The four assistant professors bring expertise in literacy, social studies and science education as well as public health. “I was drawn to UH because of its strong commitment to interdisciplinary research, especially in literacy, special education and community-engaged partnerships,” said incoming faculty member Albert W. Li.

Dr. Heather Domjan, executive director of the University of Houston STEM Center, reflects on her journey into science and how that experience now drives her efforts to inspire students through hands-on STEM education and outreach programs.

In an art classroom at Forest Brook Middle School, students closed their eyes and listened to instrumental music as a graduate student guided them to picture a person, place, moment or emotion. The students began to sketch — one drew waves like the ocean, another a curve like a petal — and then dipped their paintbrushes onto their palettes to bring color to their visions. The activity was part of a workshop organized by the University of Houston College of Education and funded by a grant from the Arts Connect Houston Arts Action Fund.