UHCL celebrates 2025 Alumni Award Honorees

The University of Houston–Clear Lake (UHCL) Alumni Association recently celebrated the 2025 Alumni Award Honorees, a group of exceptional individuals whose professional accomplishments and service reflect the values and spirit of UHCL. This year's theme, "Building Tomorrow Together," honors the vision, perseverance, and positive impact these alumni and faculty have made in their communities and around the world.

Distinguished Alumni Award Honorees

Eddie Habibi ’87 BS

Visionary entrepreneur and global cybersecurity leader.

From a modest upbringing in Abadan, Iran, to founding a world-renowned cybersecurity company, Eddie Habibi exemplifies the transformative power of education and perseverance. A UHCL graduate in Computer Engineering, Eddie founded PAS Global, which became a trusted name in industrial cybersecurity and was later acquired by Hexagon. His work has protected critical infrastructure in over 70 countries. A devoted family man and mentor, Eddie remains active in philanthropy and continues to guide startups and advocate for immigrant communities.

Dr. Stephen M. Cherry ’00 MA

Scholar, author, and equity leader.

With degrees from UH, UHCL, and UT Austin, Dr. Stephen Cherry has become a nationally recognized sociologist, author, and advocate for justice. A tenured professor at UHCL and fellow at Rice University’s Baker Institute, his research explores immigration, religion, and civic life. Beyond the classroom, he serves as an equity consultant and instructor for the Center for the Healing of Racism. His academic excellence and community impact make him a true embodiment of UHCL's mission.

Lori Klein Quinn ’77 BS

Mayor of Tomball and civic changemaker.

A proud UHCL graduate in accounting, Lori Klein Quinn has transformed her education into decades of public service. As Mayor of Tomball, she champions smart growth and community development. She has led business and education organizations, served on the Lone Star College Foundation board, and remains a dedicated advocate for her historic hometown. Lori’s leadership reflects the heart and drive UHCL instills in its graduates.

Marilyn S. Sims Leadership Service Award

Kristi Koncaba ’97 BS, ’05 MA

Community banker, civic leader, and champion for children.

With a heart for service and a sharp mind for business, Kristi Koncaba has left her mark across Southeast Texas. Kristi has served on numerous civic boards, including Texas Mutual and multiple Chambers of Commerce. Her passion for giving back shines brightest through her work with Kidz Harbor, a foster home she tirelessly supports. A lifelong advocate for youth and education, Kristi exemplifies servant leadership at its finest.

Early Achievement Award

Jackie Young Medcalf ’13 BS

Environmental advocate and health justice pioneer.

Jackie Medcalf, founder and CEO of the Texas Health and Environment Alliance (THEA), turned personal tragedy into a lifelong mission to protect public health and the environment. After discovering groundwater contamination in her own community, Jackie launched THEA to give a voice to affected residents. Her work has mobilized tens of thousands, led to landmark Superfund cleanups, and earned her national recognition. From UHCL classrooms to Capitol Hill, Jackie is changing the way Texas addresses environmental justice.

Outstanding Professor Award

Dr. Rebecca Huss-Keeler

Educator, innovator, and early childhood advocate.

A pillar of UHCL’s College of Education since 1991, Dr. Rebecca Huss-Keeler has shaped the futures of countless educators. She created new pathways to degrees for early childhood professionals and has served on major university committees while mentoring doctoral students. Appointed by Governor Abbott to the Texas Early Learning Council and an officer in the National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators Foundation, Dr. Huss-Keeler’s influence is felt statewide and nationally. Her passion for learning and teaching is unmatched.

The 2025 Alumni Award Honorees embody the spirit, excellence, and enduring values of UHCL. Through leadership, service, and accomplishment, each exemplifies what it means to be a Hawk. Their achievements highlight the power of education to transform lives, strengthen communities, and shape a brighter tomorrow. Congratulations to the 2025 honorees for continuing to reflect the very best of UHCL.