Over the past four years, the University Center Transformation Project has moved through countless stages, steps, and designs before arriving at where we are today.   Over the last three months, the project has taken some of its most exciting steps yet.

In May, a finalized scope of the project was approved by the Campus Facilities Planning Committee and the Board of Regents.  In this scope, the University Center receives a full renovation, more lounge space, an enclosed arbor, and much more.  But on top of these changes, the UC will also see almost 90,000 square feet of new space through two additions to the building.  

The first addition, located on the east side of the building, is two stories tall.  On its first floor, the new home of UH Dining will offer students exciting new menu options in a new food court area specifically designed to meet students' needs.  The second floor will feature a dedicated Student Government Senate chamber, a theater, and a potential ballroom, contingent on funding. 

The second addition, located over the current UC North Patio Space, will be a high-profile new home for the Center for Student Involvement, Center for Leadership and Fraternity & Sorority Life, and student organizations.

Just as exciting as the approval of the new scope is the progress made throughout the month of June.  The search process for architecture and construction firms for the transformed University Center is in its final stages, and contracts are being negotiated with two very qualified firms.  The architects are expected to be on campus by mid-July, working directly with stakeholders to ensure that the New UC is exactly what the campus needs it to be.

For more information about the UC Transformation Project, including ways to get involved, check out The New UC website at www.uh.edu/thenewuc.

The Center for Leadership and Fraternity & Sorority Life (CLFSL) prepares students to create positive change in their organizations and communities through a variety of programs and services. 

Leadership development, fraternity and sorority involvement, educational initiatives, and volunteer activities are just part of what CLFSL provides to students looking to make a difference.CLFSL is continuing to grow to better serve the needs of the student body.  This year, two new leadership programs were launched. The first is the Emergent Leaders Program, designed to help new student leaders transition into their roles.  The second, the Catalyst Leadership Luncheon, provides opportunities to students to meet with university administration and discuss campus issues.

The evaluation and assessment process for fraternities and sororities also being improved. "5-Star," the current program, is in the process of being phased out.  The new "Fraternal Excellence Program" not only reduces the amount of paperwork involved, but also provides groups with more feedback and greater opportunity for recognition.

52 University Center-Underground

832-842-4955

www.uh.edu/clfsl

A year after the departmental reorganization that created the Center for Student Involvement, CSI is reaching new levels of growth and success.  The current number of Registered Student Organizations now exceeds 500, and fee-funded student organizations are more active and engaged than ever before.   

Luckily, two new staff members were recently added to the team to help with the workload.  Rommel Abad, Assistant Director for Campus Life, works with a number of student groups including the Student Government Association, the Activities Funding Board, and the SGA Election Commission.  Selby Lo, Activities Advisor, works with Dance On and risk management. With his hiring, student groups now have a dedicated advisor to assist in the event registration process.

With another great year on the horizon, CSI is sure to remain your destination for involvement on campus.

Center for Student Involvement

51 University Center-Underground

832-842-6245 

www.uh.edu/csi 

Staff Member: Selby Lo    

Selby Lo

Originally from Toronto, Canada, Selby Lo has been on the Center for Student Involvement team for just over a month as the Activities Advisor for Risk Management and Dance On.  One of his favorite things about working in CSI is how welcoming the students and staff are.  He loves learning something new every day, and one of his favorite foods is sushi.

Activities Funding Board (AFB)

The Activities Funding Board still has funding for student organizations for FY 2012. If you have conferences that are held in July or programs you want to complete before Fall, come down to the AFB office and fill out your reimbursement form.  Remember, AFB can pay for your advertising in the daily cougar and for your flyers in UC CreationStation directly. 

UH Homecoming 

Homecoming is schedule for October 22, 2011. The University of Houston celebrates with a week of activities ranging from pep rallies, parades, and window painting contests.    

Homecoming is more than just a football game, it is an experience of school pride that helps to celebrate students, current and past who have walked through the Cullen Family Plaza to get to class.

If you would like to be a part of this great tradition please stop by the UH Homecoming office and complete an application for one of several Assistant Director Positions to help create fabulous homecoming this year.  For more information email UH Homecoming. 

The UC Games Room is open for the summer and for a limited time, customers can enjoy buy one get one free games of bowling and billiards.  The games room is a place where students can hang out to get a break from the heat or play one of the many games available in the UC fun floor.  There are over 15 tables for billiards, 8 bowling lanes, and 6 tables for table tennis for students to enjoy. For those who like to bowl competitively, there is a bowling league that plays competitively throughout the year.  Be sure to come to UC Games Room to check all of the fun things and contests held periodically through the year.