85R11209 KSM-F By: Alvarado H.R. No. 493 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, February 21, 2017, is University of Houston--Downtown Day at the State Capitol, and the occasion provides a fitting opportunity to recognize those associated with this notable institution; and WHEREAS, Established in 1974, the University of Houston--Downtown boasts more than 44,000 alumni and is meeting higher education needs in an area that is home to a quarter of the Texas population and that generates nearly a third of the state's gross product; moreover, the university has generated $1.2 billion in income for the regional economy; and WHEREAS, UHD educates approximately 14,400 students annually with over 2,900 graduates each year; the university offers 52 undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as 18 online degree-completion opportunities; it is home to the top-ranked MBA program in Houston, and U.S. News and World Report placed it 31st on its list of Best Regional Colleges in the West; and WHEREAS, Over the years, the university has expanded its partnerships with Houston Community College, Lone Star College, and others to allow for greater transferability for students who wish to earn degrees at UHD; and WHEREAS, The student body at UHD is representative of the vibrant city of Houston; many of its scholars are first-generation college students, and the university has earned national designation as both a Hispanic Serving Institution and a Minority Serving Institution; and WHEREAS, Throughout its history, the University of Houston--Downtown has provided its students with outstanding educational prospects and a strong foundation for the future while fostering an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming campus environment, and in so doing, it has played an important role in the cultural and economic advancement of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas Legislature hereby recognize February 21, 2017, as University of Houston--Downtown Day at the State Capitol and extend to the visiting delegation sincere best wishes for an informative and enjoyable stay in Austin.