24-25 DSA Annual Report by University of Houston-Clear Lake

24 25 ANNUAL REPORT Student Aﬀairs

DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

Departments

Campus Recreation and Wellness

Capt. Wendell M. Wilson

Veteran and Military Resource Center

Center for Career Development

Center for Student Engagement

Counseling and Mental Health Center

Dean of Students Ofﬁce

Health Services

Orientation and New Student Programs

Student Housing and Residential Life

Student Media

VPSA Message

The 2024–2025 academic year marked a pivotal time for the University of Houston–Clear Lake’s Division of Student Affairs. The Division focused on strengthening the student experience by placing key programs throughout the academic year, ensuring students remained connected and engaged from their ﬁrst weeks on campus to the ﬁnal days of the semester.

This re-envisioning of campus life reﬂects the Division’s belief that students are not just attending classes at UHCL; they are members of a vibrant campus community during their time as Hawks. By creating consistent opportunities for involvement, enhancing infrastructure, and elevating recognition, Student Affairs continues to shape an experience that deﬁnes for students what it means to be part of UHCL.

I hope you enjoy a glimpse into our previous year, through this annual report. I look forward to the positive outlook of the Division of Student Affairs!

As Vice President of Student Affairs, I am privileged to lead our team of professionals dedicated to advancing students’ progress throughout their Hawk journey. I have witnessed our students soar professionally, academically, and personally this past academic year. Holistic student development is at the heart of our work in the Division of Student Affairs. We augment the University’s academic mission by developing the mind, body, and spirit through meaningful out-of-classroom activities. We offer a strong continuum of support, from involvement opportunities to mental health resources to career development.

Dr. Tina Powellson Vice President for Student Affairs

Mission

The Division of Student Affairs creates transformational experiences that strengthen the educational journey for UHCL students. Through purposeful programs, comprehensive support services, and holistic resources, we commit to building an engaged community that cultivates personal development and success for all students.

Vision

Engaging all students through individualized and meaningful experiences that brings life to their UHCL journey, while preparing them to positively contribute to campus and society.

Strategic Objectives

Provide high impact experiential learning opportunities and services.

Facilitate meaningful experiences that promote life-long learning.

Develop initiatives designed to inspire globally engaged citizenship.

DIVISION OF STUDENT DIVISION OF STUDENT

DIVISION DIVISION

STUDENT AFFAIRS STUDENT AFFAIRS

THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE MODEL AFFAIRS AFFAIRS

Food Access Programs

Houston Food Bank

Digital Presence Data

Food Access Programs

“Provided 66,160 pounds of food and 2,154 household items to students in need through the Houston Food Bank and Hawk Pantry.”

51,800 lbs. of food 2,154 items of household products 718

students served from Hawk Pantry 14,360 lbs. of food

1,036 students served from Houston Food Bank

718

students served from Hawk Pantry

Student Advocacy and Community pounds of household items to students in need through the Houston Food Bank and Hawk Pantry.”

17,603 Social Media Followers 14,280 Hawk Headline visits

Student Satisfaction

144,571 Combined Page Visits

students felt a Sense of Connection to university when accessing CSAC

“Expanded our digital presence to an audience of 176,454 users, demonstrating ongoing growth in online engagement and resource accessibility.” Partnership

51,800 lbs. of food

14,360 lbs. of food

2,154 items of household products

Center for Student Advocacy and Community

Reported percentage increase in life and Mental Health Center

“The Division of Student Aﬀairs collaborated with 121 external community partners to support student success.”

Reported student’s satisfactory rate for students served through Student & Residence Life

Housing & Residence Life

Student Satisfaction 92% of students felt a Sense of Connection to the university when accessing CSAC Services 97% Reported percentage increase in life functioning

Counseling and Mental Health Center 97%

Reported student’s satisfactory rate for students served through Student Housing & Residence Life Student Housing & Residence Life

NUMBERS

AFFAIRS THE NUMBERS

Zachary Sheriff Education Major Senior

For Zachary Sheriff, leadership began with a desire to represent others. His leadership journey at the University of Houston-Clear Lake started with joining the Black Student Organization and later a Teacher Organization, both of which helped him ﬁnd his voice on campus. But it was his involvement in Student Government that truly transformed his college experience and connected him to the Division of Student Affairs.

“Being under Student Aﬀairs gave me access to more resources and opportunities to network with professionals in the university space,” Zachary shared. “It helped me understand how student leadership connects to the larger mission of the university.”

A deﬁning moment for Zachary came during the SGA President’s Luncheon, where he had the chance to sit down with UHCL’s vice presidents.

“You never think you’ll have the opportunity to learn directly from university leadership,” he said. “That experience boosted my outlook on college and what I could achieve.”

Through his engagement with Student Affairs, Zachary has developed as a leader and community advocate. His experiences in student government have strengthened his conﬁdence, expanded his network, and deepened his understanding of collaboration across campus.

“Being in the same space as the president and vice presidents helped me see the impact of what I’m doing,” he explained. “It motivates me to stay involved and continue representing students.”

Now, as a senior and Student Government president, Zachary’s leadership is recognized by his peers and the UHCL community.

“Student

Aﬀairs helped me feel connected to UHCL and the Hawk community. The support and recognition I’ve received from them has helped me grow as both a student and a leader.

Zachary encourages other students to take advantage of Student Affairs resources and build meaningful relationships.

“It’s vital to use your resources, especially with the climate today,” he advised. “Don’t be afraid to stop and talk with the Student Affairs staff. The more students connect with them, the more efficient and supportive the university becomes for student engagement and success.”

Through his journey, Zachary Sheriff exempliﬁes how involvement with Student Affairs can shape leadership, strengthen community, and inspire success beyond the classroom.

Student Impact Story Building Leadership and Community through Student Aﬀairs

ANCHOR PROGRAMS: A Structured Rhythm of Engagement

The Division of Student Affairs developed Anchor Programs in FY25 and beyond as a model to ensure campus life is marked by signature, consistent traditions each semester. The Anchor Programs served as consistent markers on the student calendar, keeping students engaged, encouraging participation, and reinforcing the value of campus life.

Fall and Spring Semesters: Anchor programs provide structured events that build community, foster engagement, and strengthen tradition.

Summer

Summer: Orientation sessions serve as the anchor experience, introducing incoming students and families to UHCL and preparing them for their ﬁrst semester. Orientation

FALL SEMESTER

30 events 11 campus-wide open houses

2,804 student participants

611 students at Welcome Back Bash

Weeks of Welcome (WOW)

Weeks of Welcome provides a launchpad for new and returning students at the start of the fall semester. The series introduces students to campus resources, organizations, and involvement opportunities, ensuring they begin the year with a strong connection to UHCL life. Highlights annually include the Welcome Back Bash, What’s the Scoop? Ice Cream Social, and the Thrive Together Wellness Fair.

Homecoming Week

In Fall 2024, Homecoming Week and Spirit Week were strategically integrated to form a single, uniﬁed celebration held earlier in the academic year. This consolidation enhanced campus engagement by concentrating institutional pride and tradition into one cohesive event. Signature annual activities, including the Chili Cook-Off and I Heart UHCL Day, continue to serve as cornerstone experiences and are now held as part of the re-imagined Homecoming Week.

2024 Theme: “Hunter’s Country Fest: A Texas-Sized Celebration

”

Stress-Free Finals

Stress-Free Finals programs are a growing UHCL tradition that offer students a series of events focused on relaxation and well-being during the busiest times of the semester. In collaboration with numerous campus departments, these events help students recharge and connect before ﬁnal exams. Signature activities like Late Night Breakfast and Lighting at the Letters bring the campus community together to celebrate the end of the semester with Hawk spirit and support. The Stress-Free Finals series takes place the week before Thanksgiving and continues through the last day of classes.

events

1,106 participants

6 events

SPRING SEMESTER

Thrive Together Wellness Fair

As a kickoff to the Spring semester, The Thrive Together Wellness Fair was created as a campus-wide event designed to promote holistic student wellness and provide resources for mental, physical, and emotional health. The fair features interactive booths, wellness activities, educational workshops, and access to campus services such as counseling, health resources, and mindfulness programs. The event encouraged students to engage with campus support systems, explore healthy lifestyle options, and connect with peers in

Wellness Fair also takes place in the fall semester.

For Fall 2024 & Spring 2025:

441

14 participants campus partners

5 student group partners

Family Weekend

Introduced as a stand-alone spring anchor program in 2025, Family Weekend connects students’ families to UHCL, offering a glimpse into academic and campus life. Families participated in Lunch with President Walker, campus tours, carnival-style activities, mock classes and a family coffee hour.

219 participants

Service Week and The Big Event

Service Week was introduced in the spring semester as a new anchor program focused on civic participation. The week continued the annual tradition of The Big Event, UHCL’s largest campus service initiative, and expanded opportunities for engagement with a blood drive and a Volunteer and

Service Sites

217 students mobilized to serve community organizations

Altitude

Debuting in April 2025, Altitude was introduced as a new signature tradition designed to celebrate the conclusion of the spring semester. Held during the last week of class, the event provided students with an opportunity to come together for a large-scale community celebration featuring games, entertainment, and interactive activities. Altitude was well-received and is positioned to become a lasting part of the university's end-of-year traditions.

2025 Theme:

Neon Night

370 attendees

Hawk Excellence Awards

The annual recognition ceremony was re-imagined in 2025 and relaunched as the Hawk Excellence Awards. The awards honor the outstanding achievements of student leaders, student organizations, and the faculty and staff who support them.

The ceremony placed a greater emphasis on celebrating a wide range of achievements, including organizational leadership, programming excellence, and advisor contributions.

Awards

Community Engagement Award The American Dental Society

Collaboration Award Board Game Association

Impact Award Soccer Club

Excellence in Membership Development Award Psychology Club

Outstanding Student Organization Event Indian Student Association

New Student Organization of the Year Latinos Unidos

Student Organization of the Year Board Game Association

Advisor of the Year Dr. Soﬁa Georgiadou

Campus Collaborator Award Katrina Glenn

Sue Fellman Servant Leadership Scholarship

Lehman Family Leadership Scholarship

Emerging Leader Award Adrian Caraves

17 awards were presented

Registered Student Organizations and their Advisors were eligible for awards 81

Adrian Caracas, Kimberly Lara, Sunny Rodrigues

Elise Saad, Jessica Bagadion

Student Organization Executive Leader of the Year Zachary Sheriff

Innovation in Leadership Award Cristina Gonzalez

Campus Spirit Award Caitlynn Hamilton

Distinguished Leadership Award Jessica Bagadion

Talon Achievement Award Sunny Rodrigues

Student Impact Story

Building Leaders Through Engagement:

Madison Harrison’s Journey of Involvement and Growth

Madison Harrison

Biology Major - Specialization Ecology Senior

Madison Harrison has always had a deep interest in being closely involved with campus life. This is what drew her to apply for a job with the Center for Student Engagement during the Fall 2024 semester. Her experience within Student Engagement has since provided her with an incredible variety of experiences that have positively impacted not just her but also those who've had the pleasure of working alongside her.

According to Madison, having the chance to work at Student Engagement and attending the Division of Student Affairs (DSA) events has been a personal favorite part of her time here. One of the biggest highlights she mentioned was her experience working on UHCL's "Altitude 2025" event.

"It was the most fun event I have ever experienced at college," Madison said. "I loved all of the music, food, dancing, and activities, and I loved that I was able to be a part of that and contribute to the fun experience that the students had."

Madison also found meaning in service through DSA's "Big Event" and "UHCL Cares Day" events, which brought her closer to her surrounding community through the valuable volunteer experiences they offered her.

Beyond her work with Student Engagement, Madison remarked that several of DSA's programs, like the Center for Career Development’s Hawk Mentorship program and the Center for Student Engagement’s Hawk Leadership Institute, have helped hone her leadership skills and aided in her professional development. Madison also made use of the avenues presented to her by soaring into a leadership position when she became president of the Hiking Hawks club for an academic year.

"become actively involved and aware of events on campus by looking at paper ﬂyers, digital ﬂyers, social media, and the UHCL website. Events on campus, whether they were fun, professional, academic, etc., have made a lasting impact on my college experience, and I highly recommend other UHCL students to pursue the same."

Madison’s story reﬂects the heart of Student Affairs’ mission: to create experiences that strengthen students' educational journey. Through engagement, leadership, and community, Student Affairs and Student Engagement empower every Hawk to ﬁnd their purpose and leave a lasting mark on campus and beyond.

LEAGUE OF THE RISING HAWKS

The Division of Student Affairs established the League of the Rising Hawks as a co-curricular experience for student success, retention, and celebration. The program allows students to be challenged and become more engaged with UHCL departments and campus activities to achieve student learning competencies and distinctions.

Through League of the Rising Hawks, students will gain the following distinctions:

Self-Awareness and Personal Development: The process of individual discovery through reﬂection and learning about oneself.

Leadership and Professional Development: Recognize and capitalize on personal and team strengths to achieve organizational goals.

Civic and Social Responsibility: Understanding the needs and issues within a community to become an informed and engaged citizen.

Learning and Reasoning: A level of cognitive thinking that provides the capacity to reﬂect on experiences to apply learning in the future.

1,429 student participants 17.6% of student body

The League has now become fully integrated into HawkLink, UHCL’s student engagement platform, giving students real-time recognition for attending events, participating in organizations, and completing learning opportunities. The program continues to grow and serves as a powerful tool for measuring and rewarding student engagement across the academic year.

Student Impact Story

Charting a Conﬁdent Future:

Career Readiness in Action

Spencer Heilig Finance - MBA Graduate Student

At the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), career readiness is a central priority in empowering students to connect their academic experiences with meaningful professional goals. Through the Center for Career Development (CCD), students receive individualized support to explore pathways, build conﬁdence, and prepare for success beyond graduation.

Graduate student Spencer Heilig likes to get straight to the point with what the Center for Career Development has done for him.

Unsure of what career path he should follow post-graduation, he sought out the resources provided by UHCL and concluded that pursuing an MBA in Finance was the right move for him. He says that his time working with the CCD has proved to be a priceless opportunity, and credits it for teaching him how to analyze career options and strategically plan for his future thoughtfully.

His experience with the CCD, as he stated, "has significantly strengthened my confidence in both my career path and my qualifications to pursue it." Spencer's perspective on what Career Development can offer is crystal clear.

"I

highly recommend meeting with the Center for Career Development. They can help you clarify your career goals and create a solid plan to achieve them. Their insight and expertise are invaluable in preparing for your future."

Through stories like Spencer’s, Student Affairs, CCD, and UHCL continue to demonstrate their commitment to helping students transition from classroom to career.

Student Organizations

(Registered, Department, University-Sponsored and Afﬁliated) Student Government

Student Government (SG) is the ofﬁcial voice of UHCL students. With representatives serving on the Executive Council and the Senate, along with open General Assembly meetings for all students, SG ensures every Hawk has a platform to share concerns and inﬂuence campus decisions. SG advocates for student needs, advises university leadership, and appoints students to key university committees.

SG held their ﬁrst National Commuter Week over the course of 3 days. This gave 3 different opportunities for our commuter students to engage with campus life.

81 events

(SG Assembly Meetings, Senate Meetings, and Town Halls)

Campus Activities Board

The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is a student-led programming organization dedicated to providing a variety of educational, entertainment, recreational, and traditional programs for students, created by students. CAB aims to enhance the student experience at UHCL by developing programs that connect our students to the university.

Activities Funding Board

The Activities Funding Board (AFB) is the student-led group that manages all student organization fund requests. Each academic year, AFB hears and votes upon spending requests of registered student organizations’ fund request applications.

$13,000 awarded to student organizations

STUDENT

Thank you for all of the support and care you have shown me throughout my stay. I am truly thankful for the kindness, patience, and encouragement Student Housing has provided me.

-Michelle T. Psychology MS

STUDENT

Student Media has been a guiding force in helping me navigate the challenges of being a first-time college student. It not only keeps me informed about campus news but also motivates me to get involved in the UHCL community. Through Student Media, I’ve found opportunities to engage with campus life—whether it’s in small ways, like attending weekly media classes and connecting with my peers, or in bigger ways, such as participating in UHCL events and interviewing organization officers about their activities. I truly appreciate Student Media and all the opportunities it has provided me to grow and

Thank you for all of the have shown me throughout thankful for the kindness, encouragement Student Housing

I got to know first-hand how to improve myself as a student and applicant when applying to internships. I also received great advice throughout the entirety of the mentorship program.

Healthcare Administration

Student Media has been the challenges of being only keeps me informed about to get involved in the I’ve found opportunities it’s in small ways, like connecting with participating in UHCL officers about their Media and all the opportunities

The Rec at UHCL has been one of the best parts of my time in college. I actually used to go there before I even applied, and it was a big reason why I chose UHCL in the first place. From day one, it helped me feel more connected to campus and gave me a place where I could focus on myself. Going there regularly helped me stay active, manage my stress, and keep a clear mind. It also taught me how to balance my time better, which made it easier to focus on my classes and get my homework done faster.

I got to know first-hand a student and applicant when internships. I also received throughout the entirety of

The Rec at UHCL has in college. I actually applied, and it was first place. From day to campus and myself. Going there regularly my stress, and keep balance my time better, classes

Hawk Leadership Institute (HLI) through the Center for Student Engagement was an amazing experience--especially during my first year at UHCL. I was able to learn who I was as a leader in a unique way. Best part? It wasn't alone. I formed amazing connections with people going through exactly what I was. Truthfully, the friends I made through HLI became a second family to me. In every lifetime, I would be part of this organization.

-Maria T. Senior, HLI Graduate

As a student worker for the Dean of Students Office, I have seen the great impact our services have given students at UHCL. I have seen countless students come to the front desk and be greeted with warmth and understanding. Then, they leave with their questions answered or with a resource to help them find a resolution.

-Jonathan P. Psychology

Going to therapy is one of the best things I have ever done for myself. I can definitely say that if it were not for CMHC and the caring clinicians, I would not be graduating this semester. I will be forever grateful!

-Anonymous

Working at CSAC has been invaluable to my personal growth both professionally and in terms of my college journey. I will cherish the lessons I’ve learned and utilize the skills I’ve gained for the coming future.

-Osvaldo

E. Computer Science BS

The Veteran and Military Resource Center effectively supports students by quickly addressing their needs and connecting them to the right resources, while fostering a welcoming environment.

-London F. Fitness & Human Performance BS

IMPACT

DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

ANNUAL AWARDS

Student Awards

Student Staff Award Madison Harrison Center for Student Engagement

Student Leader Award Abigaile Chavez Hawks4Community and Hawk Leadership Institute

Student Success Awards

Innovation Award Hawk Mentorship Program Center for Career Development

Advocate Award Luis Polanco De Leon Veteran and Military Resource Center

Assessment Award

Dr. Michael Huttar Counseling and Mental Health Center

Impact Award Individual Therapy Sessions Counseling and Mental Health Center

Collaboration Award Alexa Ventura Communications & Pearland Student Affairs

Division Partner Award Kendra Hakanson Alumni Relations

Distinction Awards

Rising Star Awards Audrey Pena Center for Student Engagement

Unsung Hero Award Jaime Hester Center for Career Development/Counseling and Mental Health Center

Outstanding Administrative Support Award Kimberly Duren Orientation and New Student Programs

Outstanding Professional Award Amanda Hedrick Counseling and Mental Health Center

All-In Award

Dr. Jordan Jones Center for Student Engagement

Military-Friendly School (Silver, 2025–2026)

Recognized for creating opportunities and support for military-afﬁliated students.

Gold Veterans Education Excellence Recognition Award (VEERA)

Awarded by the Texas Veterans Commission, honoring UHCL’s commitment to veteran success.

Boeing Boots to Suits Grant ($20,000)

Supporting career development and student engagement for veterans.

Enterprise Mobility Grant ($15,000)

Enhancing career development programming for all students.

Voter Friendly Campus (2025–2026)

Recognized nationally for student voter engagement efforts.

JED Campus Fundamentals Program

National recognition of UHCL’s commitment to improving campus mental health.

NATIONAL ENGAGEMENT

NASPA Texas State Director

Dr. Andrew D. Wiemer, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs serves on the NASPA Region III Board, a professional association dedicated to advancing student affairs in higher education.

LOOKING AHEAD

As we approach the next chapter of our work within the Division of Student Affairs, we remain committed to advancing our mission through collaboration, innovation, and student-centered engagement. Our focus is on fostering an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to thrive academically, personally, and socially.

Through continued cross-divisional collaboration, we will promote proactive wellness education, deepen opportunities for leadership and service, and create experiences that empower students to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Together, our division will:

• Expand high-impact experiential learning opportunities and service initiatives.

• Facilitate meaningful experiences that promote lifelong learning, resilience, and personal growth.

• Develop new programs that inspire positive social engagement, holistic well-being, and student success.

• Advance initiatives that foster belonging, support ﬁrst-generation student achievement, and promote mental health and wellness across campus.

The months ahead promise continued progress, creativity, and shared purpose. We are grateful for the dedication of our professional and student staff who make our mission a reality each day. As we look forward, we invite our community to join us in reafﬁrming our commitment to creating a supportive and engaging UHCL experience for all.

With appreciation and excitement for what’s ahead, Looking ahead, we will continue to prioritize holistic student well-being through initiatives that support mental health, foster community, and create intentional spaces for connection and belonging. Our efforts will expand to strengthen support for ﬁrst-generation students, enhance career readiness, and focus on meeting the basic needs of our students, ensuring that all can fully engage in the UHCL experience.

Dr. Laquala Dixon

Assistant Vice President/Dean of Students

Dr. Andrew Wiemer

Assistant

Vice President