The University of Houston is launching publicly its $1 Billion Campaign. We’re celebrating all the ways that philanthropy makes Houston’s University go! Immerse yourself in a day that celebrates past achievements, involves you in our present-day transformation and looks forward to our collective future.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017

You’ve probably seen some changes around campus: the Ezekiel Cullen Building banner, the lamp pole banners on Cullen Boulevard — and then there’s the huge tent being constructed on the Ezekiel W. Cullen Lawn.

There’s certainly a buzz in the air … and it’s the public launch of UH’s $1 Billion Campaign!

We hope you will join us on January 19 to celebrate the launch with the campus community.

Be sure to download the program guide, listing all of the activities taking place throughout the day here.

A few activities in the lineup include:

Global “Paint the Town Red Day”

We’re turning January 19 into a Cougar Red THURSDAY! Think creatively and show us your best red. Send in your photos to uhredday@uh.edu.

Campus Campaign Kickoff (9 a.m.)

The best part of waking up is…a $1 Billion Campaign launch! President Renu Khator will make remarks bright and early under the Tent on Ezekiel W. Cullen Lawn. Hear the news…see the video…meet campaign leadership…and more. You won’t want to miss this historic moment! Light refreshments will be provided.

Here, We Go Panel Discussion (10 A.M)

Find out how Victor Costa (’58), Otis Birdsong (’81), and Brett Cullen (’79) were influenced by their time at UH and how being a Cougar has shaped their careers! Prepare to be motivated.

Student Philanthropy Station (11 a.m.)

Are you a student? Find out how the Campaign affects your education, student experience, and even the value of your degree after you graduate. Join the UH Annual Giving team at Butler Plaza to learn more! Light refreshments will be provided.

Faculty and Staff Campaign Launch (11:30 a.m.)

Michael Olivas and Tina Reyes, Co-Chairs, and President Renu Khator invite all UH faculty and staff to come learn more about how to get involved in the Faculty and Staff Campaign. Light refreshments will be provided.

Public Art Collection Walking Tour (1:00 P.M.)

UH’s Public Art Collection contains works by local, regional, national and international artists. With more than 350 pieces of art on the central campus alone, this short (1 hour) walking tour led by Michael Guidry, Curator of the UH Public Art Collection, is sure to inspire!

Launch Talks (3 P.M.)

This dynamic event will feature one-minute, rapid-fire perspectives from specific disciplines on the question, “What does it mean to launch?” All colleges, schools and units will be represented – come out for a thought-provoking dialogue.

MLK Commemorative Celebration (4 P.M.)

Join us for the MLK Commemorative Celebration. This year’s program includes remarks from Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner (’77) and selections from the Good News Gospel choir. A reception will immediately follow the program.

Here, We Go Rally (6 p.m.)

Follow the sounds of the Spirit of Houston to the Cullen Family Plaza Fountain. At this festive rally, you’ll get to make a wish for UH in 2020, take a memorable photo and more. You won’t want to miss this special opportunity to gather at the Fountains! After, the Spirit of Houston will lead the crowd to Hofheinz Pavilion for a student tailgate before the Cougar basketball team takes on Memphis.

Memphis vs. Houston Basketball Game (8 P.M.)

The UH Men’s Basketball team takes on the University of Memphis at home. The game will feature a special halftime show, including a showing of the Campaign video.

See you on January 19! Be sure to follow us on social media for all of the latest campaign updates: Facebook and Twitter, @UHPhilanthropy.