In a powerful and forward-looking State of the University address delivered on Oct. 8, University of Houston President Renu Khator reaffirmed the institution’s unwavering commitment to student success, research excellence and community impact — despite the shifting landscape of higher education.
Speaking to a packed auditorium of faculty, staff, students and supporters, Khator acknowledged the challenges facing universities nationwide, including declining public trust, demographic shifts and funding constraints. Yet, her message was one of optimism and strategic momentum.
“Today, I am here to show you — with data and evidence — that you matter, that your work matters and that our mission matters. Our mission is clear: We are in the business of transforming lives, and we are doing so.”
—UH President Renu Khator
Defying National Trends
Khator highlighted the University’s remarkable growth in enrollment, research and national visibility. This fall, UH welcomed a record-breaking 6,700 freshmen, with total enrollment nearing 49,000 students — both historic highs. The demand for campus housing has surged, prompting the groundbreaking of a new 1,000-bed residence hall.
“UH has fast become the university of first choice for many Texans,” Khator noted. “Despite our growth, we have remained committed to our mission of providing opportunities to first-generation college students.”
In support of its goal to deliver broad societal impacts, the University’s research enterprise continues to thrive, with $279 million in total research expenditures, including $126 million in federal funding. Notably, UH’s College of Pharmacy ranks No. 25 nationally in National Institutes of Health-funded research and the College of Optometry leads Texas in federally funded eye research.
Student Success at the Forefront
Khator emphasized the University’s focus on improving graduation rates, particularly the four-year graduation rate, which she described as a new strategic priority.
“We are making a commitment to provide the level of support and the type of culture that further empowers students to graduate in four years and be meaningfully employed upon graduation,” she said.
She announced a new initiative led by Provost Diane Chase to build a “Four-Year Graduation Culture,” leveraging AI-powered tools to provide real-time, 24/7 support for students — from admissions to advising.
Celebrating Excellence Across Campus
Khator recognized several faculty members for their national and international achievements, including prestigious fellowships, appointments and national medalists. She also celebrated the success of UH’s student-athletes, who achieved a 3.26 GPA in spring 2025 and spotlighted prestigious scholarship recipients Kalena Holeman (Gates Cambridge Scholar) and Mielad Ziaee (Marshall Scholar).
Athletics and Global Recognition
UH’s athletic achievements drew national attention, with the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship game between UH and Florida becoming the most-watched basketball game of the season, surpassing even the NBA Finals.
Khator acknowledged the rapid transformation of college athletics.
“The landscape of college sports is changing at a dizzying speed with NIL, the transfer portal and revenue sharing. The time to debate whether it is good or bad or whether the rules are fair or unfair is over — it is time for us to play our best game,” Khator said, emphasizing UH’s commitment to remaining competitive in collegiate athletics.
In research, UH made global headlines with the discovery of the tomb of the first king of Caracol in Belize, led by Provost Diane Chase and Professor Arlen Chase, featured in outlets like The New York Times and National Geographic.
Looking Ahead: Centennial and Strategic Growth
As UH approaches its centennial, Khator outlined nearly $1 billion in construction projects, including the Medical Research Building, Innovation Hub and Centennial Hall. She announced a legislative push to designate UH as a Health Science Center in 2027, enhancing interdisciplinary research and training across health colleges. Khator also emphasized UH’s strategic expansion into Katy and Sugar Land, with student headcount growing by 152% in Katy and 44% in Sugar Land this year.
A Vision Rooted in Purpose
Throughout her address, Khator returned to the theme of transformation and purpose.
“If you ever feel discouraged or disillusioned, think of the impact you have made in just the last five years,” she said. “You are the backbone of this organization. You are the difference maker.”
She closed with a call to action, urging the UH community to embrace change and continue shaping the future.
“Yes, we have challenges, unprecedented and unparalleled, but we also have opportunities — new and exciting,” Khator said. “The headwinds you see can be turned into tailwinds with the determination and grit that is known to be in the Cougar DNA. Chaos can force the emergence of new leaders who are nimble and agile … and that’s who we are.”