You’ve probably seen them around campus, yet never realized it. University of Houston Advancement Ambassadors are campus leaders dedicated to building bridges between current students and the University’s biggest supports, including donors, volunteers and alumni. Connecting over their shared passion for the University of Houston and commitment to philanthropy, Advancement Ambassadors demonstrate to donors the diverse and exceptional composition of the student body.

The Ambassadors volunteer to help with various events sponsored by UH Advancement and Alumni or one of the colleges. They may serve as greeters at a gala and student focus group representatives. They lead VIP tours for visiting donors.

Besides helping to make Advancement visits and events run more smoothly, Ambassadors engage guests in conversation. During these interactions, they share UH knowledge, updates, history and their personal stories about what inspired them to become a Coog! They also receive valuable recommendations for internships and jobs and are granted exclusive access to opportunities, experiences and engagement.

“We get back as much as we give,” said Veena Vinod (’24 Business/Pre-dentistry). “While we’re doing our job, we get to make connections, develop relationships and even do a bit of networking. One of my most meaningful interactions was with Thasunda Duckett ('96), president and chief executive officer, TIAA. I accompanied her to a meet-and-greet event, and as I showed her around the campus, we spoke about my business major and how it can be a springboard for my future.”

Learning more about Cougar pride and the history of the University has been valuable for Sydney Tough (’24 Chemical Engineering). “I’d have never learned this valuable information about the school without participating,” she said. "In turn, I can share it with others I meet. At the McGovern College of the Arts Gala, I sat at a table next to a woman, and we started talking about her strong passion for philanthropy. It was a great conversation! I learned about her desire to see education available to more people, and after speaking with her, I’m inspired to become a donor when I have the ability to do so.”

Tough says she was a shy student, and when her professor nominated her to be an Ambassador, she was hesitant. “The welcoming environment and opportunity to learn social skills and public speaking made such a difference.” Tough now serves as the Advancement Ambassador Chair, leading the organization and executive team.

Speaking with alumni donors has been eye opening for Omar Cano (’24 Computer Science). “I learn so much from the conversations and interactions,” he said. Being able to talk with alumni and show them how much the University has grown since they were students really shows them our accomplishments, as well as our need for their generosity.”

The Ambassadors give a face to the student community who benefit greatly from donor support and can express their appreciation directly. That's why the group's motto is "attitude of gratitude." Cano notes that why bridging this gap between students and donors is so meaningful.

“Students often see donors as vague entities, rather than people with strong beliefs,” he said. “And donors may not realize the scope of what students are doing. Our role helps shed light on both sides of this. I’ve also been able to solicit valuable advice from donors which will help me in the professional world.”

Advancement Ambassadors receive ongoing support in developing communication skills and a comprehensive knowledge of what UH offers. They have biweekly board meetings that consist of workshops or tours of a facility on campus. That way, they are able to represent UH accurately.

“I enjoy speaking with alumni and potential donors as well as business and city leaders,” said Cano. “I love talking about the areas of interest on campus and pointing out how the University is competing on a world-class level. They see how continued funding is what makes this experience available to a broader range of students."

Follow the Advancement Ambassadors' endeavors at Instagram on their website.