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.