The University of Houston received a $2.5 million gift from The Cullen Foundation to support its Centennial grounds transformation as the university approaches its 100th anniversary.
The contribution will help fund redevelopment of central campus spaces and will name Cullen Lawn within Centennial Plaza.
The gift comes as the University of Houston’s $1 billion Centennial Campaign approaches its final stage.
The Cullen family’s relationship with UH dates to 1938, when Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen made the university’s first major philanthropic gift.
That contribution funded the Roy G. Cullen Building, which became an important component of UH’s permanent campus.
Cullen Lawn is being designed as a central gathering location for everyday campus activity, university traditions, programs, and special events.
UH is investing approximately $40 million in its broader Centennial grounds initiative.
The project includes redevelopment of University Drive, Wilhelmina’s Grove, and Centennial Plaza.
Plans for Centennial Plaza include additional landscaping, shade trees, seating, and water features designed to create a new center for campus life.
Wilhelmina’s Grove reopened in December 2025, while University Drive and Centennial Plaza are scheduled for completion in May 2027.
Several other philanthropic organizations have also contributed to the transformation.
Those commitments include gifts from the Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Family Foundation, The Brown Foundation, The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts, the W.T. & Louise Moran Foundation, and the UH Alumni Association Foundation.
UH has raised nearly $900 million toward its $1 billion Centennial Campaign goal.
KEY QUOTES:
“The Cullen Foundation is honored to continue my grandfather’s deep interest in UH. He would be so proud of UH’s first 100 years. We are equally proud to continue his legacy into UH’s next 100 years.”
Beth Robertson, Chair of The Cullen Foundation
“Nearly 90 years ago, they helped give UH a permanent home. We’re grateful to the donors who are helping us reimagine these spaces for our students, faculty, staff and alumni.”
Russell Dunlavy, Vice President for Advancement and Alumni at the University of Houston
