Afrojack preforming his daytime set on May 26, 2024. | Grace Rednoske/The Cougar

EDM Festival, Ubbi Dubbi, delivered an unforgettable experience on May 25-26 at Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth, Texas. 

2024 marked the 5th year of the festival and Ubbi Dubbi has become one of the most recognizable EDM festivals in Texas. 

This year, headliners included RL Grime, Svdden Death: Voyd, Wooli, Alison Wonderland and Galantis. The festival was split into three stages: Ubbi’s Stage, Dubbi’s Stage and the Zoom Room. 

Day One

Gates opened at 3 p.m., but the crowd didn’t start to fill in until sunset.

The earlier acts like Juelz and Anabel Englund set the tone for the day with high-energy sets that got everyone moving.

TroyBoi and Dabin also provided standout performances earlier in the evening, each bringing their unique styles to the stage. TroyBoi’s innovative beats and Dabin’s melodic dubstep, especially his sunset set, were crowd favorites.

Alison Wonderland also delivered a powerful set with her signature blend of emotive vocals and hard-hitting drops, creating an immersive experience for the audience.

RL Grime headlined Ubbi’s Stage with a performance that was nothing short of electrifying. His set, which closed out the first night, featured a perfect blend of new tracks and fan favorites, leaving the crowd wanting more. 

Over at Dubbi’s Stage, Wooli and the back-to-back set from Bear Grillz and Jessica Audiffred were major highlights. Wooli’s heavy bass and dubstep were the perfect way to cap off the night. TVBOO and Ravenscoon also drew large crowds with their energetic performances, keeping the vibes high throughout the evening.

The Zoom Room offered a different vibe with acts like Elderbrook and Nimino whose set was a soulful journey through house and electronic music.

Although on the smaller Zoom Room Stage, Le Youth and Its Murph were the standouts of Day One. Le Youth offered an infectious energy during his set, even getting into the crowd to dance with fans and Its Murph kept the dance floor packed with his infectious beats.

Day Two

Day two continued the festival’s momentum with another day of incredible performances. 

SVDDEN DEATH: VOYD headlined Ubbi’s Stage with an intense set that captivated the audience with its dark, powerful sound. Galantis brought their upbeat, feel-good tracks, which were a perfect contrast and kept the energy high.

Afrojack delivered a high-octane set filled with his biggest hits and new music, demonstrating why he remains a mainstay in the EDM scene. Crankdat and GG Magree also provided memorable performances, each bringing their unique flair to the stage.

On Dubbi’s Stage, Said The Sky closed out the festival with a beautiful set filled with melodic bass and emotional moments. Audien and Trivecta also stood out, each offering sets that perfectly balanced high energy and melodic elements.

The Zoom Room continued to be a highlight with acts like Matroda and Odd Mob B2B OMNOM delivering sets that kept attendees dancing non-stop. Wuki and Kaleena Zanders also provided memorable performances, each showcasing their distinctive styles and keeping the crowd engaged.

Production and Atmosphere

The production at Ubbi Dubbi was top-notch, with stunning visuals, great sound systems and intricate stage designs that added to the immersive experience. Each stage had its unique aesthetic, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the festival. 

The festival grounds at Panther Island Pavilion were well-organized, with ample space for attendees to move around comfortably. Two free water stations kept ravers hydrated through the summer heat. 

Although the atmosphere was stellar, going through entrance lines raised questions as security did not search backpacks or bags. Additionally, exiting the festival was a hassle due to standstill, shoulder-to-shoulder traffic at the single exit.

Community and Culture

One of the most remarkable aspects of Ubbi Dubbi is its inclusive and positive atmosphere as ravers were friendly, and there was a strong sense of community throughout the event. 

The vibrant festival fashion, with attendees in colorful and creative outfits, added to the visual spectacle of the festival.

Final Thoughts

Ubbi Dubbi 2024 was a resounding success, delivering an incredible lineup, outstanding production and a welcoming atmosphere. 

The festival continues to establish itself as a premier event in the EDM circuit. Whether you’re a seasoned raver or new to the scene, Ubbi Dubbi offers a magical experience that encapsulates the spirit of EDM culture.

news@thedailycougar.com

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“Festival Review: Ubbi Dubbi” was originally posted on The Cougar

Members of the Senate debate in the SGA Senate Chamber during Monday’s April 22, meeting. |Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

The Student Government Association delved into contentious campus matters in a special session lasting over four hours on Monday night.

Discussions ranged from condemning Executive Order No. GA-44 to address challenges within Greek life and unresolved executive appointments. As debates intensified, senators grappled with navigating diverse perspectives on critical issues.

Israel-Palestine Conflict

A resolution condemning Executive Order No. GA-44 issued by Governor Greg Abbott was read after the order which aimed to address acts of antisemitism at Texas universities and colleges.

The order requires institutions to review and update their free speech policies, including the definition of antisemitism, and establish punishments for antisemitic speech and acts on campuses. The order’s reference to phrases such as “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” was cited as an example of its potential impact on free speech rights.

“This resolution calls on the UH administration to protect its students’ right to speech, action, protest and campaigns, and we hope that the administration refuses to comply with the executive order,” Sen. Mohib Awan said. 

Awan expressed concerns that the order creates a negative environment for affected students, particularly those involved in groups like the Palestine Solidarity Committee and Students for Justice in Palestine.

“The executive order endangers students advocating for the end to the genocide of Palestinians; endangering Palestinian, Arab and Muslim students in particular by creating a hostile environment that suppresses free speech,” Awan said.

Another resolution, titled Divest from Death, focused on the university’s investments in weapons manufacturers and other companies allegedly implicated in various conflicts and human rights violations. 

The resolution called for divestment from these entities and cited the university’s historical precedent in divesting from companies engaged in business with apartheid-era South Africa. It also referenced previous efforts by SJP to urge divestment from top weapons manufacturers, which were not fully implemented by the university.

“These companies are directly giving weapons to Israel to bomb Palestinian people or they are companies that occupy illegal territories, so we hope that the Board of Regents will vote to divest the endowment fund from these companies,” SJP representative and art history graduate student Frances said.

The resolutions, now in committee, will undergo further scrutiny and discussion before being brought to a vote by the Senate in a future meeting.

Greek Life

A resolution aimed to recognize the UH chapter of Phi Kappa Sigma that advocated for its inclusion on the university’s website and its hopeful accelerated national recognition was planned to be voted on by the Senate. 

The author Sen. Jesus Nieto argued for the chapter’s recognition to highlight its positive impact on campus and adherence to university regulations.

“This resolution is a call to action to be recognized on the university’s website so we can increase our membership numbers and presence on campus,” Nieto said. “We are on the way to being nationally recognized and this would help.”

However, the resolution faced staunch opposition from senators questioning the fraternity’s national status. Sen. Lauren Williford and others expressed concerns about endorsing a fraternity without national recognition.

“I don’t think we should pass this because it has not been nationally recognized as a chapter yet and this seems like a premature thing to do,” Williford said.

Neito defended the chapter, stressing its fulfillment of university requirements and local contributions. Despite his efforts, the Senate remained divided over the fraternity’s eligibility for recognition. After extensive debate, the Senate was divided, with 15 of the 29 present senators voting to table the resolution. 

In a bid to foster dialogue and collaboration within Greek life, the Recognition of the SGA Greek Life Caucus Resolution was introduced to propose a platform for discourse among student leaders. 

“This would basically just create a forum to discuss all things about Greek life. This is all about creating a space to talk and increasing presence,” Nieto.

Although the legislation was sent to the committee, disputes arose over alleged sponsorship claims that reflected the need for clarity and accountability in legislative procedures.

“I never agreed to be a sponsor on this and I know a few other senators feel the same. I never signed the document or said that I supported this,” Sen. Will James said.

Executive Appointment

The appointment process for the Director of Outreach position turned into a battleground of opinions, with candidates Williford and James failing to impress the Senate with their speeches. As deliberations stretched over whether to strike the appointments or proceed to vote, frustration mounted among senators torn between duty and dissatisfaction with the candidates.

“They felt very unprepared and they definitely should have read up on the position before their speeches,” Nieto said. “There should be no reason why they can’t name five University Sponsored Organizations when that is a main part of the outreach position.” 

Ultimately, the decision to vote yielded no clear winner which left the position vacant and the Senate divided.

At the beginning of the meeting, Bryanna Nimmons, a familiar face from the 60th administration, shared her disappointment at being overlooked for the director of outreach position despite her efforts.

“I submitted my application so you can imagine my surprise when I received a call on Friday right before submissions were closed saying that my submission was not received although multiple people saw me submit it,” Nimmons said.

Her testimony shed light on the challenges of navigating internal politics within SGA, underscoring the need for transparency and fairness in appointments.

news@thedailycougar.com

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“SGA condemns Executive Order No. GA-44 amid Israel-Palestine debate, introduces legislation” was originally posted on The Cougar

“We are hoping to partner with Fort Bend Transit System to hopefully get the stops implemented,” said TPAC committee member Anahi Ortega. | Len Duenas/The Cougar

As students navigate between the UH’s main campus and its Sugar Land extension, transportation challenges have sparked proactive measures aimed at improving connectivity.

The Transportation and Parking Advisory Committee has initiated discussions with Fort Bend County Transportation to augment existing transit options, responding to student feedback and evolving needs.

“There have been so many issues with the shuttle in the past few months. The permits sold out so quickly that it was almost impossible to get one, ” computer science junior Angela Abrea said. “When I came here I didn’t realize I would have classes there and it really shouldn’t be that hard to get to my class.” 

Two proposed scenarios have emerged from TPAC’s recent survey, inviting student input on potential enhancements to the current transportation landscape.

Scenario one proposes an additional stop on Fort Bend County’s Park-and-Ride route from AMC First Colony 24 in Sugar Land to UH’s main campus. The estimated costs vary based on frequency, offering students flexibility in their commuting choices.

Scenario two extends this concept, envisioning two additional stops from the Sugar Land campus to the main campus. Again, costs are tailored to accommodate varying commuting schedules.

“We are hoping the survey provides us with information to take back to the Fort Bend Transit System to show that either students support it or they don’t and we can hopefully get the stops implemented,” TPAC committee member Anahi Ortega said.

Students are encouraged to provide feedback on the proposed scenarios, assessing their appeal and likelihood of utilization. Factors such as pricing and convenience are under scrutiny to ensure alignment with student preferences.

“For me, the extra mode of transportation would be really helpful because I’m honestly tired of dealing with the unpredictable arrival times of the shuttle,” Abrea said.

After complaints of overcrowding, UH first announced the implementation of a permit system in November, where students without a UH parking permit had to purchase a shuttle permit for $239. Priority was given to students with classes at both campuses or living on the main campus, but many students found that the permits were sold out despite being on the waitlist.

Parking and Transportation then issued additional permits for priority students; however, many students felt like the permits were unfair to those already paying for parking permits. Parking and Transportation services then suggested alternate transportation options, including carpool permits. 

“I think it is unfair how the current way the shuttle is funded,” English and media production senior Gwyneth De Pass said. “If someone is paying for a parking permit, they are funding the shuttle with their money, and I think they should be able to use the shuttle if they wish to.” 

Already hosting classes for the Technology Division, the College of Nursing and the College of Education, the University has recently broken ground on a new UH at Sugar Land instructional site. The construction will allow the Technology Division to finalize its full transition to the Sugar Land campus by 2025. 

“They are breaking ground on a second location in Sugar Land, so attendance is about to go up and more students will need to travel there,” Ortega said. “There are roughly 8,000 students who live in Sugar Land, so by adding another way to get to campus would help out a tremendous amount of students.”

news@thedailycougar.com

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“TPAC hopes to partner with Fort Bend County to expand transportation to Sugar Land” was originally posted on The Cougar

“Being part of SFAC has taught me the value of perseverance and teamwork. Together, we’ve been able to push for change and hold university leadership accountable,” Ortega said. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Budget Baddies is a series chronicling the lives of the individuals representing the student body on the Student Fee Advisory Committee. More information on the ongoing dispute between the committee and the Board of Regents can be found under The Cougar’s “SFAC” tag. 

In the complex workings of university governance, where decisions can often seem distant and detached from the student body, technology leadership and innovation management senior Anahi Ortega emerges as a passionate advocate for transparency and accountability. 

Her journey into student leadership was not a predetermined path but a response to the pressing need for student voices to be heard and respected. Ortega’s descent into the Student Fees and Advisory Committee began with a keen understanding of the disconnect between students and university decision-makers. 

“I felt like there was a gap in communication,” Ortega said. “Important decisions were being made without genuine student input, and it didn’t sit right with me.” 

Motivated by a desire to bridge this gap, Ortega decided to throw her hat into the ring and apply for a position within SFAC.

Ortega’s persistence eventually led her to appointment as SFAC vice chair, where she was tasked with overseeing the allocation of university funds along with other students and faculty representatives. It was here that she encountered firsthand the lack of accountability that plagued the decision-making process.

 “I realized that there was a real need for transparency in how university funds were being allocated,” Ortega said. “Students deserve to know where their tuition dollars are going and have a say in how they are being spent.”

Being a member of SFAC is not without its challenges, as President Renu Khator rejected their recommendations for the first time in her 16 years as president. However, Ortega’s unwavering determination and commitment to student welfare propelled her forward. 

“I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I was determined to make a difference,” Ortega said. “I refused to be stopped by setbacks.”

Along with the rest of the committee, Ortega embarked on a mission to challenge the pre-existing norms and demand greater accountability from university officials. Together, they meticulously prepared for a critical meeting with the Board of Regents, determined to amplify student voices and create meaningful change. 

“We knew that this was our chance to make a real impact,” Ortega said. “We wanted to make sure that student concerns were front and center, really demanding the attention they deserved.”

As they prepared for the high-stakes meeting, the committee deliberated over the best strategy to convey their concerns effectively. They ultimately decided that SFAC Chair Yusuf Kadi would serve as the primary spokesperson, presenting a unified message to the Board. 

“We wanted to avoid any potential confusion and make sure that our message was clear and concise. It was about putting student interests first and foremost,” Ortega said.

As she reflected on the outcome of the meeting, Ortega expressed cautious optimism. 

“We were relieved and content by the Board’s willingness to engage in further discussion,” Ortega said. “It was a step in the right direction, and it made our belief in the power of collective action and advocacy to be strengthened.”

With their sights set on the next steps in their advocacy journey, Ortega remains steadfast in her commitment to holding university officials accountable and pushing for greater transparency. As the Board of Regents prepares to reconvene in May, she understands the importance of sustained pressure and vigilance. 

“I hope that our arguments are considered thoroughly by the Board of Regents. I can’t predict the outcome, but I’m hopeful about our position,” Ortega said.

Beyond her role in student governance, Ortega draws strength and inspiration from her family, who have always supported her endeavors. 

“My parents have been my biggest supporters,” Ortega said. “Even when the going gets tough, they always encouraged my involvement and cared about the work I’m passionate about.”

In her free time, Ortega finds solace in activities like playing rugby and spending time with her beloved Pitbull mixes. 

“It’s important to find balance amidst the chaos,” Ortega said. “Doing things that bring me joy helps me refocus on the work ahead.”

As Ortega continues to advocate for transparency and accountability within student governance, her impact echoes throughout the university community. With her unwavering dedication and tireless advocacy, she serves as an inspiration for her peers, reminding them that positive change is possible when they unite behind a common cause.

“Being part of SFAC has taught me the value of perseverance and teamwork. Together, we’ve been able to push for change and hold university leadership accountable,” Ortega said.

news@thedailycougar.com

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“Budget Baddies, part 3: The advocate” was originally posted on The Cougar

The Student Government Association Supreme Court Justices (left to right) Associate Justice Elliot Madsen, Senior Associate Justice Ansel Garcia, Chief Justice Carlos Hernandez, Associate Justices Christian Medrano, Derrick Cooper and Jaden Kirven. | Courtesy of Carlos Hernandez.

In a landmark decision, the Student Government Association oversaw a procedural dispute, which resulted in the suspension of Attorney General Matthew Tao. The verdict, delivered by the Supreme Court, derives from a case brought forth by president-elect Diego Arriaga, representing the For All Cougars party.

The controversy ignited on March 7, when Tao issued a ruling against For All Cougars alleging a violation of the Election Code. Arriaga swiftly appealed the decision, contesting procedural inconsistency and asserting that the penalty should be overturned.

Arriaga’s appeal centered on two key assertions: First, that Tao had violated Article 7, Section 1, Clause 6 of the Election Code, which mandates a strict time frame for the adjudication of complaints; and second, that the timing of Tao’s ruling fell outside the permitted window for such decisions — rendering it null and void.

Despite acknowledging the trial, Tao opted not to participate, prompting the Supreme Court to proceed without his involvement.

The Court, led by Chief Justice Carlos Hernandez, found merit in Arriaga’s claims of procedural misconduct, leading to the dismissal of the penalty imposed by Tao. They unanimously ruled in favor of Arriaga and For All Cougars, dismissing the penalty and suspending Tao from his position for 30 calendar days.

The suspension was based on Tao’s failure to adhere to procedural duties outlined in the Bylaws and his deliberate refusal to participate in the trial proceedings. Hernandez emphasized that Tao’s actions contravened SGA’s governing documents, warranting disciplinary action.

news@thedailycougar.com

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“SGA attorney general suspended after botched election code hearing” was originally posted on The Cougar

“I wanted to be a voice for graduate students because there is a major lack of representation in SGA for them. Many graduate students are struggling here to sustain themselves, so hopefully I can help work to improve things,” public policy graduate student Jesus Nieto said. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Budget Baddies is a series chronicling the lives of the individuals representing the student body on the Student Fee Advisory Committee. More information on the ongoing dispute between the committee and the Board of Regents can be found under The Cougar’s “SFAC” tag. 

Jesus Nieto, a public policy graduate student, embodies a passion for advocacy and community involvement that has propelled him through a journey from undergraduate to a graduate student leader.

Hailing from the Southwest side of Houston, Nieto’s upbringing instilled in him a sense of the importance of community advocacy and social justice from an early age. Growing up, he found himself drawn to government and politics, often spending his free time watching election coverage instead of more typical teenage fare.

“When I was a kid, people my age would normally watch the VMAs, but I would watch the State of Union address. I would watch election night and I would stay up all night just watching the results, I almost treated it like the Oscars,” Nieto said. 

His educational path led him first to the University of Houston-Downtown, where he pursued a major in political science.  At UHD, Nieto became deeply involved in student organizations and advocacy groups, eventually rising to become president of the UHD Student Government Association. 

“I became president right after the pandemic, so the communication there was super lackluster. I built this culture where student voices are needed in meetings and they can come together to make important decisions that impact the university,” Nieto said. 

It was during his tenure as SGA President that Nieto found his passion for effecting change within the University community, particularly in the face of challenges such as state legislation affecting higher education.

“When I was president, Senate Bill 17 was being passed, so I got to discuss with UH SGA before I even came to UH as a graduate student. We reached out to Chancellor Renu Khator to let her know that students didn’t want it to be passed and it would have a negative effect on the University if it did,” Nieto said.

After transitioning to graduate school, Nieto continued his academic journey with a focus on public policy. His decision to stay within the UH system was motivated by both the school’s reputation and its proximity to his hometown. Despite the larger scale of UH compared to UHD, Nieto found himself facing a new set of challenges, particularly in navigating the complexities of student leadership within a larger institution.

“The shock to me is like the community aspect. I was surprised to learn that a lot of student leaders aren’t that close knit together,” Nieto said. “UH SGA is kind of cliquish, which made me sad because I’m a heavy believer in working towards the same goal to advocate for the students.”

Undeterred by the transition, Nieto remained committed to making a difference. He quickly became involved in student government at UH and sought to address issues facing graduate students, particularly in terms of funding and support. His background in advocacy and leadership, honed during his time at UHD, served him well as he navigated the intricacies of student governance at UH.

“The biggest lesson I learned as president that has helped me is to always listen to the constituents that you’re serving when you are a leader. I think that every single student’s concerns are valuable,” Nieto said.

One of Nieto’s key initiatives as a graduate student leader is advocating for increased support and resources for graduate students, particularly in terms of funding and representation. With a goal to partner with the Graduate Professional Student Association, Nieto wishes to amplify the voices of graduate students within the University community to ensure that their concerns are heard and addressed.

“I wanted to be a voice for graduate students because there is a major lack of representation in SGA for them. Many graduate students are struggling here to sustain themselves, so hopefully I can help work to improve things,” Nieto said.

In addition to his advocacy work, Nieto also became involved in SFAC. Initially appointed on Sept. 6, 2023, Nieto’s appointment was soon met with scrutiny as senators discovered an error in the nomination process. According to the SGA Bylaws, a two-thirds majority vote from the Senate is required for an appointment to be valid. Despite receiving a vote of 13-11 in favor of his appointment, Nieto was erroneously granted the position due to a misinterpretation of the rules. However, he was nominated for the position once again in a subsequent meeting, where he secured his place on the committee.

“They tried to block me from joining SFAC the first time and it was a shock. Senators were arguing that because I came from a smaller school that I didn’t understand how UH functions,” Nieto said. “When I found out that I actually didn’t make the committee the first time, I was devastated. But, luckily I was able to go up for appointment again.” 

As part of SFAC, Nieto played a crucial role in scrutinizing the allocation of student fees, particularly regarding funding for different university departments and programs.

“We looked thoroughly at each department getting funded by student fees and the only department that did not provide details on what they were using the money for was UH Athletics. Still to this day they have not given us a definitive answer on what they use it for,” Nieto said. 

Nieto advocated for a more equitable distribution of resources, and emphasized the importance of prioritizing funding for departments that directly benefit students.

“During meetings with departments, I heard and saw department heads coming in here pleading to us, saying we can’t sustain ourselves, our walls are crumbling and we’re being displaced,” Nieto said. “I was pissed off during these meetings because it’s not right that some departments don’t even have enough money to pay for their law services.” 

Khator rejected the committee’s recommendations to increase funding for various student services and programs while simultaneously cutting support to Athletics. The rejection was then presented to the Board of Regents in February, where they voted to table the issue in order to talk more in-depth and gain a deeper understanding of the recommendations with SFAC members. 

“SFAC has the authority to go to the Board of Regents to present our case, and that is exactly what we did,” Nieto said. “I led the protest outside of the meeting and I was happy to find student leaders who want to create change as well.” 

Nieto remained steadfast in his commitment to representing student interests, even when they failed to show their support. He engaged in negotiations, organized protests, and worked tirelessly to bring attention to the issues at hand.

“It wasn’t all easy as there are university leaders on campus who refused to support SFAC, even though they would get funding from it,” Nieto said. “Some of these leaders are going to get their funding cut, so it is sad to see that they don’t want to stand next to us in protest for their own cause.” 

Reflecting on his experiences, Nieto highlighted the importance of student involvement in governance and the need for transparency and accountability in university decision-making. His dedication to advocating for student needs continues as he works to create positive change in the University. His legacy is a testament to the power of student leadership.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Budget Baddies, part 2: The activist” was originally posted on The Cougar

Even when faced with challenges, such as the rejection of their recommendations by the administration, Kadi and his team persevered. | Raphael Fernandez/ The Cougar

Budget Baddies is a series chronicling the lives of the individuals representing the student body on the Student Fee Advisory Committee. More information on the ongoing dispute between the committee and the Board of Regents can be found under The Cougar’s “SFAC” tag. 

Standing in a room filled with student protesters begging for change, one student made an unwavering impression at the Board of Regents meeting.

“I’d also like to voice my extreme displeasure with President Khator’s response to our recommendations,” said mechanical engineering sophomore Yusuf Kadi. “Not only is the decision reckless and callous, but it goes so far as to threaten funding for critical academic advisors.”

At the meeting, the Board of Regents discussed the proposals put forth by the Student Fees Advisory Committee, which became a battleground for competing priorities within the university community. The rejection of budget recommendations by President Renu Khator sparked controversy — particularly concerning the allocation of funds away from Athletics to other student organizations.

Kadi, as chair of SFAC, took the lead on defending the committee’s recommendations. When it came time for Kadi to deliver his speech to the Board of Regents, he did so with a sense of purpose and determination. Despite his lack of experience, he rose to the occasion, drawing on months of preparation and a deep understanding of the issues at hand. Sleep-deprived and nervous, perhaps, but also confident and professional.

“Ladies and gentlemen of the board, I implore you to be good fiduciaries of our student fees at a university where one out of two students are receiving need based Pell Grants, this money of ours is sacred and should be treated as such,” Kadi said.

Even when faced with challenges, such as the rejection of their recommendations by the administration, Kadi and his team persevered. Months of hard work and dedication had culminated in that pivotal moment, and while the outcome may not have been what they hoped for, it only served to strengthen their resolve.

“The speech honestly seems insignificant when you compare it to the months and months of work we put in prior,” Kadi said. “We were kind of blindsided by her decision which fueled a lot of frustration, but we were determined to not back down.”

Born to Algerian parents, Kadi’s upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of heritage and resilience. His family’s background, deeply rooted in Algeria’s history, serves as a source of inspiration for his journey. From Barbary pirates to Algerian war heroes, Kadi’s lineage reflects a tapestry of stories that have shaped his worldview.

“Growing up, I was always tinkering with stuff, building things and taking them apart, so I think I was always meant to do engineering,” Kadi said. “Talk to anyone who knows me and they will tell you I’m always bouncing around the walls, and my parents always stayed supportive.”

It wasn’t until Kadi’s involvement in student government that his true passion for effecting change emerged. Running for a senate seat in the Student Government Association, Kadi embarked on a journey that would redefine his college experience. Through rigorous research and campaigning, he gained invaluable insights into the needs and concerns of his fellow students.

“Campaigning changed how I saw the show school and the student body because I got to talk to so many different people and understand their perspectives,” Kadi said. “Which then made me have a good understanding of what the student body is happy and dissatisfied with, so I could advocate for them.”

It was during this time that Kadi discovered SFAC, a platform where students could actively influence university policies and initiatives. Recognizing the potential for change, Kadi set his sights on becoming a part of this dynamic committee.

“I feel like on a lot of other committees it can feel like you’re just creating false suggestion boxes, but with SFAC I felt like if you put in the work, you could actually influence how things are done,” Kadi said. 

Upon joining SFAC, Kadi wasted no time in advocating for student interests and pushing for tangible improvements on campus. Armed with a keen eye for detail and a relentless drive for progress, he delved into the intricacies of university governance, challenging the status quo and championing innovative solutions.

One of Kadi’s key motivations was to foster a deeper sense of connection between students and their university. He believed that by amplifying student voices and actively engaging with the community, they could create a more vibrant and inclusive campus environment.

“The recommendations that we made were aimed at engaging the students on campus and helping student services because programs like CAPS need to be preserved,” Kadi said. 

Beyond his role in student government, Kadi remains deeply involved in various campus organizations, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He sees these extracurricular activities not only as opportunities for personal growth but also as platforms for collaboration and innovation.

“As a freshman I would stay on campus until midnight sometimes, just being involved with stuff because I really wanted to maximize my experience as much as I could,” Kadi said. 

But what set Kadi’s journey apart from previous efforts was the driving force behind it. Unlike past groups, Kadi and his colleagues were driven by a genuine desire to make a difference, fueled by frustration with the status quo and a commitment to transparency and accountability. They were not content to simply fill positions and go through the motions; they wanted to enact meaningful change and challenge the way things had always been done.

“In the past, other SFAC committees just went through the motions, but we wanted to make real change. It’s kind of sad that what we have done is seen as groundbreaking, when other committees should have been just as engaged as us,” Kadi said.

Reflecting on his journey, Kadi acknowledges the ups and downs, the ebbs and flows, but he remains undeterred. The rejection was just a bump in the road, a reminder that change doesn’t come easy. But with each challenge comes an opportunity to learn and grow, and Kadi is more determined than ever to continue fighting for what he believes in.

As Kadi continues to leave an indelible mark on the University of Houston, his legacy will endure as a beacon of inspiration for future generations of students striving to make their voices heard and their visions realized. And while his journey may have started with a desire to make a difference, it has become so much more—a testament to the power of perseverance, passion and purpose.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Budget Baddies, part 1: The engineer” was originally posted on The Cougar

Student Government Association presidential elect Diego Arriaga (right) and vice presidential elect Austin Craig (left) of For All Cougars.| Regan Grant/The Cougar

The preliminary results are in and For All Cougars’ presidential candidates Diego Arriaga and vice presidential candidate Austin Craig have tentatively won the 2024 Student Government Association election. 

Out of 3,125 total votes for the presidential and vice presidential seats, Arriaga and Craig won by a slim margin of just 90 votes.  Arriaga and Craig received a total of 1,373 votes, or about 47% of the overall count. Student’s Unite candidates Cody Szell and Mohammad Tabbara obtained nearly 44% of the overall count with 1,283 ballots cast.

However, Students Unite won a majority of the Senate seats, giving the party control of the legislative branch for the upcoming administration. 

Taking 28 of the 44 elected seats, Students Unite secured 63% of the Senate compared to just 13 for For All Cougars. In addition, Michelle Luong, the sole independent candidate to win a seat, was elected to represent the college of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

news@thedailycougar.com

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“For All Cougars’ wins top seats in SGA election, senate divided” was originally posted on The Cougar

“I find the sculpture to be an abomination,” said protester and Tradition, Family and Property member Nathan Kinley. “The sculptor admitted to using satanic imagery such as the braids with the ram horns, which is a symbol of the devil. Whenever we see the devil, we are obliged to stand up against it.” | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

Wednesday, dozens of protestors gathered outside Cullen Family Plaza to voice their opposition to the new sculpture installation on campus. 

Tradition, Family and Property, a non-profit Catholic organization, led the protest and held a prayer rally where they voiced their opposition to the sculpture, asserting its pro-choice connotations. 

The newly installed sculpture, Witness, part of the exhibit, Havah… to Breathe, Air, Life, intended to offer an abstracted and amorphous notion of the female body, according to artist Shahzia Sikander.

UH scheduled an opening celebration on Feb. 28, but canceled the event, citing the “unavailability of the artist” as the reason behind the cancellation in an email.

Student-led organizations, including the UH Young Conservative of Texas and Coogs for Life, helped organize the protest.

“We want to let the University know that the statue does represent what our beliefs are, and it does not represent the student body. I’m glad that the artist canceled and didn’t come, but we want the statue to come down because it was never approved by the student body,” said Coogs for Life president David Bartlett .

Texas Right to Life, an anti-abortion lobbying organization, also voiced their opposition. In addition to being present at the protest, the organization also published a petition on Feb. 7 calling for the removal of the sculpture. They argued the piece venerates child sacrifice. 

“This sculpture gives a message to students that abortion is the answer and should be celebrated. We are here to voice our side because the pro-choice position has already been honored with the statue, so it’s fitting for the pro-life side to show their stance,” said Kimberlyn Schwartz, Texas Right to Life director of media and communications.

Although the majority of protestors rallied for the removal of the sculpture, others came to voice their opposition. Creative writing sophomore Derrick Cooper, defended the protestors’ right to dissent but cautioned against further division. 

“I support their right to protest, but for those people to come here to our campus to protest a statue that is for women and for people’s rights causes more division,” Cooper said.

The protestors opposing the statue argued that its symbolism veers into the realm of the occult and satanic imagery. They point to various elements of the sculpture, such as the horn-like shape of the figure’s braids, as evidence of a darker, infernal influence. 

“I find the sculpture to be an abomination,” said TFP member Nathan Kinley. “The sculptor admitted to using satanic imagery such as the braids with the ram horns, which is a symbol of the devil. Whenever we see the devil, we are obliged to stand up against it.” 

The artist, Sikander has not made a statement regarding the sculpture’s alleged satanic imagery, but alluded that her work is closely tied to ongoing discourse surrounding reproductive rights. 

“I like to believe that the function of art is to allow multiple meanings and possibilities, to open up space for a more just world,” Sikander said. “How we experience art, how we respond to it and how we interpret it is an open-ended premise.”

Amid the controversy, University administration has not announced any intention to remove the artwork, leaving the fate of the sculpture and the broader discourse surrounding it uncertain.

“By putting the statue here, I think it’s an insult to a lot of people because many students disagree with the message,” said political science senior Isaiah Cortez. “As an educational institution, we should be straying away from something like that.”

news@thedailycougar.com

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“Conservative groups hold rally in opposition to controversial art installation” was originally posted on The Cougar

For All Cougars presidential candidate Diego Arriaga (left) and Students Unite candidate Cody Szell (right). | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

As the Student Government Association election approaches its climax, the presidential candidates outlined their visions for the University’s future during Monday’s presidential debate.

At the debate, which was moderated by representatives from The Cougar, candidates Diego Arriaga representing For All Cougars and Cody Szell representing Students Unite faced off over key issues affecting students.

Arriaga’s primary concerns were centered around tackling the parking crisis and prioritizing campus safety. Szell, on the other hand, focused on campus affordability, academic success and community building. 

Arriaga criticized the current administration’s perceived inaction reported by The Cougar in a recent article.

“I can promote campus impact, have more students engaged in student government and bring a safer campus,” Arriaga said. “I believe the current administration and Students Unite failed to do that.”

Szell refuted claims that the platform mirrors previous administrations, highlighting novel perspectives brought by the large number of new faces within the party.

“I’m offended that you would say that our platform is the same as last year, when it is not,” Szell said. “We have a new drive, energy and initiatives to tackle with fresh faces.” 

Szell challenged the specificity of For All Cougars’ goals, particularly regarding parking affordability. A senator in the current administration, he highlighted their accomplishments.

“They have not laid out any game plans on how they plan to tackle parking affordability,” Szell said. “In the 60th administration, we were able to fill every seat in the Transportation and Parking Advisory Committee and solve the Sugar Land Shuttle crisis.” 

Arriaga countered by defending the specificity of For All Cougar’s platform, stating that he plans to reevaluate student fees to reduce the price of parking. 

The Student Fees and Advisory Committee, of which five student members are appointed by SGA, makes recommendations for student service fee allocation. However, recently SFAC has run into roadblocks in getting their recommendations approved. Currently, Parking and Transportation Services is an auxiliary service that is not allotted student fees. 

“It’s an interesting idea to see if you can fund parking through student fees, but I don’t think you have done the math,” Szell said. “By taking it out of student fees you would have to take it away from Student Services and you would be charging students that don’t park on campus.”

Arriaga elaborated on his plans to increase campus safety by increasing relations with the University of Houston Police Department.

“We should not simply be reacting to crimes committed, but working with officers to see where they are happening and bringing more officers out there to protect the students,” Arriaga said.

The candidates debated strategies for addressing structural issues within the administration, with Szell addressing existing issues within the current administration. 

One of the issues brought to attention was how the 60th administration has struggled to maintain active members and fill large amounts of vacancies.

“It can be difficult to organize a massive body of students, so I want to create incentives like offering volunteer hours to entice further attendance,” Szell said. “There are definitely issues with the current administration, and I hope to address them in mine.”

The candidates further discussed their plans for addressing campus challenges, including career fair expansion. 

“We need to expand a program to all colleges to help students have a surefire job when they get out of college, especially because this is an issue I see many struggle with,” Arriaga said.

As the debate concluded, both candidates underscored their commitment to amplifying student voices and addressing pressing issues facing the University community.

Voting will kick off on Feb. 26 and continue until Feb. 29, providing students with the opportunity to cast their votes via Get Involved.

news@thedailycougar.com

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“Debate recap: SGA presidential candidates discuss parking, safety” was originally posted on The Cougar