By Indira Zaldivar & Edward Saenz
City Council member Mario Castillo joined by Houston Mayor John Whitmire issued a proclamation to honor University of Houston-Downtown’s 50th anniversary.
UHD President Loren Blanchard received the proclamation on behalf of the university supported by faculty, staff, students and alumni packing several rows of the Houston City Council Chamber.
Castillo spoke on UHD’s “significant contributions to the city.” Castillo, who represents District H, recalled the contributions he’s seen during his time as council member including UHD’s Hurricane Beryl response which included food and water drives, community event participation, and assisting with the new District H internship program.
“They are fully ingrained in Houston in being a good neighbor and being a good partner,” Castillo said. “I’m excited to recognize them today on its 50th birthday.”
Besides having the honor of being Texas’s largest MBA program, UHD forms an important part of Houston’s history since its establishment in 1974. UHD houses the historic One Main Building, formerly known as the Merchants & Manufacturers Building. Today, UHD has expanded its physical footprint downtown with the acquiring of nine buildings, and plans for expansion, according to the president.
Originally focused on Criminal Justice, UHD expanded its academic offerings and partnerships, particularly with Lone Star College, to educate over 14,000 students annually offering bachelor’s degrees in 45 areas of study and 12 master’s degrees.
“By preparing the next generation of leaders, the University of Houston -Downtown has contributed to the prosperity and vibrancy of Houston and the Lone Star State for half a century.”
UHD President Loren Blanchard credited the university’s proclamation largely to achievements in the past and how his administration has built upon those achievements “to help the city to move forward.”
As UHD’s seventh president, he said UHD aims to prepare their graduates to move into roles that “allow them to be leaders in their fields and leaders in their communities.”
“It’s humbling to receive this proclamation today, ” Blanchard told Que Onda Magazine. “But, also it allows us to thank all the people who have supported and who have believed in this university and understand the power of the educational experience we provide our students.”
