This year, the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) marks a significant milestone: its 50th anniversary as a hub of education, leadership, and community impact. UHD’s commitment to nurturing scholars through its collaborative, experiential learning approach has shaped countless careers and community leaders over the past five decades.

To commemorate this golden anniversary, UHD is hosting two major events that promise to be memorable highlights of the year. 

50th Anniversary Gala: A Night of Elegance and Impact

The celebration kicks off with a prestigious black-tie Gala on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at the Hilton Americas-Houston, located at 1600 Lamar Street. This elegant event, emceed by retired KPRC 2 meteorologist Khambrel Marshall, will feature a cocktail hour, a gourmet dinner with fine wine pairings, and a silent auction. Attendees will enjoy entertainment by stand-up comedian Chinedu Ogu, live performances by UHD students, and music from the David Caceres Band. The evening will also honor outstanding alumni with awards recognizing their achievements as Alum on the Rise, Distinguished Alum, and Alum Entrepreneur.

The Gala is more than a celebration; it is a fundraiser dedicated to supporting student scholarships, ensuring that future Gators have the resources they need to pursue their academic and professional goals. 

Jazz Concert: Terence Blanchard Live

The festivities continue with an extraordinary jazz concert on Saturday, November 9, 2024, featuring the legendary Terence Blanchard. Held at the UH Cullen Performance Hall, this one-night-only event will showcase Blanchard’s acclaimed film scores and jazz compositions. With eight Grammy Awards, two Oscar nominations, and two Emmy nominations to his name, Blanchard’s performance promises to be a powerful tribute to UHD’s 50 years of excellence. His scores for films such as *The Woman King* and Spike Lee’s *Malcolm X* will be performed live, offering an unforgettable musical experience.

Honoring a Visionary

This special year also pays tribute to the memory of Art Professor Floyd Newsum, a visionary who profoundly impacted UHD's artistic community. His legacy is honored through these celebrations, reflecting the university's enduring commitment to excellence and innovation.

As UHD continues to educate approximately 14,000 students annually and supports over 67,000 alumni, the 50th Anniversary Gala and Terence Blanchard concert represent a celebration of the university’s rich history and a look forward to its bright future. For more information and tickets, visit UHD’s official website and join us in celebrating five decades of educational excellence and community leadership.

For more info, visit uhd.edu