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The University of Houston's proud heritage of academic excellence dates back to its founding in 1927, when its primary focus was training future teachers. At that time, it was called Houston Junior College and classes were held on the San Jacinto High School campus.

Over the years, we grew and prospered, becoming the University of Houston in 1934. Two years later, the institution acquired land for a permanent campus, and its first building opened in 1939. In 1947, the institution launched one of its many rich traditions by adopting the cougar, later named Shasta, as its official mascot. The university became a state institution in 1963 and joined the newly created University of Houston System in 1977.

From a lovable feline to an all-campus fiesta, the University of Houston builds community and generates fun with a variety of time-honored traditions. Most individual colleges have their own traditions, too, ranging from Wolffest, a college of business tradition where students run pop-up food stands in a three-day competition, to the Hobby School of Public Affairs’ annual Elizabeth D. Rockwell Lecture on Ethics and Leadership .

The University of Houston draws strength from its diversity to transform lives and communities through education, research, service and innovation in a real world setting. UH is an engine for discovery, conversation and change that informs and leads local, state, national and global partnerships.