The University of Houston is on a winning streak!
For the ninth year in a row, UH faculty and staff laced up for the Chord Energy Corporate 5K, one of Houston’s biggest run/walk events, and once again, UH made a mark.
Held at Memorial Park, the three-day race gives companies flexibility to choose their day and start time between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. This year’s event was the largest yet, with 244 companies participating. And UH showed up strong with 111 employees crossing the finish line, an increase from last year.
Portions of the Corp 5K registration fees and sponsorship proceeds are donated to the Memorial Park Conservancy.
The University joined the Corporate 5K run/walk in its debut, previously sponsored by Hess Corporation, to promote physical activity and fitness among faculty and staff.
“I’m really glad we decided to participate because we’re one of the first companies to sign up,” said Court Stein, Wellness Administrator with HR POWER UP Employee Wellness.
The commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. UH has earned the Top Participation Education Company award five times, and in 2023, Court Stein was named Team Captain of the Year for his leadership in growing UH’s presence at the event.
After the run, the fun continued at the hospitality village, where participants enjoyed
live music, raffle prizes, photo booths, and tasty treats from sponsors such as Saint
Arnold and H-E-B. UH even had its own tent for faculty and staff to relax, recharge,
and connect.
“We think of the walk/run as the physical health piece, and then connecting with colleagues and nature as the mental health piece,” said Stein. “That connection is just as important.”
Longtime participant Malka Kirshner, HR Operations director, calls the event “a fantastic way to stay fit and bond with colleagues outside of work.” First-timer Tiffany Brandyberg, contract compliance analyst in the Finance department, agrees.
“I had a great time walking with others from UH and then getting to fellowship at the UH tent,” said Brandyberg. “I’ll definitely participate next year!”
And that’s exactly what Stein wants to hear. His goal? Even more Cougars on the course in 2026. Stein said HR POWER UP Employee Wellness is exploring fun ideas like friendly competitions between colleges and divisions to boost sign-ups.
Ready to join the movement? Registration for next year’s Corporate 5K opens soon. Grab your running shoes, rally your team, and let’s make 2026 the biggest year yet!