Empowering Through Strengths: UH’s CliftonStrengths Initiative Launches
DSA News
April 30, 2025
The University of Houston is embracing a transformative approach to student development and campus culture with the launch of the CliftonStrengths Initiative, a strategic effort led by the Division of Student Affairs. Designed to cultivate a strengths-based mindset across students, faculty, and staff, the initiative marks UH’s commitment to elevating well-being, engagement, and performance university-wide.
In January 2025, 29 faculty and staff members completed intensive Gallup Global Strengths Coach training, positioning them to serve as certified strengths coaches and spearhead this cultural shift. As UH prepares for the first major rollout in Summer and Fall 2025, the initiative is gaining momentum—laying the foundation for a more confident, connected, and empowered campus community.
Strengths-Based Living & Learning at UH
The CliftonStrengths Initiative is more than a professional development program—it is a strategic, campus-wide movement toward self-awareness, collaboration, and academic success. As the university continues to invest in the student experience and institutional excellence, CliftonStrengths serves as a dynamic tool to enhance community well-being and student retention.
A Strategic Start: Coach Training & Vision
The initiative began with a four-and-a-half-day Gallup coach training in January 2025, certifying 29 faculty and staff to guide strengths-based conversations and workshops across campus. This first wave of certified coaches will be key in bringing the CliftonStrengths language to life for students, employees, and leadership.
Led by Keith T. Kowalka, assistant vice president for Student Affairs, and supported by a 10-member cross-campus leadership team, the initiative has a long-term vision. A comprehensive Strategic Plan and Marketing Plan are in development, with the first official rollout targeting student employee populations and select academic programs by Fall 2025. A broader rollout is planned for 2026.
Infrastructure in Place: Tools and Tracking
The launch of a UH-specific CliftonStrengths Portal will centralize access to codes and assessment data, enabling customized reporting across units—from residence hall floors to student organizations. This infrastructure not only supports accurate data analysis but also encourages wide adoption through collaboration with Business Services and Human Resources, which are building a streamlined process for code access by Fall 2025.
Student Engagement at the Core
Initial implementation focuses on embedding CliftonStrengths into:
- All student employee training within the Division of Student Affairs and select Academic Affairs units
- Undergraduate Student Success courses (UNIV 1101 & 1310)
- Bauer College of Business Leadership Program
These touchpoints are designed to promote self-awareness, academic success, and career readiness through a strengths-based lens.
Beyond the Basics: Specialized Workshops
After completing Strengths 101 and coaching, students will be able to attend tailored workshops such as:
- Strengths 102: Theme Dynamics & Interaction
- Emotional Intelligence with CliftonStrengths
- Strengths Pathway to Resiliency
- Authentic Personal Branding Using Strengths
- Strengths-Based Leadership Effectiveness
- Using Strengths to Combat Imposter Syndrome
These sessions will empower students with practical tools to understand, apply, and lead with their natural talents.
A Culture of Confidence
As this initiative evolves, the goal is clear: build a strengths-based university culture that celebrates individuality, fosters resilience, and enhances community. As Kowalka shared:
“The introduction of CliftonStrengths at the University of Houston represents a transformational opportunity. By helping students, faculty, and staff understand and apply their natural talents, we are creating a foundation for a more engaged, confident, and resilient campus community. It’s not just a program—it’s a cultural shift toward strengths-based living and learning.”
With infrastructure in place and trained leaders ready to inspire, the CliftonStrengths Initiative is set to become a hallmark of the Cougar experience.
Written by Germaine Washington, Director of Marketing and Communications – Student Affairs in collaboration with Keith Kowalka – Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs - Student Life