School Spirit and Traditions

Show Your Hawk Pride

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

The Claw

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

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

On Wednesdays We Wear Blue and Green

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Hawk Spirit & Traditions Council

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