Skip Top Navigation

School Spirit and Traditions

Show Your Hawk Pride

We proudly claim our position as a nationally renowned leader in higher education, research and public service. UHCL Hawks are strong, ambitious and prepared to make their community a better place.

HSTC Student Leaders holding up handsign

The Claw

In addition to being a symbol of UHCL pride, The Claw gives all Hawks a sense of belonging while making them feel more connected. To make the sign, extend your thumb and first two fingers. Then curl all three fingers. 

UHCL’s hand sign mimics the talon of a hawk, the university’s mascot, and was created and voted on by students. After students expressed the desire to distinguish UHCL from other universities, the campus held a student hand sign contest. From the received submissions, the Hawk Spirit and Traditions Council (HSTC) narrowed it down to three. These three hand signs were then vetted through the vice president of Student Affairs prior to the campus community voting on their favorite. "The Claw" was the winner.

Hunter the Hawk

Hunter the Hawk was unveiled as UH-Clear Lake's official mascot in 2013. As a nature preserve, UHCL is also home to wild hawks that live on campus as part of their natural habitat.

Want to join the flight crew? Learn more about UHCL's Mascot Program.

Hunter decked out in blue and green for I Heart UHCL Day

On Wednesdays We Wear Blue and Green

Throughout the year, Student Involvement and Leadership and offices across campus host activities centered on the university’s official school colors. Watch GetInvolved for free spirit T-shirt giveaways, seasonal refreshments, and much more every Blue and Green Wednesday!

Spirit Squad smiling in blue and green uniforms


Chili Cook-Off

Tents

The Chili Cook-Off is the longest-standing tradition at UHCL. Held every spring, university teams of students, faculty, and staff go head-to-head for a chance at bragging rights. All are welcome to enjoy chili tastings, food, music and fun.

Hunter, our beloved mascot, also celebrates his birthday at the cook-off!

Lighting at the Letters

UHCL letters lit up at night

Every winter, we celebrate the holiday season by lighting up the UHCL letters located near Alumni Plaza and Student Parking Lot D.

Hosted by the Hawk Spirit and Traditions Council, this celebration also includes holiday performances, toy drop-offs, and giveaways.


Hawk Spirit & Traditions Council

The Hawk Spirit & Traditions Council (HSTC) is a student organization that encourages and supports the creation, promotion and preservation of pride at UHCL. HSTC hosts educational and social programming to showcase UHCL’s spirit and traditions, such as the annual Lighting at the Letters in November. You can request to join HSTC through UHCL GetInvolved.

Contact

  • Student Involvement and Leadership

    Phone: 281-283-2560
    Fax: 281-283-2566
    Email: getinvolved@uhcl.edu

    SSCB 1204
    2700 Bay Area Blvd, Box 198
    Houston, TX 77058-1002

    Regular office hours:
    Mon. - Thurs., 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
    Fri. - 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

    Please call ahead during holidays and semester breaks.