The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is making significant strides in its mission to expand educational access and equity to historically excluded students through its Seal Your Success campaign and then preparing in-coming freshmen for college through its Summer Bridge Program. Under the guidance of Dr. Daniel Villanueva, Vice President of Enrollment Management, UHD has reaffirmed its commitment to access, affordability, and achievability, providing a unique and affordable academic and student life experience.

These concerted efforts have yielded remarkable results, with a nearly 12% increase in the number of high school seniors receiving admissions letters from UHD. Dr. Villanueva expressed enthusiasm about the record-breaking application numbers for the upcoming fall semester, stating, "Students, parents, and area high school counselors are identifying more and more that UHD is an up-and-coming institution that continues to provide a unique and affordable academic and student life experience in the heart of downtown Houston."

During these engagement initiatives, students discovered the range of resources available at UHD, ensuring their success throughout their academic journey. They were introduced to programs such as peer mentoring, the Basic Needs program, and the Food for Change Market, which reinforce UHD's commitment to supporting students' basic needs to help them keep their education a priority in their lives.

The Seal Your Success campaign, spanning several months, successfully engaged with 15 local high schools, including Spring ISD, Channelview ISD, Aldine ISD, and Houston ISD, reaching over 2,000 students. In addition, the campaign organized on-campus events for an additional eight high schools, fostering an environment of inclusivity and showcasing UHD's resources for a smooth transition from high school to college life.

Recognizing the need to cater to students who may not conform to the traditional student mold and/or require additional academic or social support between high school and college, UHD introduced the Summer Bridge Program. Running from July 10 through August 10, this program aims to assist students who have applied for admission to UHD for summer 2023 and fall 2023 but do not meet the GPA minimum criteria for admission.

Approximately 20 students will participate in the Summer Bridge Program, benefiting from classes in English composition and Algebra, leadership training, additional tutoring, on-campus summer employment, laptops, and on-campus dining funds to alleviate financial burdens.

Dr. Elizabeth Villegas, Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Services and co-leader of the Summer Bridge Program, expressed her excitement about the program's impact, stating, "Students see this program as an advantage to kick-start into their academic future. Some of these students didn't believe they would have the opportunity to attend a university. They are responding with sheer pleasure."

UHD's efforts to expand educational access and equity have not only created opportunities for historically excluded students but have also positioned the University as a leading institution for students seeking an affordable and transformative educational experience.