Wow! The past ten days have been crazy. Lots of activity. Lots of meetings. Last week I met with former Texas Lt. Governor Bill Hobby, a truly impressive man who has left his mark on Texas, the University of Houston System and UHD.
This week classes began. We had lots of students unable to find parking spots, elevators that didn’t work, and new students and faculty wandering the halls trying to find their classrooms. It was a typical first week.
But, I have had amazing experiences the past seven days. I had an opportunity to meet with State Rep. Sylvester Turner, who strongly supports UHD. Later in the week, Laura Murrillo, president and CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, interviewed me for an upcoming edition of her new television show, “Contacto.” The next day, I attended the Hispanic Chamber’s breakfast meeting.
I spent time with Texas Southern University President John Rudley who is transforming Texas Southern University. I am very impressed with his team and what he has accomplished in a short period of time. We discussed several possible joint projects such as joint research and faculty exchanges.
Friday, I visited with the Model UN team and addressed the Scholars Academy Orientation. Both groups are doing amazing things. The Model UN Team consists of some of the brightest students on campus. They take seriously their role as representatives of UHD. In fact, last year, their first year on campus, they sent teams and won awards in Mexico, New York, and Paris. They have formed a Houston Model UN competition, with teams coming from around the world, hosted by UHD.
The Scholars Academy brings together undergraduate students interested in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and engages them in research with faculty. This is a great opportunity and not one readily found at many four-year universities. These students go on to present their research projects at national conferences. They also attend sessions that prepares them for the GRE and graduate study. The program has great students and truly dedicated faculty.
In my presentation, I emphasized how the U.S. is losing its competitive edge to other countries and is being outpaced in the production of scientists and engineers by both China and India. I told them that we want them to succeed at UHD and, in fact, to go on to get a master’s or Ph.D. I congratulated them for being in the program and ended by saying, “You are the future who can help America maintain its innovation edge, so that it can continue as the strongest economy in the world.”
Later, I joined others from UHD and headed off to view the new Lone Star College site off Texas 249 that was part of the Hewlett-Packard complex (formerly the Compaq site). Lone Star College, UH, UHD, and several other universities will offer degrees there. It's an impressive property. A million square feet. Houston needs it to meet the demand for higher education there. Houston’s Northwest Corridor will see growth of 2 million new residents in the next decade. Demand is already growing for bachelor’s degrees and the demand will continue to grow through 2020.
We have a lot of work to do before we start programs there. We are still negotiating the lease terms. Renovations have to get under way and faculty must be hired. Nevertheless, we are on the ground floor ready to go!
This has been a fabulous first week of classes. Headaches, sure, but we are moving forward. Stay Tuned!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
First Day of Class
It's been a long day and evening. In fact, I am posting this at 1:24 a.m. So, it's a Tuesday, but to me it is still Monday night.
Earlier tonight, a friend asked me, "How was the first day of you first week of your first semester as president." With one word, I smiled and replied, "Wonderful."
I'm not sure what I expected. Fanfare and balloons? A marching band? No, not at UHD. I was curious how they would celebrate the new semester. Every campus is different on the first day of class.
I arrived early this morning. The lines are longer in some areas, but shorter than I expected. At UHD, the wait for the elevator was endless. I watched students pour out of the MetroRail and wait to get into the doors of the main building. The third floor, which serves as the main lobby and student union, was packed.
After several morning meetings, at 11 a.m., I donned my Gator T-shirt and made for the main deck. I expected to be crushed by the many freshmen pushing their way to class and through the long lines of registration. I was pleasantly disappointed.
There were plenty of students, but the lines were very reasonable. Most had made it through registration and financial aid last week. There were lots of students in the bookstore. Staff and volunteers stood behind tables offering goodies: pens, water, snow cones, and yellow Gator T-shirts.
Outside in the South patio a volunteer challenged me to throw a basketball. A member of the Weight Team had just won a prize. He told me he is excited, because this year we have a very good team. Last year, the team received several awards.
My first shot skidded off the backboard and into the hoop. I should have stopped there. I learned that the volunteer is both a student and the director of a program in the community. We talked about her program and how we might get more students involved. Then, I threw again, the ball just slid off the rim. I joked, "I hope I make a better president than a basketball player."
On the north end, near the MetroRail, a large air-filled rubber Gator with a goofy smile bobbed in the wind. It was about ten feet tall. Like any good president being followed by students and egged on by a cameraman, I shook hands with the Gator. I was quickly joined by a woman who works in the bookstore. We took a picture under the mascot. I probably wore the same goofy smile as the Gator.
I then learned that we have a cheer-leading squad. Cheerleaders? Yep, in red with white skirts, except, of course, for the lone male cheer leader who is tall and could easily be a basketball player. The cheer leading team is pretty good. I watched them do a cheer. They lift up the squad leader, swung her in the air and caught her. I chanted along with them. Then, I had my picture taken with the whole crew.
Afterward, I went to the cafeteria, spoke with students and had lunch. What can I say, it's a cafeteria! Actually, the food wasn't bad and there were more choices today than last week (as more food stations were open). They even have sushi!
As usual, much of the day was filled with meetings. I continue to meet faculty and staff. Every day I learn more. Today, I realized that I have gained a sense of the buildings. I actually helped several students and two lost parents find their way through the maze.
At the end of the day, as I walked toward the elevators, several students asked me if I was their professor. It was understandable, after all, I wore a tie and carried a brief case.
The heavy rain had backed-up traffic. I explained that students and professors were tied up trying to get in and out of the parking lots. In fact, it was worse than I expected. Students were double-parking, rushing out of their cars to make it to class. The city police were giving out tickets. Some cars parked illegally were towed.
But, most students and most instructors made it to class, if not on time, at least dry. The pouring rain stopped just before the beginning of the evening onslaught of night students. Student lined the hallways. Some sat on floors waiting for the beginning of class.
UHD at night is different than during the day. The students are older. Most of them work at nearby locations. You see more adults in their 30s or 40s. I ran into an older man who I mistook as a professor. It turns out he is a 60 year old student--a former business owner, taking economics with the hope of beating the stock market. Good luck to that!
As I drove with a friend to have dinner with colleagues from the University of Houston campus, I smiled. It was like any other campus on the first day of the semester: crowded, not enough parking, and long lines at the bookstore.
But, there was patience among the students. I bet on these students. They're going to do well. They are serious. They are determined. They are Gators!
Earlier tonight, a friend asked me, "How was the first day of you first week of your first semester as president." With one word, I smiled and replied, "Wonderful."
I'm not sure what I expected. Fanfare and balloons? A marching band? No, not at UHD. I was curious how they would celebrate the new semester. Every campus is different on the first day of class.
I arrived early this morning. The lines are longer in some areas, but shorter than I expected. At UHD, the wait for the elevator was endless. I watched students pour out of the MetroRail and wait to get into the doors of the main building. The third floor, which serves as the main lobby and student union, was packed.
After several morning meetings, at 11 a.m., I donned my Gator T-shirt and made for the main deck. I expected to be crushed by the many freshmen pushing their way to class and through the long lines of registration. I was pleasantly disappointed.
There were plenty of students, but the lines were very reasonable. Most had made it through registration and financial aid last week. There were lots of students in the bookstore. Staff and volunteers stood behind tables offering goodies: pens, water, snow cones, and yellow Gator T-shirts.
Outside in the South patio a volunteer challenged me to throw a basketball. A member of the Weight Team had just won a prize. He told me he is excited, because this year we have a very good team. Last year, the team received several awards.
My first shot skidded off the backboard and into the hoop. I should have stopped there. I learned that the volunteer is both a student and the director of a program in the community. We talked about her program and how we might get more students involved. Then, I threw again, the ball just slid off the rim. I joked, "I hope I make a better president than a basketball player."
On the north end, near the MetroRail, a large air-filled rubber Gator with a goofy smile bobbed in the wind. It was about ten feet tall. Like any good president being followed by students and egged on by a cameraman, I shook hands with the Gator. I was quickly joined by a woman who works in the bookstore. We took a picture under the mascot. I probably wore the same goofy smile as the Gator.
I then learned that we have a cheer-leading squad. Cheerleaders? Yep, in red with white skirts, except, of course, for the lone male cheer leader who is tall and could easily be a basketball player. The cheer leading team is pretty good. I watched them do a cheer. They lift up the squad leader, swung her in the air and caught her. I chanted along with them. Then, I had my picture taken with the whole crew.
Afterward, I went to the cafeteria, spoke with students and had lunch. What can I say, it's a cafeteria! Actually, the food wasn't bad and there were more choices today than last week (as more food stations were open). They even have sushi!
As usual, much of the day was filled with meetings. I continue to meet faculty and staff. Every day I learn more. Today, I realized that I have gained a sense of the buildings. I actually helped several students and two lost parents find their way through the maze.
At the end of the day, as I walked toward the elevators, several students asked me if I was their professor. It was understandable, after all, I wore a tie and carried a brief case.
The heavy rain had backed-up traffic. I explained that students and professors were tied up trying to get in and out of the parking lots. In fact, it was worse than I expected. Students were double-parking, rushing out of their cars to make it to class. The city police were giving out tickets. Some cars parked illegally were towed.
But, most students and most instructors made it to class, if not on time, at least dry. The pouring rain stopped just before the beginning of the evening onslaught of night students. Student lined the hallways. Some sat on floors waiting for the beginning of class.
UHD at night is different than during the day. The students are older. Most of them work at nearby locations. You see more adults in their 30s or 40s. I ran into an older man who I mistook as a professor. It turns out he is a 60 year old student--a former business owner, taking economics with the hope of beating the stock market. Good luck to that!
As I drove with a friend to have dinner with colleagues from the University of Houston campus, I smiled. It was like any other campus on the first day of the semester: crowded, not enough parking, and long lines at the bookstore.
But, there was patience among the students. I bet on these students. They're going to do well. They are serious. They are determined. They are Gators!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Bon Appetit
Downtown Houston is unlike other cities I have lived in or visited. It doesn't have the fresh markets of Paris (although it does have a Farmer's Market downtown on Saturday mornings). You have trouble finding a place to have coffee and turn on your laptop on the weekend.
It doesn't have the Korean markets that are always open and where you can buy salads or prepared food (usually measured and charged by the pound), as does New York. And, unlike Manhattan, it isn't teeming with rushing pedestrians.
But, neither does Houston have the smell of diesel and less pleasant stenches that are ever-present in parts of Manhattan. In fact, it is a surprisingly clean city with relatively clean air.
Even more frustrating, the tunnels, which have many fast food or chain restaurants, salons, etc.--and which provide shelter from the raging heat--are only open weekdays from 9 or 10am to 3pm (with a few shops that remain open until 6pm). Even the downtown Macy's is closed on Sundays!
Houston does have the constant ring of the MetroRail, the sirens of ambulances and police, the incessant blare of alarms set off when someone brushes against then or teenagers intentionally bang their sides. You would think that would bother me, but I usually sleep well (well, for me, as I usually only sleep 4-6 hours).
But, I miss the luxury of a Cappuccino on Sunday mornings sipped as I leisurely peruse the New York Times. I miss hold the Times in my hands and flipping through the pages. I settle for my home-made brew, this morning it was Bustelo and the NY Times , which I read from my laptop. There is a nice cafe near the university, but none near the condo and nowhere to have breakfast on Sunday, unless I drive to Midtown or Montrose.
Later in the day, I did read the Houston Chronicle's Sunday paper as I sipped on a bottle of water, waiting for Julie and Julia at the Angelika Theater--which I loved. Yesterday, I watched the Tarantino flick, Inglorious Bastards, which would have been over the top for any other director, but for Tarantino it was restrained, with gore inflicted on Nazis. It included a reinterpretation of history, a separate reality, if you will, one that the audience could easily embrace.
I love the fact that I can walk to see a movie or ride the MetroRail to one of the museums, drop in at night to partake of jazz or blues, and walk back to the apartment from an Astros game--when the sky has been cleansed by a quick storm. I often watch the lightening from my condo or from a restaurant window.
Sunday, I walked around the city, enjoyed the film, and inhaled the city. This afternoon I plugged in my new GPS unit and headed off to explore the city, only to find that the GPS didn't work downtown because of the high-rise buildings. It did work once I left the region of skyscrapers.
I'm getting to know some of neighbors in the condo, although, like New York, it is still just to say "Hi." But, I know several of them by name. I even know the names of some of their dogs, as I run into them early morning or at night, as they walk their pets.
After seeing Julie and Julia, I wished I could take the time to prepare a wonderful meal. I miss my kitchen in Santa Fe, my stove, and all of the wonderful cookbooks. I miss sitting in the backyard with the BBQ, wine, and friends and, of course, I miss Celina and her daughters, Erin and Annie. My daughter, Diana, may come to visit in a few weeks. But, for now, I must be content with seeing the flick, calling Celina and talking about it, and toasting them all from Houston with a fine Bordeaux!
Today, I did view a few Open Houses in the Montrose and Upper Kirby areas. Ouch! Everything I saw was over $700,000. Even small town houses were over $500k. The condo is looking better and better.
Downtown Houston rightly boasts about its many wonderful restaurants. I have only sampled a few, but the list is growing. I might try a seafood pasta tonight or crab cakes with an Albarino or Pinot Noir. As Julia Child would say, "Bon Appetit!"
It doesn't have the Korean markets that are always open and where you can buy salads or prepared food (usually measured and charged by the pound), as does New York. And, unlike Manhattan, it isn't teeming with rushing pedestrians.
But, neither does Houston have the smell of diesel and less pleasant stenches that are ever-present in parts of Manhattan. In fact, it is a surprisingly clean city with relatively clean air.
Even more frustrating, the tunnels, which have many fast food or chain restaurants, salons, etc.--and which provide shelter from the raging heat--are only open weekdays from 9 or 10am to 3pm (with a few shops that remain open until 6pm). Even the downtown Macy's is closed on Sundays!
Houston does have the constant ring of the MetroRail, the sirens of ambulances and police, the incessant blare of alarms set off when someone brushes against then or teenagers intentionally bang their sides. You would think that would bother me, but I usually sleep well (well, for me, as I usually only sleep 4-6 hours).
But, I miss the luxury of a Cappuccino on Sunday mornings sipped as I leisurely peruse the New York Times. I miss hold the Times in my hands and flipping through the pages. I settle for my home-made brew, this morning it was Bustelo and the NY Times , which I read from my laptop. There is a nice cafe near the university, but none near the condo and nowhere to have breakfast on Sunday, unless I drive to Midtown or Montrose.
Later in the day, I did read the Houston Chronicle's Sunday paper as I sipped on a bottle of water, waiting for Julie and Julia at the Angelika Theater--which I loved. Yesterday, I watched the Tarantino flick, Inglorious Bastards, which would have been over the top for any other director, but for Tarantino it was restrained, with gore inflicted on Nazis. It included a reinterpretation of history, a separate reality, if you will, one that the audience could easily embrace.
I love the fact that I can walk to see a movie or ride the MetroRail to one of the museums, drop in at night to partake of jazz or blues, and walk back to the apartment from an Astros game--when the sky has been cleansed by a quick storm. I often watch the lightening from my condo or from a restaurant window.
Sunday, I walked around the city, enjoyed the film, and inhaled the city. This afternoon I plugged in my new GPS unit and headed off to explore the city, only to find that the GPS didn't work downtown because of the high-rise buildings. It did work once I left the region of skyscrapers.
I'm getting to know some of neighbors in the condo, although, like New York, it is still just to say "Hi." But, I know several of them by name. I even know the names of some of their dogs, as I run into them early morning or at night, as they walk their pets.
After seeing Julie and Julia, I wished I could take the time to prepare a wonderful meal. I miss my kitchen in Santa Fe, my stove, and all of the wonderful cookbooks. I miss sitting in the backyard with the BBQ, wine, and friends and, of course, I miss Celina and her daughters, Erin and Annie. My daughter, Diana, may come to visit in a few weeks. But, for now, I must be content with seeing the flick, calling Celina and talking about it, and toasting them all from Houston with a fine Bordeaux!
Today, I did view a few Open Houses in the Montrose and Upper Kirby areas. Ouch! Everything I saw was over $700,000. Even small town houses were over $500k. The condo is looking better and better.
Downtown Houston rightly boasts about its many wonderful restaurants. I have only sampled a few, but the list is growing. I might try a seafood pasta tonight or crab cakes with an Albarino or Pinot Noir. As Julia Child would say, "Bon Appetit!"
Friday, August 21, 2009
Going 'Good to Great'
Charlie Rose - JIM COLLINS - Watch more Videos at Vodpod.
I am attaching an interview of Jim Collins that appeared on Charlie Rose some time back. I purchased a stack of 'Good to Great' and this week distributed the books and other materials to 50 people and various groups on campus to begin a discussion at UHD. The discussion and survey (see "What Do You Think?" below) are part of a broad process to better know the campus and the community.
I am asking UHD students, staff, faculty, alumni, and supporters to help us better understand the areas in which we excel, those where we are doing pretty good, and those areas where we are doing poorly or should stop doing. In the survey and focus groups, I am asking, "If you were president of UHD for one day, what one thing would you do to improve UHD?"
I think the University of Houston-Downtown is a very good university, doing a very good job. Our students, for the most part are the first in their families to go to college. The student body is very diverse. UHD is 31% Hispanic and 26% African American, with a large number of foreign-born students from many countries in the world.
UHD is a commuter campus and a majority of the students work 30 hours or more. Most of our students transfer from community colleges or from other four year institutions. They take courses that fit into their schedules. Many students take years to earn their degrees.
I've been very impressed with the commitment of faculty and staff. They work hard to help our students succeed. And, the faculty and staff do a wonderful job. But, every institutions can improve, every institution can get better.
The book "Good to Great" essentially argues that you have to understand your core values and your mission. It urges organizations to stare in the mirror and examine the "brutal facts"--where you are strong, where you are weak, and where you have serious problems; and, then, decide what you are going to do better than anyone else.
Collins urges organizations to examine the facts, decide where their passions lie, and what they can be the best in the world at doing. In his research, he found that similar companies often proceeded on very different trajectories. Some became great organizations, while others floundered or even withered and died.
The great organizations had strong teams, selected a singular focus, concentrated their energies and resources, and became great at what they did. The others didn't. Even in turbulent times, some universities will flourish and become great, others will not. If you fail to adjust to changing world, students and faculty may pick other institutions. Foundations and donors may decide to put their money elsewhere.
Before I came to Houston, I witnessed a sad event--a very good private Liberal Arts college, the College of Santa Fe, closed its doors. I was part of the Task Force put together by Governor to try to save the college. As a result, the state and city stepped in and are trying to buy the land. The hope is to preserve the facility both as a city-run learning center (with the community college and four-year institutions offering degree programs). The city is negotiating with a private, for-profit which is interested in leasing some of the facility. But, the College of Santa Fe no longer exists.
Public universities face turbulent times. Several states are dramatically cutting back on funding for higher education. Universities have raised tuition, reduced faculty and staff, cut programs, and, in some cases, stopped funding new facilities. Every institution has to take a good look at itself. What we are doing? Where are we headed? How can we do a better job?
Over the next few months at UHD, we will examine what we do and how we can do it better. Listen to the interview, read the book, participate in the survey, and help us as we take the journey to become the very best at what we do.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Helping Students Achieve Their Dreams
The August 19th issue of U.S. News &World Report has an article by Michael Bowler on the high drop-out rates in four-year colleges: (http://www.usnews.com/articles/education/best-colleges/2009/08/19/dropouts-loom-large-for-schools.html). At many universities, including UHD, drop-out rates by the end of the sophomore year approach or exceed 60%.
Bowler presents several interventions that have been developed at universities across the country, most of which UHD is already doing. Here are some of the solutions mentioned in the article.
1) Start college preparation early with orientation programs; (We already work closely with local high schools and middle schools and we offer orientation programs for freshmen, transfer students and international students.)
2) Revamp remedial learning with modular and 'accelerated learning.’ (We are doing this too.)
3) Develop concurrent enrollment. (We offer dual-credit courses at four nearby high schools and offer dual-enrollment options at local community colleges.)
4) Make sure no one falls through the cracks. (This is an area where we can improve.)
5) Make college more engaging. (We have projects under way through the Quality Enhancement Program and through our civic engagement and sustainability efforts.)
6) Expand online and hybrid courses. (We have made progress in this area, but we also have much work to do.)
Wednesday, when I met with the UHD Deans and the Provost, I hadn't seen the article in U.S. News &World Report, but all of us know retention and graduation rates are important areas where we need to improve. I reiterated a point I made before the staff of the Student Success and Enrollment Management Division last week --“When you think about it, our main mission as an institution is to help students succeed so they can achieve their dreams.” I have asked the Deans to launch discussions on how we might improve retention and progress to degree.
Nobody starts college because they want to drop out, especially these days. They come to college to pursue their dreams: to be a nurse, a teacher, a doctor, an astronaut, an engineer, an accountant or a lawyer. Those who fail or have to drop out postpone their dreams or, in some cases, never achieve them.
Worse, students quickly accumulate debt with loans, credit cards and unpaid bills. And, if they drop out with 'Ds', 'Fs' and 'Ws', it is difficult for them to get back into college and back on track.
So, we want to improve retention and graduation rates, which will take some thought and intervention. This year we are adding eight new advisers to help students navigate the curriculum and requirements for their majors.
Retaining students is also important to the institution. If you think about it, students bring revenue to the University. Add up the amount of money each student pays in tuition and fees, along with the amount provided to the institution through state appropriations. That is a lot of money.
Each UHD graduate invests, borrows or generates through appropriations about what it costs to buy a brand new BMW to receive a degree! That's just about what it costs on average to add one new staff position at UHD. Two students bring in about what it costs the university to add a new faculty line. Ten students will get you a long way to upgrading a lab. Clearly, it is critical to retain students, especially in difficult financial times.
Don't misunderstand me. I am certainly not saying that students are just like BMWs. We are not in higher education to make money or to generate resources. Nor do we want to think of students as commodities. Rather, as faculty and staff we entered our professions because we enjoy helping others succeed. We love teaching, research, service and because probably along the way someone encouraged us to get a college degree. That's why we are here. For most of us this is more than a job; it is a calling.
But, it is in our interest to improve student retention and graduation rates. Every student lost is a loss to society. They are valuable. They are cherished. They are our future. Society as a whole loses out when a student drops out, because that might be one less teacher, one less nurse, one less social worker or one less scientist.
Right now, UHD and other institutions like us, lose a lot of students. Some aren't prepared for college. Others have financial problems. They leave for different reasons. But, at present, UHD loses over 60% of its first-time freshmen by their fifth semester.
So, I have asked the deans and vice presidents to give thought to this problem. And, I will be asking the campus community to consider how we can dramatically improve retention and graduation rates. We must do a better job for the sake of our students. Let us all help students achieve their dreams.
Bowler presents several interventions that have been developed at universities across the country, most of which UHD is already doing. Here are some of the solutions mentioned in the article.
1) Start college preparation early with orientation programs; (We already work closely with local high schools and middle schools and we offer orientation programs for freshmen, transfer students and international students.)
2) Revamp remedial learning with modular and 'accelerated learning.’ (We are doing this too.)
3) Develop concurrent enrollment. (We offer dual-credit courses at four nearby high schools and offer dual-enrollment options at local community colleges.)
4) Make sure no one falls through the cracks. (This is an area where we can improve.)
5) Make college more engaging. (We have projects under way through the Quality Enhancement Program and through our civic engagement and sustainability efforts.)
6) Expand online and hybrid courses. (We have made progress in this area, but we also have much work to do.)
Wednesday, when I met with the UHD Deans and the Provost, I hadn't seen the article in U.S. News &World Report, but all of us know retention and graduation rates are important areas where we need to improve. I reiterated a point I made before the staff of the Student Success and Enrollment Management Division last week --“When you think about it, our main mission as an institution is to help students succeed so they can achieve their dreams.” I have asked the Deans to launch discussions on how we might improve retention and progress to degree.
Nobody starts college because they want to drop out, especially these days. They come to college to pursue their dreams: to be a nurse, a teacher, a doctor, an astronaut, an engineer, an accountant or a lawyer. Those who fail or have to drop out postpone their dreams or, in some cases, never achieve them.
Worse, students quickly accumulate debt with loans, credit cards and unpaid bills. And, if they drop out with 'Ds', 'Fs' and 'Ws', it is difficult for them to get back into college and back on track.
So, we want to improve retention and graduation rates, which will take some thought and intervention. This year we are adding eight new advisers to help students navigate the curriculum and requirements for their majors.
Retaining students is also important to the institution. If you think about it, students bring revenue to the University. Add up the amount of money each student pays in tuition and fees, along with the amount provided to the institution through state appropriations. That is a lot of money.
Each UHD graduate invests, borrows or generates through appropriations about what it costs to buy a brand new BMW to receive a degree! That's just about what it costs on average to add one new staff position at UHD. Two students bring in about what it costs the university to add a new faculty line. Ten students will get you a long way to upgrading a lab. Clearly, it is critical to retain students, especially in difficult financial times.
Don't misunderstand me. I am certainly not saying that students are just like BMWs. We are not in higher education to make money or to generate resources. Nor do we want to think of students as commodities. Rather, as faculty and staff we entered our professions because we enjoy helping others succeed. We love teaching, research, service and because probably along the way someone encouraged us to get a college degree. That's why we are here. For most of us this is more than a job; it is a calling.
But, it is in our interest to improve student retention and graduation rates. Every student lost is a loss to society. They are valuable. They are cherished. They are our future. Society as a whole loses out when a student drops out, because that might be one less teacher, one less nurse, one less social worker or one less scientist.
Right now, UHD and other institutions like us, lose a lot of students. Some aren't prepared for college. Others have financial problems. They leave for different reasons. But, at present, UHD loses over 60% of its first-time freshmen by their fifth semester.
So, I have asked the deans and vice presidents to give thought to this problem. And, I will be asking the campus community to consider how we can dramatically improve retention and graduation rates. We must do a better job for the sake of our students. Let us all help students achieve their dreams.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
We Are Growing and We are Hiring...
This morning I attended my first Board of Regents meeting as UHD President. One of the biggest issues we discussed was budget. The UH system is in good shape. Several of the campuses are growing and research is growing significantly, particularly at UH, but also for the entire system. There were two main presentations, one on the budget and one on research. The following is a statement I sent out today to the entire campus:
At today's meeting, the UH System Board of Regents voted to approve the FY2010 operating budget for UHD. This budget reflects the priorities established by the UHD community through the spring planning process.
UHD’s total budget for the coming fiscal year totals $137 million and includes $6.4 million in new operating resources. We focused on the following high-profile initiatives in presenting the budget to the Board and to the Board’s Finance and Administration Committee:
• Advising and Scholarship Support ($1.8 million) – UHD will expand its advising and transcript evaluation services by adding 11 more advisers and transcript evaluators in order to better serve both first time in college and transfer students. We will also be adding 2 transfer coordinators and a Veterans Services coordinator. Funding for this initiative will come from the new advising fee. The bulk of the new money reflects increased scholarship support for UHD students from state and institutional sources.
• New Faculty to Support Growth ($924,000) – This budget includes 14 new, full-time faculty positions needed to accommodate our projected enrollment growth.
• Involvement in UH System Northwest Initiative at Lone Star College’s new center off Texas 249 ($250,000). We have committed these funds to ensure that UHD will have the resources needed to be an active partner in delivering courses and degrees at the teaching center.
Developing an operating budget for the coming year presented many challenges. The state budget for the FY2010/2011 biennium contains an estimated $12 billion of one-time federal stimulus funds. UHD’s FY2010/2011 appropriation includes $1.15 million of federal stimulus funds.
Due to the one-time nature of these funds, and because there are continuing concerns about the national and state economy, we have decided to delay making a decision about salary increases for UHD employees. None of the UHS universities included unconditional, base-funded salary increases in their FY 2010 budgets, except for UH-Clear Lake, which was not able to provide pay increases to its employees for the current year (FY2009).
It is worthwhile to note that in many states, public college and universities are experiencing conditions that are much worse than the conditions in Texas. A recent report issued by the Center of Budget and Policy Priorities, a non-profit , Washington D. C.-based think tank that examines federal and state fiscal policy, stated that as a result of this economic downturn, at least 32 states have implemented severe cuts to public colleges and universities.
By contrast, UHD continues to grow. As of yesterday, UHD had 11,205 students registered, an increase of 486 students (4.5 percent) compared to the number registered at this time last fall. Total student credit hours as of yesterday are also up by 5.3 percent. If we succeed in building our student credit hours throughout the year, a pay raise may be possible in spring, 2010.
In closing, let me say that while there are certainly challenges, they are greatly outnumbered by the opportunities. UHD is a young and vital institution in a high-growth part of the country and it has very talented faculty and staff. In the coming months, we will examine ways that we can both grow and re-shape our enrollments in strategic and resource-positive ways in order to benefit our students and therefore the institution. Thank you for continuing to encourage students to enroll at and attend UHD.
"At UHD, We're Making A Name For Ourselves."
At today's meeting, the UH System Board of Regents voted to approve the FY2010 operating budget for UHD. This budget reflects the priorities established by the UHD community through the spring planning process.
UHD’s total budget for the coming fiscal year totals $137 million and includes $6.4 million in new operating resources. We focused on the following high-profile initiatives in presenting the budget to the Board and to the Board’s Finance and Administration Committee:
• Advising and Scholarship Support ($1.8 million) – UHD will expand its advising and transcript evaluation services by adding 11 more advisers and transcript evaluators in order to better serve both first time in college and transfer students. We will also be adding 2 transfer coordinators and a Veterans Services coordinator. Funding for this initiative will come from the new advising fee. The bulk of the new money reflects increased scholarship support for UHD students from state and institutional sources.
• New Faculty to Support Growth ($924,000) – This budget includes 14 new, full-time faculty positions needed to accommodate our projected enrollment growth.
• Involvement in UH System Northwest Initiative at Lone Star College’s new center off Texas 249 ($250,000). We have committed these funds to ensure that UHD will have the resources needed to be an active partner in delivering courses and degrees at the teaching center.
Developing an operating budget for the coming year presented many challenges. The state budget for the FY2010/2011 biennium contains an estimated $12 billion of one-time federal stimulus funds. UHD’s FY2010/2011 appropriation includes $1.15 million of federal stimulus funds.
Due to the one-time nature of these funds, and because there are continuing concerns about the national and state economy, we have decided to delay making a decision about salary increases for UHD employees. None of the UHS universities included unconditional, base-funded salary increases in their FY 2010 budgets, except for UH-Clear Lake, which was not able to provide pay increases to its employees for the current year (FY2009).
It is worthwhile to note that in many states, public college and universities are experiencing conditions that are much worse than the conditions in Texas. A recent report issued by the Center of Budget and Policy Priorities, a non-profit , Washington D. C.-based think tank that examines federal and state fiscal policy, stated that as a result of this economic downturn, at least 32 states have implemented severe cuts to public colleges and universities.
By contrast, UHD continues to grow. As of yesterday, UHD had 11,205 students registered, an increase of 486 students (4.5 percent) compared to the number registered at this time last fall. Total student credit hours as of yesterday are also up by 5.3 percent. If we succeed in building our student credit hours throughout the year, a pay raise may be possible in spring, 2010.
In closing, let me say that while there are certainly challenges, they are greatly outnumbered by the opportunities. UHD is a young and vital institution in a high-growth part of the country and it has very talented faculty and staff. In the coming months, we will examine ways that we can both grow and re-shape our enrollments in strategic and resource-positive ways in order to benefit our students and therefore the institution. Thank you for continuing to encourage students to enroll at and attend UHD.
"At UHD, We're Making A Name For Ourselves."
Saturday, August 15, 2009
New Faculty in This Economy?
Yesterday, I met a room full of new UHD faculty. When I mentioned that to a friend in California, he said, "You're hiring new tenure-track faculty in this economy? You gotta be kidding. We're just trying to hold on to what we have. We're reducing the number of students, taking furloughs, cutting-back on everything, and raising tuition and fees!"
Yes, we're hiring new faculty and we're planning to move from a 4-4 teaching load to a 4-3 teaching load next Fall--assuming we have the money to do it. It's not that Texas is rolling in money. In fact, like most states, this year the legislature and governor balanced the budget with stimulus money. That helped for now, but could hit higher ed hard in the next budget cycle. Even so, Houston and UHD have not felt the deep cuts of other parts of the country--not yet.
And, students keep coming, especially in areas around our learning centers in the some of the fast-growing sections of Houston. So UHD is growing. We expect enrollment increases of between 3-4% this year over last.
The real issue in a school like ours is retention. Only about 7% of our students are first time, full-time freshmen (what's termed FTIC). Most of our students are transfers from community colleges or re-entry students (who work full-time or close to it).
UHD is a commuter campus in downtown Houston where condos rent for 2,000-3,000 a month, rent most of our faculty and staff can't pay, let alone our students. So the students drive many miles to campus, take courses at our learning centers, or take online courses. The MetroRail helps as students and faculty can park miles away and ride the rail. As the train expand North and the spur lines are added East and West, more neighborhoods will be served by the train. Right now the MetroRail connects students from nearby community colleges who often are jointly-enrolled in UHD and a community college.
Like all commuter campuses, UHD is trying to do a better job in student retention and graduation. Few of our freshmen students graduate in four-years or even six years, because most are working. Yet, each year we graduate many students, enough that we can hold two graduate ceremonies, one in December and one in the Spring. Commencement Exercises are held in Minute Maid Park--where the Astros play--and we fill up the stadium with parents and relatives of graduates, twice a year!
In fact, UHD has received recognition from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and performance funding for graduation of Hispanic and African American students and for graduation of STEM students, particularly minority students.
So keep 'em coming and keep graduating them!
Yes, we're hiring new faculty and we're planning to move from a 4-4 teaching load to a 4-3 teaching load next Fall--assuming we have the money to do it. It's not that Texas is rolling in money. In fact, like most states, this year the legislature and governor balanced the budget with stimulus money. That helped for now, but could hit higher ed hard in the next budget cycle. Even so, Houston and UHD have not felt the deep cuts of other parts of the country--not yet.
And, students keep coming, especially in areas around our learning centers in the some of the fast-growing sections of Houston. So UHD is growing. We expect enrollment increases of between 3-4% this year over last.
The real issue in a school like ours is retention. Only about 7% of our students are first time, full-time freshmen (what's termed FTIC). Most of our students are transfers from community colleges or re-entry students (who work full-time or close to it).
UHD is a commuter campus in downtown Houston where condos rent for 2,000-3,000 a month, rent most of our faculty and staff can't pay, let alone our students. So the students drive many miles to campus, take courses at our learning centers, or take online courses. The MetroRail helps as students and faculty can park miles away and ride the rail. As the train expand North and the spur lines are added East and West, more neighborhoods will be served by the train. Right now the MetroRail connects students from nearby community colleges who often are jointly-enrolled in UHD and a community college.
Like all commuter campuses, UHD is trying to do a better job in student retention and graduation. Few of our freshmen students graduate in four-years or even six years, because most are working. Yet, each year we graduate many students, enough that we can hold two graduate ceremonies, one in December and one in the Spring. Commencement Exercises are held in Minute Maid Park--where the Astros play--and we fill up the stadium with parents and relatives of graduates, twice a year!
In fact, UHD has received recognition from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and performance funding for graduation of Hispanic and African American students and for graduation of STEM students, particularly minority students.
So keep 'em coming and keep graduating them!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
What Do You Think?
Today, I met with UHD’s staff of Student Services and Enrollment Management. I made the point that while recruitment is important, and clearly we need to enroll and admit more students, we also have to do a better job of retaining students and helping them to graduate.
Students (and their families) make a huge sacrifice to go to college. Many work full-time. Most work at least half-time. Many students must take on indebtedness to go to college: student loans, parent loans, bank loans, and credit cards. The debts stack up. So we want to do better in helping students to graduate.
I asked the SSEM staff, “If you were the president of UHD for one day, what would be the first thing you would do to improve UHD?” I made it clear that I am asking for input. Of course, we don't know how much money we will have so we can't do all of these things, but certainly we can identify some critical areas that we should address. Over the next few months, I will holding focus groups and initiate a campus-wide dialogue. This is part of that process.
Several ideas were raised that could help create community on campus and improve student retention. Here are some of them:
• Build a Student Union with space for parking, childcare, and office for student organizations
• Increase parking and improve the food options in the cafeteria
• Build a dormitory or negotiate special rates for UHD students for rooms in nearby apartments
• Bring in more international students and provide more opportunities for UHD students to study abroad
• Increase scholarships, particularly for transfer students and those close to graduating
• Offer more hybrid classes, full degree programs online, and more evening and weekend courses
• Initiate early intervention programs so that faculty inform advisers of failing students and those students who are not attending class
• Engage students with service learning courses and internships, where they both improve society and earn credit for it
• Expand support for student athletic teams, including a field where they can play softball, football, rugby, etc.
• Establish a unified freshmen experience: with a Fall event for all freshmen students, a common reading experience, and learning communities
I will be initiating a survey of students, faculty, staff, and community. Here are the questions and I welcome you to submit your response to me:
1. What things does UHD do exceptionally well? What makes UHD distinct from other institutions serving Houston or South Texas?
2. What could UHD do better? What would you recommend we improve?
3. What should we stop doing or do differently? Is there anything UHD is currently doing that is not productive or that is ineffective?
4. What opportunities exist for UHD that we are not currently tapping (resources, partnerships, unaddressed needs, niche markets, etc.)?
5. If you were president for a day what one thing would you do to make UHD a better place?
To complete the survey online, go to the survey or fax your comments to UHD President at (713) 221-8075.
Students (and their families) make a huge sacrifice to go to college. Many work full-time. Most work at least half-time. Many students must take on indebtedness to go to college: student loans, parent loans, bank loans, and credit cards. The debts stack up. So we want to do better in helping students to graduate.
I asked the SSEM staff, “If you were the president of UHD for one day, what would be the first thing you would do to improve UHD?” I made it clear that I am asking for input. Of course, we don't know how much money we will have so we can't do all of these things, but certainly we can identify some critical areas that we should address. Over the next few months, I will holding focus groups and initiate a campus-wide dialogue. This is part of that process.
Several ideas were raised that could help create community on campus and improve student retention. Here are some of them:
• Build a Student Union with space for parking, childcare, and office for student organizations
• Increase parking and improve the food options in the cafeteria
• Build a dormitory or negotiate special rates for UHD students for rooms in nearby apartments
• Bring in more international students and provide more opportunities for UHD students to study abroad
• Increase scholarships, particularly for transfer students and those close to graduating
• Offer more hybrid classes, full degree programs online, and more evening and weekend courses
• Initiate early intervention programs so that faculty inform advisers of failing students and those students who are not attending class
• Engage students with service learning courses and internships, where they both improve society and earn credit for it
• Expand support for student athletic teams, including a field where they can play softball, football, rugby, etc.
• Establish a unified freshmen experience: with a Fall event for all freshmen students, a common reading experience, and learning communities
I will be initiating a survey of students, faculty, staff, and community. Here are the questions and I welcome you to submit your response to me:
1. What things does UHD do exceptionally well? What makes UHD distinct from other institutions serving Houston or South Texas?
2. What could UHD do better? What would you recommend we improve?
3. What should we stop doing or do differently? Is there anything UHD is currently doing that is not productive or that is ineffective?
4. What opportunities exist for UHD that we are not currently tapping (resources, partnerships, unaddressed needs, niche markets, etc.)?
5. If you were president for a day what one thing would you do to make UHD a better place?
To complete the survey online, go to the survey or fax your comments to UHD President at (713) 221-8075.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Gators in the Bayou??
Every school has a mascot. They are great for school spirit. UHD has club teams, not NCAA sports. Even so, we have a mascot and it’s great for school spirit. I don’t know if the mascot will stay the same. UHD is going through a process that will ultimately result in the selection of a new name for the university, which may result in a new mascot.
When I first visited UHD during the interviews, I was surprised to learn that UHD’s mascot is the Gator. Are you kidding? Are there gators in Houston? Well, it turns out there are. But, don’t worry. Gators won’t be crawling up Main Street any time soon.
Of course, there have been real gators in Houston. When Houston was first established it was swamp land and there were gators in the Bayou. Every now and then, one turns up, especially after floods. Back in 2005, a 250-pound gator was spotted in the Bayou and was finally captured by a game warden. This past month, as I began the presidency at UHD, Houston Chronicle had an article about two men who were arrested for killing a 600-pound 13-foot-long alligator in Houston.
It turns out that it’s legal to hunt gators in Harris County, but only from April 1st –June 30th. Also, you're supposed to hunt gators with a bow and arrow. These guys shot it--on a protected preserve. They also picked the wrong gator. The one they killed was the star of Armand Bayou Nature Center ecology tours! Guess those guys didn’t get their education at UHD!
Personally, a 13-foot-long alligator scares the dickens out of me. But UHD didn’t pick the Gator as a mascot to scare anyone. The UHD mascot emphasizes student success and is appropriately nicknamed, “Ed-U-Gator.” The UHD mascot brings pride to the campus and helps build community. Our students love the Gator. They buy stuffed, cuddly gators (like little teddy bears). They have Gator key chains. Things like that.
UHD has teams, softball, volleyball, basketball and other club and intramural sports. UHD also has academic teams, like the Model UN, as well as the two students and faculty who are doing research at Argonne Labs. So, Ed-U-Gator builds a different school spirit-—it promotes student success and excellence.
Like gators, our students are determined. They are tough, relentless, and they are survivors. As one student told me, “I don’t think I would be in college if hadn’t been for UHD. They have classes at nights and on the weekends, plus online and hybrid courses. The staff and faculty work with you. It’s taken me nearly ten years, taking one or two courses a semester, trying to fit them into my work schedule. But, I’ll be graduating next Spring.” That about sums it up! Gators Rule!
When I first visited UHD during the interviews, I was surprised to learn that UHD’s mascot is the Gator. Are you kidding? Are there gators in Houston? Well, it turns out there are. But, don’t worry. Gators won’t be crawling up Main Street any time soon.
Of course, there have been real gators in Houston. When Houston was first established it was swamp land and there were gators in the Bayou. Every now and then, one turns up, especially after floods. Back in 2005, a 250-pound gator was spotted in the Bayou and was finally captured by a game warden. This past month, as I began the presidency at UHD, Houston Chronicle had an article about two men who were arrested for killing a 600-pound 13-foot-long alligator in Houston.
It turns out that it’s legal to hunt gators in Harris County, but only from April 1st –June 30th. Also, you're supposed to hunt gators with a bow and arrow. These guys shot it--on a protected preserve. They also picked the wrong gator. The one they killed was the star of Armand Bayou Nature Center ecology tours! Guess those guys didn’t get their education at UHD!
Personally, a 13-foot-long alligator scares the dickens out of me. But UHD didn’t pick the Gator as a mascot to scare anyone. The UHD mascot emphasizes student success and is appropriately nicknamed, “Ed-U-Gator.” The UHD mascot brings pride to the campus and helps build community. Our students love the Gator. They buy stuffed, cuddly gators (like little teddy bears). They have Gator key chains. Things like that.
UHD has teams, softball, volleyball, basketball and other club and intramural sports. UHD also has academic teams, like the Model UN, as well as the two students and faculty who are doing research at Argonne Labs. So, Ed-U-Gator builds a different school spirit-—it promotes student success and excellence.
Like gators, our students are determined. They are tough, relentless, and they are survivors. As one student told me, “I don’t think I would be in college if hadn’t been for UHD. They have classes at nights and on the weekends, plus online and hybrid courses. The staff and faculty work with you. It’s taken me nearly ten years, taking one or two courses a semester, trying to fit them into my work schedule. But, I’ll be graduating next Spring.” That about sums it up! Gators Rule!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
First Class
I have been president for one week. This morning I shook hands with the first graduating class of an exciting new program offered at UHD.
Some of you are saying, "Huh? Didn't he just become president? How is he already doing a graduation ceremony?" Believe me, that's what I thought when I was asked to lead the commencement. Today, was the graduation exercise of the First Master of Security Management for Executives (MSME) cohort. Eleven working professionals received their master's degree today.
The program, jointly operated by the College of Public Service and the College of Business, is quite impressive and unique, as it prepares students for global security positions and, in addition to UHD faculty, includes working professionals as instructors. Over half of the class have either received promotions or significantly expanded their duties and responsibilities as a direct result of their participation in the program. Allow me to offer a few examples.
One student began as a sergeant in a local police department and now manages global security operations and risk for a security company. His capstone project addressed many of the open sea piracy issues we have witnessed on the news recently.
A second student began the programs as an assistant with one company and was hired by another company to manage a multi-billion dollar project as a result of her participation in the first year of the MSME program. She is now writing global policies.
A third student is the security coordinator for a multinational energy corporation. Early on in the program, he assigned to lead a sensitive investigation overseas on very short notice. His first call was to one of his professors in the program. His second call was to a fellow classmate who was able to connect him with needed support nearby to address the crisis.
And then there's president of the MSME student organization, who started his career in the military, went on into local law enforcement and is now an assistant director for a global security company. In his comments before his fellow students, he cited "the elements that make this program superior are the exceptionally qualified faculty, the integration of security courses and the business courses, and the support of each other." He made it clear that he along with his fellow students "are proud to have 'plowed the field' for subsequent cohorts and pledged to honor the MSME title with extraordinary professional careers."
The class chose the name Pathfinders. That they are. They have set a high bar. Like so many students at UHD, they are first class! Congratulations!
Some of you are saying, "Huh? Didn't he just become president? How is he already doing a graduation ceremony?" Believe me, that's what I thought when I was asked to lead the commencement. Today, was the graduation exercise of the First Master of Security Management for Executives (MSME) cohort. Eleven working professionals received their master's degree today.
The program, jointly operated by the College of Public Service and the College of Business, is quite impressive and unique, as it prepares students for global security positions and, in addition to UHD faculty, includes working professionals as instructors. Over half of the class have either received promotions or significantly expanded their duties and responsibilities as a direct result of their participation in the program. Allow me to offer a few examples.
One student began as a sergeant in a local police department and now manages global security operations and risk for a security company. His capstone project addressed many of the open sea piracy issues we have witnessed on the news recently.
A second student began the programs as an assistant with one company and was hired by another company to manage a multi-billion dollar project as a result of her participation in the first year of the MSME program. She is now writing global policies.
A third student is the security coordinator for a multinational energy corporation. Early on in the program, he assigned to lead a sensitive investigation overseas on very short notice. His first call was to one of his professors in the program. His second call was to a fellow classmate who was able to connect him with needed support nearby to address the crisis.
And then there's president of the MSME student organization, who started his career in the military, went on into local law enforcement and is now an assistant director for a global security company. In his comments before his fellow students, he cited "the elements that make this program superior are the exceptionally qualified faculty, the integration of security courses and the business courses, and the support of each other." He made it clear that he along with his fellow students "are proud to have 'plowed the field' for subsequent cohorts and pledged to honor the MSME title with extraordinary professional careers."
The class chose the name Pathfinders. That they are. They have set a high bar. Like so many students at UHD, they are first class! Congratulations!
Friday, August 7, 2009
Location, Location, Location
Many people wonder why I live and work in the downtown. I love it. Houston is a vibrant city with all the energy of any major metropolis. The University of Houston-Downtown provides its students, faculty, and staff with a major opportunity. You can walk down the street and and do so many things: listen to jazz or blues; eat at a fabulous restaurant; watch the Astros in Minute Maid Park; go to a play, the symphony, a concert-- or just kick back and have coffee at a sidewalk cafe. On the weekends, the club scene starts and the downtown looks different, as young people line up to get into the hot spots.
The Pros Play Here! The Rockets play just down the street. I can hardly wait until the NBA season starts. And, if you want to go to a museum or to Reliant Stadium to see the Texans play pro-football, you just hop on the MetroRail. On Saturdays, you can ride down to Miller Park and watch a Broadway show or musical in the amphitheater or bring a blanket or chair and sit back on a grass-covered hill, free of charge! During the day, when the heat get bad I often go underground. Much of the city is inter-connected by tunnels, with shopping, food, even credit unions, dentists, massage therapy, and beauty salons.
Few colleges offer such opportunities. Many of our students work downtown in restaurants, hotels, a theater, or one of the many companies that are headquartered here. They take classes after work, study in the library, play basketball or work out in the gym. And, if they want to, they can go with their friends for pizza and a drink or walk to a baseball game. Most universities are located away from the city. They have sports teams on campus. We don't. But our students can watch the pros play. And, the campus buys discount tickets so students, staff, and faculty can attend a game together.
I love the excitement of a baseball game: the fans doing the wave or singing, "We will, We Will Rock You..." and "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the Seventh Inning Stretch; washing down hot dogs and nachos or peanuts with a cold beer; and, watching everyone having a great time--win or lose. Since I arrived in town, the Astros are winning. In fact, they're doing pretty good.
And, Minute Maid Park is a great venue. It has a retractable roof and air conditioning. They pull back the roof for fireworks after Friday night games. And, it's where UHD holds its graduation ceremonies. Can you imagine? Being a student receiving your diploma, seeing yourself on the JumboTron! The parents and family members go wild.
Houston is also a relatively safe city. I've lived for short spells in other cities. I love New York, the Bay Area, L.A., Chicago, Santa Fe, Paris, and Mexico City. Each has its splendor. But, Houston grows on you. And, Houstonians are much friendlier than are New Yorkers.
So I enjoy the city at night. I listen to jazz, eat great food. And, I am thankful to be here.
The Pros Play Here! The Rockets play just down the street. I can hardly wait until the NBA season starts. And, if you want to go to a museum or to Reliant Stadium to see the Texans play pro-football, you just hop on the MetroRail. On Saturdays, you can ride down to Miller Park and watch a Broadway show or musical in the amphitheater or bring a blanket or chair and sit back on a grass-covered hill, free of charge! During the day, when the heat get bad I often go underground. Much of the city is inter-connected by tunnels, with shopping, food, even credit unions, dentists, massage therapy, and beauty salons.
Few colleges offer such opportunities. Many of our students work downtown in restaurants, hotels, a theater, or one of the many companies that are headquartered here. They take classes after work, study in the library, play basketball or work out in the gym. And, if they want to, they can go with their friends for pizza and a drink or walk to a baseball game. Most universities are located away from the city. They have sports teams on campus. We don't. But our students can watch the pros play. And, the campus buys discount tickets so students, staff, and faculty can attend a game together.
I love the excitement of a baseball game: the fans doing the wave or singing, "We will, We Will Rock You..." and "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the Seventh Inning Stretch; washing down hot dogs and nachos or peanuts with a cold beer; and, watching everyone having a great time--win or lose. Since I arrived in town, the Astros are winning. In fact, they're doing pretty good.
And, Minute Maid Park is a great venue. It has a retractable roof and air conditioning. They pull back the roof for fireworks after Friday night games. And, it's where UHD holds its graduation ceremonies. Can you imagine? Being a student receiving your diploma, seeing yourself on the JumboTron! The parents and family members go wild.
Houston is also a relatively safe city. I've lived for short spells in other cities. I love New York, the Bay Area, L.A., Chicago, Santa Fe, Paris, and Mexico City. Each has its splendor. But, Houston grows on you. And, Houstonians are much friendlier than are New Yorkers.
So I enjoy the city at night. I listen to jazz, eat great food. And, I am thankful to be here.
Houston's Best Kept Secret
Sitting from my desk at the University of Houston-Downtown, I can see the panorama of the city, the skyscrapers, the MetroRail that runs right to the door of the university, and the hustle and bustle of the fourth-largest city in the country. I've got to wonder, how is it so few people know about this great university? After all, every day the MetroRail runs right through the Downtown. Going north from Reliant Stadium to UHD at each stop you hear the announcement, "Train to UH-Downtown now arriving." The Train's front destination lights even say "UH-Downtown."
Yet, many Houston residents don't know about UHD or have misconceptions about it. Some think UHD is a branch of the University of Houston. Actually, it is an independently accredited university that is part of the University of Houston System. Some think it is a community college or just has a few programs. In fact, it is a comprehensive institution that offers bachelor and master's degrees. Some think its a small college, yet UHD is a university with nearly 13,000 students. The campus has grown in its three decades of existence from one-building to several and has learning centers in other parts of the city.
Those I have met at UHD are truly committed to the university and its mission. They understand that is a New American University--one that looks like Houston and looks like much of America. It is diverse, 31% Hispanic, 27% African American, with students from a variety of countries and backgrounds.
Most of the students work full-time or close to it. Most are transfer students. Many work in the downtown or nearby companies that have their headquarters in Houston. They have high hopes--of being accountants, lawyers, CEOs, or owner of their own business, or of being teachers, social works, or engineers. Most are the first in their families to go to college and most come from low and middle income families. Quite a few have their own families and, of course, many are single mothers, trying to desperately to work, raise their children and better their lives. Many of those I've met were born in other countries and came to American and Houston for the opportunity it provides.
Our students choose UHD because it fits their lives, they learn in small classrooms, interact with their professors, get support from the staff, and are encouraged to succeed. They can take online courses, face-to-face classes, and hybrid courses. The buildings are completely wireless and there is plenty of access to computers, including laptop check-out in the College of Business.
UHD is a metropolitan university. It's faculty and its students actively participate through service learning and volunteerism in the schools, hospitals, service agencies, and jails that surround UHD. The students are of Houston and for Houston. They have their roots here and their families. And, it is in Houston where they will work and make a name for themselves.
In the days that follow I will describe what I learn about the students, the campus, and Houston. I will also share with how all of us at UHD are making a name for ourselves. Let me know what you think. Give me your comment below. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yet, many Houston residents don't know about UHD or have misconceptions about it. Some think UHD is a branch of the University of Houston. Actually, it is an independently accredited university that is part of the University of Houston System. Some think it is a community college or just has a few programs. In fact, it is a comprehensive institution that offers bachelor and master's degrees. Some think its a small college, yet UHD is a university with nearly 13,000 students. The campus has grown in its three decades of existence from one-building to several and has learning centers in other parts of the city.
Those I have met at UHD are truly committed to the university and its mission. They understand that is a New American University--one that looks like Houston and looks like much of America. It is diverse, 31% Hispanic, 27% African American, with students from a variety of countries and backgrounds.
Most of the students work full-time or close to it. Most are transfer students. Many work in the downtown or nearby companies that have their headquarters in Houston. They have high hopes--of being accountants, lawyers, CEOs, or owner of their own business, or of being teachers, social works, or engineers. Most are the first in their families to go to college and most come from low and middle income families. Quite a few have their own families and, of course, many are single mothers, trying to desperately to work, raise their children and better their lives. Many of those I've met were born in other countries and came to American and Houston for the opportunity it provides.
Our students choose UHD because it fits their lives, they learn in small classrooms, interact with their professors, get support from the staff, and are encouraged to succeed. They can take online courses, face-to-face classes, and hybrid courses. The buildings are completely wireless and there is plenty of access to computers, including laptop check-out in the College of Business.
UHD is a metropolitan university. It's faculty and its students actively participate through service learning and volunteerism in the schools, hospitals, service agencies, and jails that surround UHD. The students are of Houston and for Houston. They have their roots here and their families. And, it is in Houston where they will work and make a name for themselves.
In the days that follow I will describe what I learn about the students, the campus, and Houston. I will also share with how all of us at UHD are making a name for ourselves. Let me know what you think. Give me your comment below. I look forward to hearing from you.
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