Dec. 15, 2016 – Faculty from the University of Houston College of Education visited children in the Third Ward community to spread holiday cheer Tuesday.

The children celebrated as they got to pick out new bikes and helmets or gift cards. The Faculty Executive Committee (FEC) organized the donations and sponsored the event, which also featured an appearance by Santa Claus.

“The joy and appreciation expressed by the children made the effort meaningful,” said Laveria Hutchison, chair of the FEC and an associate professor in curriculum and instruction. “I hope the event will become an annual tradition.”

The holiday party continued a partnership between the College of Education and Cuney Homes. Over the last two years, faculty and students from the college have been working with children who live in the public housing complex during on-site after-school and summer programs facilitated by the YMCA.

“An exciting aspect of this partnership has been the participation of our student teachers, led by Amber Thompson and Jane Cooper, in providing educational and engaging experiences for the students at Cuney Homes,” said Jonathan Schwartz, associate dean of graduate studies. “Our faculty and students have greatly benefited by collaborating with the community and staff at Cuney Homes, and I was thrilled that the FEC planned this exciting holiday event.”

Norma Olvera, chair-elect of the FEC and director of the Latino Health Disparities Lab, was on hand to help dish out healthy snacks to the children.

“The event was the culmination of efforts by many COE Christmas elves,” said Kimberly Schoger, clinical assistant professor in the psychological, health and learning sciences department. “The Christmas spirit experienced at the event will carry us through the rest of this beautiful season of hope and goodwill.”