Nearly 50 UHD students and alumni traveled to Austin last week to participate in University of Houston System Day at the Texas Capitol.

The students divided into small teams to visit individual representatives and senators to share the University's key legislative requests and encourage support for capital improvements to the UHD campus.

Most importantly, students shared the University's need for a new science and technology building, using requested tuition revenue bonds, to house the College of Sciences and Technology. They also shared the University's request for increased funding for community engagement and service learning, funds to create a Center for Urban Agriculture and Sustainability, and funds to establish a Microsoft Innovation Center.

"I'm very glad I was able to represent my school at the beautiful Capitol on UH System Day," said UHD student Karissa Thomas. "It was a unique experience getting our word out about UHD and the goals that we hope to have met in the years to come. It also made me more excited about my future years as a UHD Gator."

Representatives from UHD, University of Houston, University of Houston-Clear Lake and University of Houston-Victoria gathered for lunch near the Capitol, where UH System Chancellor Renu Khator greeted students, faculty and staff and congratulated them on their participation in the legislative process.

"I am so proud of the UHD students who made their voices heard at the Capitol this week," said UHD President Bill Flores. "Through this outstanding high-impact experience, students learned of the University's primary legislative requests, learned how to become a vital participant in the legislative process, and had the opportunity to meet with legislators and their staffs. The knowledge and experience they gained from the trip will serve them well in their growth as civic leaders."