HOUSTON – The University of Houston Pakistani Alumni Association (UHPA) turned Reza Persian Grill into a hub of gratitude and inspiration this weekend, as the organization gathered community leaders, donors, and students for its annual Evening of Appreciation.

The event celebrated UHPA’s generous donors whose contributions are fueling scholarships for the 2025–26 academic year. These scholarships, awarded to bright and determined University of Houston students, are more than financial aid—they’re lifelines that ease burdens and open doors to futures filled with possibility.

UHPA President Lubna Fazal welcomed attendees with a message of pride and purpose, underscoring the importance of collective giving. Vice President Maliha Ahmed introduced this year’s scholarship recipients, highlighting the transformative impact of each award on students’ lives.

UHPA Board Chairperson Faruk Bhagani took the stage to honor donors, thanking them not only for their generosity but for their vision in investing in education as a legacy. Advisor Kamran Riaz reinforced that commitment with a transparent breakdown of how every donation directly supports students’ academic journeys.

Among the scholarships celebrated were:

• An-Nisa’s Voice of Impact Scholarship
• Ashfaq and Sadaf Wadiwala Scholarship
• Hassan Ali Dhanani Scholarship
• Houston-Karachi Sister City Scholarship
• Syed Javaid Anwar Scholarship
• Literacy in Houston Scholarship

Donors shared personal reflections that brought the mission to life. “Education is the greatest equalizer,” said Ali Danani. “Supporting these students means supporting a brighter tomorrow for all of us.” Another supporter, Shaukat Zakaria, added, “When we invest in youth, we invest in innovation, compassion, and progress.”

But the most powerful voices of the night came from the students themselves. Several scholarship recipients took the mic, expressing deep gratitude for the relief these awards provided. Their stories painted a clear picture: with financial stress lifted, they could focus fully on excelling in their studies and giving back to the community in the future.

As the evening drew to a close, one message echoed through the room—UHPA’s mission is bigger than one dinner or one award. It’s about creating a ripple effect of opportunity that will uplift students, strengthen communities, and inspire others to join the cause.

In a city as diverse and driven as Houston, UHPA’s efforts remind us that education is not only personal—it’s communal. With every donor who steps forward, more students will rise, more dreams will be realized, and the Pakistani American community will continue to leave its mark on the city’s thriving future.