More Than a Game: Honoring Legacy at the UH Alumni Golf Classic

Professional golfers have the US Open. University of Houston alumni have the UH Alumni Golf Classic. This year, the competition will be held Sept. 30 at the Memorial Park Golf Course.

The Golf Classic is a four-person scramble. This format allows golfers of varying skill levels to play alongside more skilled competitors. Founded in 1996, the Classic has grown from a friendly competition into one of the most anticipated annual traditions.

Proceeds from the event support alumni projects, including scholarships, programs and student success initiatives at UH. Over the last 29 years, more than $100,000 has been raised to impact the next generation of Coogs.

The tournament winner receives the Baxter Cup, named in honor of Ken Baxter, a longtime volunteer and University supporter. James Hong (’05), a repeat Baxter Cup winner, calls the Classic a highlight of the UH alumni experience, providing a great way to reconnect and network.

“It’s always special playing with friends and supporters of UH. Winning the golf tournament just makes it extra special,” Hong said.

Winning the Baxter Cup in 2024 held special meaning for Hong because he knew Ken Baxter when he was a student-athlete.

Traci Cauley (’95), UH’s director of baseball operations and the only child of Ken and Judy Baxter, appreciates how the golf tournament keeps her father’s memory alive. Her children, now ages 11 and 13, never met their grandfather because he passed away before they were born. The Golf Classic helps them feel connected to their family’s legacy.

“They hear stories from people who knew and loved him,” Cauley says, “and they have a better understanding of why he is so greatly respected.”

Traci Cauley (’95) with the 2024 UHA Golf Classic's winning team

In spite of his dogged loyalty to the University, Ken wasn’t a UH alumnus.

However, his wife Judy (’68) was.

His dedication to UH first began as a fan of UH sports teams. Then, he ingratiated himself into the UH community by using his strengths to support alumni initiatives.

The Baxter Cup

Judy and Ken Baxter

“My parents always instilled in me that you give back when you are given the opportunity to do so.”
Traci Cauley (’95)

“Dad loved engaging with others, and he used his strengths — people skills, love and dedication — to give back in ways that have and will continue to impact the school for years to come,” Cauley explains. “He made events like the alumni golf tournament a success. By success, I mean not only raising the financial funds, but also engaging people, reaching out and making them feel welcome. He had an ability to embrace all the different age groups and make them instantly feel a part of the effort.”

Cauley clarifies that her mother contributed as much as her father did. “My dad and my mom were a team, always working together every step of the way on these projects.”

When it came time, Cauley chose to attend UH. “I had so much exposure to the school and opportunities to experience the support of so many that attending UH was a natural progression,” she explains. “I chose UH because it felt like home to me.”

While an undergraduate, she volunteered and worked in the Athletics department. After graduation, she continued in her parents’ footsteps, donating her time and efforts.

“My parents always instilled in me that you give back when you are given the opportunity to do so. My husband Pat (’95) played baseball as an undergrad, so after graduation, when we were first starting out, I started volunteering, patterning myself after my dad, but focusing my efforts more directly on baseball.”

She has been the director of baseball operations since 2002.

The Baxters and Cauleys at the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Awards where both Judy and Ken were recognized for their contributions to UH.

Cauley feels great pride knowing that her family has played a role in the remarkable success story of UH.

“There are so many accolades for academics, athletics, research and the amazing growth that’s taken place here. Collectively, we all must accept the challenge of continuing the legacies of those who came before us. Everyone started because somebody told them, ‘Come join me. Be a part of something special.’ I hope this message continues to be extended — the University has so much to offer.

Cauley considers herself lucky to have had such strong role models of Cougar spirit in her parents.

“I was lucky to have Ken and Judy Baxter as parents. I know my parents are looking down from Heaven, seeing that their legacy lives on.”

The UH Alumni Golf Classic isn’t just for seasoned golfers. It’s for anyone who believes in the power of community, connection and giving back. This year’s tournament promises not only friendly rivalry but also a chance to honor the spirit of the Baxters by investing in the university they loved so deeply.