Dear UHD Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni and Friends,

As a newcomer to Houston, I am heartened by the outpouring of care, concern and help across our city that has followed Harvey. This challenging time will continue for the foreseeable future after the waters subside and Houston begins the work of rebuilding.

Our campus fared well during this storm. In spite of the flooding downtown, our Shea Street and Commerce Street buildings were minimally impacted. The One Main Building, however, took on some water and is experiencing a loss of power. Crews are working diligently to address these issues. This is a historic structure in our city and has withstood many other storms. It continues to stand tall along Houston’s skyline, and I am confident that it will be operational soon.

As you have heard by now, the University of Houston-Downtown will remain closed until Tuesday, Sept. 5. This decision was made with safety as our highest concern, but we are preparing for your return.

Next week, we will get to the important work of education. It is more imperative than ever for the future of Houston that UHD helps to prepare students to undertake the challenges that lie ahead. We will be ready to provide a quality educational experience that will prepare our graduates to build a strong future for themselves and their families, as all of Houston works together to rebuild and strengthen our city.

Many of our staff and faculty have continued to work throughout this disaster, and I’m particularly grateful to our UHD Police Department, Communications Team, IT and many others who have helped to secure our campus and provide information to our UHD community, even as they were facing their own personal challenges.

There will be opportunities for Gators to serve our community in the days ahead. I know that UHD Gators are caring and pride themselves on volunteerism and service. These efforts are underway by many of you now, and will continue once we return to campus. I look forward to working alongside you to help address the needs of Houstonians following this historic storm.

We will provide further updates in the days ahead. Please continue to follow us on social media and via email and – most of all – continue to send your good thoughts to UHD and the Houston community. Together, I pledge we will be stronger than ever.

Sincerely,

Dr. Juan Sánchez Muñoz
UHD President