0073040572 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 5910 Th e U n i v e r s i t y UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT , TEXAS 306 McElhinney Hall Houston, Texas 77204-5035 o f SPRING 2010 Houston Magazine Change service requested

2010ARTSCALENDAR SCHOOL OF THEATRE & DANCE April 16–18, 22–25: Dangerous Liaisons April 19: Percussion Ensembles April 30–May 2: Spring Dance Concert April 21: Jazz Orchestra /Jazz Ensemble April 23–25: Symphonic Band/Symphonic Winds SCHOOL OF ART April 24: Choral Artists Through April 24: 2010 Masters April 25: Wind Ensemble Thesis Exhibition April 30: Symphony Orchestra June 12, 19, 26, July 3: Texas Music BLAFFER GALLERY Festival Orchestra May 14–July 31: Tomás Saraceno: June 8, 15, 22, 29: Festival Artist Lighter Than Air Exhibition Series Concerts (May 13: Opening Reception) New Frontier of Pride From Past to Present, the Cougar Legacy Endures

• UH Inspiration • UH Motivation “II viaggio a Reims” | Moores Opera House • UH Determination

Tell us what you think: www.uh.edu/magazine At The Magazine, our goal is to create a publication UH RECEIVES $3.5 MILLION GRANT FOR APPLIED RESEARCH HUB p. 4 you’ll be proud to receive, read and share with others. Your involvement as an engaged reader is critical to our success. As we strive to continue to improve the magazine, we want to hear from you. Please help us by going online at www.uh.edu/survey to take a brief survey about your thoughts on The UH Magazine. We want to know whether you prefer the print or the online edition, what sections you most enjoy, what sections you don’t prefer and suggested improvements for our online edition. We look forward to hearing your ideas. Th e U n i v e r si t y o f Houston Magazine Spring 2010, Vol. 4, No. 2

Publishers Michael Rierson Vice President for University Advancement Karen Clarke  Associate Vice President for University Relations

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF UNIVERSITY MARKETING & BRANDING (Interim) Elisa Crossland (’09)

Assistant Director of Marketing Liz Selig

Managing Editor Jo Anne Davis-Jones (’79)

graphic designER Watson Riddle Message from the President Contributing Writers Mike Emery Kelli Ferrell Eric Gerber (’72, M.A. ’78) I’m sure those of you fortunate enough to view ask those in attendance how many of them are UH Amanda Hosey the recent “Legacy of the Pride” exhibit in the students or alumni. A number of hands shoot up, usually Michelle Klump M.D. Anderson Library will agree that it was a making the “Go Coogs” sign as they do! Then I’ll ask Shawn Lindsey marvelous and inspiring display. The multimedia the remaining folks how many have a friend or a family Marisa Ramirez (’00) presentation, which traced our university’s evolution member who attended UH. More hands go up. Then I’ll from a modest junior college founded in 1927 to its ask how many work at a business alongside a Cougar? Photographer current status as a world-class institution, offered a Or attended a football game or theater performance Thomas Campbell rich array of historical artifacts, vintage photographs, on campus? period documents and a wonderful video putting Chancellor and President this all in context. I invariably wind up with every person in the room Renu Khator holding up a hand. University of Houston System The exhibit certainly helped me understand why Board of Regents “You Are the Pride” rings so resonantly with our I could continue, of course. How many have children Welcome W. Wilson Sr. (’49), Chairman campus community and our alumni. “Legacy of the taught by school teachers and principals who graduated Jim P. Wise (’66), Vice Chairman Pride” was another reminder of what a truly impressive from UH? Gone to an optometrist or a pharmacist or a Nelda Blair (J.D. ’82), Secretary heritage our institution can claim. For those who lawyer from UH? Been in homes and buildings designed Nandita Venkateswaran Berry (J.D. ’95) missed this important exhibit, you can read more by our architects? Driven across bridges devised by Tilman J. Fertitta on page 8 then treat yourself to an online version our engineers? Had medical treatment facilitated by our Jarvis V. Hollingsworth (J.D. ’93) researchers? Eaten at a restaurant staffed by Cougars? Kristen Lindley at www.uh.edu/magazine/bonus. Jacob Monty (J.D. ’93) Mica Mosbacher We can talk at length about this university’s high-profile Semester after semester, year after year, decade Carroll Robertson Ray (J.D. ’02) accomplishments and trumpet its internationally after decade, the University of Houston has played recognized researchers and scholars, renowned an essential role in shaping and sustaining the city Send address and e-mail updates to: whose name we proudly bear. University of Houston Olympic and professional athletes, show business Donor and Alumni Records stars, celebrated artists, prominent political leaders 306 McElhinney Hall Houston, Texas 77204-5035 and powerful business magnates. That is indeed a And, we share a pride built on determination, www.uh.edu/magazine legacy of which to be proud. achievement and success. Send feedback to: [email protected] The University of Houston Magazine is published by (Inside Cover) Philip G. Hoffman (HON ’87), UH President (1961–1977) and UH System Chancellor (1977–1979), the UH Division of University Advancement. plays with IV. There is, however, another kind of legacy that is every Printed on recycled paper. bit as uplifting and personally pleasing to me. (Cover Photo) Welcome W. Wilson Sr. (’49), UH System Board of Regents chairman, is joined by fellow UH Frontiersmen: The University of Houston is an EEO/AA institution. (l-r) Stephen Ontiveros, Loy Collin New and Mark Cortez. The group was established in 1948 to promote Cougar spirit. When I’m invited to appear at local functions, I often UH System Chancellor and UH President 144162 | 04. 2010 | 75,000 Copyright © 2010 by the University of Houston. (All archival photos in this issue are courtesy of Special Collections and Archives, University of Houston Libraries.)

d | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper The University of Houston had only 3,500 students by the close of the 1946 spring semester. A little more than three Inside months later, 10,500 students had enrolled for the fall. I was one of them. Most were returning GIs from World War II. 6 Legacy of the Pride... There were only three permanent Humble Beginnings + Committed buildings on campus then. To Supporters=Remarkable Future. accommodate the tremendous influx of students, housing was in the form of 300 army surplus house trailers Exceptional Cougars located where the Bauer College of 10 Business parking lot is today. My Tales of Inspiration: Cougars Remember brother Jack and I lived in trailer Special UH Moments. number 67. The bathroom was a Message from the Regents and a half away — not exactly convenient during a cold and wet winter day. 14 Creating a UH Tradition Four Families Share Their UH Journey. Nevertheless, the University of Houston was an exciting place to be. We had few traditions and few rules. We students, the faculty and the 24 Leaders of the Pack administration were all “winging it.” Band Pumps Up I got a job as business manager for the Excitement. My point is this ­— (then a weekly newspaper). I sold advertising, had six employees, contracted with the printers and, in effect, the University of Houston is at age 18, ran a small business. What an opportunity for me! still a very exciting place. In 1949, I graduated with a business degree and got married the same day to a campus beauty named Joanne Guest. Last A world-class campus with August, we celebrated 60 years together. I owe much to the In every issue state-of-the-art laboratories, University of Houston. modern classrooms, nationally My point is this — the University of Houston is still a very exciting 1 Message from the President place. A world-class campus with state-of-the-art laboratories, ranked academic programs modern classrooms, nationally ranked academic programs and 2 Message from the Regents and sports teams, an annual sports teams, an annual budget of almost $1.3 billion and 37,000 4 Making an Impact students. We have renowned faculty members who are doing budget of almost $1.3 billion groundbreaking research and are inspiring our students. And we 6 13 Play-by-Play have strong leaders — including our incredible president — who 19 Community Connections and 37,000 students. are committed to seeing our university achieve Tier-One status. 20 Faculty Honors This issue of the UH Magazine explores the meaning of the “Legacy of the Pride.” For me, that meaning is simple — I am 22 Reflections as proud of our university today, and will continue to be, as I was 26 Giving Matters when I first set foot on campus 63 years ago.

Welcome W. Wilson Sr. (’49) 10 14 24 Chairman UH System Board of Regents

www.uh.edu/magazine8

2 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper 3 | www.uh.edu/magazine Making An Impact Applied Research Hub Gets Green Light Building the UH Health Initiative Quick Takes UH Receives a $3.5 Million ETF Grant for New Hires and Texas Medical Center Membership Pave the Way High-Temperature Superconducting Technology. to Expanded Health-Care Presence. The UH Wellness comprehensive alcohol prevention program is among the nation’s by Amanda Hosey by Shawn Lindsey best, according to the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors and the National Prevention Network. The program Making An Impact Making received the 2009 National Exemplary Award for Innovative Substance Abuse Prevention ince its founding in 1987, the Texas Center for The Applied Research Hub will build on existing resources iaoliu Shaun Zhang’s career in medicine S X Programs, Practices and Policies. Superconductivity at UH, or TCSUH, has been making and foster key collaborations in an effort to develop and cancer research has taken him around advances in the development of high-temperature HTS applications that have the potential to revolutionize the world. He received his medical training The UH Law Center is ranked 34th in superconducting (HTS) wires. The new T SUH Applied medical equipment and improve the efficiency, security in China, a Ph.D. in Australia and conducted C the 2010 Super Lawyers U.S. Law School Research Hub will make it even easier for the university and stability of the next-generation electric power grid. postdoctoral work in Australia and the U.K., Rankings. The list ranks law schools by to partner with industry to transition HTS discoveries coming to the U.S. in 1999 as a faculty the number of graduates included in the to the marketplace. The TCSUH Applied Research Hub By partnering with UH mechanical engineering faculty member with an established lab at the annual Super Lawyers list, which is based on will help realize the potential of HTS technology and and leading HTS company SuperPower Inc., the Applied Baylor College of Medicine (BCM). establish Houston as a center for HTS applications, Research Hub will create pathways to quickly move evaluations by peers within legal specialties. especially in the areas of energy and medicine. superconductivity innovations into industry. So, some might consider the five-mile move from BCM to join world-renowned UH is ranked 14th among the nation’s SuperPower’s specialty products facility will provide scientist Jan-Åke Gustafsson at the University “best neighbor” colleges and universities, a pipeline to full-scale manufacturing directly from of Houston, a short one. In reality, it has according to a presentation, “Saviors of Our the hub. far-reaching implications, as Zhang illustrates Xiaoliu Shaun Zhang Cities: A Survey of Best College and University the long distance UH will go to recruit top Civic Partnerships,” compiled by Evan Dobelle, A recent $3.5 million Research Superiority Acquisition grant talent as it builds UH Health and strengthens president of Westfield State College. The from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF) — the its ties to the Texas Medical Center (TMC). While Gustafsson, one of the world’s leading academic institutions were selected for their second such award for UH — was the final crucial piece hormone researchers, is considered the positive impact on their urban communities, of the Applied Research Hub puzzle. The ETF grant UH Health coordinates under one umbrella “superstar,” there are a number of co-stars in including both commercial and residential allows Venkat Selvamanickam (M.S. ’88, Ph.D. ’92), the existing strengths of the university’s CNRCS. Zhang’s work has brought more than activities such as revitalization, cultural director of the Applied Research Hub and M.D. Anderson health-related academic programs, including $2 million in federal grants to UH. His team is renewal, economics and community service Chair Professor in Mechanical Engineering, to round psychology, pharmacy and optometry, and its collaborating with several renowned clinicians and development. out his team of top HTS researchers and construct $61 million in health-related research. in the TMC to take a patented cancer-fighting biotherapy agent to clinical trials — one of a research facilities. The C.T. Bauer College of Business growing number of collaborative opportunities Zhang left BCM to become part of a 40-member Entrepreneurship Program ranked “The ETF grant will be used to establish facilities with with TMC institutions after UH became an team undertaking world-changing research second in the top undergraduate category state-of-the-art equipment to conduct research on related to understanding and curing complex official member of the world’s largest medical of the 2009 Best Schools for Entrepreneurs, superconductor wires, devices and other materials,” health problems such as cancer and diabetes. center in late 2009. according to Entrepreneur magazine and explains Selvamanickam, with the goal of transitioning The Princeton Review. the research to industry. “Even though my group has only been “UH is possibly the most exciting university here for about six months, all the research in the nation right now, especially if you’re The Young Artist Apprenticeship “The hub will bring together research expertise to translate projects have been going extremely well. I am interested in the momentous race for Program, a six-week comprehensive superconductor products to the energy market and confident that we have made the right move,” Tier-One status, closer ties with the TMC, art-making workshop for teenagers from eventually to the medical instrumentation market,” adds says Zhang, a tenured faculty member in the new breakthroughs in health-related research, Venkat Selvamanickam Don Birx, UH vice president for research. Support from Department of Biology and Biochemistry. and innovative new interdisciplinary health neighboring Houston Independent School District high schools, earned national the ETF “is key in developing TCSUH’s capabilities and science programs,” says Kathryn Peek advancing HTS applications to put UH and the state of Under the direction of Gustafsson, who was (M.S. ’70), longtime biomedical educator endorsement with a Coming Up Taller award Texas at the center of the international stage,” Birx says. recruited last year to head the new Center spearheading UH Health. and $10,000 from President Barak Obama’s for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. Plans currently are under way for the construction (CNRCS), the group is part of UH President First Lady Michelle Obama presented the of the Applied Research Hub facilities in the Renu Khator’s strategy to build a Tier-One award. The program is organized by UH Energy Research Park. research team through “cluster hires” — Blaffer Gallery, the Art Museum of the acquiring a research superstar with his/her University of Houston. full research team.

4 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 5 A very young Wilhelmina “Beth” Robertson and Corbin J. Robertson Jr. eagerly wait in the stands of prior to a of the Pride… UH Homecoming game. 14 Reasons Legacy Humble Beginnings + Committed Supporters = Remarkable Future. to be UH Proud

1 UH is well on its way to becoming Texas’ next Tier-One university.

UH Pride by Jo Anne Davis-Jones (’79) 2 UH is one of the nation’s most ethnically diverse major research universities.

3 UH faculty is internationally recognized and includes National Academy of Science, National Medal of Sciences and National Board of Regents; Lillie T. Robertson, friend and leaders who are helping to develop egacy can be defined as the Sure enough, the first building was Academy of Engineering members, Nobel Laureates, and Pulitzer passing of a gift or a precious dedicated June 4, 1939, as a memorial and supporter of UH arts programs; Corbin and advance society — solidifying its and Tony Award winners. memory to future generations. to Lillie and Hugh Roy Cullen’s only J. Robertson Jr., advocate for the Texas legacy of excellence. The University of Houston’s son, Roy Gustav, who died at age 31. Center for Superconductivity at UH; Carroll 4 UH’s world-class facilities are home to more than 40 high- legacyL is filled with an overwhelming When Hugh Roy Cullen made that Robertson Ray (J.D. ’02), current member research centers, institutes and laboratories, where faculty and number of success stories that paint a first gift, one of many Cullen family of the UH System Board of Regents; and A Bright Future students conduct cutting-edge research. beautiful tapestry of promise, excellence contributions over the years — now Alison S. Robertson Baumann. 5 UH has numerous nationally recognized programs, including Here we sit at the beginning of a new and pride. totaling nearly $70 million — to UH and entrepreneurship; health, intellectual property and public interest the UH System, he said, “I have only With 83 years under its belt, the university’s decade ready to march into 83 more law; creative writing; pharmacy; music; hospitality; health and one condition in making this gift. The legacy of pride continues with thousands years of achievement — laying the human performance; and retention programs. A Seed is Planted University of Houston must always be of other alumni, friends and supporters, path for many more to add to the a college for working men and women such as the late LeRoy (’33) and Lucile legacy of pride cultivated by thousands 6 UH is honored among the top “community-engaged” E.E. Oberholtzer, the University of and their sons and daughters. If it (HON ’87) Melcher, George (HON ’84) and of proud Cougars. universities in the nation by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Houston’s founder and first president, were to be another rich man’s college, the late Cynthia Woods Mitchell, former heeded the call of a small group of eager I wouldn’t be interested.” Thus, the regent John (’70, J.D. ’75, HON ’95) and This issue of The University of Houston 7 UH optometry clinics serve more than 40,000 patients annually; and enthusiastic working-class high school University of Houston’s legacy of Rebecca (’70, J.D. ’78) Moores, the late Magazine highlights those special UH students work about 920,000 hours in the community students who sought higher education. On promise was born. C.T. “Ted” Bauer (HON ’01), the Hilton memories of pride and tradition. Having annually; UH has more than 200 college and faculty outreach June 5, 1927, with a student enrollment family, Gerald N. Hines, Michael J. Cemo awarded a total of 253,643 bachelor’s, projects in public schools. of 232 and 12 faculty members, their (’68) and the list goes on. master’s, doctoral and professional dream began to take form with a few Supporting an Evolution degrees since 1927, there is a wellspring 8 UH’s space architecture is the only graduate program of its kind. college classes held in downtown Houston of stories to share. 9 UH has the only social work program to have a Nobel Laureate on faculty. churches and area schools. Officially becoming a state university Impacting the World in 1963, the university has since grown Dedication of the Ezekiel W. 10 UH’s College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics has 20 Cullen Building, 1950. On April 30, 1934, that young college had leaps and bounds in the number of Today, the University of Houston, with international academic programs in 17 countries. burgeoned into a four-year institution with bright and creative students and faculty an enrollment of 37,000 students, is a a fall enrollment of 909 students under members who have passed through nationally ranked research institution with 11 UH’s Technology Project Management-Information Systems the formal charter name of the University these hallowed halls. And, those two a rich legacy that has positively impacted security program is designated as a National Center of Academic of Houston. A secure place to call home, tracts of swamp land have evolved the lives of its graduates, students, faculty excellence in Information Assurance Education. however, still eluded Houston’s university. into a lush, 667-acre campus featuring and staff members, and a global society. 12 UH has more than 3,500 alumni who head their own company Its legacy can be measured by a tradition That was until the J.J. Settegast family fountains, sculptures and recreational or are presidents or CEOs and has the second most alumni in heirs and Capt. Ben Taub donated two spaces surrounding modern classrooms, of innovation, dedication, distinction and the Texas Legislature. contiguous tracts of swampy land filled high-tech laboratories, student housing achievements. UH is a pivotal player in the growth and success of the city of Houston, with oaks, pines and other native trees and and state-of-the-art facilities. 13 UH Cougar athletic stars include Olympic medalists Carl Lewis shrubs three miles southeast of downtown state of Texas and nation. and Leroy Burrell; Heisman Trophy winner Andre Ware; NBA stars Houston along St. Bernard Street (now The Cullen family has remained a strong elvin Hayes, and ; golfers fred Couples, Steve Elkington and Fuzzy Zoeller; and MLB pitchers Cullen Boulevard). The only stipulation: supporter of the University of Houston UH is a major provider of innovative Doug Drabek, Ryan Wagner and Woody Williams. construction must begin by Jan. 1, 1938. for decades. Leaving a legacy of service research and technology, including and philanthropy including the late Hugh energy, environmental, biomedical, 14 UH has numerous successful alumni in the arts, including actors Hugh Roy Cullen Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen; the late superconductivity, nanotechnology as Dennis and , , Loretta Devine, Robert Wuhl The Birth of a University Wilhelmina Cullen Robertson Smith well as social and economic research and Jim Parsons; authors Alice Sebold and Padgett Powell; singer (’44, HON ’88) and first husband, the with real-world applications. UH’s strong Larry Gatlin; artists Julian Schnabel, Michael Ray Charles, “The Enter oilman Hugh Roy Cullen, who late Corbin J. Robertson Sr., who were creative and performing arts programs Art Guys” — Michael Galbreth and Jack Massing; broadcasters Jim Nantz, Tom Jarriel, Dominique Sachse; clothing designer personally guaranteed that “a university strong supporters of athletics; have touched tens of thousands victor Costa; film producer Walter Coblenz; and Pulitzer would rise on their land.” Wilhelmina E. “Beth” Robertson, locally, nationally and globally. Of equal Prize-winning photographer Adrees Latif, and the list goes on. former chair of the UH System importance, the university continues to provide educational and cultural opportunities and the skilled employees 6 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 7 UH Pride Legacy of You Are The Pride Campaign UH Pride the Pride exhibit In a highly competitive landscape of higher education choices in Texas, the University of Houston needs to distinguish itself from other s the University of Houston continues its path institutions. Through the “You Are the Pride” to Tier One, it’s important to reflect on the institution’s history to understand just how far it campaign, launched in the summer of 2009, A UH explains that it’s our students that set us has come. “The Legacy of the Pride” exhibit did just that — celebrating the university’s history while highlighting apart. At other universities, students get their what the future may hold. identity from the university itself. But UH gets its identity from its students, faculty, staff, The exhibit, held Feb. 8–11 at the Elizabeth D. Rockwell alumni and community. Pavilion in the M.D. Anderson Library, commemorated UH’s glory years and acknowledged the founding fathers who helped shepherd the university from its beginning as a fledgling college to an accredited, metropolitan research institution.

Presented by the Division of University Advancement, the exhibit offered material from the university’s Our stories are their stories . . . stories of diversity and entrepreneurialism, of accessibility and authenticity, of passion “It is gratifying to know that pride and love for this university did not begin during and sacrifice. our Tier-One campaign. It began when we opened our doors in 1927.” From these stories of astronauts, Olympic athletes, actors, writers and business executives special collections and archives, a UH Legacy photo gallery, holding close ties to the university, to the stories a presidents’ exhibit and a “Legacy of the Pride” video of the everyday students who are committed to From the Hugh Roy Gustav Memorial Building and the Science presentation. Several colleges, the University of Houston their education, UH has plenty of which to be Alumni Association, The Daily Cougar, the Student Video Building, UH’s first structures, to the College of Nursing, one of the first schools established on campus; from returning WWII proud. Their stories are UH’s stories; their pride Network and UH Athletics also participated. veterans playing practical jokes to a young Jack J. Valenti is UH’s pride. (see page 10) We don’t follow the (’46, HON ’02) stealing a kiss, the “Cougar Spirit” has remained old mold of other universities, we’ve created a “My favorite part in organizing this event has been uncovering strong throughout UH’s history. See more vintage pictures online. new mold. We are a reflection of our great city, the story of the University of Houston and presenting it to those and our graduates are ready to contribute to who maybe never knew our roots of success,” says Gus Forward its workforce. (’09) marketing manager and event organizer. “It is gratifying to know that pride and love for this university did not begin during our Tier-One campaign. It began when we opened our doors Throughout the community, the “You Are the in 1927.” Pride” campaign conveys the rich heritage of the University of Houston. By sharing our “This was a wonderful pride-building tool. I’m so pleased stories, we inspire current and future students that we could furnish a fitting backdrop to document such a to feel pride in their association with UH and bold assertion — Legacy of the Pride. UH Libraries’ Special to be excited about UH’s promise for the future. Collections is home to the University Archives with all the Everyone’s story contributes to the unique nostalgic memorabilia and documentation that come with a rich tapestry that is the University of Houston. past such as ours,” says Dick Dickerson, university archivist and By illustrating our strengths, we can raise historian. “Our legacy is clearly that of a Tier-One university.” the profile of the university, and sustain the momentum that will take us to Tier One.

More Online | www.uh.edu/magazine/bonus 8 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 9 From the young woman born in Calcutta, who draws people together through the power of story, to the twins from Baytown, who inspire their students to love math, success comes in many forms at the University of Houston. Exceptional Each person’s unique story of struggle and triumph, of unexpected victory and determination tells something about the university and its strengths. Pride at the University of Houston stems from the achievements of the students, faculty, staff and alumni who have made UH home throughout the years. Their successes provide the foundation and inspiration for future success. Their stories are your stories, because You Are the Pride. Cougars Tales of Inspiration Cougars Remember Special UH Moments

Exceptional Cougars Hakeem Olajuwon by Michelle Kump Growing up in Nigeria, Hakeem Olajuwon saw his first athletic Brett Cullen success on the soccer field, using his fancy footwork to fend Actor Brett Cullen (’79) has garnered many roles in more than off points as a goalie. 100 movies and hit television shows, including recent stints on “,” “Friday Night Lights” and “Lost.” But after picking up that first in high school, he found his true passion — one that would lead him first to a “The University of Houston enabled me to grow as a man, stellar career with UH’s “,” which made it to to grow as an artist,” he says. “And it gave me the ability to three Final Fours and two national championship games, do what I do now.” and eventually to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Arriving on campus with hair down to his waist and sand in One of Olajuwon’s fond memories of UH includes living in his flip flops after a summer spent surfing in California, Cullen . says he probably didn’t look the part of a serious actor. But very quickly, under the direction of theatre professors Cecil “It was just a wonderful life for a student to experience,” he Pickett, Sidney Berger and Claude Caux, he learned the skills says. “When you live on campus, you don’t worry about the that would serve him well in his career. outside world.” That experience paid off almost immediately, when Cullen He also enjoyed his classes, especially business law, which he moved to Hollywood and landed a part on a television series, says gave him “exposure to the real world.” Chitra Divakaruni Photo by Kyle Howard “The Chisolms.” www.uh.edu/pride-stories/brett-cullen Chitra Divakaruni, an award-winning author and poet Reflecting back on his career, Olajuwon says he is thrilled at the whose works have been translated into 20 languages, opportunities he found at UH, and couldn’t imagine having gone thinks a lot about her early days in America — learning Barbara Padilla anywhere else. how to cope with missing her family in Calcutta and the Born in Guadalajara, Barbara Padilla (M.A. ’04) remembers traditions of her culture. being touched by opera at a young age. Now she is an opera “To be here at the University of Houston, to be drafted by the sensation herself and runner-up in the 2009 season of Rockets in Houston ... that is something that is part of a dream Her experience taught her that she had stories to tell — “America’s Got Talent.” situation,” he says. www.uh.edu/pride-stories/hakeem-olajuwon stories that could bring people together and reveal the common humanity in everyone. Diagnosed with cancer in 1996, Padilla underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy near her vocal chords and was even told she As a UH creative writing professor, she’s also inspired wouldn’t be able to sing again. But that didn’t stop her. by her students and tries to use her experiences to help international students feel comfortable in their While in Houston for treatment, she managed to audition for new environment. Peter Jacoby, then music director at the Edythe Bates Old Moores Opera Center, who offered her a full scholarship. “One of the things I love about UH is that while it is striving to become more and more highly ranked in the “I just wanted to suck everything in ... like a sponge. Whatever country, it wants to still remain inclusive ... particularly you learn, you learn for life, and I really wanted to seize the for students who maybe their family hasn’t been moment and learn from all of these people,” she says of her time to college before,” she says. at UH. “It’s like working with the greatest opera company.” www.uh.edu/pride-stories/chitra-divakaruni www.uh.edu/pride-stories/barbara-padilla

10 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 11 Play-by-Play

Binh Vu Coleman Scores Big Inspired by the death of a brother he never had a Cougars Make It chance to meet, Binh Vu is pursuing a career in medicine, hoping to help others with limited access to health care. to the“Big Dance” Born in Vietnam, the senior biology major was drawn to UH. Because of UH’s connection and nearness by Shawn Lindsey to the Texas Medical Center, he now works in the pharmacy department at the UT Health Science Center

Exceptional Cougars and is a researcher at The Methodist Hospital. After 18 years, the didn’t “To know that from now on everyone is sit this dance out. Choreographed by a going to know us, the 2010 Cougars, as Vu, a recipient of several scholarships, including a four-game winning streak and the Conference the team that won the Conference USA Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo scholarship, USA tournament title, the Houston Cougars championship and took Houston back to still finds time to enjoy the college experience. (19–15) managed to two-step their way to the NCAA tournament, that’s amazing,” “The university has a lot of events where you can the NCAA Big Dance, two points at a time. says junior guard Adam Brown. have a chance to experience school pride,” he says. After graduation, he says he wants The Cougars earned “to stay in Houston, close to family and close to a No. 13 seed in the UH. I want to give back.” Senior guard Aubrey Coleman is a leader, first-round Midwest www.uh.edu/pride-stories/binh-vu but not just of his Houston Cougars basketball Regional matchup against team. Coleman leads the nation in scoring. Marisa and Larisa Coy No. 4 seed Maryland in Spokane, Wash., where Twin cheerleaders and middle school math teachers A complete player, he also ranked in the they fell 89 –77. Head Marisa (’08) and Larisa Coy (’08) have learned to shine top 10 in steals and pulled down an average coach Tom Penders on the sidelines and in the classroom. of 7.4 rebounds per game. resigned a few days later, “Our mom has this saying — anytime we do anything, saying he had achieved “Aubrey is one of the finest kids, both on whether it is performing or teaching, she always says — his goal of returning UH the floor and off the floor, that I have had the ‘You have one shot to do your very best,’” says Marisa Coy. to the NCAA tournament privilege to coach,” says Tom Penders, who and looked forward to resigned as head men’s basketball coach at The twins apply that theory as cheerleaders for the the challenge of building the end of the season. “He is an exemplary Houston Texans and as math teachers in Baytown. another program. student-athlete in all ways.” They use skills they learned as education majors at the University of Houston to inspire students to learn. Coach Joe Curl and the Coleman often made basketball look easy — UH women’s basketball but making it to the University of Houston was “I love math, and I just want to instill that same passion team joined the men in a bumpy road. After graduating from Gulf in my students,” says Larisa Coy. “We kept believing and kept the faith postseason play, traveling to Lubbock Shores Academy in Houston, he enrolled at through all of the struggles that we had to play Texas Tech on March 18 in the Southwest Mississippi Community College. It was there that Coleman’s unrelenting work One way they do that is by incorporating the technology this season,” said national scoring leader first round of the Women’s National ethic paid off, earning him scholarship offers they learned while students at UH — something that and UH guard Aubrey Coleman going into Invitational Tournament. Though to universities across the country. His choice: impresses other teachers. tournament play. suffering a defeat, the 2010 WNIT berth put the Cougars back in postseason for the University of Houston. “They are like, ‘Wow, they really taught you a lot,’” Larisa In 1992, the last time the Cougars played the eighth time in program history. Curl “I’m able to hug my mom and sister after the in the NCAA tournament, the team’s oldest took the program to new heights, but says. “I am really proud to say I learned it here [at UH].” game, and it feels good to see a smile on their member, Sean Coleman, was only 5 years also resigned after the season, citing www.uh.edu/pride-stories/marisaandlarisa-coy faces,” Coleman told NCAA.com. old; freshman forwards Bryce Clark and ongoing health issues. Kendrick Washington were not more than “He put in hundreds and hundreds of hours 13 months old. This team knows how For Cougar basketball fans, it may before we even practiced,” Penders told the special it is to take this program back have been a long time coming, but NCAA. “I’ve been doing this for 36 years, and he where it belongs. most dances are worth the wait. has, without question, the best work ethic of any player I’ve ever had.”

—Thomas Campbell

12 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 13 Creating a UH Tradition UH Families Four Families Share Their UH Journey. “I want to create a tradition of my family being a part of the University of Houston’s history of education.” UH Families by Michelle Klump — Callistus Nnabuife

hen Lauren Aalund (’09) donned her Nnabuife Family cap and gown to walk the stage for the University of Houston’s December From the moment he stepped foot on campus in 1978, Callistus Ogechi also decided her father’s alma mater provided the best W resources for her as well. graduation, she looked across the sea of new Nnabuife (’82) felt at home at UH. Now, it seems natural that his UH alums to find two very proud Cougars in the children should find a home here as well, he says. audience — her parents. “I like the many study areas and the different resources for the “I want to create a tradition of my family being a part of the courses. I also like the different services they have that help “She saw me cry,” says Niels Aalund (’79), University of Houston’s history of education,” Nnabuife says. students move into graduate programs,” she says. Lauren’s father. “We have seen other families do that … we are trying to follow in their footsteps to become a Cougar family.” With three more children in middle and high school, Callistus says Aalund already shared his passion for UH with he hopes to see other family members on campus soon. his wife, Charlotte (’78). But when one of their three As a student, Nnabuife, a native daughters decided to attend their alma mater, of Nigeria, was thrilled with the a wish was fulfilled, and a legacy started. diversity that made the campus feel “like an international town.” For the Aalund family, and many others, He spent time attending student attending the University of Houston has become activities on campus and a family tradition. he enjoyed playing soccer with friends. “I wanted my daughter to receive a great education and, hopefully, enjoy some of the same things that I Charlotte, Lauren and Niels Aalund He stayed on at UH after enjoyed,” Niels Aalund says. graduation — working in the library, the chemistry Aalund loved UH from the beginning. As a freshman, elementary school. “My education at UH fully prepared me for department and, now, in he walked onto the football team, received a scholarship a career I really enjoy,” she says. the environmental health and played defensive lineman for three years, including department, where he works 1976 — when the team won the The couple always hoped one of their daughters would attend as a lab safety officer. Nnabuife championship. He lived in Moody Towers, joined the UH, but feared their chance for a legacy was lost when Lauren gives back by participating in Sigma Chi fraternity and took full advantage of an attended another school her freshman year. But after many campus outreach programs, education he describes as first rate. visits home, Lauren began to give UH as second look. such as Cougar First Impression, a program designed Today, he remains active, showing up to nearly every “My parents had gone here, so I knew it was a good to welcome new and returning home football and basketball game, even after he has school,” says Lauren. “I had been to UH so many times, students. He considers given away his own tickets to encourage others to and I liked it. I decided this is where I belonged.” encouraging his children to experience UH athletics. He serves on the College attend UH another way of Emeka, Callistus and Ogechi Nnabuife of Technology Dean’s Advisory Board, co-chairs Thirty years to the month after her father graduated, Lauren giving back. UH’s Center for Logistics and Transportation Policy walked the stage, earning a degree in psychology and sealing and tries to give back to the university he says the family tradition. Now, she works in UH’s Bauer College Currently, his two daughters — Ogechi, a biology major, and “I don’t think I would be what I am today without the University gave him so much. of Business management office and has plans to pursue her Emeka, a psychology major — attend UH. of Houston,” he says. “Part of my own way of sharing that master’s degree at UH. appreciation is bringing my own kids to the university — having Charlotte received her degree in art education “As a kid, I was always with my dad. I would go to work with him them experience the Cougar spirit and sharing the experience and now teaches art at an “We were really pleased,” says Charlotte Aalund. “It just when I was off from school, so I was here already,” says Emeka. that I had in college.” makes you feel close, that we all went to the “I had more support here. I had friends and family … and looking same place.” at financial packages, UH was the best.”

14 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 15 UH Families

Johnson Family

Joel and Margaret Johnson advertised their hopes for “There was no separating us after that,” says Margaret. a UH family tradition on their vanity license plate. When “We just started going out, and we ended up getting “I love UH. they bought it, ‘VCOOGS’ was intended to represent five married my senior year.” It gave me everything. It gave me the Cougars — themselves and their three children. UH Families Since then, they’ve maintained their interest in the jumping off point for my career.” Their oldest, Beth Ann Johnson (’90), made the first step Houston Cougars — buying season tickets to football when she decided to attend UH. After their remaining two games every year. — Rick Carrasco children moved away to attend school, it was decided the ‘V’ stood for victory. With Beth Ann at UH, the family “We are both fans of football and the University of tradition lived. Houston,” says Joel. “We struggle with them through good years and bad years.”

Along the way, they encouraged their kids to attend UH. That encouragement paid off for Beth Ann, who credits her time at UH, including the invaluable experience she gained working on the yearbook and for The Daily Cougar, with helping her succeed in her chosen career as a senior communications manager.

“I was really happy there,” she says of her time at UH. “It’s fun growing up in a UH family.”

Carrasco Family

It was cheerleading that started the Carrasco family tradition at UH. With six brothers and sisters, Rick Carrasco (’92) knew he had to find a way to help pay for college, and after discovering he had a talent for it, he opted for cheerleading. (L-R) Jenny Lynn, Margaret, Noel, Joel and Beth Ann Johnson Raised in Garland, Texas, just outside of Dallas, Carrasco’s first stop was a junior college, and then Sam Houston State University. But the University of “Obviously, I had been indoctrinated in the UH spirit,” Houston beckoned. Beth Ann says. “My parents often told me they were happy to pay for college as long as I went to the University “The University of Houston had, and still does have, of Houston. While they said that in jest, once you repeat a phenomenal cheerleading squad,” he says. “They it enough times, it starts to sink in.” would go to nationals and place high every single year. I wanted to be on the best squad I could be.” The Johnsons’ love for UH began in the 1960s when the two were undergraduates and living in the same private When he tried out and made the squad, Carrasco moved dorm just off campus. Margaret Johnson (’67) was majoring to UH to begin what he describes as one of the happiest in home economics education and Joel Johnson (’69) years of his life. was majoring in electrical engineering. A traffic accident “I love UH,” he says. “It gave me everything. It gave (L-R) Brothers Ramiro, Rafael, Ruben and Rick Carrasco cheer on brought them together. the Cougars at the UH vs. East Carolina C-USA Championship game. me my jumping off point for my career, it is where my Margaret was injured, and the driver went to the dorm education was, and I’m still in Houston because of for help. Joel was manning the front desk and went out to my love for UH and the city.” . Because both of their last names were Johnson, the ambulance drivers assumed they were related and asked Carrasco earned a degree in history and went on to Joel to accompany Margaret to the hospital. become an attorney. When it came time for two of his (continued on page 18) 16 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 17 Community Connectionsm- pact Student News Cougar Class Impacting Math and of 2023 Erica Fletcher, junior anthropology Science Education and psychology major, has produced

UH Families UH’s teachHOUSTON Program Inspires Former Regent. a documentary, “Marianismo,” that explores HIV/AIDS among Latinos In 1991 two UH students, Gina Gardner (’92) and Scott and the cultural factors that contribute Covell (’92), were young and in love — both with each by Michelle Klump to the spread of the disease among other and their university. Latino women.

Even on his wedding day, Ruben Carrasco (center) and brothers “If we have a son one day,” Rick and Rafael (l-r) couldn’t get enough of that Cougar Spirit. As a long-time education Jeff Morgan (’81, joked Scott, “we should name advocate, John Cater M.S. ’83, Ph.D. ’86), Four UH students will travel to him Cougar.” watched with interest over chair of UH’s math Washington, D.C., for a semester-long (continued from page 16) the years as he saw great department and one internship as part of the UH Mickey Nothing was spoken of the strides being made in reading of the co-directors Leland Congressional Internship younger brothers to attend college, he made the case idea until almost a decade education, in part due to of the program, Program, which is housed in the for UH. That insistence, along with scholarships and later. During a doctor’s work done by researchers at foresees the program Center for Public Policy. The 2010 financial aid, soon brought Ruben and Rafael Carrasco appointment while Gina was the University of Houston. resulting in more than Mickey Leland Congressional interns pregnant with their only child, to Houston. 1,000 new math and are: Rachel Burnett, junior political Scott took the ultrasound science teachers in When he heard about science major; Jeneba Haffner, paddle like a microphone and, “It was because of my brother talking so highly of the the Houston area by the development of the senior political science major; in his best sports announcer university,” says Ruben Carrasco (’98). “It was just the teachHOUSTON program, 2025. Kaine Hampton, junior finance major; voice, proclaimed “In the perfect place for us.” which encourages math and and Janae Ladet, junior political science. … Cougar science students to prepare As Advisory Committee Covell!” From that moment Both ended up at the Bauer College of Business, with for careers in teaching, it chairman, Cater has on, their little cub was known Rafael majoring in business marketing with an emphasis was enough to call Cater a dual role — to Joseph Stromberg, public history Shasta and Cougar Covell as Cougar. on advanced professional selling and Ruben majoring back into service at the broaden community in accounting. Ph.D. candidate, has been awarded a University of Houston. Cater John Cater awareness and to grant by the Environmental Institute of “People either loved it or previously served as a raise money, both thought we were insane,” says Gina. “I loved it. It was great … to be able to attend college member of the UH System for operations and for Houston for his dissertation, “Atomic with your brother,” says Rafael Carrasco (’98), adding Board of Regents from 1989 the endowment. Cowboys: Regulation and Resistance Now 9-years-old, Cougar, or “Coog” as his friends call that he also felt the professors at Bauer really prepared to 1995, including a stint as chairman from Of particular importance is a goal to raise to Nuclear Power in Texas.” The him, is well known in his Florida community. him for his future as a real estate broker. “It was just a 1991 to 1993. $1 million for the endowment by the summer $12,500 prize will help him complete great program to be in.” of 2011, to receive matching funds from the his dissertation, which looks at the “I love it!” says Cougar. “My mom says it’s unique, and “The program excited me as an opportunity National Math and Science Initiative. collapse of commercial nuclear power. everybody else says it’s unique, and I like it that way!” The three brothers still love UH, attending football to have a real impact in the Houston- games when they can — they traveled to North Carolina area schools,” says Cater, who serves as “It’s a great opportunity for us to make an The pitching ace, who tossed a 45-mph fastball during in 2009 for the Conference USA Championship game — chairman of the teachHOUSTON Advisory impact on what happens in this community,” The UH David M. Underwood Chapter and promoting the university to anyone who will listen. little league last season, hopes to become a student- Committee. “Where we have fallen behind is Cater says of the committee’s work. of American Humanics program Ruben, who was married on New Year’s Eve, even put athlete at UH — following a long family legacy that teaching math and science. This program is received the 2008–2009 Outstanding the UH logo on his groom’s cake. includes his parents and grandfather, Jerry Gardner one that actually seems to be unique in the “It’s also exciting to be a part of an innovative Fundraising Benchmark Award by (’70), UH football captain (1965–69). way it addresses the problem.” program at UH, as the university continues to the National American Humanics The Carrasco brothers say they would love to see the strive toward Tier One. organization. The chapter was cited for tradition continue. Rick says if he has anything to say “My friends are like ‘What’s the University of Modeled after UT-Austin’s successful the high quality of its annual report, the Houston?’ and I say, ‘It’s the best place about it, it will. UTeach program, the teachHOUSTON “Having seen the University of Houston grow variety of fundraising projects and for in the world!’” program recruits students early, offers five from when I came to Houston 50 years ago, its successful fundraising efforts. “My daughter is going to go to UH,” he says. “She’s only semesters of opportunities for students to when I got involved on a day-to-day basis 9, but she’s committed already!” to practice teaching and provides strong 20 years ago, to where it is now, is really a — by Shawn Lindsey mentoring extending through the first two remarkable story,” Cater says. years of teaching after graduation.

More Online | www.uh.edu/magazine/bonus

18 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 19 Quick Takes Faculty Kudos Bookshelf

Lisa Alastuey, clinical assistant professor of health and human performance, has been Thomas T.C. Hsu, John and Rebecca Moores Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, honored with the 2009–2010 Southern District University/College Educator Award for her has been honored for his contributions to structural engineering. His Universal Element Tester is

Faculty Honors Patricia Belton Oliver has been named dean research on the physical and emotional health of women and young people. Alastuey also one of only two machines like it in the world. The American Concrete Institute and the American Amanda Baumle, assistant professor of of the Gerald D. Hines received the 2009 Texas Health Educator of the Year Award. Association of Civil Engineers sponsored a four-part symposium in his honor with presentations sociology, has written “Sex Discrimination and College of Architecture. from researchers from around the world who shared their own research that has been heavily Law Firm Culture on the Internet: Lawyers at Oliver previously served as Kimberly Birtcher, clinical associate professor of pharmacy, has been elected Fellow of the influenced by Hsu’s accomplishments. the ‘Information Age Water Cooler’.” the senior vice president American Heart Association’s Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology. of educational planning Tahir Hussain, associate professor of pharmacology, and Ming Hu, professor of pharmaceutics, Paul Butler, assistant professor of English, has and architecture at Seth Chandler, Law Foundation Professor, developed the spatial and dynamic model of jury have received $2.65 million in renewal awards from the National Institutes of Health for their written “Style in Rhetoric and Composition: the Art Center College behavior featured on the Numb3rs TV series on CBS. The model illustrates how jurors may respective research projects into obesity and flavonoids. A Critical Sourcebook.” of Design, where she vote to convict or acquit based on a random variable affected by factors such as actual guilt. created an environmental The show’s plot used the concept to illustrate jury tampering. Alex Ignatiev, director of the Center for Advanced Materials, received a five-year appointment Alice Cepeda, assistant professor of sociology, design department to as World Class University Professor by the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology in South has written a chapter, “The Relationship of bridge architecture and Yuhua Chen, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, has received Korea. Distinguished University Professor of Physics, Chemistry and Electrical and Computer Engineering, Ecological Containment and Heroin Practices,” product design. She also two National Science Foundation grants, totaling more than $890,000, to develop a Ignatiev’s research in resistive memory gained international recognition as a possible major in “Geography and Drug Addiction.” established the Institute for multimode switching platform that will allow the transfer of all types of data using one paradigm-shifting technology for computer memory. Community Development piece of technology. Helen Rose Ebaugh, professor of sociology, to collaborate on projects Craig Joyce, Andrews Kurth Professor of Law and co-director of the Institute for Intellectual Property has written “The Gulen Movement: A with low-cost housing Diana Chow, professor of pharmacy, with alumnus Harshal Bhagwatwar (’95) and U.T. & Information Law, has been reappointed chair of the American Society for Legal History’s Committee Sociological Analysis of a Civic Movement organizations. Oliver chaired the 2009 American M.D. Anderson Cancer Center’s Borje S. Andersson, received the 2009 Inventor of the Year on Conferences and the Annual Meeting. Rooted in Moderate Islam.” Institute of Architects National Convention Award from the Houston Intellectual Property Law Association for developing intravenous and National Education Committee. She also formulations of a pre-transplant drug for leukemia patients prior to stem cell transplantation. Noah Lim, assistant professor of marketing, has received the 2009 Management Science Meritorious Joseph L. McCauley, professor of physics, is a director on the National Architectural Service Award for his notable service as a reviewer for Management Science. has written “Dynamics of Markets: The Accrediting Board. Mark Clarke, associate professor of health and human performance, is the principal New Financial Economics, 2nd ed.” investigator in research that has resulted in a process that grows real human bone in tissue Brian K. McFarlin, associate professor, and Thomas W. Lowder and Richard J. Simpson, assistant Paul C.W. Chu, founding director of the Texas culture, which can be used to investigate how bones form and grow. The technology will professors of health and human performance, have been appointed section editors for the International Michael Leroy Oberg, professor of history, Center for Superconductivity examine ways the breakthrough research can be used in a clinical setting for applications Journal of Exercise Science. has written “Native America: A History.” at the University of Houston, such as spinal fusions, facial reconstructions following bomb blasts or the re-growing of an has returned to campus individual bone outside of the patient. Antonya Nelson, Cullen Foundation Chair in Creative Writing and award-winning author, has been Guadalupe San Miguel Jr., professor of history, full time. The T.L.L. Temple named the Artists Fellow for 2009. The prestigious $50,000 fellowship recognizes the has co-written a chapter, “Latino Education Chair of Science, professor Gavin Clarkson, associate professor of law, had a paper titled “The Social Efficiency of best and brightest artist. in 20th Century America: A Brief History,” of physics and executive Fairness,” which was co-authored with an MIT economist, listed on the Social Science in “Handbook of Latino Education.” director of TCSUH, Research Network’s Top Ten download list for Property, Citizenship, & Social Entrepreneurism. Ray Nimmer, UH Law Center dean, has made the list of The Best Lawyers in America in his dual concluded an eight-year specialties of Information Technology Law and Intellectual Property Law. Spencer Simons, director of the O’Quinn Law term as president of Hong Seamus Curran, associate professor of physics and head of UH’s Institute for NanoEnergy, Library and assistant professor of law, has Kong University of Science and his research team have found a rare element in the waste excreted by tiny bacteria Carlos Ordonez, associate professor of physics, has been elected a Fellow of the American Physical written “Texas Legal Research.” and Technology, where that is effective in limiting high-energy light. Its applications could range from use in eye Society for his contributions to the “effective langrangian theory of the nucleon-nucleon interaction and he continued to lead his glasses to aircraft defense. The findings on tellurium, a scarce metalloid typically used as a to conformal quantum mechanics and its applications, particularly to black-hole thermodynamics, Tamler Sommers, assistant professor of productive research group in semiconductor, have been published in the journal, Chemical Physical Letters. The project and for extensive efforts toward developing science in Latin America.” philosophy, has written “A Very Bad Wizard: Houston. Chu has received was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. Morality Behind the Curtain.” a $2.8 million grant from the Monica Perales, assistant professor of history, has been elected to a three-year term on the board of U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research Steven Deyle, associate professor of history, has received the American Antiquarian directors of Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Steve Werner, professor of management for his ongoing efforts to search for novel Society’s Joyce A. Tracy Fellowship for 2009–2010. and doctoral coordinator, has co-written materials that become superconducting at “Managing Human Resources, 10th ed.” higher temperatures, preferably close to or Jan-Åke Gustafsson, Robert A. Welch Professor and head of the Center for Nuclear above room temperature, and with higher Receptors and Cell Signaling, has received the Fernström Foundation’s Nordic Prize, one of Submit your faculty kudos: [email protected] Ira Wolinsky, professor emeritus of health current carrying capacity. Scandinavia’s most prestigious medical prizes, for his discoveries of nuclear receptors and and human performance, has co-edited his groundbreaking research on their significance in several common diseases. One of his “Nutritional Concerns in Recreation, most important findings is a previously unknown receptor for estrogen (ER-beta), UH FACULTY: YOU ARE THE PRIDE Education, and Sport.” which his research group discovered in the mid-1990s. 20 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 21 Reflections

John M. O’Quinn: The Consummate Cougar Cynthia Woods Mitchell: A Life of Creativity 1941–2009 and Community 1922–2010

Reflections by Marisa Ramirez (’00) by Mike Emery

he capacity crowd at Robertson Stadium was quieted and to the UH Spirit of Houston Cougar Marching he University of Houston recently lost one “The vision and generosity of the Mitchells have added as the public address announcer spoke. His hushed Band. A good deal of this school’s success can of its most passionate supporters of the so much to what the festival offers to its participants, T tones conveyed the sobering news of the death of be credited to John’s unflagging commitment to T arts. Cynthia Woods Mitchell (’43) passed and to Houston audiences each summer,” says Alan famed Houston attorney and UH alum, John M. O’Quinn. For making UH a better institution,” Khator says. away Dec. 27 at age 87. Austin, the festival’s general director. a moment, the sea of red shirts was still, as were the voices that would soon cheer their team to victory. The 1967, magna cum laude graduate remembered Mitchell was born in 1922 in . She arrived Through a generous unsolicited gift, she also launched his home in the UH Law Center (UHLC) and in Houston in 1939 and enrolled at UH to study art, UH’s Distinguished Authors Program. Mitchell has John M. O’Quinn (’65, generously contributed to its renovation. His gift literature and psychology. Two years later, she met provided support to the university’s Gerald D. Hines L.L.B. ’67, J.D. ’69 ), a made possible a three-year makeover that began George Mitchell (HON ’84) on a train ride from College College of Architecture as well. man who was the with the top of the plaza’s roof, continued to the Station to Houston. That meeting led to marriage and a consummate Cougar — college’s entrance, and then inside to the many lifetime partnership fueled by their mutual dedication to frequently joining fans in upgrades in communication and other technologies. the greater Houston and Galveston communities. the stands — had been killed on a rain-slicked “John was one of those rare ‘larger-than-life’ Her enthusiasm for the arts prompted her to make one Houston road. lawyers who instantly commanded attention of the largest individual grants in the university’s history and respect in any gathering,” says UHLC Dean — a $20 million gift to create the Cynthia Woods His UH team kept him Ray Nimmer. “His generosity is recognized in Mitchell Center for the Arts. The center cultivates close in mind that our state-of-the-art John O’Quinn Library, and collaboration among artists of different disciplines and afternoon. “JMO,” an endowed chair, the A.L. O’Quinn Chair in forms an alliance of UH’s School of Art; Moores School O’Quinn’s initials, adorned Environmental Law, named in honor of his father.” of Music; School of Theatre & Dance; Creative Writing the playing field, flowers Program; and Blaffer Gallery, the Art Museum of the placed there in respect. All the UH Libraries benefited from his $1.5 million University of Houston. The center hosts public events, Before the first kickoff that gift, as did the UH Honors College. O’Quinn’s residencies and curriculum that unite renowned visiting began the Cougars’ routing gifts also support the arts, including the Moores artists with UH students in all artistic disciplines. of Southern Mississippi, School of Music, the UH Alumni Association, the crowd joined in and many scholarships. Following a renovation in 2006, the facility housing the one rousing cheer Wortham Theatre and the School of Theatre & Dance for John O’Quinn. “In addition to his generous financial support, was renamed the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Center for John also provided great leadership support to the Arts. The center has commissioned world-premiere What does it mean to this university,” says Welcome W. Wilson Sr. (’49), performances and brought renowned artists to campus. be a Cougar? For the UH System Board of Regents chairman. “He was late O’Quinn, it meant so enthusiastic about the Tier-One initiative and “She was a visionary philanthropist whose dedication being dedicated, loyal was looking forward to the day this university would to the arts was apparent in the founding of the and generous. reach that status.” Cynthia Woods Mitchell Center,” says Karen Farber, the center’s director. “Mrs. Mitchell and her family’s “He worked tirelessly on behalf of this university and was one O’Quinn’s name graces many UH buildings and generosity has made dozens of significant new art of our most generous financial contributors,” UH President halls, including the appropriately named Great Hall works possible and left a lasting legacy that will Renu Khator says. in the Athletics/Alumni Center. continue to infuse the entire university and city of “Just as she lived a productive and creative life with Houston with creativity and innovation.” extraordinary commitment to our community, she has “The O’Quinn Law Library and O’Quinn Field at Robertson Great was his passion. Great was his dedication. left a legacy that will fuel creativity for future generations Stadium are the most prominent examples of his philanthropy Great is the legacy of this great Cougar. Mitchell also has provided support for UH’s in our community and far beyond,” Khator says. at UH, but they are by no means the extent of it. Over the Immanuel and Helen Olshan Texas Music Festival. years, he made numerous gifts, including significant Each year, the event introduces audiences to student www.uh.edu/magazine/bonus www.uh.edu/magazine/bonus donations to the UH Libraries More Online | musicians through the Cynthia Wood Mitchell Young More Online | Artists Competition.

22 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 23 Keepers of the Pridempact

“It’s about pride. Leaders of the Pack Whenever and wherever the Spirit of Houston performs, Spirit of Houston Band Pumps up the Excitement. it’s representing thousands of UH students and the thousands of alumni in Houston and around the world.” by Mike Emery — David Bertman Keepers of the Pride

t’s halftime, the Coogs are exiting the field for That performance was a high point for the Spirit of the locker room. Some fans are lining up at the Houston, but it was not the group’s creative zenith. I concession stands for their favorite snacks, but According to Bertman, the Cougar Marching Band hundreds more are still perched in their seats eager strives to make every show better than the last. to witness the Spirit of Houston Cougar Marching Band sprint on field with their “untraditionally “It’s hard to do that,” Bertman says. “It’s all entertainment organized chaos.” with quality, so we try to add a twist in every show to draw the audience’s attention. We always try to deliver Always ready to pump up the a top-notch performance that will keep people talking excitement, the Spirit of Houston about UH and the band.” Band, Cheer and Dance team exude university pride with every The Spirit of Houston began entertaining audiences in high-energy performance and 1946. Through the years, it has earned a reputation as appearance. one of the country’s top university bands.

David Bertman (M.M. ’98) has In 1969, the arrival of band director Bill Moffitt signaled led the band since 2000 and has a new era for the Spirit of Houston. With Moffitt’s overseen its immense growth pioneering “Patterns of Motion” drill techniques and over the past decade. When he reworking of rock and pop songs into marching band arrived at UH, only 87 musicians numbers, known as “Sound Power,” UH served as a comprised the marching squad. model for other college band programs. He passed Now, there are 280 members. away in 2008. Combined with the Dolls and cheerleaders, it has 350 students Bertman has followed in Moffitt’s footsteps, energizing committed to promoting UH. the student musicians, dancers and cheer squad. In turn, the student performers consistently invigorate In addition to wowing Cougar fans, Cougar fans with dazzling marching routines and the Spirit of Houston is a parade brilliant musicianship.

Bill Moffitt favorite. It also brings its brand of school spirit to pep rallies and For the university, the group is not just an entertainment other UH functions. machine. It’s a symbol of Cougar pride, and one that continues to personify UH’s energy, diversity and In 2003, the band played to its biggest audience ever commitment to excellence. at Super Bowl XXXVIII at Reliant Stadium. More than 71,000 fans were in attendance and approximately “It’s about pride,” Bertman says. “Whenever and 144 million television viewers witnessed the wherever the Spirit of Houston performs, it’s David Bertman and the Spirit of Houston Cougar Marching Band perform at the Moores Opera House during the band’s annual gala. Cougar Marching Band performing alongside representing thousands of UH students and the Justin Timberlake, Janet Jackson and others. thousands of alumni in Houston and around the world. That’s what drives traditional college marching bands, and that’s what drives us.”

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24 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 25 Giving Matters Giving Back Feels Great Creating a Legacy Education Advocate Credits UH for Paving the Way for Her Success. “This gave me the opportunity to really get to know Alumna Encourages UH Supporters many of the university professors, and they provided guidance and a great opportunity for hands-on by Kelli Ferrell to Make a Planned Gift. learning,” she says.

Giving Matters by Shawn Lindsey It was 1963 when Kaye Stripling (M.Ed. ’67, Ed.D. ’85) walked into her From there, she held many positions throughout first classroom and became a teacher. Houston-area schools, which led to her appointment n 1977, the price of gas was 65 cents a gallon, Jimmy “Following graduation, I was disconnected She was hooked. as superintendent in 2001. Stripling retired in 2004, Carter became president, and UH beat Maryland in from UH for 25 years,” says Nicholson. but she still wanted to support education. I the Cotton Bowl. Dorothy Nicholson (’77) remembers “An event at my college brought me back This began a decades-long career in the year well. It marked her graduation from UH’s Conrad N. and ‘wham!’ ... I was reinspired!” education, culminating with her being In 2009, a $7 million gift from an anonymous donor Hilton College of Hotel and named superintendent of schools for the created the UH TierOne Scholarship program. Stripling Restaurant Management. As a result of her inspiration, Nicholson Houston Independent School District. was drawn to this program because gifts are matched became involved with her college by dollar for dollar, allowing more deserving students to “The college today is a taking on the role as chair of the Eric Hilton Stripling says she owes much of her benefit from scholarships. long way from the ‘school’ Distinguished Alumni Club, which sponsors success to the UH College of Education. I attended in the ’70s,” a biannual lecture series in honor of “It is a great feeling to be able to give back to a says Nicholson. Eric Hilton. This further motivated her “They taught me the skills that I needed to be successful,” she says. university that gave me so much,” she says. “I am to raise $1.2 million to help fund the “They showed a sincere interest in me excelling in my profession.” proud to be a graduate of the University of Houston, and I want to give that same opportunity to others. Stripling’s career started with Teacher Corps, then a joint program “Think about what UH and the Hilton College has meant between UH and HISD to train teachers to work successfully “I had a wonderful career, and I owe much of that in inner-city schools. to the University of Houston.” to the city, to education, to thousands of students who went on to make enormous contributions to our world.”

“What has been Clinton L. Rappole Endowed Chair, the first Plan a gift that will CHANGE LIVES, accomplished in the time an endowed chair has been initiated Plan a gift that will change lives, last 30 years is nothing by HRM alumni. In addition, Nicholson beginning withbeginning yours. with yours. less than remarkable.” established a charitable bequest, earning her a place in The 1927 Society, a distinguished Leaving a legacy — it’s about giving back, investing in the future, enriching the The same can be said group consisting of supporters of the UH lives of others. Join the growing number of alumni, faculty and friends who are of Nicholson, who has System who have made planned gifts leaving their legacy at the University of Houston with a bequest that will support: enjoyed a successful career through their wills or other assets. • Presidential Priorities & Initiatives as a result of her degree. • Scholarships She uses her experience “Think about what UH and the Hilton College • College/Department Faculty and education as principal of Nicholson Interests, a private has meant to the city, to education, to • M.D. Anderson Libraries and Archives equity investment firm. thousands of students who went on to make • Athletics Programs enormous contributions to our world. And • Research many have then given back to UH so that Contact the Office of Planned Giving to learn how you can shape the Plan a gift that will change lives, beginning with yours. it would become the premier institution of university’s future through a gift in your will and become a member of today. How can I not be a part of that? It’s a The 1927 Society. To learn more about making a planned gift at the small way I can say thanks for the education Office of Planned Giving I received.” University of Houston, contact the UH System Office of www.uh.edu/plannedgiving 713-743-8880 Planned Giving at 713-743-8680 or [email protected] [email protected] or visit www.uh.edu/plannedgiving.

This information is not intended as legal advice. Please consult your CPA or attorney.

26 | The University of Houston Magazine | printed on recycled paper www.uh.edu/magazine | 27 Your UH Connection… A Heart for UH You Make the Difference. This is Ryan Callard. Talk with him and it’ll be difficult to guess Unwavering Devotion Leads to that he has ever been concerned about striking up a conversation with someone he doesn’t know. One of the UH Call Center’s outstanding Decades of Generosity. students, Ryan may be calling you soon. Motivated in part by gratitude

Giving Matters by Kelli Ferrell for his Kappa Sigma scholarship, Ryan talks with hundreds of UH alumni each week about how their support impacts the university and its students. The number of alumni who choose to participate in giving lizabeth Dennis Rockwell (HON ’99) has always School building, and it continues today, with her presence this year can positively impact our Tier-One journey. Ryan also looks had a place in her heart for the University of constantly felt across campus. forward to receiving your advice. EHouston, and her loyalty and generosity have never wavered. Her journey started in 1938 when Rockwell left UH in 1944 during her senior year to take a “My all-time favorite is learning about how a grad’s college experience classes were still being held in the San Jacinto High job as a cashier with a mortgage company to begin her long shaped them for life outside of school. It helps me see what I can career in finance — becoming widely respected as an expert look forward to in the future, and it also helps me make some decisions in retirement, estate, investment and tax planning. while I’m in school. It’s surprising — the things I learn and what alumni say they would have changed. Some of the answers will make In the mid-1970s, she gained national recognition for her you laugh.” work with IRA rules and regulations. She later became Ryan Callard executive director of the Private Client Division of CIBC College: HRM, Sophomore Oppenheimer Corp., retiring in 2001. Major: Hotel and Restaurant Management As her career spanned decades, she never forgot her Minor: Marketing UH roots. Hometown: Quinlan, Texas

“I decided to support three endowed deanships: One at the M.D. Anderson Library, which is the source of information for all fields of learning; one in the Cullen College of Engineering, Why Give? which takes current scientific thinking and applies it; and one University of Houston System Operating Budget in the College of Education, which prepares the teachers who Alumni support is especially important to help students understand prior knowledge and how to use it UH, and it is a university tradition across the to make our world better,” says Rockwell, who was awarded United States. Whether you are an alum, the parent of a a UH Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in 1999. student or a member of the Houston community, you have 17% 14% 16% a role to play in the future of the University of Houston. 11% 17% 13% “I was very proud to receive this honor,” she says. “Over 14% time, I have seen UH position itself at the forefront of higher 26% 38% Gifts from individuals have a direct and education in the 21st century.” UH President Renu Khator and Elizabeth Dennis Rockwell immediate impact, funding a level of excellence not 58% 43% 34% Rockwell’s name adorns many facets of the university: the supported through state assistance. State support for Elizabeth D. Rockwell President’s Suite in the Houston Alumni higher education has steadily declined — a nationwide Save the Date Center; the Elizabeth D. Rockwell Career Services Center in trend. Until now, UH has relied heavily on an equivalent rise 1989 1999 2009 the Bauer College of Business; and the Elizabeth D. Rockwell in student support (tuition and fees) — funding university 2010 Elizabeth D. Rockwell Pavilion in the M.D. Anderson Library. State Support Student Support Grants & Financial Aid Other Ethics and Leadership Lecture programs at status quo. Speaker: Nathan Wolfe, Epidemiologist and Rockwell underwrites lectures and events, including the Individual annual giving is critical to our ability to Give every year, impact every day. Self-Described “Virus Hunter” Elizabeth D. Rockwell Library Heritage Lecture Series and enhance and expand support to students and faculty. Gifts in Date: Monday, April 26 the prestigious Elizabeth D. Rockwell Ethics and Leadership support of scholarships impact students directly. Today, the Series, which brings national speakers to campus. Give online: www.uh.edu/giving TIME: 7 p.m. cost of a college degree is higher than ever before. Place: UH Hilton Hotel Give by phone: 1-877-755-0559 “I have an interest in two things — the preservation of the www.uh.edu/rockwell past and the direction of the future. And what better way You can take UH to the next level and make a Give by mail: University of Houston to secure our future than by supporting the education of difference in the life of a student. At any level, in support of any P.O. Box 867 tomorrow’s leaders,” she says. college, department or program … it’s your choice. Houston TX 77001-0867

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