The University of Houston Division of Student Affairs is proud to share that Dr. Sara Jahansouz Wray, associate Dean of students, was recently featured in a new documentary about the Houston Recovery Center, produced by Empowered and hosted by Meg Ryan.
In addition to her role at UH, Dr. Wray was recently appointed by Houston Mayor John Whitmire to serve a three-year term on the Board of Directors of the Houston Recovery Center—further strengthening the partnership between the university and this vital community organization.
In the film, Dr. Wray speaks honestly about the reality of college life today and the challenges students face. She notes that while being a student is exciting, it can also bring risks—especially in a city as large as Houston, where the fentanyl crisis has created new concerns for young adults.
“It is a tough time to be a college student right now. We are in the fourth-largest city in the United States. I think the level of risk with university life is so much greater now with the fentanyl crisis. We are going above and beyond to educate our community about the benefits of harm reduction. A lot of our students can have that little moment of clarity that substances are impacting their life in a negative way. The Houston Recovery Center shares a lot of information and resources to our students when they are clients. HRC does not support that stereotype that people who use or misuse drugs or alcohol are bad. As a university administrator, I know firsthand that there are so many miracles that occur in the walls of the Houston Recovery Center and I’m so grateful for our continued partnership.”
For students, her message is clear: education and awareness can change lives. The Houston Recovery Center provides resources, compassion, and support without judgment—giving people the chance to pause, reflect, and take steps toward healthier choices.
Dr. Wray reflected on the experience of being featured in the project:
“It was an honor to be invited to contribute to the Houston Recovery Center documentary. I'm so proud of the innovative work I do at UH and I'm grateful that my work also has an impact on community partners like the Houston Recovery Center. Many thanks to Mr. Leonard Kincaid for the invitation to contribute to this documentary project.”
Her participation in the film highlights not only her dedication as an administrator but also the University of Houston’s commitment to creating an environment where students are supported—academically, personally, and in their overall well-being.
Written By Dhivyadharshini Selvaraj – Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Student Affairs