The University of Houston has received a generous $10 million gift from the Michael and Rebecca Cemo Family Foundation to support UH Intercollegiate Athletics, specifically the construction and maintenance of the new Memorial Hermann Football Operations Center.
In recognition of the gift, the west-end scoreboard at TDECU Stadium will be named in the Cemo family’s honor.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the Cemo Family Foundation’s legacy of support for the University,” said UH President Renu Khator. “Their longstanding commitment is invaluable, and this generous gift will further elevate our football program, enhancing our competitiveness in the Big 12. It holds special significance following the recent passing of former Regent Michael Cemo.”
Michael Cemo and his family have a long history of giving to the University. Cemo earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from UH in 1968 and enjoyed a successful career in retail marketing and corporate finance. He was a valued member of the Dean’s Advisory Board at the C.T. Bauer College of Business and was appointed to the UH System Board of Regents in 2001 where he served for six years, including two as vice chairman.
In 2008, UH broke ground on Michael J. Cemo Hall, a state-of-the-art facility that further strengthened Bauer College’s presence as one of the leading business schools in the country. A decade later, he received an honorary doctorate from UH for his professional success, his contributions to the community and his support of the University.
“It’s a great honor to be able to continue our support of the University of Houston after our father’s recent passing,” said Stephanie Cemo. “We know how important the University was to him, as well as the love he had for the school that he felt helped give him a great start in his career. He voiced on numerous occasions that receiving a good education is consequential to a successful and happy life. Continuing to give back in his honor is essential in keeping his legacy alive. With that, the Michael and Rebecca Cemo Family Foundation is honored to be a small part in helping students and athletes thrive.”
“The Cemo family’s generosity demonstrates a deep commitment to the future of UH Athletics, particularly our football program. This investment will enhance the student-athlete experience, allowing them to compete at the highest level, and ensure we can continue to build a program that fosters excellence both on and off the field.”
-Eddie Nuñez, UH Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics
Plans for the $130 million football operations center were announced last year, just a few weeks after UH officially entered the Big 12 Conference. The facility, which has approximately 10 months remaining until completion, will feature athlete performance centers, an academic support services suite, state-of-the-art locker rooms and office space for Cougar football coaches and staff. It will also provide additional premium seating options at TDECU Stadium with 14 suites and a 450-seat club section.
“We are deeply inspired by the Cemo family's remarkable generosity and enduring legacy at the University of Houston,” said UH Vice President for Advancement and Alumni at UH Eloise Brice. “This gift not only honors Michael Cemo’s profound love for his alma mater but also reflects a commitment to shaping the future of our athletics program. It is a true testament to how one family's dedication can impact generations of students and athletes at UH.”
