Coog Escorts logo. | Regan Grant/The Cougar

After a series of alarming crimes on the UH campus, a group of students has taken safety into their own hands.

Coog Escorts is volunteer-based, student-run organization and aims to provide safe walks for students from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.

A student-led response

In early February, the UH community was shaken by a string of crimes, including two scooter robberies, a sexual assault at knifepoint and an armed robbery—all occurring within a single week.

For students like Samuel Shebeshe, a sophomore and one of the organization’s founders, the incidents were a call to action.

“We just want people to be able to have access to walk with somebody or walk with a group because it’s a lot safer and hinders crimes as well,” Shebeshe said. “We believe in the strength in numbers. There’s a statistic where robbers or people looking to do crime won’t approach you if you’re in a group. They look for people who are singled out, especially at night.”

Coog Escorts was created less than a month ago by Shebeshe, along with fellow founders Isaac Bacon, William Rickett and Quincy Britton.

The organization operates solely through their Instagram account, where students can request an escort through a direct message. The founders monitor the account and coordinate escorts through a group chat, ensuring that no request goes unanswered.

“When we see a notification, we know it’s someone who needs help,” Shebeshe said. “We respond and let them know someone is on the way.”

Building trust and safety

Since its launch, Coog Escorts has already assisted dozens of students and recruited a growing team of volunteers. 

The founders have implemented strict safety measures to protect both escorts and those requesting assistance. 

Volunteers are required to provide student IDs, and the organization conducts interviews with potential escorts.

“We don’t want random people knowing where students are going,” Bacon said. “Our goal is to create a safe, reliable service that students can trust.”

The initiative has resonated deeply with the UH community as they have already amassed over 1,000 followers on Instagram.

A community in crisis

The rise of Coog Escorts comes amid a broader conversation of concern regarding campus safety as the series of crimes left students feeling vulnerable. 

The most harrowing incident occurred on Feb. 7, when a student was sexually assaulted in the Welcome Center student parking garage. Suspect Eric Latroy Brown was arrested on Feb. 18 after a civilian and student spotted him riding the METRO. 

Brown, who has a criminal history dating back to 2004, is now being held on a combined $15 million bail, one of the highest amounts in Harris County.

The crimes sparked outrage and action across the UH community. On Feb. 12, students organized a protest demanding greater transparency and accountability from UH.

The demonstration was led by Deeds Not Words at UH, drew widespread media coverage across the Houston-area and culminated in a march to the office of UH President Renu Khator.

Current infrastructure

While Coog Escorts was born out of frustration with the current safety infrastructure, its founders emphasize that their goal is not to criticize UHPD but to fill a gap in services.

“I know people who tried to get a police escort from Cougar Place to somewhere else, which is right across from the UHPD station, and it still took them a while,” Shebeshe said. “With the amount of money students pay, they should feel safe enough to where UH can be like a second home.”

The UHPD security escort is available 24/7 at 713-743-3333.

“In 2024, the average wait time was seven minutes, and average time on call was 15 minutes from when the call is received until the officer completes the call,” said UH director of media relations Bryan Luhn. “Based on the numbers, UHPD Security Escort Program provides great customer service to the entire campus.”

Cougar Ride runs from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Thursday and from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Sunday. Rides can be requested through the UH Go app and Cougar Ride has added a third bus to its rotation following the crimes in early February.

The founders of Coog Escorts hope to eventually partner with UHPD or Cougar Ride.

“We are always open to opportunities to work with students on initiatives that strengthen our university and improve campus life and safety,” said Luhn. “To make our campus as safe as it can be, it takes the vigilance of every member of our community to look out for ourselves and each other.”

A message of solidarity

For the founders of Coog Escorts, the initiative is about more than just safety. Their mission is to ensure every student has the resources they need to feel safe and readily available. 

“There are 50,000 students around you—you don’t have to walk alone,” said Britton. “Try to utilize our group, make friends, and never be walking alone.”

As Coog Escorts continues to grow, its founders remain committed to their mission. For now, their message is clear: stay safe, walk in groups and remember that you’re not alone.

Get involved

Students interested in requesting an escort or volunteering with Coog Escorts can reach out via their Instagram account, @CoogEscorts.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Coog Escorts: A student-led response to safety concerns” was originally posted on The Cougar

Coog Escorts logo. | Regan Grant/The Cougar

After a series of alarming crimes on the UH campus, a group of students has taken safety into their own hands.

Coog Escorts is volunteer-based, student-run organization and aims to provide safe walks for students from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.

A student-led response

In early February, the UH community was shaken by a string of crimes, including two scooter robberies, a sexual assault at knifepoint and an armed robbery—all occurring within a single week.

For students like Samuel Shebeshe, a sophomore and one of the organization’s founders, the incidents were a call to action.

“We just want people to be able to have access to walk with somebody or walk with a group because it’s a lot safer and hinders crimes as well,” Shebeshe said. “We believe in the strength in numbers. There’s a statistic where robbers or people looking to do crime won’t approach you if you’re in a group. They look for people who are singled out, especially at night.”

Coog Escorts was created less than a month ago by Shebeshe, along with fellow founders Isaac Bacon, William Rickett and Quincy Britton.

The organization operates solely through their Instagram account, where students can request an escort through a direct message. The founders monitor the account and coordinate escorts through a group chat, ensuring that no request goes unanswered.

“When we see a notification, we know it’s someone who needs help,” Shebeshe said. “We respond and let them know someone is on the way.”

Building trust and safety

Since its launch, Coog Escorts has already assisted dozens of students and recruited a growing team of volunteers. 

The founders have implemented strict safety measures to protect both escorts and those requesting assistance. 

Volunteers are required to provide student IDs, and the organization conducts interviews with potential escorts.

“We don’t want random people knowing where students are going,” Bacon said. “Our goal is to create a safe, reliable service that students can trust.”

The initiative has resonated deeply with the UH community as they have already amassed over 1,000 followers on Instagram.

A community in crisis

The rise of Coog Escorts comes amid a broader conversation of concern regarding campus safety as the series of crimes left students feeling vulnerable. 

The most harrowing incident occurred on Feb. 7, when a student was sexually assaulted in the Welcome Center student parking garage. Suspect Eric Latroy Brown was arrested on Feb. 18 after a civilian and student spotted him riding the METRO. 

Brown, who has a criminal history dating back to 2004, is now being held on a combined $15 million bail, one of the highest amounts in Harris County.

The crimes sparked outrage and action across the UH community. On Feb. 12, students organized a protest demanding greater transparency and accountability from UH.

The demonstration was led by Deeds Not Words at UH, drew widespread media coverage across the Houston-area and culminated in a march to the office of UH President Renu Khator.

Current infrastructure

While Coog Escorts was born out of frustration with the current safety infrastructure, its founders emphasize that their goal is not to criticize UHPD but to fill a gap in services.

“I know people who tried to get a police escort from Cougar Place to somewhere else, which is right across from the UHPD station, and it still took them a while,” Shebeshe said. “With the amount of money students pay, they should feel safe enough to where UH can be like a second home.”

The UHPD security escort is available 24/7 at 713-743-3333.

“In 2024, the average wait time was seven minutes, and average time on call was 15 minutes from when the call is received until the officer completes the call,” said UH director of media relations Bryan Luhn. “Based on the numbers, UHPD Security Escort Program provides great customer service to the entire campus.”

Cougar Ride runs from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Thursday and from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Sunday. Rides can be requested through the UH Go app and Cougar Ride has added a third bus to its rotation following the crimes in early February.

The founders of Coog Escorts hope to eventually partner with UHPD or Cougar Ride.

“We are always open to opportunities to work with students on initiatives that strengthen our university and improve campus life and safety,” said Luhn. “To make our campus as safe as it can be, it takes the vigilance of every member of our community to look out for ourselves and each other.”

A message of solidarity

For the founders of Coog Escorts, the initiative is about more than just safety. Their mission is to ensure every student has the resources they need to feel safe and readily available. 

“There are 50,000 students around you—you don’t have to walk alone,” said Britton. “Try to utilize our group, make friends, and never be walking alone.”

As Coog Escorts continues to grow, its founders remain committed to their mission. For now, their message is clear: stay safe, walk in groups and remember that you’re not alone.

Get involved

Students interested in requesting an escort or volunteering with Coog Escorts can reach out via their Instagram account, @CoogEscorts.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Coog Escorts: A student-led response to safety concerns” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

For international students, pursuing graduate school abroad is a transformative decision that offers academic, professional and personal benefits. 

Beyond advanced education, it provides unique advantages such as visa opportunities, post-graduation work programs and pathways to long-term residency.

Here’s why graduate school is a smart choice for international students:

Career opportunities

In today’s competitive job market, a bachelor’s degree is often insufficient to stand out. A graduate degree signals specialized knowledge and advanced skills, making international students more competitive globally. 

Graduate programs often include internships, research opportunities and networking events that can lead to job offers. Universities also provide career services to help international students navigate visa requirements and cultural differences in the workplace, which is invaluable for securing roles in fields like engineering, business and healthcare.

Specialized knowledge

Graduate school allows students to gain expertise in their chosen field, often learning from world-class professors and researchers. This advanced education emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving and independent research—skills highly valued in any profession. 

For international students, this academic rigor also improves language proficiency and adaptability, making them more competitive in global job markets.

Cultural perspective

Studying abroad offers more than academics; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and broaden your worldview.

International students bring diverse perspectives to the classroom, enriching discussions and fostering cross-cultural understanding. This experience builds resilience, independence and intercultural communication skills, which are increasingly important in today’s interconnected world. 

Employers value candidates who can work effectively across cultures and understand international markets.

Visa opportunities, post-graduation work programs

One of the most significant advantages of graduate school for international students is access to post-graduation work visas. 

Countries like the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia offer programs such as the U.S. Optional Practical Training, Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit and Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa.

These programs allow students to gain professional experience in their field after graduation, often serving as a pathway to long-term residency or immigration. For example, STEM graduates in the U.S. can extend their OPT by 24 months, increasing their chances of transitioning to an H-1B visa.

Global mobility

Graduate school can be a stepping stone to immigration for international students. 

Many countries prioritize highly educated individuals, particularly those with advanced degrees in STEM fields. Work experience gained through post-graduation programs can contribute to eligibility for permanent residency, such as through the U.S. H-1B visa or Canada’s Express Entry system. 

Even for students planning to return home, international education and experience make them more competitive in their local job markets, as employers value candidates with global exposure.

Whether you aim to work abroad, return home with new skills or make a global impact, graduate school can unlock your potential and set you on a path to success. For international students, it’s not just an education—it’s an investment in a brighter future.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Why graduate school is a smart choice for international students” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

For international students, pursuing graduate school abroad is a transformative decision that offers academic, professional and personal benefits. 

Beyond advanced education, it provides unique advantages such as visa opportunities, post-graduation work programs and pathways to long-term residency.

Here’s why graduate school is a smart choice for international students:

Career opportunities

In today’s competitive job market, a bachelor’s degree is often insufficient to stand out. A graduate degree signals specialized knowledge and advanced skills, making international students more competitive globally. 

Graduate programs often include internships, research opportunities and networking events that can lead to job offers. Universities also provide career services to help international students navigate visa requirements and cultural differences in the workplace, which is invaluable for securing roles in fields like engineering, business and healthcare.

Specialized knowledge

Graduate school allows students to gain expertise in their chosen field, often learning from world-class professors and researchers. This advanced education emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving and independent research—skills highly valued in any profession. 

For international students, this academic rigor also improves language proficiency and adaptability, making them more competitive in global job markets.

Cultural perspective

Studying abroad offers more than academics; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and broaden your worldview.

International students bring diverse perspectives to the classroom, enriching discussions and fostering cross-cultural understanding. This experience builds resilience, independence and intercultural communication skills, which are increasingly important in today’s interconnected world. 

Employers value candidates who can work effectively across cultures and understand international markets.

Visa opportunities, post-graduation work programs

One of the most significant advantages of graduate school for international students is access to post-graduation work visas. 

Countries like the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia offer programs such as the U.S. Optional Practical Training, Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit and Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa.

These programs allow students to gain professional experience in their field after graduation, often serving as a pathway to long-term residency or immigration. For example, STEM graduates in the U.S. can extend their OPT by 24 months, increasing their chances of transitioning to an H-1B visa.

Global mobility

Graduate school can be a stepping stone to immigration for international students. 

Many countries prioritize highly educated individuals, particularly those with advanced degrees in STEM fields. Work experience gained through post-graduation programs can contribute to eligibility for permanent residency, such as through the U.S. H-1B visa or Canada’s Express Entry system. 

Even for students planning to return home, international education and experience make them more competitive in their local job markets, as employers value candidates with global exposure.

Whether you aim to work abroad, return home with new skills or make a global impact, graduate school can unlock your potential and set you on a path to success. For international students, it’s not just an education—it’s an investment in a brighter future.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Why graduate school is a smart choice for international students” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

As inflation continues to rise, students are increasingly seeking ways to eat healthy, good meals without breaking the bank. 

Whether you live on-campus or off, finding affordable food options can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. 

With a little planning and creativity, students can enjoy budget-friendly meals that save money without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

Quick and easy breakfast options

Breakfast doesn’t need to be expensive. Oatmeal, for example, costs less than a dollar per serving and can be customized with toppings like fresh fruit, peanut butter or cinnamon. 

Another affordable option is overnight chia pudding, which only requires a few tablespoons of chia seeds, milk and a sweetener like honey or agave.

Lunch on the go

When juggling classes and assignments, students often need meals that travel well. Homemade sandwiches, wraps or rice bowls are simple to prepare and easy on the wallet.

Opting for ingredients like canned tuna, chickpeas, and boiled eggs can help keep lunch affordable and protein-rich.

Buying in bulk can also stretch dollars further. 

Dinners that don’t disappoint

Dinner can be both comforting and economical with a few staple ingredients. 

Pasta dishes, stir-fries and soups are versatile options that allow students to use whatever vegetables or proteins they have on hand.

Ingredients like canned tomatoes, frozen vegetables and beans are inexpensive and keep well.

Cooking in batches also helps students save time and money. Large meals like chili or curry can be made on weekends and portioned into containers for the rest of the week.

Snacks and treats

For students with a sweet tooth, snacks can be a budget buster. 

However, DIY snacks are an excellent way to save. 

Air-popped popcorn, homemade energy bites and trail mix made from bulk nuts and dried fruit are healthier and cheaper than store-bought alternatives.

Food assistance and campus resources

UH offers support for students struggling with food insecurity. 

The Cougar Cupboard, located at 4200 Martin Luther King Blvd, provides free groceries to students in need.

Tips for Staying on Budget

• Meal Planning: Plan meals for the week to avoid impulse purchases.
• Use a Grocery List: Stick to your list to prevent overspending.
• Shop Sales and Coupons: Look for discounts, especially on bulk items.
• Cook with Friends: Sharing meals helps reduce food waste and costs.

Eating well on a budget is more than possible—it just takes a bit of strategy and resourcefulness. 

With the right approach, students can nourish their bodies and wallets simultaneously.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Good food, low cost: A student’s guide to eating healthy on a budget” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

Starting Tuesday, there will be a new option for UH students commuting between the main campus and the Sugar Land extension. A new Fort Bend County line will be available after unanimous approval from the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court.

“If you’re in Fort Bend, and you were using the shuttle as a sort of drop off spot to go to the main campus, this will be your alternative,” Transportation Parking Advisory Committee member Anahi Ortega said.

Service Details and Reaction

The new service will cost $4 for a one-way ride.

Some students have expressed frustration over the cost.

“If you were to take the bus five days a week to and from campus, it would cost $40 a week,” health sophomore Shalimar Bachachi said. “You might as well just buy a parking pass if it is gonna be that expensive.”

At $4 per ride, students are concerned about the financial burden of using the service regularly throughout the semester; however, members of TPAC think the bus is still a good alternative for those not eligible for a university shuttle permit.

“I understand it might not be feasible for all students,” TPAC member Salik Faisal said.“METRO has more affordable rates and long-term we want to work to get the price down for students, but for many it would be a cheaper alternative to driving and parking on campus.”

Buses will pick up passengers at the AMC Theater First Colony Park and Ride, located at 3301 Town Center Blvd, near First Colony Mall.

From there, the Fort Bend Transit bus will proceed to downtown Houston as part of its existing downtown commuter service route. At downtown Houston, the bus will continue to UH, dropping passengers off at the bus stop in front of the Welcome Center Garage on Martin Luther King Blvd.

In the afternoon, the Fort Bend Transit bus will reverse the route: picking up passengers at the Welcome Center Garage stop, heading downtown, and then stopping again at the AMC Theater First Colony Park and Ride.

This initial trial phase aims to gauge student support and engagement. Depending on the success of this pilot, there are plans to negotiate additional time slots in the future.

“If it proves well and we get enough people riding it, then we can get it extended to run more frequently, and have it actually go to the Sugar Land campus,” Ortega said.

Background

Transportation issues have been a significant concern for UH students navigating between the main campus and Sugar Land.
Complaints about the shuttle’s unpredictability and overcrowded conditions prompted TPAC to explore new solutions.

Last year, students faced difficulties obtaining shuttle permits, with many being sold out despite waitlists. This situation was exacerbated by the introduction of a permit system, which prioritized students with classes at both campuses or those residing on the main campus.

TPAC is hopeful that the new service will help alleviate parking demands and provide a more reliable alternative.

“I really hope students can take advantage of this,” Faisal said. “I think it has the potential to be a good alternative for many students in the Sugar Land Areas who are ineligible for the University Shuttle Permit.”

Below is the new schedule:

The new Fort Bend County line will feature three morning routes from AMC to UH:

• Depart AMC: 6:58 a.m. / Arrive at UH: 8:11 a.m.
• Depart AMC: 7:10 a.m. / Arrive at UH: 8:23 a.m.
• Depart AMC: 7:30 a.m. / Arrive at UH: 8:43 a.m.

There will be three afternoon routes from UH to AMC:

• Depart UH: 3:48 p.m. / Arrive at AMC: 4:54 p.m.
• Depart UH: 4:13 p.m. / Arrive at AMC: 5:19 p.m.
• Depart UH: 4:31 p.m. / Arrive at AMC: 5:37 p.m.

—
“New bus line to begin for Sugar Land students: Fort Bend County Line Approved” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

Starting college can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. For freshmen stepping into this new chapter of life, the transition from high school to university presents a mix of excitement, challenges and opportunities.

To help ease the journey, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and successful first year:

Master the art of time travel (or just get a planner)

College time moves differently—assignments have a way of sneaking up like a Netflix binge that suddenly turns into a 3 a.m. watch party.

To avoid the classic “I forgot we had homework” crisis, grab a planner or use a calendar app. Time travel might be out of reach, but it’s obtainable to manage scheduling.

Profs aren’t just for lectures: They’re secret weapons

Professors are like college ninjas—super skilled and ready to help you succeed, but only if sought out. Pop by their office hours, ask questions and who knows, they might just drop some knowledge that’ll open doors to opportunities.

Student clubbin’

Join an organization on campus! Whether it’s ultimate frisbee, board games or anime, there’s a club for everyone. Dive in, make friends and maybe even pick up a new hobby or two. Plus, it’s a great way to get free pizza.

Get savvy with cash

Let’s be real — being broke is a rite of passage in college, but avoid living on instant noodles by keeping an eye on spending. Use student discounts, grab textbook rentals and maybe even snag a part-time job that won’t eat up free time.

Budgeting might not be glamorous, but neither is running out of money.

Laundry roulette: Don’t be that person

Everyone knows laundry day is the worst. Avoid the infamous “laundry pile-up” by setting a weekly schedule.

And for the love of all things clean, don’t forget clothes in the washer for too long — no one likes a game of laundry roulette, where stuff mysteriously ends up in the dryer or worse, on the floor.

Ask for help when needed

Never be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s struggling with a class, feeling homesick or just needing advice, there are resources available.

Academic advisors, campus counselors and peer mentors are all there to support students. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Mind your manners: College Etiquette 101

College is a communal experience, so a little etiquette goes a long way. Hold the door open for other people, say thanks to the dining hall staff and be respectful in class (yes, that means putting phones away).

These small acts of kindness make campus life more pleasant for everyone.

College is time for students to find themselves and learn their likes and dislikes. Everything might not go perfectly, but don’t be discouraged because everything will work out in the end.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“College survival guide for freshman” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston is one of the best places to wine and dine. | Izmail Glosson/The Cougar

Houston is home to a multitude of hidden gems waiting to be explored.

From unique restaurants and cozy coffee shops to vibrant markets and exciting nightlife, here’s a guide to some of Houston’s best-kept secrets:

Food

China Garden

Nestled in the heart of downtown, China Garden offers authentic Chinese cuisine that has been a local favorite for decades. Their classic dishes and inviting atmosphere make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Pistolero’s Tacos & Tequila

This lively spot on Westheimer Road serves up delicious tacos with a twist, paired perfectly with a variety of tequilas. Pistolero’s is a great place to enjoy a casual meal with friends. 

Coppa Osteria

For lovers of Italian cuisine, Coppa Osteria in Rice Village offers a delightful menu of pasta, pizza and more. Its charming ambiance makes it a perfect dining destination. 

The Ginger Mule

Vegans and health-conscious diners will find a haven at The Ginger Mule, which offers a variety of plant-based dishes bursting with flavor.

Local Foods

A popular spot for fresh and locally-sourced meals, Local Foods serves up delicious sandwiches, salads and more in a relaxed setting. 

Coffee shops

A 2nd Cup

More than just a coffee shop, A 2nd Cup is a non-profit dedicated to fighting human trafficking. Enjoy a cup of coffee while supporting a great cause. 

Brass Tacks

This chic coffee shop offers a cozy environment perfect for studying or catching up with friends. 

Coral Sword

Combining a love for coffee and gaming, Coral Sword offers a unique space for coffee lovers and gamers alike.

Campesino Coffee House

This charming coffee house offers a great selection of beverages and a welcoming atmosphere. 

Day Six Coffee

Located in the heart of Houston, Day Six Coffee provides a perfect spot for a relaxing coffee break or a productive study session.

Shopping

Macabre Market

Discover eclectic finds at the Macabre Market, a pop-up event featuring unique vendors and handmade goods.

Montrose Market

Held regularly in the Montrose neighborhood, this market is perfect for finding one-of-a-kind items and supporting local artisans.

Brazos Bookstore

A beloved local bookstore, Brazos Bookstore hosts a variety of events and offers a carefully curated selection of books.

Harwin Drive

For bargain hunters, Harwin Drive offers a treasure trove of shops with everything from fashion to home goods at unbeatable prices.

The Magick Cauldron

Specializing in metaphysical supplies, The Magick Cauldron is a unique store for those interested in the mystical and magical. 

Fun Activities

Black Swan Yoga at POST HTX 

Enjoy free yoga sessions on the rooftop of POST Houston, a repurposed post office turned urban oasis. 

Movies Under the Stars

Catch a free outdoor movie screening and enjoy a night under the stars at various locations around Houston. 

Writespace Open Mic

For budding writers and poets, Writespace offers open mic nights to showcase talent and connect with fellow creatives. 

The Secret Group

Laugh the night away at The Secret Group, a comedy club featuring local and touring comedians.

Seismique

Explore a futuristic, immersive art experience at Seismique, where interactive exhibits and digital art installations captivate visitors of all ages.

Nightlife

Stereo Live

For fans of electronic dance music, Stereo Live offers a high-energy atmosphere with top DJs and an impressive sound system.

Eden Plant Co. Jazz Night

Enjoy a sophisticated evening of live jazz at Eden Plant Co., a unique venue that combines a love for plants and music. 

Paradise Palace

A hidden gem in the nightlife scene, Paradise Palace is known for its eclectic ambiance and vibrant events.

Pearl Bar

As one of Houston’s popular lesbian bars, Pearl Bar offers a welcoming space with great music and a lively crowd.

Space Nightclub

Experience a night out at Space Nightclub, where futuristic decor and high-energy music create an unforgettable experience.

From savoring exquisite dishes to discovering unique shops and enjoying vibrant nightlife, Houston’s hidden gems offer something for everyone. 

So, go ahead and explore the city’s best-kept secrets and create unforgettable experiences.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s hidden gems: A guide to the city’s best-kept secrets” was originally posted on The Cougar

Members of GLOBAL gathered for National Coming Out Day in 1995. | The Cougar archives

The history of LGBTQ activism at UH is marked by a series of pioneering efforts, societal challenges and significant milestones that reflect broader changes in the fight for LGBTQ rights across the U.S.

Early 1970s

In 1968, the UH Gay Liberation Front was established, one of the earliest organized efforts for LGBTQ rights on campus. 

By 1971, the group had rebranded to Gay Liberation and hosted The Gay Dance, one of the first public social events for the LGBTQ community at UH, increasing visibility and solidarity among students.

Despite their efforts, the group disbanded in 1973 due to societal pressures and internal challenges. 

However, LGBTQ activism at UH saw a resurgence in 1975 with the creation of the Gay Activist Alliance, the first officially recognized gay student group in Texas. This marked a significant milestone in LGBTQ activism within the state.

Late 1970s

In February 1976, controversy erupted when the Doonesbury comic strip featured a gay character. The Houston Post refused to publish the series, prompting activist Fred Páez and the GAA to distribute it through the Cougar.

The Doonesbury cartoon published in 1976 in the Cougar. | The Cougar archives

The same year, UH offered its first non-credit course focused on LGBTQ topics, “Homosexual Experience,” and hosted the Texas Gay Conference, establishing the university as a hub for LGBTQ activism and education.

In 1977, UH expanded its non-credit gay studies with courses such as “Homosexual Reality for Police and Other Bureaucrats” and “Gay History.”

The GAA faced legal challenges due to the General Appropriation Act, which aimed to eliminate illegal organizations, including gay groups. The GAA successfully argued their legality and continued their activities.

GAA members dancing at the Cougar Den in 1977. | The Cougar archives

That year, a planned parade by GAA was reallocated to support the protest against Anita Bryant, a known anti-gay rights activist. 

This led to the formation of Gay Resource Services, which replaced the GAA as the leading LGBTQ organization on campus due to the GAA’s male-dominated nature.

In 1978, UH celebrated its first Gay Pride Week, further cementing its role in LGBTQ activism. 

GRS hosted a meeting for the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights in 1979, linking local efforts with national movements.

1980s

The 1980s saw the continuation of non-credit LGBTQ courses, such as “Improving Love Relationships for Gays” and “General Gay Studies.” 

UH once again hosted the Texas Gay Conference in 1981. 

However, GRS disbanded in 1984, possibly due to changing dynamics within the LGBTQ movement or external pressures.

The Gay and Lesbian Students Association was established in 1985, marking a resurgence of organized LGBTQ activism on campus. 

1990s and 2000s

In 1994, GLSA was renamed to Gay, Lesbian or Bisexual Alliance, reflecting broader inclusion of identities.

In 2009, the Women’s Studies Program introduced the LGBT Studies minor, recognizing the scholarly importance of LGBT people and their contributions to politics and theory. 

This minor offers students an interdisciplinary framework to understand and critically examine sexuality, gender and sexual identity. 

The following year, the program was renamed the Women’s, Gender, & Sexuality Studies Program.

2010s 

June 2010 saw the creation of the GLBT Resource Center with Lorraine Schroder as director. 

In 2011, the LGBTQ Resource Center ended its inaugural year by participating in Houston’s largest gay pride celebration for the first time. Nearly 40 faculty, staff and students gathered to take part in the Houston Pride Parade.

In 2014, UH received recognition from The Advocate as one of seven “brave campuses” and a leader in “grassroots organization and activism” concerning its LGBTQ community.

In 2015, the center officially changed its name to the LGBTQ Resource Center. The center provided a safe space for LGBTQ staff, students and allies to learn, grow and discuss important issues affecting the LGBTQ community.

In 2016, significant historical materials related to UH’s LGBTQ activism were archived in the MD Anderson Library, preserving the history and achievements of the community. 

Former Houston Mayor Anise Parker and her partner Kathy Hubbard contributed to the development of these archives in 2017, enhancing the preservation and accessibility of this history.

In 2019, the CLASS Institute for Research on Women, Gender & Sexuality was founded and became the first university-based think tank on gender and sexuality in the region. 

2020s

Recent legislative changes have posed new challenges. As of Aug. 31, 2023, the LGBTQ Resource Center and the Center for Diversity and Inclusion ceased operations due to Senate Bill 17. 

The bill, signed during the recent legislative session, prevents universities from continuing with diversity, equity and inclusion offices and bans required diversity training.

Although the bill went into effect on Jan. 1, UH was the first school in the state to close its LGBTQ Resource Center, marking a significant setback for the community.

UH’s journey in LGBTQ activism highlights the enduring struggle, resilience and progress of the community, illustrating its significant role in the broader LGBTQ rights movement in Texas and the nation.

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“A look into queer history at UH” was originally posted on The Cougar

The Keeland Building is one of the last remaining student-designated maker spaces on campus after closing the maker space in the engineering building. | Raphael Fernandez/ The Cougar

On Wednesday, the Student Government Association introduced a resolution emphasizing the need to sustain and adequately fund UH’s makerspaces, particularly highlighting the Keeland Design Lab.

The Keeland Design Lab, the Hines College of Architecture’s fabrication space for students, is currently facing financial challenges that threaten its availability to students. 

“This facility needs funding because the students that were using this space told me that the facility is necessary for their entire college career,” Sen. Jesus Nieto said. “If they don’t have this space, they will not be successful in the classroom.”

According to the resolution, this facility is crucial for students’ hands-on learning, fostering real-world skills and problem-solving abilities. 

Adequate facility funding ensures the burden of providing essential resources does not fall on individual faculty members or students.

“I know that there are professors at the College of Architecture who dip into their own pockets for student supplies,” Sen. Mohib Awan said. “My professor supplied some things last semester for our class, so I’m sure it’s up to their discretion, but I do not think that they even legally have to be reimbursed.”

The recent shutdown of the engineering makerspace has exacerbated the situation, significantly reducing the resources available.

“These students are going to fail if they do not have the proper resources that they need,” Nieto said. “Why are we allowing the University to force students and faculty to fundraise their own machines to be successful in the classroom?”

This situation underscores the need for adequately funded and accessible makerspaces to ensure all students, regardless of financial background, have equal opportunities to engage in learning.

“I think the most feasible thing to do is to take this revolution back to the College and show them what the students think,” Sen. Tav Cockrell said. “I don’t think that the colleges are considering the larger impact, so I will be interacting with the appropriate officials at the university level to handle this issue.”

The resolution urges administration to explore sustainable funding models, including partnerships with local businesses, alumni donations and grant opportunities to support the makerspace’s continued operation and effectiveness.

news@thedailycougar.com

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“SGA advocates for increased funding for Keeland Design Lab” was originally posted on The Cougar