Tofunmi Jewesimi

Oluwatofunmi ‘Tofunmi’ Jewesimi is a junior studying biotechnology in the Technology Division of the Cullen College of Engineering at the University of Houston. She is also a student in the Honors College, pursuing a minor in Medicine and Society. Born in Nigeria, Jewesimi spent most of her life in Katy, Texas, before choosing UH for its proximity to the Texas Medical Center, its diverse community and its reputation as a Tier One institution.

Jewesimi is on the pre-med track, with aspirations in medicine, women's health and community health. As an outreach coordinator for Honors in Community Health, she has made significant contributions to the Responsive Resourcing project, which addresses various social determinants of health and provides tailored resources to Houston's diverse communities. Additionally, Jewesimi serves as the chair of the Advancement Ambassadors, representing the student body to alumni, potential donors and local leaders, thus fostering a sense of connection to the campus.

Outside of her academic pursuits, Jewesimi finds joy in listening to music, watching films and making pizza on Tuesday nights with her friends. She is currently working on a research project that analyzes the experiences of previously incarcerated women with reproductive health care during their time in prison. The goal of this project is to identify barriers, inform policy recommendations and advocate for improved health care services within Texas’ prisons.

Manali Ghurye

Manali Ghurye is a sophomore in the Honors College and the Cullen College of Engineering at the University of Houston, majoring in mechanical engineering. Ghurye hails from Pearland, Texas, and comes from a family of UH Cougars, with both her father and older sister having graduated from the University of Houston. She currently serves as the vice chair of the Advancement Ambassadors.

Due to her passion for teaching, Ghurye serves as a teaching assistant for the introductory Engineering 1100 and 1331 courses offered to international students at the DMU-UH International Institute. Additionally, she mentors middle school students in the Third Ward through the Bonner Leaders Program, focusing on enhancing their math skills. Following her transformative experience as a mentee in the Honors Engineering Leadership, Engagement, and Professionalism (LEAP) program, where she collaborated closely with her mentor to explore outstanding research and job opportunities on campus, she plans to become more actively involved in the engineering community at UH.

Ghurye is the current recipient of the Academic Excellence Scholarship, the C.V. Kirkpatrick Engineering Scholarship and the Jane and Ronald Lerner Scholarship. Additionally, Ghurye has achieved the Dean’s List award for the 2023-2024 academic year. After graduating, Ghurye hopes to have a long philanthropic career in research and the automotive industry, with the goal of returning to the University of Houston to become a professor.

Michelle Chen

Michelle Chen is a senior at the C. T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston, majoring in Supply Chain Management with a minor in management information systems. Michelle grew up in Sugar Land, Texas, and chose to attend the University of Houston because of the scholarships, opportunities and diverse community it offers in the vibrant city of Houston. She is a member of the Honors College and served as a mentor to 35 incoming freshmen during her second year.

Chen is an active member of the Social Committee on the Bauer Honors Student Advisory Board, where she plans and executes social events for all Bauer Honors students. Additionally, she has held important roles as an Advancement Ambassador, including Legacy Project Group Lead, Engagement Chair and senior advisor. Chen also serves as a Bauer Honors Mentor for incoming freshmen, assisting them in navigating their first semester in the Business Honors program.

In her free time, she enjoys going for walks, trying new restaurants, traveling and attending UH basketball and football games. The University of Houston has provided her with countless opportunities to develop both personally and professionally while forming long-lasting friendships with individuals from diverse backgrounds. After earning her degrees, she hopes to pursue a career in the energy industry.

Ella Eger

Areen Azouz

Areen Azouz is a senior majoring in chemical engineering at the University of Houston, where she is also enrolled in the Honors College. Born in Washington State and originally from Libya, Azouz has lived in several countries due to her father's career in the oil and gas industry. She moved to Katy, Texas, in 2014 and has resided there ever since. Azouz chose to study engineering at the University of Houston because of its proximity, scholarship opportunities and career development programs. Since her enrollment, she has taken full advantage of the multiple programs and opportunities the University offers. Azouz is the recipient of several scholarships, including the BP Women in STEM Scholarship, the GE Foundation Engineering Scholarship and the Roy & Lillie Cullen Scholarship. Additionally, she serves as a Cullen College of Engineering Student Ambassador, the Events Chair for the Advancement Ambassadors, the vice president of Tau Beta Pi (the Engineering Honor Society) and a chemical engineering tutor for the College of Engineering.

Azouz was invited to attend CERA Week, the largest energy conference, in the spring of 2023 as an ExxonMobil scholar. Through this experience, she developed an interest in the energy industry. Over the summer of 2023, she was a project development intern at Grid United, an electrical transmission developer. In the summer of 2024, she worked at Halliburton as a supply chain management program intern. Throughout the year, Azouz works part-time as a certified pharmacy technician. In her spare time, she enjoys planning and hosting parties and gatherings, traveling and cooking. She is grateful for all the opportunities and guidance she has received during her academic journey and enjoys mentoring and advising incoming students and underclassmen.

Sena Tuna

Sena Tuna is a sophomore in the Bauer Honors Program at the University of Houston. She plans to double major in marketing and finance, with a concentration in real estate. Growing up in Houston, Tuna chose to attend UH after learning about the unique opportunities the University offers in both business and real estate. During her short time at UH, Sena has become the Campus Tour Group Lead for the Advancement Ambassadors and has earned a place on the Dean's List. Currently, she is working toward obtaining her real estate license while also working part-time at her dad's real estate development company, where she manages communication between the company and potential buyers.

Alongside school and work, Tuna enjoys exploring new places in the city, reading and spending time with loved ones. She eagerly anticipates the next three years at the University of Houston, especially as she will graduate in the university's 100th anniversary year!

Smeet Parekh

Smeet Parekh is a sophomore in the Bauer Honors Program, double majoring in finance and accounting. Parekh is a first-generation college student, who grew up in Sugar Land, Texas. He decided to attend the University of Houston because of its diverse culture and the close-knit Honors College community. In his brief time so far, he has participated in over six case competitions, winning the majority of them. Parekh aspires to enter the field of quantitative finance, with a particular interest in the insurance sector.

Aside from pursuing his degree, Parekh loves to swim, play water polo, attend various University of Houston events and give back to his community by serving as a troop guide for his former Boy Scout troop or by volunteering at the Houston Food Bank. Parekh is currently the Engagement Chair for the Advancement Ambassadors and is eager to contribute to the campus.

Saachi Aggarwal

Saachi Aggarwal is a dedicated sophomore at the University of Houston, pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Sales and Entrepreneurship, with a minor in Sports Management. Aggarwal is passionate about leadership, community engagement and driving positive change through her various roles. As the Director of Outreach for Frontier Fiesta, she plays a vital role in organizing one of the University's largest and most inclusive student-led events, fostering school spirit and traditions that unite the campus community.

Her work extends beyond the University, working with the Houston Rockets to contribute to brand elevation and engaging with fans and the community through innovative marketing strategies. Additionally, Aggarwal is an Advancement Ambassador for the University of Houston, working to strengthen relationships with alumni, donors and supporters, promoting the University's advancement efforts.

Aggarwal thrives on building connections and making a lasting impact through her work. Her leadership and communication skills have allowed her to succeed in diverse environments, from large-scale event planning to brand development and outreach initiatives. When she's not working or studying, Aggarwal enjoys traveling to new places, indulging her love for coffee and meeting new people. She brings energy, passion and creativity to everything she does, driven by her desire to create meaningful experiences and promote inclusivity in all her endeavors.

Andrew Pereira

Born in Sugar Land, Texas, just outside of Houston, Andrew Pereira is a dedicated Advancement Ambassador, with two years of experience in the program. He currently serves as the Marketing Project Group Lead, focusing on growing awareness of the Ambassadors in the digital space and promoting events and programs effectively. Pereira is pursuing a dual major in accounting and finance, where he actively takes part in the prestigious Bauer Business Honors Program. Pereira's commitment to academic excellence and involvement with the University community reflects his drive for continuous growth in his field. Outside of his professional and educational endeavors, Pereira enjoys following the Houston Texans.

Kenya Cardenas

Kenya Cardenas is a junior pursuing a degree in finance and marketing with a real estate track and a minor in construction management at the University of Houston C. T. Bauer College of Business. Cardenas is a member of the Honors College and serves as an Advancement Ambassador for the University. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, she chose to study at UH due to the high-ranking business program, campus life and growing opportunities for alumni.

Cardenas is actively involved on campus, attending events, volunteering and serving as the vice president for the Bauer Honors Student Advisory Board. Through this position, she coordinates events and markets each one for the business program, networking with her peers and individuals in the program. As a finance major, she has had experience in the corporate field, completing four commercial and residential real estate internships over the summer and plans to expand her portfolio through a current internship with Legend Homes as a construction intern this fall. Her post-graduation goal is to fully emerge into the commercial and residential real estate sector and eventually switch over to becoming the owner of her own residential real estate company in Texas. At the moment, she is excited to enjoy her remaining two years at UH with her friends and be continuously involved throughout campus.

Roberto Carrizales Gaytan

Roberto Carrizales Gaytan is a dynamic and ambitious rising junior at the University of Houston C. T. Bauer College of Business, where he is double majoring in accounting and marketing. Driven by a passion for business innovation and excellence, he is also pursuing a minor in sales through the prestigious Stephen Stagner Sales Excellence Institute. Raised in Houston, Gaytan is deeply proud of his Mexican heritage, which infuses his work ethic and perspective with rich cultural insights. He chose the University of Houston not only for its exceptional academic opportunities but also for its vibrant, diverse community that mirrors his own multicultural roots.

Gaytan is a dynamic leader with a heart for service, honed during his time at the University of Houston. His journey has been fueled by a passion for selflessness, as he tirelessly dedicates his free time to mentoring and volunteering across various impactful organizations. From the Ignite Leadership Program to the Ted Bauer Leadership Certification Program, and from the Metropolitan Volunteering Program to Wolffest, Roberto has embraced every opportunity to uplift others and make a tangible difference.

His involvement extends to the Baptist Student Ministry, Cougar Cupboard and Advancement Ambassadors, where he has consistently showed a commitment to fostering growth, both in himself and in those around him. Gaytan's approach to life is like that of a forest fire — bold, uncontainable and ever-adaptive, moving wherever the wind of opportunity takes him.

Fatima De La Rosa

Fatima De La Rosa is a rising junior at the University of Houston, pursuing a degree in communication sciences and disorders with a minor in sociology. As a Houston native, she chose UH inspired by the encouragement and support of her high school mentors, who motivated her to excel.

At the University of Houston, Fatima actively contributes to the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) as a CLASS Ambassador and serves as the Volunteer Officer for the University chapter of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA). Her role with the Advancement Ambassadors reflects her dedication to community service, focusing on promoting welfare and kindness to create a meaningful impact.

Outside of her academic and volunteer work, De La Rosa's passion for music has driven her to explore the intersection of music and speech therapy, focusing her research on how musical techniques can be used to enhance speech development and support communication progress. Fatima plans to complete her bachelor’s degree and continue her studies at the University of Houston to pursue a master’s degree, to become a certified bilingual speech pathologist. Recognizing the need for bilingual therapists, she is committed to serving underrepresented communities and cultures.

Adam Elbanna

Adam Elbanna is a rising sophomore studying accounting at the University of Houston C. T. Bauer College of Business. He is also a student in the Honors College and works at his family fashion store, Valnti. Elbanna grew up all around Houston, Texas, but has recently spent several years in Katy. He currently works as a sales manager at Valnti, where he recently set up a point of sales and marketing system that helped bring hundreds of people from surrounding states to shop in Houston. Elbanna also serves as the Vice President of Operations for the TXCPA Houston Student Board, connecting students and professionals to create a community of support for accountants seeking their CPA in Houston. In his spare time, Elbanna performs music around Houston, volunteers at Lebanese community gatherings and cheers on the Houston Rockets.

Elbanna chose UH because of its nationally ranked Bauer College, diverse culture and impact on the community he grew up in. Being an Advancement Ambassador, manager, and vice president of operations aligns with Elbanna’s goal to give back to the Houston community that has made him who he is today. In these roles, he strives to unify UH’s student body and construct opportunities for students throughout Houston.

Summer Folwell

Summer Folwell is a dedicated student at the Valenti School of Communication at the University of Houston, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communications. Her decision to join the Cougar family was deeply inspired by her mother, a proud UH alumna, and reflects her strong connection to Houston. Born and raised in the city, Folwell feels a profound connection with both her university and community. As an Advancement Ambassador, she is passionate about helping students feel welcomed and engaged on campus, fostering the same sense of pride and belonging she has developed.

In addition to her Ambassador role, Folwell is also deeply interested in digital marketing and communications, which is evident through her extensive hands-on experience. Internships with Forthea and Modern Luxury Houston Magazine have honed her skills in SEO, PPC, social media management and event planning. She has also led market research projects for Kellanova’s Pringles and Kellogg's Pop-tarts, offering valuable insight into Gen Z consumer behavior. Her expertise is further supported by certifications in Google Analytics, Google Ads and HubSpot. Looking ahead, Folwell aspires to establish her own advertising agency, aiming to leverage her creativity and strategic skills to make a significant impact in the industry.

Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Folwell enjoys exploring museums to learn about history, reading and playing volleyball with friends. Her recent study abroad experience in Europe enriched her love for travel and broadened her global perspectives. Summer is also actively involved in her church community, which provides her with a fulfilling sense of service and connection. Through her role as an ambassador, she is eager to showcase the vibrant and dynamic qualities of the University of Houston, hoping to inspire others to discover and appreciate the University’s unique community and opportunities.

Samantha Gonzalez

Samantha Gonzalez is a rising junior at the University of Houston, pursuing a double major in entrepreneurship and marketing at the C. T. Bauer College of Business. She is a dedicated Honors College student on the pre-law path planning to attend law school after graduating in fall 2025.

Currently, Gonzalez works part-time as a Campus Ambassador for Perry Homes at the University of Houston, a position she earned after interning with the company over the past summer. In her role, she actively engages with students to promote the excellent internship opportunities Perry Homes offers across various industries. Her responsibilities include tabling, organizing informational sessions in collaboration with campus organizations, creating marketing materials and more.

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Gonzalez chose the University of Houston for its dynamic business school, the wealth of resources available to aspiring entrepreneurs and its rich diversity. She is a leader in a campus ministry called Young Life, where she builds meaningful relationships with students in small groups. Additionally, she is an active member of a sorority and proudly serves as an Advancement Ambassador, showcasing the beautiful campus and its mission to others.

Gonzalez’s mission is to serve others, continuously grow and learn in every aspect of her life, live with purpose and inspire those around her. Outside of her academic and extracurricular activities, she enjoys exploring new cafes and restaurants, traveling and content creation. She also has a passion for trying new experiences, which she finds exciting and fulfilling.

Ida Hailu

Ida Hailu is a junior Honors student in the C. T. Bauer College of Business studying finance and management information systems at the University of Houston. Born in Pearland, Texas as the only daughter of Ethiopian immigrant parents, Hailu chose to attend the University of Houston based on scholarship opportunities and the meaning it held in her family as their first choice for undergraduate education upon moving to the U.S., showcasing the diversity and inclusion of the school. In her time at UH, Hailu has served as the Director of External Relations for the Bauer Honors Student Advisory Board in which she leads her committee to bring corporate sponsors and organize the signature Bauer Honors Career Fair for the entirety of the business honors students at UH. As an Advancement Ambassador, Hailu is excited to showcase her love for the University and all it has brought to her and her family with like-minded individuals.

Hailu has also served as a mentor at her church, an Ethiopian Orthodox Church in the Greater Houston area, since beginning high school. Through this opportunity, she realized that helping her community rise around her was a deep passion of hers. In seeking out more opportunities like this after arriving at college, she was given the chance to participate in the inaugural Impact Case Competition at UH with the Houston Food Bank and her and her team's business plan ended up taking first place. For the next year and a half, she'll be working along with her team and the Houston Food Bank to instill high school and college engagement programs as well as making the volunteer experience more accessible to those who speak different languages in the Houston area.

Jeremias Iraheta

Jeremias Iraheta is a senior majoring in public policy at the Hobby School of Public Affairs. He is also in the College of Education pursuing a minor in health. Growing up in Pasadena Texas, Iraheta chose the University of Houston for its proximity, affordability and the diversity of its student body.

With his love for community, health and the environment, Iraheta has aspirations of one day working at the EPA, and his on-campus activities certainly represent that. As an organization leader for Move Texas and Planned Parenthood Generation, Iraheta is dedicated to creating healthier communities through mobilization, education and advocacy. When not at school, he is often working in the community at local health departments or in nonprofit organizations addressing non-medical drivers of health. Iraheta is happy to call the University of Houston home and wants to see it become the place everyone wants to be.

Hannah John

Hannah John is a dedicated sophomore at the University of Houston, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Health while also working toward a minor in business administration. Originally from Sugar Land, Texas, John chose the University of Houston for its rich array of growth opportunities and its vibrant community, which she now considers home.

With a strong commitment to leaving a lasting impact, Hannah is driven by the goal of making a significant impact on the University during her time here. She envisions her efforts benefiting the institution and creating a meaningful legacy. Her background growing up in Fort Bend County has provided her with a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, which continues to influence her personal and professional aspirations.

John's passion for exploration extends beyond the classroom. She is an avid traveler and actively participates in mission trips, reflecting her commitment to global awareness and service. Through her academic and extracurricular pursuits, Hannah John is poised to make a lasting impression at the University of Houston and beyond.

Additionally, as an Advancement Ambassador of the 2024-2025 academic year, she cannot wait to share her Cougar Pride with other students, alumni, potential donors, community leaders and even future students. She is honored to represent and serve the student body at the University of Houston to have each voice heard.

Jennifer Leon

Jennifer Leon is a sophomore at the University of Houston expecting to graduate in 2027. Her academic journey is centered on the field of civil engineering within the Cullen College of Engineering. She also takes great pride in being a student in the Honors College, where she stands among the distinguished 20% of female engineers. Beyond her academic pursuits, Leon actively engages with the University community through her involvement with the Advancement Ambassadors.

Serving as a link between UH donors, alumni and fellow students, she embodies a commitment to fostering meaningful connections and enhancing the collegiate experience for all. Leon's dedication to service extends beyond campus borders. During summer and winter breaks, she devotes her time to Reliable Home Care in Alvin, where she assists elderly and disabled individuals in accessing essential care services. Despite her office-based responsibilities, she finds fulfillment in making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need, which enriches her experiences with every interaction.

In her spare time, she enjoys running, baking and spending time with her family. As a newcomer to the UH Cougar family, Leon approaches each day with an open mind and a willingness to immerse herself in new experiences. Eager to expand her horizons, she is grateful to embody the University's ethos of fostering both personal and academic growth within a supportive community.

Salin Lopez

Salin Lopez is a rising senior studying anthropology at the University of Houston College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. She also studies at the Honors College and is pursuing a minor in sociology with a concentration in law and deviance. Lopez was born in Nicaragua but has lived in San Antonio, Texas, for most of her life before moving to Houston because of its overflowing opportunities. Her passions lie in community building through social advocacy and children's welfare, especially those from immigrant, low-income households, and she has found many welcoming spaces at the University that nurture students with goals like hers.

She is proud to have been a mentor with AmplifyHER, a student-led service program with Bonner Leaders that mentors middle school girls in underserved communities. She also serves on the Scholarship and Financial Aid Advisory University Committee, ensuring students receive the perfect service needed to ensure they begin their new chapter in the best financial standing possible. She recently began an internship working at the Office of State Rep. Gene Wu, where she is learning how to expedite their efforts in community outreach and development through the government, which are skills needed for the career she seeks in social law or the nonprofit sectors. She is gaining experience within the nonprofit area by working with Birthday Bash Box, the organization that focuses on gifting a birthday celebration to children whose families cannot afford it, this is what sparked her interest in focusing on child welfare. This is why she is thankful to be a part of Advancement Ambassadors, where she can meet alumni and learn where their journey at UH brought them and figure out how to make a successful ending at UH accessible to all students, so they graduate with pride.

Vivienne Luu

Vivienne Luu is a sophomore studying finance at the University of Houston C. T. Bauer College of Business. She is also a full-ride National Merit Scholar at the Honors College. Luu was raised in Katy, Texas, choosing UH because of its proximity to family, its diverse student body and the tight-knit community in Bauer's notable Business Honors Program.

Luu loves getting involved with different organizations on campus. She is a portfolio manager for UH's undergraduate investment fund, Bayou Capital Group, and is eager to serve as a mentor to incoming freshmen navigating the world of finance. She also works as a barista at UH’s coffee shop, Cougar Grounds. Luu is proud to be an Advancement Ambassador for the University, fulfilling her passion for philanthropy and demonstrating her Cougar Pride!

Mia Mercado

Mia Mercado is a junior studying psychology and health promotion in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences and the College of Education at the University of Houston. She grew up in Waxahachie, Texas, where she simultaneously took college classes while earning her high school diploma. In 2023, she graduated magna cum laude from Navarro College, earning an Associate of Science in Liberal Arts. Mia chose the University of Houston to continue her educational journey due to its esteemed reputation as a Tier One research institution and the promising opportunities it has in proximity with the surrounding city.

Through various campus organizations, Mia has cultivated a passion for destigmatizing mental health issues. She is excited to be an Advancement Ambassador this year, inviting visitors to see UH through her perspective — not only as a student but also as someone deeply committed to the campus community. Above all, she hopes to make a meaningful impact on campus and for her fellow students.

Dhwani Mulani

Dhwani Mulani is a dedicated senior at the University of Houston, majoring in Nutritional Sciences with a minor in Medicine and Society within the Honors College. She is pursuing pre-medicine, motivated by a deep passion for integrating the fields of nutrition and medicine to address health care disparities and promote preventive care. Her academic journey has been shaped by her commitment to understanding how proper nutrition can serve as a cornerstone for improving patient outcomes, particularly in underserved communities.

Mulani's interest in medicine extends beyond the classroom. She has actively participated in groundbreaking research at Baylor College of Medicine, investigating the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on colorectal cancer cells. This experience has deepened her understanding of cancer biology and fueled her commitment to advancing health care through scientific discovery and patient-centered care. Her ultimate goal is to become a physician who emphasizes holistic, preventive health strategies, particularly through the lens of nutrition.

As a senior resident advisor at UH, Mulani cultivates a supportive environment for her fellow students by organizing events that promote both personal and academic growth. In her role as an Advancement Ambassador, she works to connect students, alumni and donors, emphasizing the significance of community in achieving institutional success. Additionally, Mulani manages her family's business, Silk India, where she hones her leadership and entrepreneurial skills, applying them to every facet of her academic and professional journey.

Mulani's diverse experiences, including her academic achievements, research, leadership roles, and passion for medicine, uniquely position her to make a significant impact in health care. She is committed to addressing health disparities and advocating for the importance of nutrition in medicine, ensuring that her future patients receive comprehensive and preventive care.

Daniel Nadal

Daniel Nadal is a rising senior studying management information systems at the University of Houston Bauer College of Business. Nadal has lived in Houston for most of his life, primarily growing up in Alief, Texas. He came to UH and founda vibrant campus filled with diverse individuals and opportunities. One of the reasons he was drawn to Bauer was the extensive range of possibilities it offers for future career security. Daniel has had the privilege of participating in various programs at Bauer, including the Ted Bauer Leadership Certificate Program. Beyond that, he also enjoyed serving as a Residential Advisor at the University of Houston.

As Daniel navigates the many potential paths offered by higher education, he has become increasingly focused on pursuing a career in the field of technology. In a rapidly evolving world that relies more heavily on technological advancements, with new discoveries and achievements emerging daily, Daniel finds it intriguing to be part of this revolution and looks forward to playing a role in the transformative change.

Meghana Nanduri

Meghana Nanduri is currently a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communications at the Jack J. Valenti School of Communication at the University of Houston, along with a minor in entrepreneurship from the C. T. Bauer College of Business. With a strong foundation in business communication, she has participated in academic projects such as the BCIS 1305 Capstone IT Services Project, where she successfully identified user challenges with AccessUH and presented solutions to the developers. Her academic journey has honed her analytical and communication skills, equipping her for a career in marketing and corporate communications across various industries.

Beyond academics, Nanduri is actively involved in various leadership and professional development programs. As an Advancement Ambassador at the University of Houston, she has fostered relationships with alumni and key donors, effectively representing the student body. Nanduri is also a Fellow in IBM Accelerate's Marketing and Corporate Communications Track, where she has honed data-driven strategies to engage broader audiences. Additionally, her leadership extends to serving as the director of marketing for the National Marrow Donor Program at the University of Houston, demonstrating her ability to lead teams and execute high-impact initiatives. Nanduri is excited to continue her education at the University of Houston while maintaining and creating meaningful relationships.

Azaniah Parker-Bethany

Azaniah Parker-Bethany is a dedicated junior at the University of Houston, majoring in public health with a minor in medicine and society. She was drawn to UH for its proximity to the Texas Medical Center, a world-renowned hub of medical innovation, as well as Houston's reputation as a medical capital. Parker-Bethany chose UH for the unparalleled opportunities it offers in health-related fields. The University's diverse community and commitment to inclusivity were also key factors in her decision, as was the ability to remain close to her family, which continues to be an important aspect of her life.

As an Honors College student, Parker-Bethany is committed to academic excellence and is on track to graduate in May 2026. Certified in First Aid and CPR, she is passionate about health and well-being, and she actively pursues opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills.

Parker-Bethany serves as the co-membership director for the Health Student Association and as the Finance Officer for VAW Global Health Alliances, where she contributes her leadership and financial management skills to support health initiatives. Additionally, she is a proud, pinned member of Collegiate 100, demonstrating her commitment to professional development and networking.

During her first two years at UH, Parker-Bethany developed a deep passion for volunteer and outreach programs, which ultimately inspired her to become an Advancement Ambassador. Pursuing a pre-health track, Parker-Bethany aims to make a significant impact in global health, with a long-term goal of working for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization. Following her undergraduate studies, she plans to pursue graduate education to further her expertise in public and global health. As an Advancement Ambassador, Parker-Bethany is eager to connect with professionals in her field and leverage these opportunities to advance her career aspirations.

Vinay Pillai

Vinay Pillai is a senior at the University of Houston, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Health with a minor in biology. Raised in Houston, Pillai has always had a strong connection to both the city and the University, with many of his relatives also being proud Cougar alumni. Throughout his academic career, he has demonstrated a keen interest in the field of health sciences. His previous role as a medical scribe, as well as his current position as a health advocate intern at Legacy Community Health Systems, have deepened his commitment to understanding the intricate relationships between biology and human health. His experiences at the University of Houston have further fueled his desire to make a meaningful contribution to the health sector.

Now as an Advancement Ambassador, he can interact directly with his community, which helps to develop his leadership skills and cultivates a strong sense of responsibility. This experience also provides valuable lessons that serve as coaching for his future career as a health professional. His connection to Houston and his commitment to public health are strengthened by this role, allowing him to give back to the city that helped mold him.

Sanidh Shah

Sanidh Shah is a sophomore studying biochemistry at the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at the University of Houston. As a Tier One Scholar, he is also a member of the Honors College, where he is currently pursuing a minor in medicine and society. Born and raised in Alberta, Canada, Shah split his time between Canada and the United States, having lived in several provinces and states before moving to Houston in 2017. Shah ultimately chose to attend UH for the opportunities provided by its proximity to the Texas Medical Center, the appeal of the Honors College, and the research prospects available at a Tier One institution.

Inspired by his own journey with hearing loss, Shah hopes to become a physician. He intends to combine his interests in medical innovations with his desire to make a direct impact on patients, serving his peers and community. Additionally, Shah is a student researcher in the University’s Biomedical Engineering Department, where he studies murine embryos using optical coherence tomography imaging techniques. His work contributes valuable insights that can inform and enhance future medical understanding and treatments.

He is also extensively involved in the community, both on and off campus, serving as an executive board member of the Indian Students Association at UH, in addition to volunteering in both the Emergency Room and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit at Ben Taub Hospital. As an Advancement Ambassador for the University, Shah looks forward to sharing his experiences, along with those of his fellow students, with alumni, guests and local leaders to better support UH's mission to transform lives and communities through education, research, service and innovation.

Beyond being recognized as a Tier One Scholar, Shah has received numerous accolades, including the Provost Undergraduate Research Scholarship, the Honors College's Great Conversation Scholarship and multiple placements on the Dean's Distinguished Scholar list.

Kushaagra Sood

Kushaagra Sood is a sophomore at the University of Houston pursuing a degree in accounting and finance. Throughout his college journey, Sood has been actively involved in various organizations, including serving as an Advancement Ambassador on the Student Engagement Committee.

Sood is an investment analyst for the Bayou Capital Group, the University of Houston's student-led investment fund. In addition to this role, he serves as a mentor for the Honors College. He is also a member of the Bauer Honors Student Advisory Board, Beta Alpha Psi and the Indian Students Association.

Outside of the University, Sood volunteers at the Houston Museum of Natural Science and participates in the Serve Sugar Land Volunteer Program. In his spare time, he enjoys doodling and playing badminton. Living on campus, he makes it a point to attend all campus events and engaging with the community. Sood believes that giving back to those around him is a privilege and a core value of being a Coog.

Johnny Thai

Johnny Thai is a senior studying finance and supply chain management at the C. T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston. He grew up in Austin, Texas, and chose to attend the University of Houston to be part of a diverse community that reflects his values, as well as a family-oriented environment that provides equal opportunities to everyone on campus.

Throughout his collegiate career, Thai has been actively engaged in the community. He currently serves as a Bauer Ambassador, a prestigious program for a select group of undergraduate business students who represent Bauer College, its spirit and its values through key events and activities for the Dean's Office, Undergraduate Business Programs and the Rockwell Career Center. Additionally, Thai has served on the Finance and Public Relations Committee for the Bauer Sourcing and Procurement Organization. Through his involvement, he aims to enhance his leadership skills and support others. He also serves as a mentor in the Bauer Undergraduate Mentorship Program, assisting students in mapping their career trajectories. Furthermore, Thai was a distinguished participant in the Ted Bauer Leadership Certificate Program, a year-long initiative that educates students about teamwork, professionalism and, most importantly, self-awareness. Serving as an Advancement Ambassador will not only allow him to continue to personally develop but, more importantly, it will enable him to give back to the community.

Thai recently completed an internship with Hewlett Packard Enterprise, where he worked as a financial analyst intern. In this role, he assisted with financial data model analysis and contributed to innovations in financial reporting. With aspirations in the financial services sector, this opportunity enabled him to establish a solid foundation for his career as a financial analyst, ultimately paving the way for his goal of becoming a chief financial officer.