Alumni News
Getting Real: The Story Behind Vanessa Rojas’ Success
When you walk into the Advising Center at UHD’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS), you might just be greeted by Vanessa Rojas, the director of the center and a proud UHD alumna. Rojas didn’t stumble into academic advising; she built...
Recent Social Work Grad Pays It Forward
At six years old, Amber Perez tragically lost her father and gained a perspective that would shape her entire future. The Social Work major was assigned to a social worker through her school, an experience that ignited her calling to help...
Mother and Son Climb the Higher Ed Mountain Together
Mothers around the world encourage their children to earn a college degree. But what happens when the mother and child (son, in this case) are on the journey together? We posed that question to mom Lisa Martinez and son AJ Velazquez, two of our...
Impactful Teaching, Impact Learning: How One Student Changed Admissions Policy
Recent UHD graduate Thomas Duong’s success is a testament to perseverance, the UHD faculty’s impact on student outcomes, and how one research project can make a big difference. A native of Vietnam, Duong attended Houston Community College before...
New Mural at CHSS Celebrates Gators Past, Present, and Future
Last November, Gator alumni and married couple Bobby and Brenda Ramos, owners of Ramos Renditions, unveiled the product of their months-long labor: a mural on the tenth floor of the One Main Building.
From Harlingen to Houston, Chief J. Noe Diaz Walked a Challenging Path
Discover the inspiring journey of UHD alum and Houston Police Chief J. Noe Diaz, Jr., from a small-town boy to leading Texas' largest law enforcement agency.
Student Spotlight: Andy Berrios
Andy Berrios persevered and is now a data scientist at Kellogg's. While an undergrad, he embraced campus life and professional development opportunities.
Patrick Caballero Is Defying the Odds
A recent graduate with Huntington's Disease, Caballero overcame significant physical challenges to achieve academic success and pursue his dreams of a Master's degree.
Alumni Spotlight: Meet Sheriff Ed Gonzalez
Welcome to our series on alums from UHD's College of Public Service's Criminal Justice program who have had a significant impact on the Houston community and beyond. Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez kicked off his long-standing role in law...
Alumni Spotlight: Meet Chief J. Noe Diaz
J. Noe Diaz, Jr., Houston Chief of Police, grew up in the small town of Harlingen, Texas. As a boy, Diaz recalls his fascination with state troopers, and at five or six years old, he made the decision to follow in their footsteps. “I didn’t have...

