Click here to read more Cougar Corner profiles HORTENSIA STRIPLING ('86) Hard Work Often Translates Into Success As the first member of her family to attend college, Hortensia Stripling ('86) was destined to take the unconventional route. Young and ambitious, Stripling enrolled at the University of Houston back in 1978, but could only attend classes on a part-time basis due to a lack of financial support. For eight consecutive years, she managed to juggle school with her full-time job as an administrative assistant at Brown & Root. Exhibiting perseverance and an unyielding hunger for success, each evening, Stripling would leave behind the rigors of corporate America and transform into her role as a diligent UH student until she graduated in 1986 with a degree in Human Resources. “It took a lot of effort and sacrifice, but the experience was truly rewarding and has allowed me to advance my career,” Stripling said. “I've always had a great sense of accomplishment and pride in obtaining my education from the University of Houston.” Over 20 years later, Stripling's humble beginnings have translated into success. After climbing the ranks at Brown & Root, the native Texan decided to pursue her interest in foreign languages and start her own translation company. Stripling is currently president of United Language Translations, Inc., a Houston-based company that provides translation expertise for a wide-range of industries. In her role as president, she primarily focuses on sales, business development and managing a worldwide network of professional translators. In addition to establishing a flourishing career, Stripling has managed to establish a strong Cougar Connection. She and her husband Travis ('71, M.S.C.E. '72) often attend alumni, athletics, and art events on campus. Both are also Houston Alumni Organization Life Members and Life Member Circle of Excellence donors. “My husband and I had reached a point where we had achieved some success and wanted to give back to UH. However, I think that we've received much more than we've given,” she said. One of the university's biggest advocates, Stripling has played a role in establishing a UH scholarship at Brown & Root and also influenced both her sister and best friend to attend UH. She now hopes that her story and her philanthropy can translate into helping current working students realize that their dreams can be achieved if they just stay the course. And that sounds good in any language. ( more )