UHCL Alumni Association Board of Directors

As the academic year draws to a close, we reflect on a remarkable inaugural year for the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

We concluded UHCL’s 50th anniversary with a sold-out Gala and Alumni Celebration, followed by the Alumni Association’s exciting return to the UHCL Chili Cook-Off. Our Annual Golf Tournament continues to expand, raising essential funds for the Alumni Association Endowment Scholarship.

This year, we strengthened our commitment to student engagement by completing the pilot of our mentoring program in partnership with the UHCL Center for Career Development. We are now preparing for a full launch beginning in the Fall semester. Alumni participation remained strong across multiple events including Homecoming, Orientation, Hawk Excellence Awards and the Leadership Conference, further showcasing our dedication to student engagement.

In the coming weeks, we will proudly announce the newest recipients of the Alumni Awards. These outstanding honorees will be recognized at this year’s Alumni Celebration, scheduled for October 10th at the Hyatt Regency Baytown.

As we welcome the Fall semester, the Alumni Association will also be introducing new members to our Board of Directors. Their diverse experience and passion for giving back to UHCL will help us grow and drive new initiatives. Juana Rodriguez, ’18 BS our current Vice Chair, will step into the role of Chair, bringing her vision and leadership to guide us forward. Supporting her will be Dr. Carlissa Runnels, ’11 MA as Vice Chair-elect. Together with the rest of the Board, their dedication will continue to strengthen our impact on the university and its community.

Serving as Chair of the Alumni Association has been a true honor. UHCL has held a special place in my heart and in my family’s life for nearly 30 years. I remain as committed as ever to supporting this great institution and challenge each of you to find your own way to give back.

Go Hawks!

Sincerely,
Kanch Weerasinghe, ‘98 BS, ‘00 MS
2024-2025 Chair, UHCL Alumni Association