Staff Spotlight: Mary Gould’s 49 Years of Supporting UH Cougars

December was a remarkable milestone for Mary Gould. The Director of Registration and Academic Records at the C. T. Bauer College of Business celebrated 49 years at the University of Houston.

A dedicated adviser and advocate for generations of UH students, Gould has devoted her career to helping students from all backgrounds achieve their goals.

Her journey at UH began in December 1975, sparked by a newspaper advertisement that led her to apply for a role in graduate admissions. Gould’s talent and enthusiasm quickly made an impression. Just six months later, she transitioned to the C. T. Bauer College of Business, where she discovered her true passion for student advising.

“The opportunity to talk to students, to help them see that there’s many ways to reach their goals, has always felt incredibly rewarding,” Gould said.

As an adviser, Gould has worked with students on everything from academic planning to overcoming personal challenges. She has been an anchor for students navigating the complexities of college life.

In her early years at UH, Gould assisted students with manual registration — a process that involved carrying stacks of paper forms to the registrar’s office. The work may have been tedious, but she cherished the opportunity to connect directly with students.

“Some students often don’t have a role model in their home or in their group of friends that can help them see that college isn’t an obstacle,” she said.

One of the most meaningful aspects of Gould’s career has been her involvement with the Jesse H. Jones Business Leadership Development Program. Launched in 1992, it provides scholarships and support to first-generation students, many of whom face significant financial challenges.

Gould has played a vital role in this program, guiding students to help them succeed in college and beyond.

“I enjoy finding ways that can help students,” she said. Through workshops, networking opportunities and personal mentorship, Gould helps these students build the confidence and skills they need to thrive.

“While I’m getting older, the students always seem to stay the same age. I love that they’re so fresh and curious, always exploring.”
Director of Registration and Academic Records Mary Gould

Mary Gould with former UH President Jay Gogue celebrating her 30 years of service at UH.

Mary Gould with former UH President Jay Gogue celebrating her 30 years of service at UH.

Mary Gould helping the platform party get ready at graduation.

Mary Gould helping the platform party get ready at graduation.

Over the years, Gould has witnessed UH evolve in ways she never imagined. She fondly recalls when the campus had a live cougar mascot.

“The Cougar Guard would walk the cougar around campus, and one day there was a baby cougar. Then-President Philip G. Hoffman would sit by its enclosure, playing with it and taking photos. It was such a memorable sight,” she recalled.

Philip G. Hoffman with Shasta.

Philip G. Hoffman with Shasta.

Reflecting on her nearly five decades of service, Gould credits her colleagues and the students for keeping her motivated.

“Everyone at UH is so helpful and collaborative. We all want to help students succeed, and I feel a connection to the new generation of students,” she shared. “While I’m getting older, the students always seem to stay the same age. I love that they’re so fresh and curious, always exploring.”

It’s this sense of renewal and her desire to make a difference that have fueled her passion for 49 years. For Gould, each student’s journey is a powerful reminder of why she loves her work.

Her legacy at UH will continue to influence lives for years to come.