initiative.

As part of the cohort, UHCL will engage in monthly virtual coaching, quarterly in-person convenings, and collaborative learning with other participating institutions. These activities are designed to help colleges become more family-friendly and responsive to the needs of student parents, an often-overlooked but growing segment of the student population.

Kristi Randolph Simon, assistant dean of students, said UHCL is aware of how important it is to establish areas where student parents experience empowerment, support, and visibility.

“The fact that UHCL was chosen for the FamilyU 2025 Cohort is a testament to our strong support of parenting students and the special contributions they make to our campus,” said Randolph Simon. “As they work toward their degrees, we have the chance to honor their tenacity, lower barriers, and strengthen support networks because their success is family success.

In the second year of the program, UHCL will also appoint a Student Parent Fellow. The selected student leader will receive a monthly stipend and serve as an advocate for parenting students, ensuring their voices are represented in campus decision-making.

By participating in FamilyU, the UHCL Division of Student Affairs continues to advance its strategic goals: enhancing student success, removing barriers to persistence, and fostering collaborative, student-centered practices across departments.

Student parents looking for support and resources can connect with UHCL’s Division of Student Affairs at www.uhcl.edu/student-affairs/.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) has long been dedicated to transforming lives through research, education, and community engagement. Now, a landmark partnership with PAM Health is expanding that mission in a new way through the newly named PAM Health Neurorehabilitation and Motor Performance Lab at UHCL's Health and Human Performance Institute (HHPI).

The facility was officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on September 23, 2025, marking a milestone moment in healthcare and academic collaboration.

“Tonight is about more than a new facility or the naming of the facility,” said UHCL President Dr. Richard Walker. “It’s about the power of partnership.”

This partnership represents more than a name on a wall. It is a visionary alignment between a leading rehabilitation healthcare provider and a university committed to innovation and social impact. The collaboration will support a multi-year, interdisciplinary research initiative focused on improving the lives of individuals with neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and stroke.

Dr. William Amonette, professor in the Department of Health, Human, and Biomedical Sciences and executive director of HHPI, will lead the research as principal investigator. He brings years of experience exploring exercise and nutrition's impact on people with chronic diseases and disabilities. The partnership also opens the door to rare, hands-on research experience in a high-need area of healthcare, helping students launch careers in rehabilitation and biomedical science.

"Mr. Misitano sincerely cares about people. That was my very first impression of him," said Dr. Amonette, speaking of PAM Health CEO Anthony Misitano. "He's investing in research because he genuinely cares. He understands the impact of research — one novel discovery could change countless lives."

Dr. Amonette's vision is rooted in understanding the gaps in the current healthcare system.

 "The problem in the healthcare system right now is that whenever you have a TBI, you have about nine to 13 months of insurance coverage. When that ends, they give you a chair and allow you to function, but rehabilitation essentially stops," Dr. Amonette explained. "And you can't just go to the gym, right? It's not easy to navigate 24 Hour Fitness. So, when we built this place, our motto was: 'We want to be the place you go when there's nowhere else you can go.'"

That philosophy helped shape the lab's purpose and its connection to real people, like Sean Carter, a young man living with the lasting effects of a TBI. In March 2005, Sean was involved in a car crash that completely changed his life.

“I had several fractures, and when I emerged from a 39-day coma, I was unable to walk or talk,” Sean said. “So many things were wrong with my body that it might be easier to tell you what worked than what didn’t work. My cognition was intact, but my body would not respond.”

 The road looked uncertain, and at times, Sean said he could not see the bigger picture, but that changed when he found UHCL’s HHPI. Sean and his family drove from College Station twice a week to work with the HHPI team at UHCL, eventually relocating to the area.

Dr. Lewis Clarke of PAM Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Clear Lake North played a critical role in initiating the partnership, connecting Misitano with Dr. Amonette after years of discussing a collaborative research project. "That Misitano is a visionary," Dr. Clarke said.

The lab has advanced tools to analyze everything from cognitive function and memory to EEG brain activity and neuromotor performance. Together, UHCL and PAM Health will launch controlled trials to investigate biomarkers like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), exploring how tailored interventions influence brain regeneration.

"The PAM Health Neurorehabilitation and Motor Performance Lab is equipped with every conceivable sophisticated motor and cognitive assessment tool imaginable," said Dr. Clarke. "We will be utilizing EEG coherence evaluations to visualize changes in brain connectivity while concurrently analyzing balance, strength, coordination, memory, and cognitive function in a patient population that includes Parkinson's, stroke, TBI, ALS, and dementias."

The collaboration also includes a structured patient pathway. Patients will begin with inpatient rehabilitation at PAM Health facilities, where baseline functional and laboratory data will be collected. After discharge, they will continue outpatient care and therapy at UHCL, allowing for ongoing research and support beyond hospital walls.

For UHCL students, this is more than research — it is an invitation to lead.

"This represents an unparalleled opportunity for these students to both train and contribute to new research in neurorehabilitation," Dr. Clarke said. "This is a rare marriage of academics and clinical medicine. Both resources provide a rich and fertile ground to better understand the rapidly evolving science of neuroregeneration and how that translates into patient outcomes."

Ultimately, Dr. Amonette views this partnership as a catalyst for national impact. The research conducted at the lab will not only serve local patients, but it also has the potential to become a model of care that can be replicated across the country.

"With conditions like Parkinson's disease and TBI, patients are never truly 'cured,'" Dr. Amonette said. "But through research, we can find better ways to improve their quality of life and long-term health."

President Walker echoed this long-term vision: “As I look to the future, I see this lab as a living classroom, a community resource, and a symbol of innovation. Together, we are building something that will have an impact for years to come,” he said.

This is research with purpose, driven by compassion and powered by partnership. UHCL students have a chance to change lives, including their own.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake at Pearland marked its 15th anniversary on Thursday, Sept. 18, with an evening that celebrated how far the campus has come and the community that helped build it. The celebration featured the unveiling of a commemorative mural created by UHCL alumna Elizabeth Umanzor (’19), a vibrant work symbolizing resilience, growth and transformation. From the start, the evening underscored a central theme: UHCL at Pearland was never built alone.

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” said Beth Lewis, associate vice president and chief operating officer at UHCL at Pearland. “We could not have gone as far as we have in the last 15 years without the help of our partners.”

That spirit of partnership is woven into the history of the campus. UHCL President Richard Walker reflected on Pearland’s rapid growth in the early 2000s, which sparked a vision for a local teaching center designed to turn ambition into achievement.

“From the beginning, UHCL at Pearland was built as a purpose-driven teaching location, and 15 years later, that vision continues to thrive,” he said.

Today, that vision has become part of the city’s identity. Pearland has been recognized among the nation’s best places to live, a success Mayor Kevin Cole connected directly to education.

“We don’t get there without you,” he told the audience. “Education is the foundation of what we believe in this community.”

For the Pearland Chamber of Commerce, UHCL has also become a civic hub. Its halls have hosted first responders, business leaders and community events year-round.

“This campus has become more than bricks and walls,” said Jim Johnson, chamber president and CEO. “It’s a hub for connection, a place for important conversations and meaningful relationships.”

The mural unveiled that evening captured those themes in color and form. Birds in flight represent learning in motion, a graduate silhouette anchors the story of student journeys, and symbols of health sciences nod to programs shaping 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.”

As the mural was revealed, the celebration turned reflective. Speakers honored the late Mayor Tom Reid, whose advocacy was instrumental in bringing UHCL to Pearland. His portrait, now part of the mural, stands as a reminder of his belief that Pearland’s future would be shaped in classrooms. His legacy, guests agreed, lives on in every student who steps onto the campus he helped imagine.

Fifteen years in, UHCL at Pearland remains more than a campus. It is a story of partnership, purpose and promise, written by the community that continues to go far together.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake’s (UHCL) Alfred R. Neumann Library is proud to announce the opening of a rare and extensive archival collection documenting the life and career of celebrated NASA engineer, flight director, and program manager Glynn S. Lunney.

Best known for his leadership roles during the Apollo 11 Moon landing and the dramatic Apollo 13 rescue mission, Lunney was a pivotal figure in NASA’s early human spaceflight programs. His influence spanned from Project Mercury in the 1950s to the development of the International Space Station in the 1990s. In 1981, he became the manager of the Space Shuttle Program Office just before the launch of the first Shuttle mission.

Now, researchers and the public can explore the Glynn S. Lunney Papers (HSF-90), housed in UHCL’s Human Space Flight Collection at Neumann Library’s UHCL Archives and Special Collections. Donated by Lunney’s family, the collection offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most important figures in the history of American space exploration.

A Giant of Human Spaceflight

Born in a Pennsylvania coal mining town, Lunney’s journey to becoming a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient and one of NASA’s top flight directors is told through original correspondence, personnel records, photographs, handwritten flight notes, and more. The materials span from the 1940s through 2013 and include his high school and college years, professional achievements, and personal milestones.

More than 1,700 photographs — many original NASA prints — highlight both Lunney’s work at NASA and his personal life. These rare images provide a rich visual record of a man who helped shape the future of human spaceflight.

Apollo 13 and Beyond

One of Lunney’s most defining moments came during the Apollo 13 mission on April 13, 1970. As the evening shift was about to begin, an oxygen tank exploded on the spacecraft en route to the Moon. Lunney and his flight control team took immediate command, helping orchestrate the critical course corrections that would bring the astronauts safely back to Earth. Many widely credited his team’s swift, steady response with saving the crew.

Materials in the collection reflect the chaos and heroism of that mission, including Lunney’s personal, handwritten maneuver pad and his annotated copy of the Apollo 13 Final Flight Plan. Also preserved is the original thank-you teletype message sent by the returning Apollo 13 crew from the USS Iwo Jima.

Cold War Diplomacy in Space

The collection also dedicates significant focus — more than one-third of its content — to Lunney’s leadership in the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP). This joint U.S.-Soviet space mission marked a key turning point in Cold War-era diplomacy. As project manager from 1970 to 1975, Lunney helped lay the groundwork for international cooperation in space that continues today with the ISS.

Lunney often said that the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project was one of the most important accomplishments of his career. The unveiling of this collection coincides with the 50th anniversary of the mission, which launched on July 15, 1975.

Personal Legacy

The Lunney Papers also reveal his influence outside the control room. Items from the production of the 1995 film Apollo 13 include letters from actor Marc McClure, who portrayed Lunney, director Ron Howard, and lead actor Tom Hanks.

“The Glynn S. Lunney Papers provide the public with a 360-degree view of a man considered to be a symbol of America’s progress during the early days of the US space program. He rose from a family of Pennsylvania coal miners to earn the Presidential Medal of Freedom as a NASA flight director,” said Matthew Peek, associate director of the UHCL Archives and Special Collections. “Known for his role in the space program as a flight director, we hope to use the materials in the collection to show his full life to the public, and how he faced the many pressures and challenges that affected him and his family throughout the space race of the 1960s and 1970s.”

Access and Availability

Most of the collection is open to the public and available for research in the Archives' public reading room. Some of Lunney’s NASA records are subject to Export Control restrictions, limiting access under federal guidelines.

For more information or to plan a visit, contact Matthew Peek at UHCL Archives and Special Collections at Neumann Library.

At just 13 years old, Adrian Caraves was already sitting in college classrooms. A decade later, he sits at the table where decisions are made for more than 75,000 students across the University of Houston (UH) System. Named the 20th student regent — the highest student role in the UH System — Adrian brings with him not just a résumé full of milestones, but a mission: to lead with purpose, listen with humility, and make sure every student feels like they belong.

A graduate student at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), Adrian is pursuing a Joint Master of Healthcare Administration and Master of Business Administration (MHA/MBA), a path he chose to prepare for service-oriented and operationally sound leadership roles.

“I don’t just want to be in the room where decisions are made,” Adrian said. “I want to be prepared to make the right ones.”

As student regent, he will serve one year as the sole student voice on the UH System Board of Regents. While the role is non-voting, it carries real influence and responsibility for Adrian.

“My dad always told me, ‘God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason,’” Adrian said. “This role starts with listening. Before speaking on behalf of students, I plan to visit every campus and hear their frustrations, ideas, and hopes directly from them,” he continued. “That’s how we move from conversation to action.”

Adrian’s experiences across multiple UH campuses shaped his journey to this role. He began at UH, spent time at the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD), and ultimately found his academic home at UHCL. Each experience, he said, opened his eyes to the wide range of student needs across the system.

“At UH, I saw the pace and pressure of a flagship campus. At UHD, I experienced the strength of an urban commuter community. And at UHCL, I found a space that encourages student leadership and collaboration,” Adrian said. “That perspective matters. No two campuses are the same. What works on one campus may not work on another.”

Since arriving at UHCL in spring 2024, Adrian has completed five administrative internships, launched two student organizations, and actively contributed to leadership initiatives across campus. He credits the university’s people: faculty, staff, and students, for helping him grow into the kind of leader he hopes to be. 

“I’ve had professors like Dr. Phillip Decker, who pushed me to think on my feet, and mentors like Dr. Femi Ayadi and Dr. Roberta Leal, who believed in me before I had a title,” Adrian said. “They didn’t just teach me. They trusted me.”

Furthermore, Adrian is grateful to UHCL for providing him with the practical experience and institutional perspective necessary for effective student leadership.

“Through founding and leading student organizations, I have developed an understanding of navigating university systems, collaborating with administration, and mobilizing students around shared goals,” Adrian said. “These experiences required strategic planning, clear communication, and the ability to problem-solve in real time.”

Adrian’s leadership philosophy is grounded in what he calls the six stages of student empowerment: awareness, education, engagement, action, leadership, and legacy. He sees his regent term as a chance to help students move through each stage, not just in the classroom, but throughout their entire experience in the UH System.

“To uplift students, we have to meet them where they are and help them get where they want to be,” Adrian said. “That includes more transparency around student fees, clearer communication about financial aid, and a stronger culture of belonging.”

Adrian’s drive to serve did not begin in higher education, but in Galveston, Texas. He credits the Odyssey Academy, a charter school where he studied from pre-K through high school, with giving him the academic head start and emotional support he needed to believe in what was possible.

“They fully funded my dual credit courses, gave me transportation to college classes off the island, and always reminded me that my potential mattered,” Adrian said. “That belief changed the course of my life.”

As he steps into a role that will shape policy and influence student experience systemwide, Adrian said he carries every part of that journey with him, from the classrooms he entered at 13 to the boardroom he enters now.

“I want to be remembered as someone who showed up with consistency, professionalism, and heart,” Adrian said. “This isn’t about leaving a title behind. It’s about leaving a foundation others can build on.”

More than anything, Adrian hopes his presence on the board sends a clear message to every student, regardless of background or their story.

“You’re not here by accident. You belong,” Adrian said. “And I’m here to help ensure you never forget that.”

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) and Windsor University School of Medicine (WUSOM) are proud to announce the launch of a new dual degree program, formalized through a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) effective May 1, 2025. This collaboration allows eligible students to concurrently pursue a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from WUSOM and a Joint Healthcare Administration MHA/MBA from UHCL’s College of Business (COB).

The dual degree program responds to the growing demand for healthcare professionals with strong foundations in clinical practice and business leadership. By integrating medical and administrative training, graduates will be uniquely equipped to lead in complex and evolving healthcare environments.

“Healthcare today requires a dynamic skill set that spans clinical knowledge, strategic leadership, and operational excellence,” said Dr. Jordan Mitchell, chair of the Healthcare Administration Department at UHCL. “This partnership is an exciting step forward—and on a personal note, I’m excited to begin working on this initiative that reflects the future of interdisciplinary healthcare education.”

The agreement enables streamlined curricula that reduce redundancy, lower costs, and shorten the time required to earn both degrees. Students can complete the MD/MBA or MD/MHA in approximately five years, and the MD/MHA/MBA in six years. Coursework flexibility includes online delivery and summer offerings to accommodate the demanding schedules of medical students.

“As someone navigating both clinical and administrative paths, I saw firsthand the need for integrated training,” said Dr. Sam Zuberi, WUSOM alumnus and current MHA/MBA student at UHCL. “This program bridges that gap and prepares future physicians to lead effectively. I want to make history through this initiative—and more importantly, I hope it helps create a meaningful impact on the world through generations globally,” Dr. Zuberi continued. “I also express deep gratitude to my parents for their unwavering support, noting their encouragement throughout my educational journey.”

The MOU also outlines coordinated advising, shared credit opportunities, and a joint academic oversight committee to maintain rigorous standards and ensure student success.

"We are incredibly proud to partner with UHCL in pioneering this transformative dual degree program," said Dr. Sandeep Mellacheruvu, associate dean of WUSOM. “This initiative will empower our students to become not only excellent clinicians but also innovative leaders who can drive meaningful change in the healthcare system at both local and global levels.”

WUSOM also expressed pride in the collaboration. "This dual degree program exemplifies Windsor’s commitment to providing students with comprehensive training that transcends traditional medical education. By integrating advanced business and healthcare administration education, we are equipping our graduates to take on leadership roles that will shape the future of healthcare worldwide," said a spokesperson for WUSOM.

For more information about the dual degree program, contact Dr. Mitchell at mitchellj@uhcl.edu. Applications will open in the fall of 2025.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) Division of Student Affairs (DSA) proudly announces that the campus has been named one of the 2024 ALL IN Most Engaged Campuses. The ALL IN Most Engaged Campuses for College Student Voting recognizes the outstanding efforts of colleges and universities to increase nonpartisan student voter participation.  UHCL joins a group of 471 colleges and universities recognized by ALL IN for completing four core actions:

1.      Participating in the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge.

2.      Sharing the 2022 National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE) reports with campus voting data through ALL IN.

3.      Developing and submitting a 2024 democratic engagement action plan to ALL IN.

4.      Having a current signatory to ALL IN’s Higher Education Presidents’ Commitment to Full Student Voter Participation.

“The fundamental value of civic engagement plays a pivotal role in developing our students. We are committed to empowering them with tools, fostering a safe environment, and providing opportunities for our students to participate in their communities. Their engagement is crucial in shaping our society,” said Dr. Tina Powellson, vice president of Student Affairs at UHCL.

Dr. Jordan Jones, director of Student Involvement and Leadership, highlighted the office’s role in securing this designation.

“Being recognized as a 2024 ALL IN Most Engaged Campus is a testament to the passion and commitment of our students. At UHCL, we believe civic engagement is a cornerstone of leadership, and we’re proud to help create spaces where students feel empowered to use their voice and shape their communities,” said Jones. 

The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge empowers colleges and universities to achieve excellence in nonpartisan student democratic engagement. Campuses that join the Challenge complete a set of action items to institutionalize nonpartisan civic learning and voter participation. The Challenge currently engages 10.8 million students from over 1,075 institutions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

The 2024 ALL IN Most Engaged Campuses list is available at https://allinchallenge.org/challenge/most-engaged-campuses/. For more information about UHCL’s Office of Student Involvement and Leadership, visit https://www.uhcl.edu/student-affairs/student-engagement/student-involvement/.

The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) Division of Student Affairs (DSA) proudly announces that UHCL has earned the 2025-2026 Military Friendly School ® (Silver Designation). This recognition is awarded to institutions evaluated using public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2025-2026 survey, with 830 earning special awards for exceeding the standard.

The methodology, criteria, and weightings for the Military Friendly® School designation were set by Viqtory with guidance from the Military Friendly® Advisory Council. The council includes independent leaders in higher education and military recruitment. Final ratings were determined by assessing each institution’s survey responses and performance in student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence (degree advancement or transfer), and loan default rates for all students, with a special emphasis on student veterans.

UHCL’s Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Office of Military and Veteran Services, part of DSA, provides a personalized and comprehensive support system for students with military affiliations. The office aims to foster a welcoming environment that caters to the unique needs of veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, and their families.

“At UHCL, we value the unique contributions of our military-affiliated students who positively impact our campus. We honor them by offering extensive resources and cultivating a supportive community,” said Dr. Tina Powellson, vice president of Student Affairs at UHCL. “Receiving the Silver Military Friendly designation for a consecutive year echoes our unwavering commitment to our veterans as they transition into academia.”

Luis Polanco De Leon, director of the Office of Military & Veteran Services, affirmed that this award solidifies UHCL’s dedication to supporting military-affiliated students.

“Earning the Military Friendly® designation once again reaffirms our dedication to serving those who have served. At UHCL, we strive to create an environment where veteran and military-affiliated students feel supported in every aspect of their academic journey,” said Polanco De Leon. “Through tailored resources, advocacy, and community-building initiatives, we ensure our students have the tools they need to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.”

The 2025-2026 Military Friendly ® schools list will be published in the May and October issues of G.I. Jobs magazine and found at www.militaryfriendly.com. For more information about UHCL’s Office of Military and Veteran Services, visit www.uhcl.edu/veteran-services/. 

At University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), faculty and staff are more than educators — they are mentors, innovators, and leaders. To support their growth, UHCL is launching the Leaders in Flight program, an initiative designed to develop strong, visionary leaders who can drive positive change across campus and beyond.

Built on a foundation of strategic growth and leadership development, the program is structured around three key pillars: leadership fundamentals, developing others, and creating a vision for change. Participants will engage in hands-on learning, covering essential skills such as leadership presence, team building, coaching, SWOT analysis, and change implementation.

The initiative goes beyond traditional leadership training by incorporating department and division presentations, panel discussions, and post-graduation support, ensuring long-term impact. By fostering leadership from within, Leaders in Flight will help shape the future of UHCL’s locations, networks, and the greater community — creating a stronger, more supportive learning environment where students can thrive.

The program’s tentative timeline includes a comprehensive build-out phase from May to October 2025, followed by a nomination process in November. Selected participants will be notified by December, and the first cohort will officially launch in January 2026.

“We are building leaders — one Hawk at a time,” the program’s founder, Esther Herrera, said, underscoring UHCL’s commitment to leadership excellence.  As UHCL continues shaping the future of education and community engagement, Leaders in Flight is poised to be a transformative force in developing strong, visionary leaders.

UHCL’s HR Training office, in partnership with the Center for Faculty Development (CFD), is seeking dedicated faculty and staff to serve as program partners. Volunteers will help build and facilitate portions of the program, playing a crucial role in shaping its success.

To learn more about the Leaders in Flight program or explore volunteer opportunities, contact Esther Herrera at HerreraEs@uhcl.edu.

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.

"UHCL’s Aerospace Engineering program represents a significant step forward in preparing students for high-demand and competitive fields such as the aerospace industry," said Dr. Christopher Maynard, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “We are proud to serve as an educational partner for aerospace leaders in the region, helping to develop the workforce critical to the future of space exploration and innovation."

The program responds to the surging demand for aerospace engineers in Texas, where major employers such as NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and the Houston Spaceport are already driving aerospace innovation. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the demand for aerospace engineers is expected to grow by 18.5% by 2030, outpacing national projections. UHCL’s program is one of only five bachelor’s programs in aerospace engineering offered in Texas and the only one within 100 miles of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, positioning the university as a vital hub for aerospace education in the Houston region.

UHCL’s AE program blends academic rigor with hands-on learning, ensuring that graduates have theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Students will master areas like fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and solid mechanics while engaging in internships and collaborative projects with leading aerospace companies.

The new program leverages UHCL’s strong partnerships with industry leaders such as Boeing, KBR, and NASA. These alliances provide students with hands-on experience through internships and collaborative research projects. UHCL graduates will enter the workforce with a competitive edge, equipped with the technical skills and industry experience needed to succeed in the aerospace sector.

“By partnering with companies like Boeing and KBR, UHCL is offering students unique opportunities to work on real-world aerospace projects long before they graduate,” said Dr. Natalie Pecknold, Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships. “These experiences will provide students with an unparalleled foundation for their careers, whether they work on the next generation of spacecraft or contribute to innovations in commercial aviation.”

The program is housed in the 121,000-square-foot STEM and Classroom Building, which features state-of-the-art research and teaching labs. In the coming years, UHCL plans to expand its facilities to include five specialized labs dedicated to aerodynamics, aerospace design, propulsion, vibration & control, and aerospace materials & composites.

For more information about UHCL’s new Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering program, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/degrees/aerospace-engineering-bs.

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.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) is committed to fostering global dialogue by welcoming two J-1 faculty scholars from Oman for the upcoming academic year. Dr. Said Al-Riyami will represent the College of Business (COB), while Dr. Laila Al-Salmi will join the College of Education (COE). The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program aims to provide participants with opportunities to engage with Americans, share their culture, enhance their English language skills, and develop new competencies that will benefit their future careers. Through this initiative, UH-Clear Lake is poised to create a vibrant academic environment that encourages collaboration and cultural exchange, enriching the experiences of both scholars and students alike.

This exciting initiative will enrich the university’s academic landscape through collaborative research and teaching, creating an invaluable opportunity for cultural exchange. As these scholars share their expertise and perspectives, UHCL is set to become a hub of international ideas, inspiring students and faculty to explore new horizons in education and innovation.

Al-Riyami, an assistant professor of organizational behavior and head of the Department of Management at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman, specializes in research areas such as leadership, workplace ostracism, withdrawal behaviors, perceived organizational support, thriving, work-life balance, and mindfulness. Recently, he has expanded his focus to include entrepreneurship-related topics, specifically exploring digital readiness and entrepreneurial intentions.

“I am working on artificial intelligence in management education, job embeddedness, and high intention to quit among employees of the tourism and hospitality sector in Oman, workplace incivility in the hospitality sector, and exploring job crafting from a motivational perspective,” said Al-Riyami.

Additionally, Al-Riyami plans to be a guest speaker in the COB's management courses, particularly those focused on organizational behavior. He emphasized the welcoming environment at UHCL, expressing his enthusiasm for engaging with students and faculty.

“Honestly speaking, UHCL has been very supportive and responsive since day one, even before my arrival to the USA,” said Al-Riyami. “Before my arrival, an office was allocated for me with all the stationary needed plus a UHCL e-account where I can have internet access and other e-resources.”

Furthermore, Al-Riyami anticipates that this collaboration will lead to joint research publications and may inspire some faculty members to consider spending their sabbaticals in Oman.

The J-1 exchange visitor visa allows students and scholars to participate in educational and cultural programs in the United States (U.S.), after which they can return to their home countries to share their experiences and encourage colleagues in the U.S. to engage in similar programs abroad. To qualify for a J-1 visa, at least 50% of the total financial support must come from sources other than personal or family funds. Acceptable forms of financial support include scholarships, fellowships, or assistantships from external sources such as a home government, corporate sponsors, or UHCL. Individuals relying solely on personal or family funding are ineligible for a J-1 visa.

For more information about the J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program, visit www.uhcl.edu/academics/education-abroad/scholar-services/.

The methodology, criteria, and weightings for the Military Friendly® School designation were set by Viqtory with guidance from the Military Friendly® Advisory Council. The council includes independent leaders in higher education and military recruitment. Final ratings were determined by assessing each institution’s survey responses and performance in student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence (degree advancement or transfer), and loan default rates for all students, with a special emphasis on student veterans.

UHCL’s Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Office of Military and Veteran Services, part of the DSA, provides a personalized and comprehensive support system for students with military affiliations. The office aims to foster a welcoming environment that caters to the unique needs of veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, and their families.

“Supporting our student veterans goes beyond acknowledging their service; it's about empowering their future,” said Dr. Tina Powellson, vice president of Student Affairs at UHCL. “By offering extensive campus resources and cultivating a supportive community, we honor their experiences and contributions. Receiving the Silver Military Friendly designation underscores our commitment to assisting veterans as they transition from military to academic life.”

Luis Polanco De Leon, director of Military and Veteran Services, highlighted the office’s role in securing this designation.

"Our services extend beyond the classroom, providing guidance to key campus resources that support the overall well-being and success of our veteran and military-affiliated students,” said Polanco De Leon. “We focus on fostering a supportive environment that promotes academic success and community building.”

The 2024-2025 Military Friendly® Schools list was published in the October issue of G.I. Jobs magazine and is available at www.militaryfriendly.com. For more information about UHCL’s Office of Military and Veteran Services, visit www.uhcl.edu/veteran-services/.