Houston GuidED Pathways, developed by United for College and Career Success (UFCS) and supported by the Houston Endowment, has launched its first pilot partnership between Lee College and Sam Houston State University. The institutions began co-design sessions on October 1st, marking the start of a collaborative effort to reimagine academic advising and student success systems. 

The partnership represents an important first phase in building a regional model for integrated advising and student support that can be replicated and scaled across Houston-area colleges and universities. The pilot will inform future implementation strategies and help create a more seamless, equitable student experience from enrollment through graduation and into careers. 

“Houston GuidED Pathways demonstrates the power of collaboration to transform the student experience,” said Jenifer Morataya, Director of Pathways & Innovation at United for College and Career Success (UFCS). “By starting with this pilot, we’re learning what works, building shared ownership among institutions, and setting the stage for regional change that ensures every student has the clarity and support needed to thrive,” said Yvonne Eype, Executive Director at United for College and Career Success (UFCS). 

Through this first pilot, Lee College and Sam Houston State University will work together to: 

• Design a shared advising framework that offers proactive, personalized support at key milestones in students’ journeys. 

• Improve data sharing and communication between institutions to create smoother transitions from community college to university. 

• Identify effective practices that can be scaled to other colleges and universities throughout Greater Houston. 

“Lee College is honored to partner with UFCS, Houston Endowment, and Sam Houston State University to develop an innovative advising model that prepares students from interest through completion of the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) certification exam—resulting in graduates who are classroom ready,” said Dr. Sarah Tidwell, Director of Advising & Transfer Programs at Lee College. “This model aligns holistic student advising, clearly identified course transfer maps, and career information. Students, higher education partners, and school districts will all benefit from a seamless and partner-informed advising model.” 

“I’m truly energized by the opportunity to partner with Lee College on this bold and innovative strategic advising pilot,” said Dr. Helen Berg, Associate Dean of Student Success and Partnerships at Sam Houston State University. “At SHSU, we believe every future educator deserves a clear and empowering pathway to the classroom. When we come together to build a shared advising framework with defined milestones, collective commitment, and proactive support, we ignite a journey filled with purpose, growth, and achievement.” 

The co-design process, facilitated by UFCS, brings together college and university leaders, advisors, and student success professionals to develop an advising model rooted in shared accountability and continuous improvement. The work will help inform a regional framework for Guided Pathways, aligning efforts across institutions to close equity gaps, improve completion, and strengthen connections to the workforce. 

“We’re proud to support this partnership and the systems-level innovation it represents,” said Carlos Villagrana, Education Program Officer at Houston Endowment. “Houston GuidED Pathways exemplifies how collaboration across higher education can remove barriers, foster belonging, and drive meaningful progress for students and institutions alike.” 

As the Houston GuidED Pathways initiative continues, insights from the Lee College and Sam Houston partnership will guide the next phase of regional expansion, supporting institutions across Houston in building more coordinated and student-centered advising systems.