. Image with Dominique Sachse and Dr. Ezell at Salute to Retail luncheon at ROCC
In Texas, the stars shine big and bright, which was especially true when the University of Houston celebrated three legendary luminaries of fashion and merchandising. On October 16, UH’s Merchandising Star Awards recognized members of the retail community for their contributions to the industry. Presented by the UH Retailing and Consumer Sciences program, this luncheon kicked off at the River Oaks Country Club, when over 250 guests, many showing their Cougar Pride with red attire, came out to support the University and the retailers that were honored. Honorees being applauded were Mickey Rosmarin, founder and creator of fashion retailer Tootsies; Bobbie and John Nau, majority owners, President and CEO of Silver Eagle Distributors; and Clifford Pugh, editor-in-chief of CultureMap. In addition to these industry veterans, the event recognized standout students Khalid Al-Kalla, Andrea Rodriguez, Kelsey Nobel and Martha Villegas.
Each honoree was introduced by a short video about their careers. The room was filled with red and white University of Houston colors, including centerpieces provided by H-E-B. The guests enthusiastically supported the cause by purchasing surprise bags, donated by retailers across the city, which were sold out before the luncheon started.
Proceeds from this event benefit UH’s Retailing and Consumer Sciences program that prepares UH College of Technology undergraduates for retail and human resources careers.
“This event provides educational outreach and benefits our students,” said Shirley Ezell, associate professor of HDCS. “All of the proceeds from the event go into our permanent endowment that provides scholarships for retailing and consumer sciences students to complete their undergraduate degrees or to attend graduate school. The event provides an incredible network for our students and showcases those leaders who represent the very best in our industry. That combination is hard to beat.”
Dominique Sachse, UH alumna and anchor for KPRC Channel 2, emceed the luncheon. The event’s chairman, Soraya McClelland, along with Dancie Perugini Ware, honorary chairman, were pleased, announcing the event was a success.
Seen in the crowd were Roz Pactor, Janet Gurwitch, Karen Wildenstein, Vicki Rizzo, Regina Rogers, Dean William Fitzgibbon, Gabriela Dror, Fady Armanious, Chris Goins, Joe Williams, Sheridan Williams, Sandy Barrett, Ilene Allen, Roseann Rogers, Cheri Fama and Liz Glanville.
Photos by Kim Coffman