Academic Affairs News

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

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

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

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

Melissa Vela - VP and Houston Community Manager for JPMorgan Chase

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

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

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

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

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

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

_{Pictured: NASA Astronaut Kathleen “Kate” Rubins speaks during a panel discussion at SHOP-24}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

View full gallery from the conference.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

_{Pictured: Dr. Karen Alexander}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Number of Students Taught

Faculty who have taught 5000+ students: Christine Kovic

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

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

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

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

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

Christine Walther, Angela Kelling, Gene “Xiaojun” Shan
 

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

Kazi Billah, Emily Horton, Carol Waters
 

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

• Silvana Chambers, AI Teaching Assistant to Personalize Student Learning
• Kelsey James, The Cognitive Psychology Media Project
• Leticia French, Discussion Board Activity Using Blooms Taxonomy
• Maria Curtis, Cultural Heritage and Community Partnerships in Experiential Learning
   

Scholarship to Improve Higher Education: Recognizing faculty for publishing or presenting scholarship to improve academia.

• Lisa Sublett, Amanda Johnston, Christine Walther, Christal Seahorn, and Georgina Moreno; Speed-Interviewing for Classroom Group Formation: How a Clever Twist on the Classic ‘Speed-Dating’ Tradition Enhances Small Group Coursework
• Femi Ayadi, Writing-to-Learn: Strategies to Promote Engagement, Peer-to-Peer Learning, and Active Listening in Economic Courses
  Leslie Gauna and Jane Cooper, Dialogue Practices in Teacher Education Classrooms: Students and Teacher Educators’ Perceptions
• Silvana Chambers and Clifton Mayfield, The Impact of COVID-19 on Students’ Perceived Justice, University Support, Professor Support, and Intentions to Drop Out

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

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

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

• Angela Kelling, Georgina Moreno, HSI Best Practices
• Gene “Xiaojun” Shan, Using Analytics to Improve Student Outcome at UHCL
   

CFD Staff Appreciation Award: Awarded annually to a distinguished staff member who has shown outstanding excellence and superior performance in assisting the Center for Faculty Development in accomplishing its goals.

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

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

College of Education

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

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

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

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

_{[Left to Right]: Dr. Raymond Khoury, Department Chair for Healthcare Administration; Dr. Christopher Maynard, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost; Dr. Richard Walker, President; Dr. Edward Waller, COB Dean}

At the event, College of Business Dean Edward Waller spoke about the long and distinguished history of the healthcare administration program at the university. We are confident that this new space will continue to provide transformative experiences for all students who come to the program from across the Greater Houston area.

We also wish to extend a special recognition to our Healthcare Administration faculty. Through multiple location changes, they have continued to adapt and deliver a world-class educational experience for our students.

Thank you to all UHCL faculty and Academic Affairs staff for your support of this program as we move forward and continue to achieve great things. 

December 2023

UHCL’s College of Science and Engineering is celebrating the success of five of its students and their faculty sponsor, Dr. Kristine Ferrone, for recently winning the NASA Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) Innovation and Tech Transfer Idea Competition (MITTIC). The team's winning pitch was for GalvaniGauze, an innovative product that accelerates wound recovery using NASA's patent 'Electroactive Material for Wound Healing'.

The UHCL team was initially selected as one of the top ten finalists in October and went on to win the grand prize of $20,000 and a grant to license the NASA patent for their business proposal. The panel of judges included representatives from venture capital firms, NASA, JPMorgan Chase & Co., and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 

Valentine Le, Annabelle Lozano, Nghia Nguyen, Nicholas Ross, and Dev Saha are the five students who made up the winning team. Valentine is a senior pursuing a post-baccalaureate degree in computer science, Annabelle is a junior pursuing a bachelor of science in computer science and a minor in cybersecurity, Nghia is pursuing a post-baccalaureate degree in school psychology, Nicholas is a senior pursuing a bachelor of science in computer science, and Dev is a graduate student pursuing a master of science in cell & molecular biology. The team's diverse academic backgrounds and dedication to their project were key factors in their success.

Their success story began in September when Pathways to STEM Careers (PSC) hosted an information session for NASA's MITTIC Competition at UHCL. The session provided students with information on the competition and how to submit their projects. It was during this session that the five students connected and created their own team. 

“PSC tries to share opportunities with UHCL students as we are aware of the interest our students have for NASA and aerospace jobs,” said Lupita Hernandez, PSC Program Director. “The students winning this competition is an example of the capability and enthusiasm UHCL students have to create new projects and use it to help their community. We understand this was not an easy competition, thus we are truly proud of these students!”

This achievement is a testament to the UHCL's commitment to providing students with opportunities to showcase their skills and knowledge. The GalvaniGauze product has the potential to revolutionize wound healing, and the UHCL team's success is a proud moment for the university community. NASA is organizing a trip for the UHCL team members to San Francisco for a tour of the NASA Ames Research facility and an opportunity to meet with venture capital firms in Silicon Valley, providing them with further opportunities to showcase their skills and knowledge.

December 2023

Congratulations to UHCL faculty members who reported the following books published so far in 2023!

Faculty who have published a book within the last year are encouraged to fill the Faculty Author Submission Form or contact Scholarly Communication Services to be added to the library’s Faculty Author cabinet.

Dorothea Lerman, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology and Director, Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities (HSH)
Neurodevelopmental Disabilities and Employment: Helping Learners Prepare for Social Demands in the Workplace

Jennifer Maritza McCauley, M.F.A., Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Literature and Creative Writing (HSH)
When Trying to Return Home: Stories

Thaís R. S. de Sant'Ana, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of History (HSH)
Claims on the City: Situated Narratives of the Urban

Shreerekha Subramanian (Pillai), Ph.D.
Associate Dean and Professor of Humanities (HSH)
Carceral Liberalism: Feminist Voices Against State Violence

Diana Wandix-White, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Multicultural Education (COE)
Relational Realms: Helping Educators Navigate and Cultivate Healthy Schoolhouse Relationships

Daniel Zerong Wang, Ph.D.
Professor of Chemistry (CSE)
Amino Acids (Vol. 4)
The Chemistry & Biology of Beta-Lactams

November 2023

On Friday, November 10, UHCL’s Office of Planning and Assessment hosted the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) Fall 2023 Faculty Showcase. The event brought together Cohort 2, an impressive group of 13 faculty members representing each college, who shared how they are intentionally incorporating intercultural knowledge and competency into a specific course. The main focus of the showcase is for students and the UHCL community to see the classroom impact of the QEP. 

Some of this impressive work includes:

Dr. Gene Shan's (CSE) engineering course for master's students has implemented a new approach to team projects. Students are now incorporating cultural adjustments based on different global markets into their product designs. Additionally, they write a reflection on the project, promoting critical thinking and self-reflection.

In an upper-level undergraduate psychology course taught by Dr. Angela Kelling (HSH), students write an autobiography that explores their identity and culture. This exercise prepares students to apply intercultural humility in their later assignments, where they will examine components of identity, societal views, and how identity shapes behavior and interactions. By examining their backgrounds, students gain a deeper understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness.

Dr. Silvana Chambers (COB), has implemented a new approach to her class discussions, team case studies, and personal portfolios into two graduate and one undergraduate course on organizational behaviors. Adding focus on cultural humility and intercultural knowledge has resulted in more focused learning outcomes for students. Additionally, the Global Mindset assessment rubric is utilized to assess students' progress and provide feedback.

In an early education course led by Dr. Laurie Weaver (COE), the focus is on bilingual education. The course covers Language Subsystems, Language Acquisition Theories, Types of Bilingualism, Relationship between Language and Culture, and Language Proficiency/Assessment. By completing a language biography, students build connections between lived experiences and application to classroom practice.

UHCL’s Quality Enhancement Plan "Becoming Aware: Cultural Interactions at UHCL," is a university-wide, five-year commitment to equipping students with the required knowledge, attitudes, and skills to effectively interact with diverse cultures in a positive way. 

With an open-house style setup, faculty, administrators, students, and even Hunter the Hawk, were able to engage in conversations about how UHCL is actively working towards this goal.

The showcase also served as a platform to recruit faculty participants for the Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 cohorts. If you are interested in participating, email becomingaware@uhcl.edu. 

Members of the Fall 2023 QEP Cohort 2 are: 

COB: Femi Ayadi, Ph.D.; Silvana Chambers, Ph.D.

COE: Janice Newsum, Ph.D.; Laurie Weaver, Ed.D.

CSE: Xiaojun "Gene" Shan, Ph.D.

HSH: Sarah Costello, Ph.D.; Giazú Enciso Domínguez, Ph.D.; Angela Kelling, Ph.D.; Anna Klyueva, Ph.D.; Isabelle Kusters, Ph.D., MPH; Mike McMullen, Ph.D.; Christine Walther, Ph.D.; Maria Wilson, Ed.D., LMSW, LVN

November 2023

On October 27, students from four different local school districts - Alvin, Dickinson, La Porte, and Channelview ISDs - had the wonderful opportunity to visit UHCL for the High School Fiesta. This recruitment day was hosted by the College of Education, with Dr. Michelle Peters and Dr. Jana Willis as the event's coordinators. The day was filled with an array of faculty-led educational activities, tours, and info booths aimed at giving the students a better understanding of the resources and experiences that UHCL can offer. Special thank you to the faculty members who led the interactive sessions and made the day a success for these potential future Hawks!

It's Alive

Dr. Larry Rohde, Associate Professor of Biology and Biotechnology, along with Lecturer Luke Choate, led the "It's Alive" session, where they demonstrated how to freeze human cells in liquid nitrogen and view human cells growing on a tissue culture plate using a microscope. The students were amazed to learn how cultured cells are being used to explore cell activity and how the tissue culture technology on display could be used to grow various human tissues/organs for medical treatments.

Are You Up for a Challenge?

In another exciting session, students were up for a challenge led by Dr. Carol Waters, Assistant Professor of STEM Education and Lecturer Dr. Takisha Gastile. They collaborated in an engineering design challenge that allowed them to experience failure and redesign as necessary learning components. The students compared their results with kindergarten students' results, which opened the door for robust conversations about having a growth mindset and persevering through complications. Students concluded by relating the engineering design process to teaching and how all students can learn and be successful through experiencing failure and knowing what adjustments need to be made to succeed.

Exploring XR

The students had a delightful experience in the XR Lab with Emerging Technologies Librarian Beth Fridrick, with the majority of them never having had the opportunity to experience virtual reality before. During their time together, Fridick conveyed the significance of the XR Lab's presence in the library, supporting students across academic subjects. Additionally, they delved into the various applications of virtual reality, including its use in training medical professionals. The students then engaged with two featured apps: the Human Anatomy app, which offers 3D, interactive models of over a dozen body systems and Beat Saber, a VR game that enables players to slice through boxes to the beat.

Fun with Physiology

In Biology Lecturer Dr. Stephen Gruber's session, students used electrophysiological (Biopac) recording devices to measure different aspects of their body, such as determining their vital capacity, the total volume of air that can be inhaled and exhaled in a single breath. They also recorded the effects of the Dive Reflex on their heart rate and pulse amplitude, and, finally, determined their total grip force. Through these tests, the students learned more about their physical abilities and how their body functions.

The next High School Fiesta will take place in the spring of 2024.

October 2023

Click to play video.

At the UHCL Alumni Celebration on Oct. 28, Dr. Mary Short, Professor of Clinical Psychology and Director of Clinical Training for the College of Human Sciences and Humanities, was recognized with the Outstanding Professor Award.

Created in 2006, the Outstanding Professor Award honors professors who are innovative in their teaching methods, inspire their students, and build a sense of community among them.

Dr. Short is a deserving recipient of this award, and we are proud to have her as a member of our UHCL faculty. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Short! 

October 2023

National Transfer Student Week (NTSW) was celebrated at UHCL from October 16-20. This is an annual celebration for transfer students across the country. At UHCL, transfer students make up a significant portion of our Fall enrollment, at 55.9%. To celebrate this, the Transfer Advising & Student Transitions team, led by Kristi Rickman, held the inaugural Transfer Student Celebration on Wednesday, October 18.

The event was a success, with 18 UHCL departments contributing to make it a memorable experience for the more than 100 students who participated. The event giveaway was a t-shirt designed by Katelynne Hall, an Art and Design major and transfer student at UHCL. 

During the event, students were asked to share advice for other transfer students. Key themes emerged, such as getting involved, utilizing the Success Center, and not being afraid to ask questions. The Transfer Student Celebration was a great way to recognize the contributions and achievements of transfer students at UHCL, and encourage their continued success.

Thank you to all faculty and staff at UHCL for your amazing support of all students, not just transfer students. It is your dedication that helps students succeed and feel a sense of community at UHCL.

October 2023

Two University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) students, Zach Jernigan and Zachary Sheriff, are taking their knowledge and skills into real-world teaching environments, making an impact on the education of young students.

This year, they are partnering with UHCL's Center for Educational Programs (CEP) to teach courses to students grades 4 – 6 from Dickinson ISD and La Porte ISD. Through this program, Gifted & Talented (GT) students from these districts visit UHCL to participate in a course of their choosing on alternating Fridays, totaling in 10 classes. These courses are taught by UHCL faculty, community members, and in this case, UHCL students Jernigan and Sheriff.  

Learn more about these two students and the work they are doing in the classroom:

Each Friday, Jernigan teaches Game Design Explorations to an alternating group of approximately 25 students. During the classes, students learn how to make 2-D games using Game Maker Studio.  

Jernigan also teaches them about game mechanics, programming, design, and GUI interfaces. After the course, students have the opportunity to continue customizing their games using the knowledge gained.  

What is your favorite part about teaching this course to younger students? Biggest challenge? 

"My favorite thing about teaching this is that the younger students come in with very few preconceptions about how game design is supposed to work. They are very enthusiastic to learn how to make video games, and it's rewarding to be able to open up that world to them. The biggest challenge? Probably the time frame. I never feel like I have an adequate amount of time to teach them everything I know. I wish I could give them an hour a day for 15 weeks, but we do our best with the time we have."

Tell us about your process to develop the course curriculum. 

"This is a class that I have taught many times at Kids U Summer Camps, so I have the benefit of refining my teaching style for people who are just beginning to learn games by going over the fundamentals of computer program design. When it comes to making your first game, or even your first program, there are new vocabulary words, organizational philosophies, and even algebraic concepts that a student must understand to really appreciate how to put projects like this together, and so, the curriculum is very organic. Every time we have to implement a new fundamental element of a program, I take a moment to explain it." 

Do you have a UHCL professor who has helped you prepare for this opportunity? 

"Dr. Jana Willis’s influence on my work as a technology educator cannot be overstated. I have been working with her for almost a decade on every technical instruction program I’ve ever done for UHCL, including this one!" 

What is your goal once you graduate? 

"Honestly, I would like to use my formal training as a photographer and graphic designer to secure a position at UHCL. None of this is set in stone, but I do think that I would find a graduate program fulfilling, and staying close to the UHCL system while seeking a master’s degree and advancing my career seems like an obvious step right now. The game design program operates through the CEP in the Arbor building at UHCL, and I have met so many great people there that I would love to work with them in a more permanent capacity."

Throughout the course, students explore the world of graphic literature and learn how to use words and pictures to engage readers. Using the digital software Pixton, by the end of the course they will have completed their own comic.

What is your favorite part about teaching this course to younger students? Biggest challenge?

"My favorite part about teaching younger children is seeing the light that goes off in their heads and on their faces when I teach them something new. It makes all the lesson planning worth it. The biggest challenge is having to send them back to school."

Tell us about your process to develop the course curriculum.

"Building my curriculum is always based on what works best for my students.  I always start with a group project to help better understand the lesson before I give them independent time with their own novels."

Do you have a UHCL professor who has helped you prepare for this opportunity? 

"I have so many professors to thank but one in particular is Dr. Jana Willis. Thank you so much for this opportunity and helping me get a great start to my career!"

What is your goal once you graduate? 

"My goal is to be a 5th or 6th-grade teacher and eventually move up the education ladder to help make the system better for all students."

Samantha Pulse, CEP director, has been impressed with Sheriff and Jernigan's ability to lead their respective courses. "The hands-on experience and support they have received at UHCL has given them the tools needed to be effective teachers," says Pulse. "It's been incredibly rewarding to see their efforts pay off in the classroom."

The CEP, part of UHCL's College of Education, offers academic and outreach services to students, schools, school districts and members of the community. The CEP also coordinates several community programs and collaborates with area school districts, educators and professors to determine how it can meet the community's needs.

To learn more about the CEP ways both faculty and students can get involved, visit the Center for Educational Programs.  

September 2023

Pictured Left to Right: Dr. Charuksha Walgama, Daniel Adrian, Trang Bui and Marco Cardenas

Congratulations to Dr. Charuksha Walgama, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, whose article was recently published in the esteemed Royal Society of Chemistry journal. The research highlighted in this article was further enhanced by the work of Chemistry B.S. students Trang Bui and Marco Cardenas, as well as Chemistry M.S. student Daniel Adrian. 

Titled "Silver nanoparticles in electrochemical immunosensing and the emergence of silver-gold galvanic exchange detection," the article was highlighted on the front cover of the latest issue, underscoring its importance. This feature article primarily focuses on the recent advancements in utilization of  silver nanoparticles in diagnostic applications.

Pathways to STEM Careers, a grant-funded program for UHCL students aimed at developing and enhancing support services and strategies to increase undergraduate student success among Hispanic and other low-income students in STEM fields, is also recognized in the publication for the invaluable support it provides to the students involved in this research.

“I appreciate Dr. Walgama providing UHCL students with valuable opportunities to conduct research and to publish papers in research journals. These opportunities deepen students’ understanding of their content area and better prepares them for their future careers,” said Vice Provost Dr. Kathy Matthew.

September 2023

We are thrilled to share that the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) has received full accreditation from the American Psychological Association's Commission on Accreditation for our Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program in Health Services Psychology (Combined Clinical/School).

The accreditation is a testament to the program's unwavering commitment to the Standards of Accreditation for Health Service Psychology (SoA) and was awarded following a rigorous review process. The CoA recognized the program's quality of training and compliance with the Standards of Accreditation. The program provides extensive practitioner-scientist training with an emphasis on clinical practice as health service psychologists in clinical and school settings, and has a strong foundation with respect to faculty and leadership.

The program has a current enrollment of 38 students, with a Fall ’23 cohort of 10 students, and it has already produced 21 graduates. The program boasts a 90% match rate for internships and 100% passage of licensure rate, a testament to the quality of training offered. Looking ahead, the PsyD program is committed to maintaining its rigor and commitment to the standards of accreditation, ensuring that it maintains the highest standards for graduate education in psychology. We congratulate the faculty for their dedication and hard work in achieving this remarkable milestone!

August 2023

On Wednesday, August 23, the University of Houston System (UHS) Board of Regents invited UHCL to give a presentation on the ongoing Student Development Partnership (SDP) with Boeing.

During the presentation, led by President Richard Walker and Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships Dr. Natalie Pecknold, regents were given an overview of the program, how it is impacting students, and benefiting Boeing.

Formed in 2022, the SDP is a unique opportunity that integrates valuable real-world experience by providing College of Science & Engineering students with experiential learning opportunities throughout their academic program on a variety of critical NASA aircraft and space systems projects.