Freshman students, two new buildings and a residence hall under construction mark
some of the changes that have taken place since the University of Houston System Board of Regents last held their board meeting at University of Houston-Clear Lake. On Feb. 28, UH-Clear
Lake administrators, staff, faculty and students welcomed them back including UHS Chancellor Renu Khator and other members of the UHS leadership team.
One highlight of the day of meetings included an announcement about the UH System “Here, We Go” campaign, complete with balloons and confetti. UHS Vice Chancellor for University Advancement Eloise Dunn Brice announced that the campaign had reached the $1 billion milestone, 18 months ahead of the August 2020 schedule.
“178,909 donors made this possible. That’s a small- or medium-sized city. Over 126,000 of those are brand new donors to the university; 1,032 scholarships have been created, 78 chairs and professorships and nine research centers,” said Brice, referencing some of the numbers and reminding those at the meeting that there is still 18 months to go in the campaign.
Former Army medic and UHCL undergraduate student Alfred Mimms shared his “Hawk” enthusiasm during the Board’s Academic and Student Success Committee meeting. Working toward a bachelor’s degree in biology with a concentration on cellular, molecular and biotechnology, Mimms told the committee and guests that his goal is to help cure cancer. He offered glowing remarks about his experience at UHCL.
“One of the main reasons that I like UHCL is that I see people investing in this university,” said Mimms. “One of the huge reasons why I moved my family here and spent a lot of money moving here is because our previous area in Maryland did not invest in education. They did not invest in the students. That is something that happens here, and I believe in what (UHCL President Ira K.) Dr. Blake is trying to do here.”
He added, “I’ve received more opportunities here in the last two years (at UHCL) than I would have ever received anywhere else.”
Mimms contributed much of his success to the faculty and their dedication to students.
When the committee completed their business, Board Chairman Tilman Fertitta and Chancellor Khator visited a macroeconomics class and spoke with students.
“Every time you fail, you are going to learn why you fail,” said Fertitta, who urged the students to “question everything.” He told students to pay attention to details and to never assume. He also emphasized kindness by quoting a popular adage that has been foremost in his thoughts. “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.”
When the Board of Regents meeting convened at 3 p.m., President Blake welcomed all to the university.
“This is the first Board of Regents meeting of 2019 – which happens to be UH-Clear Lake’s 45th anniversary,” said President Blake. “UHCL’s leaders, deans, faculty and staff want you to know that we are building on our impressive past. We are determined to enhance our value and multiply our impact on individual lives, and in families, neighborhoods, businesses and organizations within the greater Houston Metropolitan region.”
When introducing President Blake, Fertitta noted that the president had begun her tenure at University of Houston-Clear Lake only 18 months earlier, but praised her dynamic attitude.
“She’s very innovative, which we love. She’s following in the footsteps of the person to my right (Chancellor Khator). She believes in change, change, change, which I’ve preached my whole life. She’s a strong leader and that’s what the University of Houston-Clear Lake wants and that’s what the University of Houston System wants.”
Donning a green and blue tie and referencing other regents in UHCL green and blue, Fertitta thanked President Blake for having the meeting at UHCL.
“Thank you again and all of your staff and students, and I promise we won’t wait eight more years to come back again.”
