In a city where compassion is a way of life, Houston witnessed something extraordinary on Sunday, April 26, 2026—a movement that turned faith into footprints across neighborhoods, parks, schools, and service centers. Blueprint Church Houston’s Serve Houston Day wasn’t just an event—it was a powerful declaration that the church is strongest when it’s in motion.
At the center of this inspiring initiative is the dynamic pastoral duo— Pastors Matthew and Flayn Davis , affectionately known throughout their growing congregation as Pastor Mat and Pastor FAL . With energy, authenticity, and a forward-thinking vision for ministry, this husband-and-wife leadership team is redefining what it means to lead a modern, community-centered church in Houston.
A Bold Vision: From Pews to Purpose
Under the leadership of Pastor Mat and Pastor FAL, Blueprint Church made a bold and intentional shift—replacing a traditional Sunday gathering with a citywide call to action. The message was clear: Don’t just attend church. Be the church. And Houston responded.
Volunteers dispersed across the city in coordinated service efforts that included partnerships with impactful organizations like the Houston Food Bank and Covenant House—transforming compassion into real-time impact.
Service That Meets the Moment
From sunrise through midday, volunteers tackled critical needs across multiple fronts:
1. Packing and distributing food for families facing food insecurity
2. Supporting youth experiencing homelessness
3. Honoring and encouraging essential workers
4. Feeding Houston’s homeless population
5. Cleaning and beautifying community parks
6. Investing in education through Adopt-a-School initiatives
Each effort reflected the heart of Pastor Mat and Pastor FAL’s mission: faith must be lived, not just learned
The Houston Food Bank: Where Impact Multiplied
One of the day’s most powerful activations took place at the Houston Food Bank (535 Portwall St.), where volunteers arrived early—many before 8:30 AM— ready to serve. With discipline and enthusiasm, teams packed and sorted food that will ultimately reach thousands of Houston families.
From organized logistics and volunteer coordination to safety protocols and team unity, the experience reflected a ministry that operates with both heart and excellence—hallmarks of the Davis leadership style.
Momentum Built Before Sunday
The movement didn’t begin on Sunday—it was fueled the day before during the Blueprint Packing Party on Saturday, April 25, 2026 (10:00 AM–12:00 PM). This pre-event activation energized volunteers and reinforced a culture
of preparation, teamwork, and intentional service.
Leadership That Resonates With a New Generation
What makes Pastor Mat and Pastor FAL especially impactful is their ability to connect—bridging generations, cultures, and communities with a message that feels both modern and meaningful. Their approach is not about tradition for tradition’s sake—it’s about transformation.
They are cultivating a church culture where:
1. Service is the standard
2. Community is the priority
3. Faith is active and visible
And in a city like Houston—diverse, dynamic, and driven—that message is resonating.
A Defining Moment for Houston
Serve Houston Day is more than a successful outreach—it’s a blueprint (pun intended) for what the future of community engagement can look like. It proves that when leadership is bold and people are willing, real change happens.
Houston didn’t just witness a church event—it experienced a citywide movement led by a duo committed to impact over optics, action over words, and people over programs.
As Houston continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: when leaders like Pastor Mat and Pastor FAL call, the city answers—and together, they rise.
www.Blueprintchurch.us
In Washington, the name on a bill is often the opposite of what it does.
The Main Street Depositor Protection Act is the latest example. The name sounds noble. The math is not.
Here is what the bill would change. The FDIC is the federal agency that pays you back if your bank closes its doors. Today, it covers up to $250,000 in each account. Most people never come close to that limit. Most small businesses do not either.
The bill would let the FDIC raise that limit as high as $5 million for business checking accounts that pay no interest. That is not a small bump. That is twenty times bigger.
Supporters say the change will help small community banks and the small businesses they serve. I wish that were true. It is not.
The current $250,000 limit already covers 99 out of every 100 bank accounts in this country. A study by JPMorgan Chase found that the typical small business keeps about $12,100 in its account on a normal day. The new limit would be more than 400 times higher than that.
So, who really gains from a $5 million guarantee? Not the corner bakery. Not the family barbershop. Not the small farm down the road. The gain goes to the biggest depositors at the biggest banks. The bill even covers banks with more than $100 billion to their name. Fewer than one in 100 banks in America are that big. No honest person would call them “small.”
In other words, the bill takes the name of Main Street and hands the prize to Wall Street.
Here is the part that should worry every American. Insurance is not free.
A "MAIN STREET" BANK THAT WOULD REALLY HURT MAIN STREET
By Ben Jealous, National Political Commentator
When the FDIC raises its guarantee, banks must pay more to fund it. When banks pay more, they lend less. When they lend less, the door closes hardest on the people who are already locked out.
Black-owned businesses are already turned down for loans 39 percent of the time. That is more than double the 18 percent rate for white-owned businesses.
Hispanic-owned businesses face a 29 percent denial rate. These are the dreamers most likely to hear “no” when they walk into a bank. A new cost on lending will make that “no” come faster and louder.
The economy runs on loans. When loans dry up, the trouble spreads. The Great Recession of 2008 began exactly
that way. The people who pay the highest price are never the wealthiest. They are the families with the least cushion to fall back on.
The bill does offer a small shield to community banks under $10 billion. They would not pay the higher costs for ten years. That is a kind gesture. But the wider damage to the loan market will not wait ten years to arrive.
There is one more problem. Deposit insurance works in part because it has limits. Limits force big depositors to pay attention to where they put their money. That attention keeps banks honest. Take the limit away, and you take the watchdog away too. The taxpayer is left to clean up the mess.
The goal of helping Main Street is a good one. This bill is not the way to reach it.
If Congress wants to help small business, it should make loans easier and fairer to get. It should invest in the neighborhoods that banks have ignored for too long. It should knock down the doors that have stayed shut for Black and Hispanic business owners for generations.
And if big corporations want extra protection for their millions, they can pay for it themselves. The taxpayer should not be asked to insure the comfort of the rich while the dreams of working families go unfunded.
Read the name of a bill. Then read the math. The two should match. On the Main Street Depositor Protection Act, they do not.
Ben Jealous is a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and former president and CEO of the NAACP.
In a city defined by resilience, diversity, and unstoppable momentum, Houston City College (HCC) is rising to meet the moment—and then some. At a recent Community Partnership Meeting held at the West Loop Campus Auditorium, HCC Board Vice Chairman Sean Cheben, alongside Chancellor Dr. Margaret Ford Fisher, delivered a message that resonated far beyond the room: Houston’s future is bright, and HCC is helping power it.
With enrollment projected to surpass 100,000 students, Houston City College is not just growing—it is redefining what accessible, career-driven education looks like in one of America’s most dynamic cities.
“This is the most exciting time ever to live, work, and build a career in Houston,” Cheben emphasized, pointing to a local economy that continues to outpace national trends with expanding industries and higher-paying jobs. And at the center of that growth? A workforce pipeline fueled by HCC.
A Leader Rooted in Houston Values
A proud Houston native, Cheben’s story mirrors the city he serves. From earning Eagle Scout honors at Clear Lake High School to completing a Chemical Engineering degree at Georgia Tech, his journey reflects discipline, ambition, and purpose. His professional path at Chevron—and his partnership with his wife Brittany, also an engineer—grounds his per-
HOUSTON CITY COLLEGE SURGES FORWARD: VICE CHAIR SEAN CHEBEN CHAMPIONS OPPORTUNITY, GROWTH, AND A 100,000-STUDENT MILESTONE
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
spective in both industry insight and community commitment.
But it’s his role as a father that adds a deeper dimension.
“My motivation is simple,” Cheben shared. “I want Houston to be a place where my son Gabriel can grow, thrive, and succeed.”
That personal investment fuels his public service—one that includes leadership roles in local politics and education, culminating in his election to the HCC Board in 2023.
Diversity as Houston’s Superpower
Houston City College stands as a national model of inclusion, with a student body that reflects the global tapestry of the city itself: 29% Hispanic, 25% Black, 20% Caucasian, and
11% Asian American. This diversity is not just celebrated—it is leveraged as a strength.
HCC’s programs are designed to meet students where they are and take them where they want to go. Whether it’s a high school graduate, a working parent, or a career changer, the institution offers pathways that are both flexible and future-focused.
Education That Works—Immediately
What sets Houston City College apart is its laser focus on outcomes. Approximately two-thirds of students transfer to four-year universities, while the remaining third enter the workforce with associate degrees that yield average salaries exceeding $56,000.
From emergency dispatch training to
phlebotomy certification programs that can lead to employment in just months, HCC is aligning education with real-world demand. These aren’t just classes—they’re launchpads.
The Evolution of a Name—and a Mission
The transition from Houston Community College to Houston City College signals more than a rebrand. It reflects an expanded mission. Today, HCC offers bachelor’s degrees in high-demand fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and specialized healthcare disciplines, positioning students at the forefront of tomorrow’s economy.
“We listen to employers. We listen to entrepreneurs. We evolve,” Cheben noted. “We are focused on Houston’s future.”
A Catalyst for Houston’s Next Chapter
As Houston continues its ascent as a global powerhouse, institutions like Houston City College are ensuring that opportunity keeps pace with growth. By delivering affordable, high-quality education and workforce training, HCC is not just serving students—it’s shaping the city’s destiny.
For Houston Style Magazine readers, the message is clear: the future isn’t coming—it’s already here. And thanks to visionary leadership and community commitment, Houston City College is making sure everyone has a seat at the table.
Chancellor Dr. Margaret Ford Fisher and Vice Chairman Sean Cheben
In a step forward for community-centered care in Greater Houston, Legacy Community Health has officially opened the doors to its new Pasadena Southmore Clinic—an investment not just in infrastructure, but in people, possibility, and long-overdue access.
Located at 1951 Southmore Avenue, this impressive two-story, 37,000+ square foot facility arrives at a pivotal moment for Pasadena—one of the region’s fastest-growing and most diverse communities, where nearly one in three residents remains uninsured and children face disproportionately high gaps in coverage. But make no mistake—this is more than a clinic. It’s a lifeline.
At its core, the Legacy Pasadena Southmore Clinic represents a bold, intentional response to the systemic barriers that have historically limited access to quality healthcare—cost, transportation, and fragmented services. With a full suite of integrated offerings under one roof—including adult and pediatric primary care, OB/GYN services, behavioral health, and diagnostic imaging—the clinic is designed to meet families where they are and guide them toward healthier futures.
And the timing couldn’t be more critical.
Fueled by a transformational
EXPANDING ACCESS, ELEVATING LIVES: LEGACY COMMUNITY HEALTH OPENS TRANSFORMATIVE PASADENA SOUTHMORE CLINIC
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
partnership with Houston Methodist—anchored by a remarkable $50+ million investment—this initiative reflects what’s possible when mission-driven organizations align for community impact. The collaboration not only expands access but also brings a forward-thinking model of care that blends service delivery with medical education. The clinic will house the Houston Methodist Family Medicine Residency Program, en-
sionals, with plans to grow to over 80 as dental and pharmacy services come online later in Summer 2026—further reinforcing its role as a comprehensive, one-stop healthcare destination.
Equally important is Legacy’s unwavering commitment to affordability. By accepting Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, most private insurance plans, and offering a sliding-scale fee structure, the clinic ensures that no patient is turned away due to inability to pay. This is healthcare equity in action—real, tangible, and rooted in dignity.
For Houston Style Magazine readers, the opening of the Pasadena Southmore Clinic is a story worth celebrating. It reflects the very best of Houston’s spirit: innovation, collaboration, and an unshakable belief that every family deserves access to quality care—no matter their ZIP code.
suring that the next generation of physicians is trained in the very communities that need them most.
That’s how you build sustainability. That’s how you build trust.
Designed by Kirksey Architects and constructed by Harvey Cleary Builders, the facility is as thoughtful in its design as it is in its mission. At launch, the clinic is staffed by more than 50 healthcare profes-
As Pasadena continues to grow, so too does its need for trusted institutions that invest in its people. Legacy Community Health has answered that call with clarity and compassion.
And in doing so, they’ve done more than open a clinic—they’ve opened doors to healthier generations ahead.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit: www.legacy. communityhealth.org/pasadena
May is recognized nationwide as Lupus Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing public understanding of lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide and is often difficult to diagnose because of its complex and often invisible symptoms.
For Houston Style Magazine , Lupus Awareness Month also carries a deeply personal meaning as we remember our beloved former Managing Editor, Jo-Carolyn Goode, whose life and legacy continue to inspire those who knew and worked alongside her.
Jo-Carolyn Goode was more than a journalist. She was a passionate storyteller, a dedicated community advocate, and a trusted voice in Houston’s media landscape. Her commitment to excellence and her compassion for others made her an unforgettable part of the Houston Style Magazine family. Following her passing in November 2025, family, friends, and colleagues gathered to honor her life and legacy at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston, with interment at Houston Memorial Gardens in Pearland, Texas
Like many individuals living with lupus, Jo-Carolyn’s journey reflected both strength and resilience in the face of a dis-
Lupus Awarness Month Honors Strength, Advocacy, and The Legacy of Jo-Carolyn Goode
By Lisa Valadez for StyleMagazine.com
ease that often goes unseen by the public. Lupus occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs, causing inflammation that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells. The most common form is systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, which can range from mild to life-threatening depending on severity.
According to the Lupus Foundation of America, an estimated 1.5 million Americans and at least 5 million people worldwide are living with lupus. About
90 percent of those diagnosed are women, most often between the ages of 15 and 44. Lupus also disproportionately affects African American, Hispanic, Latino, Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander communities.
Symptoms vary widely and often mimic other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Common signs include extreme fatigue, joint pain and swelling, skin rashes, sensitivity to sunlight, fevers, chest pain, hair loss, and kidney issues. One of the most recognized symptoms is a butter-
fly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, though not all patients experience it. There is currently no cure for lupus, but treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. Options may include anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and antimalarial drugs such as Hydroxychloroquine. Lifestyle changes, including stress management, regular medical care, and sun protection, also play an important role in care.
Health advocates use Lupus Awareness Month each May to promote education, support research funding, and encourage early diagnosis. Purple is recognized as the official color of lupus awareness, and communities nationwide host walks, educational events, and fundraising campaigns.
Medical experts emphasize that lupus is often called “the invisible illness” because many symptoms are not outwardly visible. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment can significantly improve quality of life and reduce complications.
As Lupus Awareness Month continues, Houston Style Magazine honors those living with lupus and the memory of Jo-Carolyn Goode, a woman whose voice, leadership, and legacy remain an enduring part of our story.
Jo-Carolyn Goode (1977 - 2025)
Jeffrey Campbell - President & CEO
Dr. LaRence Snowden - Board Chair
DELTA SIGMA
Photography By Amber Charles
Official Ribbon Cutting and Start of the WALK to END HIV Jeffrey Campbell and LeRence Snowden with other Board Members
TSU Soars Higher with Historic Houston Spaceport Ribbon Cutting
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
Houston reached new heights—again. In a city globally synonymous with space exploration and innovation, Texas Southern University (TSU) boldly expanded its footprint with the grand opening of its new aviation facility at the Houston Spaceport, marking a transformative moment not just for the university, but for the future of diverse talent in aerospace.
With a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, TSU officially unveiled its cutting-edge Texas Southern University at Houston Spaceport campus—a 20,000-square-foot aviation hub designed to prepare the next generation of pilots, engineers, and aviation leaders.
This milestone partnership between TSU, the City of Houston, and Houston Airports signals a powerful commitment to innovation, workforce development, and equitable access to high-demand careers in aviation and aerospace.
A Facility Built for the Future
At the heart of the new campus is a sleek, modern hangar housing TSU's impressive fleet 12 Cirrus SR20 aircraft, acquired position TSU students for real-world readiness from day one.
The facility also includes:
• 4,500 square feet of office and classroom space, enabling immersive, on-site instruction
• An 8,000-gallon fuel tank, delivering operational independence and saving the program hundreds of thousands annually
• Infrastructure to support TSU’s newly approved aerospace engineering program, further expanding academic pathways This is not just a building—it’s a launchpad.
Leadership That Lifts
The ribbon-cutting brought together a powerhouse of leadership and vision, including:
• Vice Admiral James W. Crawford III, TSU President
• James Benham, TSU Board of Regents Chairman
• Dr. Terence Fontaine, Executive Director of TSU Aviation
• Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, Houston City Council Member, District D
• Chris Hollins, Houston City Controller
• Scott Hill, Houston Airports Deputy Di-
rector of Infrastructure
• Captain Xavier Samuels, United Airlines and TSU Aviation Advisory Board Chairman
Together, they underscored a shared mission: ensuring that students—especially those from historically underserved communities—have direct pathways into high-growth, high-paying industries.
Houston’s Legacy Meets TSU’s Vision
Strategically located at 1775 Hutchinson Drive, just behind the Lone Star Flight Museum, the new TSU facility places students at the epicenter of Houston’s aviation and aerospace ecosystem.
And the timing couldn’t be more perfect.
With Houston continuing to expand its global influence in aviation, space travel, and advanced technology, TSU is ensuring its students are not just participants—but leaders—in shaping that future.
Empowering the Next Generation
Founded in 1927, Texas Southern University has long stood as a pillar of access, opportunity, and excellence. As a special-purpose institution dedicated to urban programming and research, TSU continues to evolve—meeting the moment with bold investments like this one.
The Houston Spaceport campus reflects a powerful truth: Talent is everywhere—but opportunity must be intentional.
With this new facility, TSU is not only training pilots—it’s cultivating innovators, engineers, and trailblazers who will carry Houston’s legacy forward across skies, industries, and generations.
Final Approach: A Bold Takeoff for Houston
As jets lift off from Houston Spaceport, so too will the ambitions of TSU students—fueled by access, excellence, and vision.
In a city that once put a man on the moon, Texas Southern University is ensuring that the future of flight looks more inclusive, more innovative, and more Houston than ever before.
Lesley Briones - HC Commissioner
Khambrel Marshall - Emcee
Francis Page, Jr., Lesley Briones & Linda Toyota
Arcy Munoz & Wendy Cloonan - Co-Chairs
Olivia, Michelle, Linda & Bryan
Adriana Tamez, Arcy Munoz, Lindsay Taylor Munoz Michael, Lina and Farrah Sabouni Bryce Kennard, Arcy Munoz, Alan Steinberg
Arcy Munoz, Whitney Wall, Fernando Rocha
Chris DeVault and Wendy Hall
Muñoz & Wendy Montoya Cloonan
Co-Chairs
Thursday, April 23, 2026
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Mitchell and Lesley
Erica Lee Carter, Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock, Arcy Munoz Rupani Foundation and Anne Sung
Richard Zientek and Francis Page Jr.
Eric Andell, Sanjay Ramabhadran
Houston, get ready—because the next global voice of jazz is about to step into one of the city’s most legendary venues. On Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM CT, the iconic Eldorado Ballroom will host an unforgettable evening as DACAMERA presents its Rising Jazz Stars series featuring the sensational LUCÍA.
A Voice That Transcends Borders
At just 23 years old, LUCÍA (Lucía Gutiérrez Rebolloso) is already turning heads across the global music scene. Hailing from Veracruz, Mexico, her sound is a captivating fusion of jazz, Latin heritage, and contemporary pop sensibilities. Her musical roots run deep—she began performing at the age of two in her family’s son jarocho ensemble, laying the foundation for a career that now feels destined for greatness. Her accolades speak volumes. LUCÍA made history as the first Mexican artist to win the internationally acclaimed Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, cementing her status as one of the most exciting emerging artists in jazz today. Her debut album showcases a fearless artistry, blending timeless standards like “What a Difference a Day Makes” with Spanish classics such as “La Llorona”, and even fresh interpretations of modern hits by
HOUSTON'S JAZZ FUTURE TAKES CENTER STAGE: LUCíA Set To Dazzle At The Elderado Ballroom
Taylor
Swift and Olivia Rodrigo.
Where Legacy Meets What’s Next
The setting for this performance is no coincidence. The Eldorado Ballroom, nestled in the heart of Third Ward, stands as a beacon of Houston’s rich cultural and musical legacy. Once graced by jazz greats, it now welcomes a new generation of artists who are redefining the genre for today’s audiences.
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
DACAMERA’s Rising Jazz Stars series—launched in November 2024—has quickly become a must-attend cultural experience. Designed to spotlight the brightest emerging talents from across the nation, the series offers an intimate, club-style atmosphere that brings audiences closer to the
music—and the moment.
Music for Everyone:
A Community-Centered Experience
In true Houston spirit, this event is built on accessibility and community. With DACAMERA’s “Choose What You Pay” ticket model, guests can attend at a price point that works for them, while supporting the organization’s mission to deliver world-class musical experiences to all. A suggested contribution of $50 helps sustain programming and ensures these transformative performances remain within reach for diverse audiences.
A Stellar Ensemble LUCÍA will be joined by an exceptional trio of musicians:
• Fabian Almazan on piano
• Hamish Smith on bass
• Julian Miltenberger on drums
Together, they promise an evening of rhythm, improvisation, and emotional depth that will resonate long after the final encore.
Don’t Miss the Moment
For Houston Style Magazine readers who appreciate culture, community, and cutting-edge artistry, this is more than a concert—it’s a front-row seat to the future of jazz.
Event Details
What: DACAMERA at the Eldorado: Rising Jazz Stars featuring LUCÍA
When: Sunday, May 17, 2026 | 5 & 7 PM
Where: Eldorado Ballroom, Houston, TX
Tickets: Choose What You Pay (Sug.$50)
More Info: Call 713-524-5050 or email: boxoffice@dacamera.com
Stay Connected: Text DACAMERA to 346-440-4545 for updates
Be there before the world catches on. Experience LUCÍA—live, luminous, and unforgettable.
By
Robert Palussek - CEO
Robert Palussek with Marc L. Boom M.D.
Ryan Martin - Board Chair
Photography
Daniel Ortiz
Nearly 20 years after Miranda Priestly first chilled a room with one whisper, The Devil Wears Prada 2 opens worldwide on Friday, May 1, 2026, bringing Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci back to the fashion battlefield. The sequel finds Miranda facing a changing magazine industry while Andy returns more seasoned, Emily rises in the luxury-brand world, and Nigel remains, we hope, as fabulous and sharp as ever.
For Houston Style Magazine readers, this is more than a movie opening — it is a cultural runway. The original film became a modern fashion scripture, giving us “That’s all,” “Groundbreaking,” cerulean sweaters, Paris drama, and a career-making reminder that style is never just fabric — it is power, pressure, ambition, and presentation.
Adding extra sparkle, VegasInsider.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 Opens Friday: Fashion's Fiercest Sequel Struts Back Into Theaters
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
com has released playful editorial odds predicting which iconic references may return, including Madonna’s “Vogue” at a 71% implied probability, Miranda saying “That’s all” three or more times at 50%, and a possible cerulean callback at 29%. The odds are for editorial purposes only, but fashion fans know: nostalgia is always in season.
The sequel’s trailer already teases the return of “Vogue,” and that alone may send audiences into a full runway walk from the parking lot to the popcorn counter. Meanwhile, the film’s confirmed May 1 theatrical release positions it as one of spring’s biggest pop-culture events.
Houston, get your tickets, polish your stilettos, and prepare your best Miranda stare. The Devil Wears Prada 2 is not merely opening Friday — it is arriving with receipts, references, and runway-level confidence. www.20thcenturystudios.com/ movies/the-devil-wears-prada-2
In a city defined by ambition and innovation, Texas Southern University is stepping confidently into the future with a plan as powerful as the legacy behind it. With the unveiling of Ascend 2030, TSU is not simply outlining goals—it is charting a transformative course that places student success, institutional excellence, and community impact at the center of its mission.
Announced on Wednesday, April 23, 2026, Ascend 2030 is a comprehensive, forward-thinking strategic framework designed to elevate outcomes while expanding opportunity. As TSU approaches its centennial milestone in 2027, the initiative reflects both a celebration of history and a bold embrace of what’s next. This is not business as usual—it’s a reinvention rooted in purpose.
Under the leadership of J. W. Crawford III, the university is leaning into a results-driven philosophy. The focus? Ensuring that more students persist, graduate, and thrive in high-demand careers. That means aligning academic programs with workforce needs, strengthening institutional infrastructure, and delivering a student experience that prepares graduates to lead in a rapidly evolving global economy.
At the heart of Ascend 2030 are three guiding pillars—renew, enhance, and expand. Together, they form a blueprint for
TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY ASCENDS: A BOLD VISION TOWARD 2030 AND BEYOND
By Francis Page Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
modernizing TSU’s foundation, elevating academic performance, and increasing its reach across Houston and beyond. It’s a strategy that blends tradition with transformation, honoring TSU’s rich heritage while boldly innovating for the future.
The plan is anchored by four key priorities that speak directly to today’s economic realities. First, student achievement and outcomes take center stage, with an emphasis on persistence, progression, and access to high-value credentials. Next, academic research and innovation aim to deepen partnerships that fuel discovery and workforce development. Operational excellence ensures that systems are efficient, effective, and student-centered. And
perhaps most exciting, a strong commitment to technology and artificial intelligence positions TSU graduates at the forefront of tomorrow’s industries.
Houston’s dynamic economy— spanning healthcare, energy, aerospace, education, and emerging technologies— provides fertile ground for this vision to flourish. TSU is strategically aligning its programs to meet this demand, creating pipelines that connect classrooms to careers. From internships to hands-on learning experiences, students are gaining the tools they need to compete—and win—in today’s marketplace.
This momentum is matched by visible growth across campus. With a newly
approved master plan, TSU is preparing to expand its facilities, enhance research capabilities, and enrich the overall student experience. These investments signal a university on the rise—one that understands that environment matters just as much as education.
TSU’s impact, however, extends far beyond its campus borders. Its graduates—educators, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, and public servants—continue to shape communities across Texas and the nation. As one of only 13 Historically Black Colleges and Universities designated as a Doctoral University of High Research Activity (R2), TSU stands tall as a beacon of academic excellence. Add to that its Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, and you have a powerhouse institution uniquely positioned to drive both scholarship and service.
As the Road to 100 accelerates, Ascend 2030 is more than a plan—it’s a promise. A promise to students, to Houston, and to the generations who will carry this legacy forward. In the heart of one of America’s most vibrant cities, Texas Southern University is not just keeping pace—it’s leading the way.
And if the trajectory is any indication, the best chapters in TSU’s story are still being written.
Get ready, Houston—summer officially makes its grand entrance on Saturday, May 2, 2026, as Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown reopens for its milestone 40th season, promising bigger waves, smoother thrills, and refreshed experiences designed for every generation of fun-seekers.
For four decades, Splashtown has been a cornerstone of Houston’s summer culture—where families gather, friends reconnect, and memories are made one splash at a time. This year, the park leans into that legacy with thoughtful upgrades that elevate comfort, convenience, and pure aquatic excitement.
Opening Day Details
WHAT: Opening Day – 2026 Season at Hurricane Harbor Splashtown
• Upgraded wave pool machinery in Hurricane Bay for more dynamic, ocean-like waves
• A revamped catering kitchen to better serve group events and family gatherings Fully updated park bridges, improving accessibility and guest flow throughout the park
Ride Refresh Highlights:
• Enhanced Coconut Bay Funliner tower for smoother, more efficient ride access
• Upgrades to the thrilling RipQurl tower, ensuring a faster, more exhilarating ride
A New Twist for Adults
For guests looking to unwind, the addition of a Beer Garden introduces a relaxed, social space where adults can kick back while still soaking in the vibrant park atmosphere.
Why
It Matters for Houston Families
nostalgia—it’s about evolution. Hurricane Harbor Splashtown continues to invest in Houston’s leisure landscape, ensuring it remains a premier destination for affordable, high-energy summer entertainment. From first-time visitors to lifelong fans, there’s something new to discover at every turn.
Season Passes That Go the Distance
The 2026 Gold Membership unlocks unlimited access to Hurricane Harbor Splashtown, plus entry to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels and Six Flags parks across Texas and beyond—including Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma City and Frontier City. Starting at just $7 per month, it’s one of the best-value entertainment passes in the region.
As Houston heats up, Hurricane Harbor Splashtown stands ready to deliver cool relief, thrilling rides, and unforgettable moments. Forty seasons in—and the splash just keeps getting bigger.
For tickets and details, visit: https://www.sixflags.com/splashtown isn’t just a celebration—it’s a transformation. Guests will immediately notice enhanced infrastructure and ride improvements designed to keep the good times
