(April 21, 2010) – The North Houston Association Board of Directors voted on April 14 to recognize Lone Star College System as the 2010 North Star Award honoree.
This prestigious award is given annually to an individual or company that has made a significant, long-term contribution to the north Houston region. Last year’s North Star Award honorees were Houston Mayor Bill White and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett who were recognized for their leadership during Hurricane Ike.
The award will be presented at the NHA awards luncheon on May 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hilton Houston North on Greenspoint Drive.
Paula Lenz, NHA executive director, indicated that the North Star Award is not handed out indiscriminately.
“This award is only given when there is a qualified candidate’” Lenz said.
LSCS was recognized for adding to the economic development of the region specifically through its new LSC-University Park, which opened in January, Lenz said.
LSC-University Park, at State Highway 249 and Louetta Road, is home to more than 4,000 students, the Lone Star Corporate College, which specializes in customized employee training and workforce education, an expansive conference center of more than 14,000 square feet, a dining facility able to accommodate 1,000 guests, and a university center that will debut this fall offering upper-level and graduate programs through partnerships with some of the best Texas universities.
Lenz noted that the purchase LSCS made when it bought this site, which was once the former global headquarters of Compaq Computers, was also a consideration.
“The Wall Street Journal gave national attention to Lone Star College System about what a smart transaction this was,” Lenz said.
NHA recognized overall that LSCS is making long-term improvements to the economy, Lenz said, “not just for now but for years to come.”
“Lone Star College System is honored to be recognized for its efforts in the north Houston area as we continue to better serve our community,” said Ray Laughter, vice chancellor of external affairs. “LSCS is intent upon providing the most affordable and best higher education option possible, while also fulfilling our role as a good community partner.”
The North Houston Association, founded in 1982, is a nonprofit organization that works closely with government agencies and other organizations to achieve specific goals which directly affect the quality of life in its service area which spans about 700 square miles. On behalf of its members, the association identifies, advocates and supports projects and initiatives which advance the business environment and improve the quality of life in north Harris and Montgomery counties.
To find out more about NHA, go to www.north-houston.com
With more than 62,000 students in credit classes in spring 2010, Lone Star College System is the second largest and the fastest-growing community college system in Texas and the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area. LSCS consists of five colleges including LSC-CyFair, LSC-Kingwood, LSC-Montgomery, LSC-North Harris, and LSC-Tomball, six centers, LSC-University Park, LSC-University Center at Montgomery, LSC-University Center at University Park, Lone Star Corporate College, and LSC-Online. To learn more visit LoneStar.edu.
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