2024 Academic Affairs News

The SHOP Summit has rapidly become a pivotal arena for the exchange of cutting-edge ideas and practices in the field of astronaut health and performance. Attendees had the unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders and innovators, fostering an environment of collaboration and learning. This year's event underscored the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling the complex challenges that astronauts face during long-duration missions. 

Dr. Bill Amonette, Executive Director of UHCL's Health & Human Performance Institute, emphasized the significance of the summit and the enduring partnership between UHCL and KBR. "I am deeply grateful for our ongoing partnership with KBR, which is enriching on many levels,” he said. “The annual SHOP summit stands out as a particularly rewarding aspect of our collaboration. I extend my heartfelt thanks to my colleague, SHOP Co-Director Corey Twine, for his visionary leadership and tireless work ethic that has been crucial to the success of this event.”

Dr. Jason Bentley, a former KBR employee, who was instrumental in planning the event, echoed, “The SHOP summit is not just a meeting of minds; it's a crucible for forging the future of spaceflight human optimization. Our partnership with KBR is a testament to our shared commitment to shaping the future of aerospace as we prepare for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond!”

Paul Fullmer, a lecturer in the Kinesiology program, a graduate of UHCL, and former Exercise Physiologist for a subcontractor of KBR, JES Tech, at NASA-JSC, stated one of the highlights of the event is the enthusiastic involvement of students. “It was exciting to watch them volunteer, learn, dream, and even introduce speakers. This exposure offers tremendous opportunities for young professionals to delve into the fields of exercise and space. Additionally, it provides them a chance to network with the broader spaceflight community, opening doors to new professional possibilities,” he said. 

A significant step forward in UHCL’s mission is marked by its existing partnership with KBR, not only through the organization of this annual summit and the ongoing teaming agreement and research collaborations with UHCL’s Health and Human Performance Institute but also through a recent collaboration with UHCL Strategic Partnerships on the Integrated Mission Operations Contract III, which places students in paid internship positions and provides faculty-led professional development to current KBR employees.

UHCL’s partnership with KBR and the annual SHOP Summit exemplifies the collaborative spirit necessary to train the future aerospace workforce to transcend the boundaries of what is possible in human spaceflight, ensuring astronauts are physically and mentally prepared for the rigors of space exploration.

To learn more, visit the https://www.uhcl.edu/hhpi/. 

View full gallery from the conference.

December 2024

For the past three years, Dr. Michael Tobin from the University of Houston-Downtown has partnered with the Environmental Institute of Houston (EIH) to provide his undergraduate Environmental Lab and Field Studies course participants with a unique, hands-on learning experience in the marsh. Each fall, EIH’s current Interim Associate Director of Research Programs, Mandi Gordon, conducts a guest lecture to inform the class about EIH’s efforts in Texas diamondback terrapin (terrapin; Malaclemys terrapin littoralis) research and conservation. Later in the semester, the UHD class joins an EIH research team for a day of fieldwork centered on terrapin, a species of greatest conservation concern in Texas due to habitat loss and other threats. This collaboration allows students to experience a day in the life of a field researcher and introduces key topics in species conservation and habitat ecology.
 
This fall, 16 students accompanied UHCL graduate students Gabbi Hammerbach and Danielle DeChellis, along with UHCL undergraduate student Bailey Steward, into the marsh. Their primary task was to assess terrapins caught as part of EIH’s long-term monitoring program. With guidance from permitted UHCL student researchers and staff members, the UHD students assisted in assessing turtles by recording behavioral data,
key morphological data (such as lengths, widths, and weight), and documented observed injuries or abnormalities. Each terrapin was marked for recapture and valuable data for health assessment and reproduction were collected. Habitat data, including water quality parameters (e.g., temperature, pH, salinity, specific conductivity, dissolved oxygen), water clarity, weather conditions, tide level, and vegetation presence, were also collected to provide a comprehensive picture of the terrapins' environment. This outing was especially exciting, as the team captured a record number of turtles (15) at the survey site!
 
Through this ongoing collaboration, students gain a deeper appreciation for species conservation and the challenges and rewards of field research. To learn more about the Environmental Institute of Houston’s terrapin research, visit our Critical Life History Parameters of the Texas Diamond-backed Terrapin project page. All work was conducted under TPWD Scientific Permit for Research SPR-0321-026.

December 2024

We are thrilled to announce a fully executed articulation agreement between the University of Houston-Clear Lake and the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB) School of Health Professions (SHP). This agreement marks a significant step forward in enhancing educational pathways and expanding opportunities for our students.

This collaboration establishes preferential admissions into the Master of Science in Respiratory Therapy Program at UTMB’s SHP for UHCL students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, Physiology/Pre-Health Specialization. Through this agreement, UHCL students will benefit from a clear and efficient degree pathway, making it easier to pursue advanced studies and career opportunities in the growing field of respiratory therapy. The articulation agreement also underscores the commitment of both institutions to support student success and to create pathways that foster academic growth and professional development.

December 2024

The Environmental Institute of Houston’s Becoming an Outdoors Girl event provided an inspiring day of adventure and learning on Nov. 9, 2024. Held at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, the program emphasized hands-on learning, fostering curiosity, confidence, and a deeper connection to nature.
A highlight of the event was the Mammals & Tracks station, led by Jinx Uribe, an Environmental Education Student Assistant. Jinx created the engaging one-hour program from scratch, offering participants a unique look into wildlife tracking.

Activities included learning to identify animal tracks, investigating wildlife scenarios from tracks in sand, and searching for signs of wildlife on campus. Another activity involved examining skulls and teeth to determine whether an animal is a predator or prey.

This opportunity, funded by a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department CO-OP grant, introduces underserved girls in grades 6-12 to outdoor skills and experiences at no cost to participants. For more information about the program and upcoming events, visit EIH's Becoming an Outdoors Girl page.      

December 2024

UHCL's Transforming Lives by Degrees Program (TLD), housed in the College of Human Sciences and Humanities, recently graduated 31 students in the fiftieth year of its existence. During the recent ceremony held at the Stringfellow Unit Chapel on Saturday, Nov. 9, TLD graduated 12 students with a BA in Humanities, 10 students with a BS in Behavioral Sciences, and 9 students with an MA in Humanities.

The student speaker, Michael Loya, who earned a graduate degree in humanities, delivered a moving speech on the value of a humanities education. He thanked the faculty and the university for providing rigorous, sophisticated, and deep learning within the confines of the prison that in many ways helped to enlarge his vision, sharpen his critical thinking and writing skills, and deepen his compassion.

Family members, along with UHCL and Alvin Community College staff and faculty, watched the ceremony as the students walked to receive their diplomas in their formal caps and gowns. After the ceremony, the graduates had the opportunity to enjoy a few celebratory moments with their loved ones, while the faculty in attendance left with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude for the impact of learning on student lives.
 
Having offered its first classes to incarcerated students at Ramsey Unit in Rosharon in 1974, the TLD program has offered classes continuously and graduated students with undergraduate and graduate degrees for the past five decades.

November 2024

Karolyne Ochoa, a UHCL Literature major, recently won second place in Sigma Tau Delta's Hispanic Heritage Month Poetry Writing Challenge. This prestigious national competition, organized by the International English Honor Society in collaboration with the League of United Latin American Citizens, invited participants to submit poems inspired by themes from Natalie Diaz's poetry collection, When My Brother Was an Aztec.
 
Her poem, a profound exploration of family trauma and healing, stood out for its breathtaking and raw portrayal of pain, echoing the emotive style of Diaz while showcasing Karolyne's unique poetic voice. Her ability to craft a narrative that wrestles with such poignant themes is a testament to her talent and dedication. This award not only acknowledges her skillful artistry but also places her among the nation's most promising young poets. Congratulations to Karolyne on this well-deserved recognition!

November 2024

On Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, the University of Houston-Clear Lake Archives and Special Collections partnered with the Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library of the Harris County Public Library to commemorate the Library’s 60th anniversary. Invited by Library Branch Manager Christina Thompson, Archives Associate Director Matthew Peek gave a presentation entitled “What The Mind Of A Librarian Hath Wrought: Clear Lake City, Betty Ulrich, and the Creation of Freeman Memorial Library,” featuring original and in some cases never-before-seen archival materials to commemorate the event. The Archives also presented an exhibit of 7 original, rare archival materials related to the history of Freeman Library and founder Betty Ulrich. Faith Johnson, daughter of the late NASA astronaut Capt. Theodore C. Freeman after whom the Library was dedicated in 1966, spoke at the event, along with children of Betty Ulrich.
 
The library—which opened on Nov. 1, 1964, originally in a small room in the new Clear Lake City Recreation Center—was founded by Elizabeth “Betty” Ulrich, a children’s librarian whose family was the second family to move into the new Clear Lake City planned community in 1963. When Clear Lake City was first designed in 1962, there were no plans to include a public library for the new community, whose residents would include families of NASA employees. Ulrich saw a need and worked tirelessly from 1964 to 1967 with a largely volunteer librarian team to bring the Clear Lake Area the benefits of books.
 
Betty Ulrich was an important member of the Clear Lake Area. She taught library science classes for the School Library and Information Science Program at UHCL, and her husband Ted Ulrich graduated with a master’s degree from UHCL. The Ulrich family has been involved with the university since its founding in 1974.
 
In 2009, the Ulrich family donated to the UHCL Archives and Special Collections the personal and professional papers of Betty Ulrich, which includes many original and unique records of the early history of Freeman Library. Due to the complicated nature of the collection, the Betty Ulrich Collection has just been completed and is now available for research in the Archives. The Archives is also home to the records for the Friends of Freeman Library nonprofit organization.

November 2024

UHCL was recently host of an engaging forum titled “Dialogue with a Diplomat: Strategic Relations between the Republic of Korea and Texas” on Oct. 17. The event, attended by over 100 political science students and professors, emphasized the significance of the alliance between South Korea and the United States. This forum was presented by the Department of Social and Cultural Sciences and the Political Science Program.

Expanding Alliances
Mr. Young-Ho Jung, the Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Houston, highlighted that the alliance between South Korea and the United States is expanding beyond traditional security concerns to encompass economic, technological, and cultural collaborations. This evolution of the relationship reflects the growing interdependence and shared interests between the two nations.

Engaging Discussions
During the forum facilitated by Dr. Se-Hyoung Yi, Associate Professor of Political Science in the College of Human Sciences and Humanities, a variety of ideas and perspectives were exchanged. Students in attendance demonstrated their commitment to understanding global issues by asking insightful questions on topics such as North Korean defectors, inter-Korean relations, and the entry of South Korean companies into international markets. They also showed interest in South Korea's social security system, particularly its health insurance and childbirth incentives.

A Successful Forum
The success of the forum underscores the importance of communication in strategic relations. It also showcases the diversity and dedication of UHCL students, who are eager to explore academic topics that will shape and inform future political landscapes.

November 2024

The Environmental Institute of Houston’s (EIH) Plastic Film Collection program is continuing this academic year thanks to a $500 grant from the UHCL Alumni Association’s Program Development Endowment, which directly supports the student workers running the initiative. Environmental Education Intern Loralei Miller wrote and was awarded the grant. Originally launched by the Institute for Human and Planetary Sustainability in 2022, the program is now managed by EIH’s Rowena McDermid, Environmental Education Assistant.
 
Students sort and weigh plastic film collected across campus—there’s a designated bin in each building—before it’s recycled with Trex Plastics to make durable composite lumber. With help from Texas Master Naturalist partners, materials are delivered to Kroger, and UHCL receives a Trex bench with 1,000 pounds collected within a year—a goal they’re hoping to surpass this collection cycle.
This support from the UHCL Alumni Association is essential for the program’s success and gives students meaningful, eco-focused work on campus.  Find more information about the Plastic Film Collection program.

October 2024

The College of Science and Engineering's Dr. Xiaokun Yang, Associate Professor of Computer Engineering, has secured a research grant of $320,000 over four years, subcontracted through Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, from the Department of Energy's Competitive Portfolios for Advanced Scientific Computing Research. As the benefits of Moore’s Law continue to diminish, the pace of performance improvements in High-Performance Computing (HPC) has drastically slowed, decreasing from a 1000× increase every 11 years to just 3× over the same period. In response, this project aims to develop specialized hardware accelerators optimized for high-impact scientific algorithms, such as density functional theory and WarpX. Through a systematic algorithm-hardware co-design approach, these accelerators can be implemented as chiplets within a system-in-package (SiP), providing customized, high- performance solutions for a broad range of scientific computing applications that demand hardware acceleration.

October 2024
 
In early October, eight faculty members from the UHCL's College of Business traveled to San Jacinto College’s Central Campus to meet with SJC business faculty. The participating UHCL departments included Accounting (Rajib Hasan, Mike Lacina, Susan Sorensen), Economics (Steve Cotten, Alyssa Wadsworth), Finance (Yvette Bendeck), and Management (Alex Martynov and adjuncts Chuck Crocker, Elizabeth McKinley).

Faculty from all four SJC campuses - Central, South, North, and Generation Park – were in attendance. The session focused on key topics such as student success, enhancing student engagement, aligning academic programs, and exploring future collaboration opportunities. This marks the second meeting between the institutions, following a session hosted by UHCL in the spring with SJC department chairs. Both institutions are eager to continue building on this productive partnership to benefit students and academic programs.

October 2024

Congratulations to HSH's Dr. Maria Wilson, Assistant Professor of Social Work, who was recently selected to serve on the prestigious Gilead Pharmaceuticals Public Affairs Latine Community National Advisory Board. Dr. Wilson's extensive research expertise and hands-on experience in building organizational and programmatic capacities within Latinx-led and Latinx-serving HIV/AIDS organizations in the U.S. have made her an invaluable asset.

In this capacity, Dr. Wilson will provide critical feedback and insights to help Gilead Pharmaceuticals enhance their HIV prevention, philanthropic, community engagement, and health equity strategies for Latine communities. Her contributions will also aid in shaping a grant-making initiative aimed at improving HIV prevention and treatment health outcomes in these communities, set to launch in early 2025.

October 2024

A $1.2 million NASA grant has been awarded to the University of Houston System, supporting initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion in engineering through mentorship, internships, and research opportunities for underrepresented students.

The program, known as the Partnership for Inclusivity in Engineering Education and Research for Space, is aimed at growing pathways for students in STEM fields. Dr. Jerrod Henderson, the project’s lead from UH, highlighted that second and third- year undergraduates from UH and UHCL will gain hands-on experience in mechanical and aerospace engineering. Dr. Youssef Hamidi, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at UH-Clear Lake, will serve as an associate director on the project alongside UH professor Dr. Karolos Grigoriadis and Kevin Tipton from the Greater Houston Partnership. In collaboration with NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Boeing, and the Greater Houston Partnership, UHCL will be an integral part of advancing diversity and inclusion within the engineering community.

NASA’s Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) Manager, Keya Briscoe, emphasized the importance of the grant: “NASA continues to invest in initiatives that are critical in driving innovation, fostering inclusion, and providing access to the STEM ecosystem for everyone."

UHCL’s participation underscores the institution's ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for its students and contributing to the future of aerospace and mechanical engineering through innovative, inclusive initiatives.

September 2024
 
Congratulations to Drs. Robert Phalen and Magdy Akladios, both Professors in Occupational Safety and Health, who received a $155,556 Susan Harwood Training Grant from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) under the U.S. Department of Labor. The grant funds will be used to promote workplace safety, health training and education with targeted training on heat stress prevention.

This is the sixth Harwood training grant received by Drs. Phalen and Akladios, who have provided training on critical health and safety topics to over 2,800 participants since 2017. Their goal is to increase this number by providing more tools and training to at least 100 employers and contractors and 350 workers in the Houston metropolitan area in order to prevent heat-related illnesses, hospitalizations, and fatalities.

May 2024

A team of UHCL Mechanical Engineering students has been selected to advance in NASA's Micro-g NExT Design Challenge, a nationwide call for undergraduate students to design, build, and test a tool or device that addresses a current space exploration challenge. The UHCL team, Artifices Lunaris, was selected to test their prototype, a Hand Carrier for the Lunar EVA Tool, at the Neutral Buoyancy Lab (NBL) at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in June.

Micro-g NExT provides a unique opportunity for students to contribute to NASA’s missions. Teams propose the design and prototyping of a tool or simulant identified by NASA engineers as necessary in space exploration missions. If the design is selected, NASA divers test the tools while the students direct the divers from the Test Conductor Room of the NBL facility. The 2024 Micro-g NExT challenge focuses on Orion crew safety and lunar extravehicular activities (EVA) operations during the Artemis missions.

The Artifices Lunaris team comprises Adrian Garcia, Blair Mitchel, Buvaneshraj Saravanan, and Omar Tubeishat, who have worked under the guidance of their faculty sponsor, Dr. Kazi Md Masum Billah. Their project was selected from a nationwide competition, highlighting the team’s exceptional proposal among many submissions. The Hand Carrier for Lunar EVA Tool is designed to address the practical challenges astronauts face on the lunar surface, particularly in transporting and handling geological sampling tools. This project stands out for its focus on ergonomics, dust tolerance, and reliability, ensuring that astronauts can efficiently carry out their missions on the moon.

The Artifices Lunaris project is part of a capstone/senior design project sequence, which challenges students to apply their accumulated knowledge and skills to design and prototype a product. This hands-on experience is invaluable, not only in preparing students for their future careers but also in contributing meaningful solutions to the challenges of space exploration. As the team prepares to test their design and prototype at the NBL in June, their work exemplifies the innovative spirit and technical prowess of UHCL’s Mechanical Engineering program, potentially making a significant impact on the success of future lunar missions. 

Learn more about NASA's Micro-g NExT Design Challenge.

April 2024 

The University of Houston-Clear Lake recently held the 30th Annual Student Conference for Research and Creative Arts from April 22 to 27, 2024 This year's conference was a resounding success, drawing in more than 650 student participants across a variety of disciplines and educational levels. The event showcased over 300 teams, including more than 150 posters, 100+ in-class presentations, 30+ podium presentations, a mock trial, and 28 art exhibits. The conference was a melting pot of ideas and creativity, featuring contributions from all four UHCL colleges, local junior college partners such as UT Health Houston, Lee College, and San Jacinto College, and high school students from Clear Creek ISD’s Clear Lake High School, and Fort Bend ISD’s Ridge Point and Lawrence E. Elkins high schools.

The conference was structured around 30+ sessions, supported by UHCL faculty who encouraged their students to participate, whether through direct research involvement or in-class activities tailored for the event. Faculty advisors played a crucial role in mentoring students through their research and presentation processes, ensuring high-quality submissions and presentations. Each session was chaired by a faculty member, overseeing the smooth execution of presentations, posters, and other forms of participation.

Under the leadership of Conference Fellow Dr. Youssef Hamidi, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Program Director, the conference emphasized the value of student engagement in research and creative activities. Dr. Hamidi highlighted the conference as an excellent opportunity for students to present their work, gain valuable feedback, and engage with a supportive community. 

The 30th Annual Student Conference for Research and Creative Arts at UHCL not only celebrated student achievements but also fostered an environment of positive engagement and learning, reinforcing the university's commitment to innovation through collaboration and student success.

View photos from 30th Annual Student Conference for Research and Creative Arts here.  

April 2024

In a display of advocacy and eloquence, four UHCL students made their voices heard at the North Korean Human Rights Speech Contest held in April, organized by the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council of Korea, Houston Chapter (PUAC-Houston). Demonstrating their passion and deep understanding of the pressing human rights issues in North Korea, these students stood out among competitors, with three securing the Bronze Award and one achieving the prestigious Gold Award.

Alexandra Le from the College of Business, specializing in Legal Studies, clinched the Gold Award with her compelling speech. Her outstanding performance not only earned her a $500 prize but also an invitation to speak at the international North Korean Human Rights Conference on June 29 at the Asia Society Texas Center. This platform will allow her to share her insights and advocacy on a larger stage, promoting awareness and action on North Korean human rights issues.

The Bronze Award, accompanied by a $100 cash prize, was awarded to Steve A. McWhirter of the College of Human Sciences & Humanities (Social Work), Leslie Reyes Vargas, also from HSH but in Communications, and Timothy Paul Burns of the College of Science & Engineering (Physics). Their participation and success highlight the diverse and interdisciplinary commitment of UHCL students to advocating for human rights and contributing to the global dialogue on such critical issues. 

April 2024

On Thursday, April 25, UHCL's College of Business hosted the second annual Business Pitch Competition, an event that showcased some of the university's brightest entrepreneurial minds and their unique business concepts. Among the contestants were six remarkable students, each with a vision and a business plan that could potentially change the market landscape.

^{Pictured left to right: UHCL students Muselifat Kareem, Jasmine Gilbert, Kiara Argueta, Nyssa Chapa, Sania Maknojia, and DaShun Hatcher}

DaShun Hatcher emerged as the first-place winner, a Humanities major with a unique take on helping those facing incarceration with his pitch for Hatcher Black & Peterson LLC, with his concept captivating the judges and audience alike. Close on his heels was Sania Maknojia, a Finance master’s student whose business, Illuminate Shades, promised to revolutionize the way functional custom shades are manufactured. Nyssa Chapa, with her Marketing prowess, secured third place with Seven Letters, a venture that spoke directly to the hearts of its intended audience. Not far behind, Muselifat Kareem of Kandid Konnections, Jasmine Gilbert of Body Bliss Flames, and Kiara Argueta of Ecolnovate were honored as runners-up, each presenting concepts that were innovative and inspirational.

The 2024 Business Pitch competition was intense, with each phase designed to challenge the contestants' business acumen, creativity, and resilience. From the initial application process, where one-pagers laid the foundation of their business concepts, through the Hawk Business Pitch Bootcamp, where their ideas were refined and their pitches perfected, to the final live event judged by a panel of esteemed alumni and entrepreneurs:

Doug Dickey - Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Exiting Planning Advisor (CEPA), Manager/shareholder of DRDA Certified Public Accountants and Business Consultants

Melissa Vela - VP and Houston Community Manager for JPMorgan Chase

Joseph Anderson - Founder and Owner Franchisee of Chick-fil-A on Almeda Genoa

Christina Tegbe - Founder and CEO of 54 Thrones, an African beauty brand 

The contestants faced each challenge with determination, guided by the feedback and insights of COB faculty and the probing questions of the judges.

Dr. Troy Voelker, Associate Dean and Associate Professor of Management in the College of Business shared words of gratitude to the judges at the end of the event. "We are immensely grateful to the judges of our Business Pitch finale for their invaluable insights. Our students not only gained from their expertise but also learned significantly from the probing questions posed,” he said. 

“Each of our six student entrepreneurs is now better equipped for their future ventures, thanks to this event. The contributions of our judges, coupled with the educational funds available, have a profound societal impact—a contribution we are immensely proud of."

This event was not just a competition; it was a celebration of entrepreneurial spirit, an educational journey, and a testament to the importance of support and guidance in the path to business success for UHCL students.

April 2024

The Integrating Artificial Intelligence into the Future of Higher Education event on April 2 featured a panel of experts including Lindsey Everett-Lawrence (UHCL Alumna), Soma Datta (CSE), Chloe Diepenbrock (HSH), and Beth Fridrick (UHCL Libraries). Hosted by UHCL Libraries, the Center for Faculty Development, and the College of Human Sciences and Humanities, the thought-provoking and rich discussion delved into AI's impact on education, intellectual property, and the future job market.

^{Pictured: HSH Dean Sanford delivers opening remarks for the panel discussion.}

Panelists addressed inclusivity and bias in AI, urging the audience to consider how user interactions could introduce or perpetuate biases. Also discussed was the rise of Deep Fake technology, and the importance of developing more robust methods to counter misinformation. 

A significant portion of the discussion focused on integrating AI into education without compromising fundamental learning. The panelists unanimously agreed on the necessity of teaching students to use AI ethically and responsibly, ensuring they grasp core concepts before leveraging AI tools. Concerns about AI contributing to a loss of foundational knowledge in fields like writing, editing, and computer science were addressed with suggestions for a balanced framework that fosters both deep understanding and practical AI skills. 

The conversation concluded by highlighting the importance of preparing students to ethically leverage AI in the workforce through critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and continuous learning. The event underscored the crucial role of higher education in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.

To learn more about AI and view additional resources, visit the UHCL Library AI Guide.

March 2024

On Wednesday, March 27, the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce hosted Associate Director of UHCL Archives and Special Collection, Matthew Peek, as the special presenter during their monthly membership luncheon. Established in 1989, UHCL’s Archives and Special Collections serves as the repository of for community history materials by collecting, arranging, describing, preserving, and making publicly accessible original historical archival materials.

The archives also include the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) History Collection, materials relating to human space flight, and Clear Lake area history. These materials are open for research to UHCL students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the general public.

_{Pictured: Matthew Peek, Associate Director of UHCL Archives and Special Collections, delivers presentation at the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon on March 27.}

During his presentation, Peek gave an overview of the process for obtaining and cataloging materials donated to the archives, as well as highlighting some of the 25+ Clear Lake Area History Collections currently available to researchers. 

Attendees also had the privilege of viewing numerous archived pieces including Timber Cove’s Association Recreation Records from 1966, which included the name of former astronaut John H. Glenn, as well as Ellington Field WWII and Korean War materials, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership records from the 90s, and Webster High School yearbooks from 1947 and 1948.

UHCL Archives, located on the upper floor of the Alfred R. Neumann Library, is open to the public Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Research appointments are requested and can be made by emailing or calling the Archives. UHCL faculty and staff can use past university departments’ records and items such as historic catalogs or student newspaper issues to locate useful information needed for day-to-day university operations. 

“Spending a little time researching existing records about the university’s past can save faculty and staff numerous phone calls, emails, and meetings to locate the information they are seeking. In the long run, archives research can save everyone time in their work,” says Peek. More information can be found on the UHCL Archives and Special Collections website.

March 2024

UHCL’s College of Business was recently recognized by the Higher Education Review as a Top 10 Promising USA Business School. This recognition is earned through exceptional academic expertise, the capability to adapt to the evolution of the educational field and transformational impact on students' careers. View article.

March 2024

On Saturday, March 2, UHCL's College of Education hosted the 8th Annual Greater Houston Area STEM Conference. This year's theme, Fostering a STEM-Driven Mindset, drew approximately 300 attendees, exhibitors, presenters, students, volunteers, and even a live Hawk!  

STEM audiences from various backgrounds, including pre-service teachers, K-16 educators, EDCI doctoral students, and community partners, gathered to enrich their knowledge and skills in STEM education. 

Educators present were particularly excited to learn about updates to the K-8 Science Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), which will enhance their teaching practices with a focus on three-dimensional approaches and scientific and engineering practices. They also had the chance to collaborate with community partners, donors, and exhibitors to bridge gaps in industry knowledge and explore opportunities to bring real-world applications to their classrooms.

UHCL College of Education's goal in hosting events like the annual STEM Conference is to nurture relationships with educators and community stakeholders in Greater Houston by promoting experiential learning and workforce readiness. 

"Each year, STEM conference attendees walk away with an understanding of how what they do in the classroom or community has a long-lasting impact on STEM fields, thus jumpstarting a much-needed paradigm shift in our U.S. education systems that fosters a STEM-driven mindset," said Assistant Professor of STEM Education and Conference Chair, Dr. Carol Waters.

"This annual event serves as a platform for collaboration across various sectors, embodying the university's mission and vision of transforming student lives through knowledge and practical application in STEM fields," she added.

This year, the conference Exhibit Hall showcased a diverse array of participants, including exhibitors ranging from nature centers to robotics teams, space industry representatives, and educational institutions.

Attendees engaged in a wide range of presentations covering K-16 STEM knowledge and skills, real-world applications, and even a new and exciting STEM art competition. The event provided a valuable networking opportunity for all, fostering connections that continue to enhance student learning and promote a STEM-centric mindset for the future.

Thank you to these 2024 Greater Houston Area STEM Conference donor and exhibitors:

Platinum Level - Axiom Space, EduSmart, and Gulf Coast Educators Credit Union
Gold Level - RPA TREKs
Bronze Level - Limitless Space and Harris County Soil and Water Conservation
Other Exhibitors: Armand Bayou Nature Center, Artist Boat, BEST Robotics Inc., Coach Clydon LLC, Energy Education Foundation, ePlanetarium - Home of the Discovery Dome, Expand Learning Consultants, Galveston Bay Foundation, Girlstart, Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union, JASON Learning,  Limitless Space Institute, MindWorks Resources, National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project, OpenStax, Rice University, Rice University Office of STEM Engagement (R-STEM), Space Center Houston, Take Care of Texas, Texas Girls Collaborative Project, TinkRworks, UHCL College of Education - EXCITE, Educational Management, and Education Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction Programs, UHCL Pathways to STEM Careers, and Westbrook Intermediate Robotics Team (WIRED)

March 2024

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) recently decided to continue accrediting the College of Education’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S. until March 31, 2030. The Board of Directors for CACREP expressed appreciation for the support provided by the university administration in maintaining the program's accredited status, emphasizing the importance of such support in upholding quality in higher education programs.

March 2024

Recently, a special recognition ceremony was held at UHCL at Pearland to honor State Representative Ed Thompson for his unwavering support and advocacy in securing funding for the Success Through Education Programs (STEP) at UHCL. This program, a collaborative effort between UHCL, local school districts, and community colleges, aims to provide opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in teaching.

_{[Pictured left to right]: Dr. Christopher Maynard, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost; State Representative Ed Thompson; Dr. Joan Pedro, COE Dean; Dr. Richard Walker, UHCL President}

STEP focuses on identifying first-generation, diverse, and low-income students with the potential to become exceptional educators, offering them support and guidance from high school through community college and then into the teacher preparation program in the College of Education at UHCL over a six-year period.

Thanks to Representative Thompson's support, the program has received substantial funding, enabling it to expand its reach to Clear Creek and Pearland ISDs. This funding will provide $5,000 scholarships to 20 students at Pearland High School and Alvin Community College, as well as support for program operations, student activities, and administrative needs. 

_{[Pictured left to right]: Mr. Larry Berger, Pearland ISD Superintendent; State Representative Ed Thompson; Dr. Richard Exley, Alvin Community College President; Dr. Richard Walker, UHCL President}

The impact of this initiative extends beyond just financial support; it creates a pathway for these students to return to their communities as qualified teachers, enriching the education landscape in the region. 

To commemorate Representative Thompson's support, he was presented with a proclamation by UHCL President Richard Walker at the event. The College of Education and UHCL expresses profound gratitude to Representative Thompson for his pivotal role in ensuring the success and growth of the STEP program, which continues to make a significant difference in the lives of students across multiple districts.

February 2024

Dr. Karen Alexander, Founding Director of Nursing & Associate Professor (HSH), was recently honored by the Association of Black Nursing Faculty, Inc. (ABNF) as a "Member on the Move" and appointed as the District Liaison for District 9 by the Texas Nurses Association. With a deep-rooted passion for nursing from a young age, Dr. Alexander has dedicated her career to caring for individuals during their most vulnerable moments. Her commitment to excellence in nursing shines through her diverse experiences in the military, public sector, and academia, where she continuously strives to elevate the standards of nursing practice.

_{Pictured: Dr. Karen Alexander}

Notably, the recognition by ABNF underscores Dr. Alexander’s unwavering dedication to advocating for marginalized communities and promoting a positive nursing environment. As a trailblazer in the field, she not only sets an example for all nurses but also serves as an advocate for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) nurses who often feel underrepresented. Her efforts align with the core values of nursing, emphasizing the importance of recognition, appreciation, and continuous professional development to enhance patient care and healthcare outcomes.

Furthermore, Dr. Alexander's commitment to education and mentorship is evident in her role leading UHCL’s various nursing programs, including RN-BSN, RN-Nurse Refresher, and the upcoming MSN in Nursing Education and Leadership (launching in Fall 2024). By empowering nurses to acquire essential skills, pursue advanced degrees, and embrace leadership roles, she cultivates a culture of excellence that transcends classroom boundaries and fosters healthier communities.

February 2024

On Wednesday, Feb. 21, UHCL hosted college readiness, assessment, and counseling staff from Houston area K-12 and higher education institutions for a one-day mini-conference to continue to work on a vertical alignment that would allow all students and the community to easily map their educational and career progression so they can plan their future with clarity and purpose. 

This alignment will simplify vertical mobility among all area institutions, and provide Houston area students with both employer-sought professional certifications, as well as innovative and robust educational programs to support their desired career paths. 

Attendees included K-12 staffers from Clear Creek, Deer Park, Dickinson, Fort Bend, Friendswood, Galena Park, Galveston, Hempstead, Katy, Pearland, Pasadena, and Spring ISDs, as well as St. Michael's Academy.

Also in attendance were higher education representatives from 2-year institutions Alvin Community College, Brazos College, College of the Mainland, Galveston College, Houston Community College, Lee College, Lone Star College, and San Jacinto College.

Four-year institutions were represented by the University of Houston, UH-Downtown, UH-Victoria, and Sam Houston State University.

February 2024

In Fall 2023, the College of Science and Engineering’s Drs. Michael LaMontagne, Lory Santiago-Vázquez, and Soma Datta were awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation. This funding enabled them to acquire a MALDI-TOF spectrometer and an FTIR spectrometer. These advanced systems are being utilized by UHCL students for the identification and characterization of bacteria obtained from samples collected from Galveston Bay and the Flower Garden National Marine Sanctuary.

_{Pictured: Dr. Michael LaMontagne demonstrates how the MALDI-TOF spectrometer is used}

For instance, one team is dedicated to pinpointing antibiotic-resistant bacteria linked to microplastics, while another team focuses on assessing the feasibility of using MALDI-TOF, in conjunction with FTIR, for the swift detection of bacteria associated with mortality events in coral reef systems. Notably, these initiatives are endorsed by the EPA.

In anticipation of students working with these cutting-edge tools, Dr. Datta is actively developing 3D virtual laboratory simulations that replicate the protocols essential for MALDI-TOF analysis. This innovative approach will better equip students with the necessary skills and expertise to effectively operate these sophisticated instruments and conduct their research with precision and accuracy.

February 2024

On Friday, February 9, 2024, the Center for Faculty Development wrapped up Faculty Development Week with an awards and recognition ceremony. Congratulations to all award recipients!

Number of Students Taught

Faculty who have taught 5000+ students: Christine Kovic

Faculty who have taught 2500+ students: Anne Anders, Linda Giles, Toneluh Yang, Sarah Costello, Jian Lin, Se-Hyoung Yi, Hunter Stephenson

Faculty who have taught 1000+ students: Joshua Baker, Sheila Baker, Janice Bethany, Ariful Bhuiyan, Michael Brims, Silvana Chambers, Mohsen Daghooghi, Soma Datta, Kimberly Dodson, Leslie Gauna, Lorie Jacobs, Preeti Jain, Monica Khural, Nataliya Markina, Nancy Ramirez, Skylar Rolf, Linda Sansing, Cengiz Sisman, Viola Vela, Lauren Yandell, Yipeng Yang
 

“Go to 11” Award: Faculty who earned 11 or more credits for activities sponsored by the Center for Faculty Development.

Hisham Al-Mubaid, Robert Bartsch, Kazi Billah, Mary Curtis, Soma Datta, Kent Divoll, Giazú Enciso Domínguez, Leslie Gauna, Anne Gessler, Michelle Giles, Jennifer Grace, Shivani Gupta, Emily Horton, Kelsey James, Lisa Jones, Angela Kelling, Lana Kharabi-Yamato, Anna Klyueva, Michael LaMontagne, Ashley MacPherson, Anne Marcoline, Georgina Moreno, Janice Newsum, Ivelina Pavlova-Stout, Roberta Raymond, Thais Sant’Ana, Lory Santiago-Vázquez, Christal Seahorn, Gene “Xiaojun” Shan, Donna Stringer, Neelofer Tajani, Christine Walther, Jeffrey Whitworth
 

“Go to 11” All-Stars: Faculty who earned the most credits in the “Go to 11” award category sponsored by the Center for Faculty Development.

Christine Walther, Angela Kelling, Gene “Xiaojun” Shan
 

CFD Early Career Faculty Awards: Recognizing early career faculty who have performed at a very high level before they apply for promotion.

Kazi Billah, Emily Horton, Carol Waters
 

Instructional Innovation Award: Recognizing faculty for stimulating a spirit of experimentation and creativity in trying out new ideas to enhance teaching and learning in specific, practical, and generalizable ways.

• Silvana Chambers, AI Teaching Assistant to Personalize Student Learning
• Kelsey James, The Cognitive Psychology Media Project
• Leticia French, Discussion Board Activity Using Blooms Taxonomy
• Maria Curtis, Cultural Heritage and Community Partnerships in Experiential Learning
   
  Scholarship to Improve Higher Education: Recognizing faculty for publishing or presenting scholarship to improve academia.
• Lisa Sublett, Amanda Johnston, Christine Walther, Christal Seahorn, and Georgina Moreno; Speed-Interviewing for Classroom Group Formation: How a Clever Twist on the Classic ‘Speed-Dating’ Tradition Enhances Small Group Coursework
• Femi Ayadi, Writing-to-Learn: Strategies to Promote Engagement, Peer-to-Peer Learning, and Active Listening in Economic Courses
• Leslie Gauna and Jane Cooper, Dialogue Practices in Teacher Education Classrooms: Students and Teacher Educators’ Perceptions
• Silvana Chambers and Clifton Mayfield, The Impact of COVID-19 on Students’ Perceived Justice, University Support, Professor Support, and Intentions to Drop Out

Texas Research & Scholarship Award: Recognizing faculty for high level of scholarship on topics concerning the state of Texas.

• Stephen Cherry, Importing Care, Faithful Service: Filipino and Indian American Nurses at a Veteran’s Hospital
• Kalanka Jayalath, A graphical alternative for multiple group comparisons in analysis of covariance
• Roberta Leal, The impact of Strong Families, Strong Communities on relationship functioning in low-income African American and Hispanic individuals: Findings from a federally funded randomized control trial

Faculty Fellows: Faculty receive time and funds to gain expertise, create programming, and advocate for institutional change.

• Angela Kelling, Georgina Moreno, HSI Best Practices

Gene “Xiaojun” Shan, Using Analytics to Improve Student Outcome at UHCL
 
CFD Staff Appreciation Award: Awarded annually to a distinguished staff member who has shown outstanding excellence and superior performance in assisting the Center for Faculty Development in accomplishing its goals.

Briana Ramos, Administrative Assistant II, Office of Planning and Assessment

College Cup: Awarded annually to a UHCL college with highest faculty participation in Center for Faculty Development activities.

College of Education

January 2024

We are pleased to announce the appointment of our new Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) Faculty Fellow, Dr. Jennifer Grace. Dr. Grace is an assistant professor and program director in the Department of Leadership and Policy Analysis in the College of Education.

UHCL’s QEP "Becoming Aware: Cultural Interactions at UHCL," is a university-wide, five-year commitment to equipping students with the required knowledge, attitudes, and skills to effectively interact with others in our global communities.

As faculty fellow, Dr. Grace will assist with faculty development and implementation of the QEP. She will lead the campus-wide dissemination and improvement in student learning in intercultural knowledge and competency. Her facilitation of the QEP includes working with faculty cohorts each spring and fall in the incorporation of the learning outcome into their curriculum.

Dr. Grace firmly believes that we are stronger together and that the successful implementation of our QEP will have a lasting impact on our faculty, students, and the greater community. She has published several articles, presented at international and national conferences, and facilitated professional development sessions to foster intercultural knowledge, intercultural teamwork, and cultural humility. 

Additionally, her service to our university in multiple capacities including as chair on the College of Education student affairs committee, academic review committee, and voting member on UHCL’s Institutional Review Board committee has significantly prepared her to take on the responsibilities of the QEP Faculty Fellow.