Ahead of the 2025 fall semester, several Administration and Finance (A&F) departments introduced new programs, initiatives, and technology upgrades designed to enhance campus life for students, faculty, and staff. As the semester winds down, these improvements have proven to be a success — benefiting both the departments that implemented them and the University as a whole.
Parking and Transportation Services
Parking and Transportation Services rolled out a new enterprise parking system featuring
improved gate access with tap technology, license plate recognition, a redesigned
online portal, and upgraded parking gates.
“These enhancements have made entering and exiting lots and garages a much smoother
process,” said Brandon Richard, Parking & Transportation Services Communication Coordinator.
“We’ve received positive feedback throughout the semester.”
The upgrades were supported by a nearly $3 million investment from Parking and Transportation, aimed at modernizing operations, improving user experience, and increasing safety across campus parking facilities. Additionally, the Welcome Center garages were converted into a single permit system — previously split between faculty/staff and students — creating more flexibility and space for the campus community.
UH Dining Services
Cougar Woods Dining Commons received a $3.75 million investment from the Office of
Administration to complete Phase II of its refresh project. The renovation introduced
two distinct zones:
- Zen Zone – a quiet, library-style space for focused dining and study
- Social House – a lively area designed for community and conversation
Ahead of the semester, UH Dining also expanded weekend breakfast options with brunch specialties and launched the Joyful event series, an initiative by Chartwells. This fall, Joyful featured events like Spiceful, a menu full of bold flavors, and Thankful, a Thanksgiving-style buffet.
“We really think the Joyful series is here to stay,” said Alexcis Mendoza, UH Dining Services District Marketing Director. “It’s about creating moments of joy and connection, even when school gets stressful. We see lots of fun and smile during those events.”
Auxiliary Services
The Cougar Textbook Access Program (CTAP), launched in 2023, continued its growth
this semester with an impressive 83% participation rate, up from 77% in its first
semester.
“Almost universally, students who participate appreciate the convenience,” said Matt
Oltremari, Auxiliary Services Director. “Each semester, the process becomes more streamlined,
and feedback remains positive.”
University Information Technology
The University’s Shasta AI chatbot was fully implemented across 11 departmental websites
after a successful soft launch in spring. This fall, Shasta facilitated 40,458 chats
and achieved an 83% resolution rate, significantly reducing customer service calls
and allowing staff to focus on more complex inquiries.
Office of Emergency Management
Ahead of the semester, the Office of Emergency Management installed a new weather
station to enhance severe weather preparedness and maintain compliance with the National
Weather Service’s StormReady certification.
“The station provides real-time data that helps us monitor conditions and make informed decisions during hazardous weather events,” said OEM Director Ginger Walker. “It tracks temperature, heat index, humidity, wind speed and direction, wind chill, and even lightning detection.”