Testimonials

The Executive Human Resources Development program at the University of Houston has been a transformative experience for me. The curriculum is comprehensive, blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications that are directly relevant to today’s dynamic business environment. The faculty, comprised of experienced professionals and academic experts, provide invaluable insights and mentorship, helping to bridge the gap between academic concepts and real-world HR challenges.

One of the standout aspects of the program is its focus on strategic thinking and leadership. The coursework and interactive sessions have equipped me with the skills to develop and implement innovative HR strategies that align with organizational goals. The assigned literature was rich with tools, and we often had the pleasure of meeting with the authors thanks to the diligence of the program director.

The networking opportunities are unparalleled. Being surrounded by a cohort of accomplished professionals from various industries has enriched my learning experience and expanded my professional network. The collaborative projects and discussions have not only enhanced my understanding of HR but also provided a platform to share best practices and gain new insights.

I highly recommend the Executive Human Resources Development program at the University of Houston to any HR professional looking to advance their career. It has been an enriching journey that has significantly enhanced my capabilities as a leader and strategic partner within my organization.

—Briana Sherbenou, Recruiting Manager, Consolidated Asset Management Services, Cohort 12, Class 2024

I first learned about the Executive Master’s Degree in Human Resources in 2019. I was at a point in my career where I was doing well, but I felt I could increase my knowledge base. Unfortunately, I hesitated in applying for the program because I thought it would be too time-consuming. After that, along with everybody else, I experienced COVID-19, and along with everybody else, I received a crash course on how small the world is. Once things settled down, I looked again at the UH website and realized that this was the next step for my career goals. I made the call and connected with Dr. Waight.

I still wasn’t sure what I was signing up for, but I was happy to take on a new challenge. During orientation, I was told that this program would alter not only my career path but also my life in many ways. I was also told that I would speak differently after taking these courses. I didn’t quite understand what she meant, and I also didn’t quite believe what she was talking about. And to my utter shock and amazement, everything she said came to pass.

In the middle of the program, I changed employers and landed a manager role. Financially, I am in a much more advantageous position now, and I am in daily conversations with the leaders of my organization. Strategic discussions with leaders were uncommon for me before completing this program.

Due to this program, my career and role mindset have entirely changed. I thank Dr. Waight, the other professors, the program manager, the graduate assistants, and my cohort for contributing to my professional success.

—Jose Romero, HR Manager, Factory Builder Stores, Cohort 11, Class 2024

Participating in the human resources development program has been pivotal in my career journey. The program equipped me with invaluable skills and knowledge that have benefited my personal growth and directly contributed to our organization's success. Through the program, I gained a deeper understanding of HR best practices, leadership principles, and employee development strategies that have helped me effectively lead and support our team. The program's emphasis on continuous learning and professional development has inspired me to strive for excellence and continually seek growth opportunities for myself and the organization. I am genuinely grateful for the transformative experience it has provided and its positive impact on my career and our organization.

—Lilian Abaa Okorie, Deputy Manager, Petroleum Technology Development Fund, Nigeria, Cohort 10, Class 2023

The Executive HRD Program at the University of Houston has truly transformed me as a leader in organization development and transformational change. A unique small cohort experience has now developed into lifelong personal and professional friendships that I will be forever grateful. In addition, the professors and the curriculum provided a stimulating and collaborative learning environment that gave us hands-on practice, self-reflection, real-world projects, and networking opportunities. I took what I learned and, in alignment with my organization’s strategy, developed comprehensive and strategic talent development interventions that led to meaningful change. This program truly is a transformative opportunity for anyone seeking to make a meaningful impact in any function in the organization.

—Amanda Kite, Sales & Commercial Learning Director, Baker Hughes, Cohort 8, Class 2021

My experience in the Executive HRD Program at the University of Houston was nothing short of transformative. The cohort design created an environment that allowed me to build strong relationships, practice vulnerability, and learn that it is safe to fail and grow. As a Learning Technology leader, the focus on organizational development, dialogic change, and strategic design has enabled me to take a strategic approach to learning technology by creating deeper connections with partners and stakeholders, reframing how I approach change through conversations, and uncovering the unique needs of the organization. As a result, I’ve grown as a leader and trusted expert in my organization and across the field of learning technology.

—Jennifer Flores, Global Learning Technology and Operations, Slalom, Cohort 8, Class of 2021

It has been a true privilege to be part of the growing community of professionals who are part of the Executive MS HRD program at the University of Houston. There is a profound feeling of gratitude towards each professor and colleague involved in my learning journey. Throughout the program, I gradually evolved into a transformative leader, which enabled me to instantly begin to use the tools acquired from the program at work, as well as within my personal relationships. Most importantly, this learning experience has exceeded the return on my investment and enabled me to lead with a strategic approach allowing Pioneer Engineering to maintain a competitive edge during the constant challenges in our industry and economy.

—Adan Morales, Office Manager at Pioneer Engineering, Cohort 8, Class of 2021

The Executive HRD program has had a profound impact on me, both professionally and personally. The course curriculum is masterfully designed and extremely rich. Having been in Human Resources practice for nearly 20 years, I can truly say that through the relationships with my professors and cohort members, and several key learnings in consulting practice, organizational development, learning design, culture and leadership, I have gained new knowledge and perspective that have enabled me to be a more effective and confident strategic partner to my organization.

—Shannon Polite, Director, Human Resources, Fluor Corporation, Cohort 7, Class of 2020

The Executive MS HRD program taught at the University of Houston is par excellence! The instructors are passionate; the coursework is relevant, and the experience is meaningful. I have chosen this program because it has taught me to be valuable wherever I am—in the boardroom, at home or in the community at large. The professors strip away the extraneous routines and get right to the business of nurturing their students to become successful consultants, researchers, and practitioners. Strategy and tactics are taught hand in hand with cross-cultural agility and prudent leadership. The courses encourage broad thinking and reinforce an oft-forgotten but significant principle: regardless of industries, challenges, or opportunities, people must be kept first. I wholeheartedly recommend this program. The coursework is rigorous, and the instructors are exacting; but it is short, to the point, and oh so very rewarding! You will undoubtedly leave changed.

—Winston Jose, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist, Premier Inc., Cohort 7

The workload is rigorous and requires a strong commitment to the overall body of work. It is very comprehensive, practical, relevant, and immediately became applicable to my daily work. More than theory, it’s genuinely practicum-based, and is useful in my career as a Human Resources Manager. The interventions I developed are practical, project-based, and are relevant in real-time. The professors are excellent, they challenge us to view matters from various perspectives- allowing us to emerge as exceptionally strategic practitioners and planners with the ability to set realistic, yet challenging, goals, and objectives- not only for ourselves but for the overall health of our organization.”

—Zee Turnbull, Director, Human Resources, Episcopal Diocese, Cohort 7

The University of Houston MS HRD program helped me accelerate my leadership contributions as a newly promoted HR Manager responsible for supporting a cross-functional executive team. I chose this program because of the reputable alumni that shared compelling experiences of their personal and professional growth. The HRD program provided a deeper level and a more strategic view of what it means to be a trusted business partner. It helped me refine my influencing skills and find my voice as a leader. This program helped accelerate my strategic organization development skills, and as a result, I can genuinely take a consultative approach to diagnose challenges within my organization. Lastly, the diverse contributions of my cohort created a fantastic learning community that helped with the work-school-life balance.

—Abigail Trujillo, Vice President, Human Resources, Crane Pumps and Systems, Cohort 6, Class of 2019

My experience in the Executive Human Resource Development program has been truly fruitful and enriching to my personal and professional life. Despite a career in the United States Army, the program unlocked a new level of focus, discipline, and capacity to be my best self, as a professional, a husband, a father and a member of my cohort “The Masterminds.” Having a faculty helping you through the tough times and celebrating the good times has been invaluable. The transformational growth I experienced is priceless, and I would encourage any prospective student looking for a life-changing experience to consider this program. Over the course of the program, I have been able to apply the HRD tools and techniques to my work environment. Not only have I grown as a leader, but the knowledge gained has helped me to influence and grow leaders in my organization. This enables me to share concepts learned and enhance the confidence of my colleagues, associates, and senior leaders.

—Manuel Rodriguez, Supervisory Emergency Management Specialist, FEMA, Cohort 6, Class of 2019

The Executive Human Resource Development program was one of the most demanding and rewarding experiences of my professional life. The one-year program is very fast-paced, but the daily inclusion of the content into my work and personal life made the learning experience a truly holistic one. I appreciated how much practical wisdom and corporate experience the professors brought to the program. Because we were embedding our learning into our work on a daily basis, I had the opportunity to test things while still learning. Seeing positive results from that approach over and over while having the opportunity to get feedback and coaching from my professors in real time has embedded the knowledge in a way that a purely academic program would not.

—Dovie Crouse, Director, FMG Leading, Cohort 2, Class of 2014

The University of Houston's Executive Human Resource Development Program provided me an opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills in building out programs and processes strategically. The coursework allowed for immediate application of organization development theories and frameworks in the workplace. I appreciate the flexibility and "global" structure of a one year program which allowed our cohort to find a balance between career and academics. Having completed the program, my biggest take away was the ability to use the knowledge learned across various industries. I previously held a nine years career in financial services and my executive HRD education provided me an opportunity to follow a passion in education—driving opportunities for future generations. I now lead professional leaders programs with Latinos for Education; an education nonprofit focused on ensuring Latino leadership representation across the education sector. The University of Houston is "home," so much so that I now continue my journey pursuing a Doctoral degree in Education—a goal which would not have happened if I had not been experienced the Executive HRD program. Go Coogs!

—Ricardo Rodriguez, Senior Director, Development & Strategic Partnerships, Ensemble Learning, Cohort 2, Class of 2014

The HRD program is one of a kind. Throughout the program I saw myself transform and grow into a strategic leader that elevated my career far beyond my expectations. The program provided me with the foundation, tools and confidence to think bigger and make strategic decisions that ultimately led me to become a relevant leader within my organization. In addition, the strong team connect and support that I received from my professors and fellow Cohortians was amazing. I can now say with confidence, that I am truly a HRD Professional- thank you ExHRD Program!!

—Denise Backus, Director, HR Business Partner, Community Health Choice, Cohort 5, Class of 2017

The Executive Master's HRD program was a defining moment in my career. Prior to completing the program, my engagement at work was more reactive and tactical. However, since completing the Executive Master's HRD I have been exposed to a cadre of professors that have contributed to an awakening in me. This awakening has allowed me to have a better perspective regarding the balance of tactical and strategic conversations. In some sense, the timing with the downturn in the oil market provided a great opportunity for changes to be made, but at the same time, I can say that using the ideas and practical applications generated from my participation in the Executive Master's HRD made the conversations around changing our organization a lot better. Additionally, I have been able to expand my network of professionals that are able to enrich my professional life and give me resources previously unknown or available. The Executive Master's HRD is an experience that was well worth the time and money.

—Franklin Brown, Learning Solutions Manager, McCarthy Building Companies, Cohort 4, Class of 2016

Although I had a great deal of OD consulting experience before entering UH Sugar Land’s Executive HRD program, this program significantly expanded my knowledge base and strengthened my resume, such that I was able to explore many new opportunities until I found the perfect job. More than that, my professional network has grown significantly, including UH professors, industry guest speakers, and members from several HRD cohorts. For me, the HRD program was a major career-changing, life experience on both a personal and professional level.

—Jeff Cameron, Manager-Organization Transformation & Technical Development, Lockheed Martin, Cohort 3-Class 2015

As a working professional, I was seeking a program that would allow me to continue my career as I pursued my degree. The Executive Master’s in HRD program allowed me to do just that. The program complemented my busy work schedule and allowed me to apply my learnings on the job. The fast-paced program refined the way I look at leadership, organization development, and instructional design. It expanded my view on adult learning, consulting, and networking. An added layer, not marketed in the program, are relationships you gain within your cohort and the professors. Everyone brings a diversity of thought to the table, which the program structure encourages. The program was a wonderful experience and I would recommend it to anyone looking to expand their view of Human Resource.

—James Godina, HR Shared Services Lead, Chevron, Cohort 5, Class of 2017

I chose the Executive Human Resource Development program because of the flexibility and convenience it offered. My learning style is best suited for “in class” discussion, but as a leader, a husband and a father, I needed a program that allowed me to balance all those things while still getting a high quality education. I felt this program was built just for me. The program also increased my consulting skills and strengthened the ones I already had. By doing that, it has helped me better satisfy clients and be seen as a strategic HR partner and leadership expert.

—Kolby Ivanhoe, VP of Human Resources at Wood, Cohort 2, Class 2014

There are not enough words to describe how impactful the Executive Human Resource Development program, at the University of Houston, has been on my life. It was a transformative experience for me personally and professionally. Professionally, the program provided direct access to the latest research and resources, incredible experts in the field, who facilitated learning in a manner that modeled what it means to build capacity in others and within an organization. I gained the knowledge, critical thinking skills and the confidence to establish myself as a strategic business partner in my organization. The ExHRD program created a safe, supportive, and nurturing setting that allowed me to discover who I was at the core. As a result, I am able to drive change, and assist in the agility and responsiveness of my organization. On the personal front, the program provided an amazing cohort experience. I gained the dearest friends which I will have for life!

—Anh Lee, Global Learning Design Principal for Global Sales Enablement, Surgical Operating Unit, Medtronic, Cohort 3, 2015

University of Houston’s Executive HRD program provided me the exposure and knowledge to take my career to the next level. As a sales professional who spends upwards of 70% of my time traveling, UH’s HRD program provided me the flexibility to attain my masters while still working and traveling full time. The core project that I worked on throughout the program pushed and rewarded me in ways I did not know was possible. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to differentiate themselves and has passion towards affecting change in your organization, regardless of your career field concentration.

—Ashleigh Noud, Global Customer Experience, Brand Strategy & Marketing Manager, Chevron, Cohort 4, Class of 2016

As Human Resources Professionals, HR should be prepared for trends in order to be effective, efficient and successful in all areas. The program will stretch and challenge you on all levels; however, in the end you will have a multitude of tools, techniques, resources, references, connections, associations, and relationships. The program allows for immediate application. The courses are outlined to provide a foundation and layers are built upon each other. You will definitely leave the program a different person – well developed, equipped and prepared for the future. The University of Houston staff is professional, dedicated and committed to the program. The wealth of information and expertise provided are invaluable.

—Lisa Olmeda, Human Resources Benefits Specialist, Cohort 2, Class of 2014