The Symbolic Meaning Behind the University of Houston's Mascot

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The University of Houston, also known as UH, is a well-known institution located in Houston, Texas. One of the most recognizable aspects of the university is its mascot and colors, which symbolize the school's spirit and identity. UH's official mascot is the Cougar, a powerful and agile big cat that represents the university's fierce and competitive nature. The Cougar has become an iconic symbol for UH and is often seen at athletic events and other university gatherings. The mascot is portrayed in different forms, such as a live mascot named Shasta or as a costumed performer during games and special events. When it comes to colors, the University of Houston is known for its distinctive combinations.


The Official Seal of Arms of General Sam Houston, as handed down to him from noble ancestors. The simple Escutcheon in the center of the seal consists of checkered chevrons denoting nobility, and three Martlets, gentle Lowland birds symbolizing peace and deliverance. A winged hourglass is above the shield and surmounting this, the motto, “In Tempore” (In Time). Greyhounds were placed at the sides to indicate the speed in giving aid. The seal was adopted by UH in 1938 in conjunction with the construction of the campus. The first official version was placed on the floor of the Roy Cullen Building.

An oil field warning siren was suggested, and by 1991, through a number of refinements by the efforts of the H Association, the Taxi Squad, Pleas Doyle and the Hruska family, the purchase of the siren was complete. Continue to use strong photos that align with UH brand photography but make sure that the photo has a layout or composition that allows for layering of graphics and text.

Univeristy of houston mascot and colors

When it comes to colors, the University of Houston is known for its distinctive combinations. The school's official colors are red and white, which are displayed prominently across campus, in sporting events, and on university merchandise. These colors evoke a sense of energy and passion, reflecting UH's dedication to excellence both in academics and athletics.

2021-2022 Student Handbook

While containing important information about the university, the Handbook is not comprehensive in its listings. Instead, vital information is presented, and when necessary, the Handbook will refer to other publications that provide more detailed information. The provisions of this handbook do not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, between any person and the University of Houston.

Mission Statement University of Houston

The mission of the University of Houston is to offer nationally competitive and internationally recognized opportunities for learning, discovery and engagement to a diverse population of students in a real-world setting. The University of Houston offers a full range of degree programs at the baccalaureate, master’s, doctoral and professional levels and pursues a broad agenda of research and creative activities. As a knowledge resource to the public, the university builds partnerships with other educational institutions, community organizations, government agencies, and the private sector to serve the region and impact the world.

Goals

Nationally Competitive: UH will become a nationally competitive public research university as measured by the Top American Public Research University analysis and/or Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

Student Success: UH will have a student profile consistent with a nationally competitive public research university by creating an environment in which student success can be ensured.

Community Advancement: UH will commit to fulfilling regional and state workforce needs while becoming the primary engine of social, economic, and intellectual development.

Athletic Competitiveness: UH will provide a comprehensive educational experience to its students and, within this context, it will seek to build the strongest athletic program possible.

Local and National Recognition: UH will be known for its accomplishments locally and nationally.

Competitive Resources: UH will build a resource base that enables it to accomplish its mission and realize its vision.

Shared Values

As its primary goal, the University of Houston is dedicated to becoming a nationally recognized institution in the 21st century. The university will anticipate and respond to changing demographics in an increasingly diverse and globally interdependent world. It will use its resources to:

  • Meet the challenges of educating a dynamic mix of nontraditional and traditional students.
  • Promote excellence within the context of basic and applied research and scholarship.
  • Identify and respond to the economic, social and cultural challenges affecting the quality of life in the city of Houston, the state of Texas and the world through its education, research and service.

Introduction to the University of Houston

Welcome, and congratulations on becoming a Cougar! You’re now part of one of the great educational and research traditions in Texas.

The University of Houston was founded in 1927. In its first year, the university’s enrollment was 232 students, with just 12 faculty. The university has grown to become one of state’s greatest assets. Our campus now has more than 40,000 of the finest students, faculty, and staff in the country, its own award-winning art museum, stunning music and theatre venues, 264,000-square-foot fitness facility, massive modern library, two fine dining restaurants, and winning athletics programs.

Our campus is home to several nationally ranked top-five programs including Creative Writing, Health Law, and Intellectual Property Law. UH also is home to the world’s only graduate space architecture program.

UH is the most ethnically diverse research university in the nation. Take a walk on our beautiful, 551-acre tree-lined campus and you’ll see a microcosm of the world. More than 60 percent of our top-quality students are minority or international students. Last fall, 2,505 international students enrolled from more than 137 countries.

Faculty

Students in any of our 278 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs learn from the best. Our faculty includes Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winners, a Nobel Peace laureate, a National Medal of Science recipient, MacArthur “genius” grant winners, Guggenheim Fellows, and internationally respected scholars in the sciences, business, law, education, the humanities, and the environment.

Research

With nearly $90 million in annual research expenditures and 36 research institutes, we’ve become one of the nation’s top urban research universities. Our faculty members and students conduct vital research in superconductivity, space commercialization, biomedical engineering, economics, education, petroleum exploration, virtual technology, and much more. The university has completed an $81 million Science and Engineering Research and Classroom Complex, designed by renowned architect Cesar Pelli. The new facility will provide facilities for the many interdisciplinary research programs including BioNano Technology.

Alumni

A University of Houston degree is a valuable and respected achievement. Our alumni base-more than 180,000 strong and growing by 6,000 every year- includes members of congress, judges, CEOs of major corporations, and many other national leaders in education, entertainment, health, media, the arts, and space exploration. More than 84 percent of UH students secure career-level jobs within three months of graduation. UH has awarded more than 200,000 degrees, and roughly 80 percent of alumni remain in the Houston metropolitan area.

Community

The University of Houston is not only a leader in education and contributions to the arts, but also a valued member and leader in the Houston community. UH provides ongoing public service to the Houston community through more than 300 creative partnerships with government, industry, and non-profit groups. Our faculty, staff, and students volunteer in the surrounding communities every day. In fact, our students donate more than 920,000 volunteer hours each year. UH also is the home of KUHT, the country’s first educational television station, and KUHF, Houston’s public radio station.

Non-Discrimination Statement

The policy of the University of Houston (UH) is to ensure equal opportunity in all its educational programs and activities, and all terms and conditions of employment without regard to age, race, color, disability, religion, national origin, veteran’s status, genetic information sex, (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression except where such a distinction is required by law. Employees, students, applicants for employment or admission, and visitors to campus with questions and/or complaints regarding discrimination, or sexual misconduct (such as sexual violence) under Title IX may contact Toni Sanchez Benoit, Title IX Coordinator and Assistant VC/VP for Equal Opportunity Services (EOS) or the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. Ms. Sanchez Benoit serves as the Title IX Coordinator as well as the ADA and Section 504 Coordinator for UH and can be contacted at:

UH has a long tradition of community service. Located on the University of Houston campus is a very special monument. It is the Eternal Flame of Service monument was erected by the Student Service Center to recognize every organization and individual on and around the UH campus who works to serve others. It is a gift from the UH Alpha Phi Omega chapter to the university in 1970. The tradition of service to others is alive and well on the UH Campus with students volunteering more than 1 million hours annually in Houston area communities.
Univeristy of houston mascot and colors

In addition to red and white, UH also utilizes a third color, known as "Cougar Red." This vibrant shade of red is often seen as a go-to for fans, alumni, and students, as it represents UH's strong ties to its mascot and community. The use of Cougar Red further unifies the university and creates a sense of pride and camaraderie among its members. Overall, the University of Houston's mascot and colors play a vital role in representing the school's identity and creating a sense of unity and excitement among its community. The Cougar mascot and the red and white colors are symbolic of UH's proud heritage and its commitment to excellence in education and athletics..

Reviews for "The Psychology Behind the University of Houston Mascot: Inspiring Success"

1. John - 1/5 stars - The University of Houston mascot and colors are downright awful. The cartoonish cougar mascot looks like it was designed by a toddler, and the colors - red and white - are so generic and uninspiring. I expected so much more from a major university. The mascot doesn't even embody the fierce and prestigious reputation of the school. Overall, I find the mascot and colors to be extremely disappointing and lackluster.
2. Sarah - 2/5 stars - The University of Houston mascot and colors are mediocre at best. The cougar mascot is unimpressive and doesn't have the wow factor that other universities' mascots do. Additionally, the red and white color scheme does nothing to stand out and lacks originality. It feels like the university just settled for something basic instead of striving for uniqueness and creativity. Overall, as a supporter of the university, I would have appreciated a more innovative and captivating mascot and color combination.
3. Mike - 2/5 stars - I am not a fan of the University of Houston's mascot and colors. The cougar mascot is not intimidating or inspiring in any way. Its cartoonish appearance doesn't align with the seriousness and dedication that students and athletes put into their education and sports. Furthermore, the red and white colors are overused and don't differentiate the university from others. I believe the university missed an opportunity to create a strong and memorable mascot and color scheme that truly represents its values and achievements.

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