Guarding of the Rings: A Cougar-Powered Tradition at the Houston Zoo

Every university boasts its unique traditions, but the University of Houston (UH) has a legacy that roars—literally. This Friday, December 6, the beloved Guarding of the Rings ceremony returns to the Houston Zoo, uniting graduates, alumni, and Cougar enthusiasts in a celebration that’s as wild as it is heartwarming. From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., UH’s vibrant spirit will shine alongside the zoo’s resident cougars, Shasta VII and his brother, Louie, as they proudly safeguard the rings of the university’s newest alumni.

A Tradition Rooted in Resilience

The Guarding of the Rings isn’t just an event—it’s a symbol of the strength, determination, and community that defines the University of Houston. At the heart of this tradition lies the majestic cougar duo, Shasta VII and Louie, who have become icons of the Cougar spirit. This year's event promises an unforgettable experience, blending UH pride with the awe-inspiring beauty of wildlife.

Attendees can marvel at the class rings displayed in a UH-themed box within the cougar habitat—a nod to the resilience and fortitude of UH graduates. Meanwhile, Shasta VII and Louie embody the Cougar community's strength as they "guard" these cherished symbols of achievement.

Event Highlights

• Class Ring Display: Witness the rings showcased in a custom UH-themed box nestled in the cougar habitat, creating a striking fusion of tradition and wildlife.
• Cougar Keeper Chat: At 11:30 a.m., get an insider’s view during a special chat with the cougar keepers. Learn about Shasta VII and Louie's journey from orphaned cubs to proud ambassadors of Cougar pride.
• Cougar Viewing: Watch as Shasta and Louie interact with their environment, showcasing their playful yet protective nature.

How to Attend

• UH Students: Admission is free with a valid UH ID and reserved ticket. Simply select “College Student” under the “Discount Admission” section on the Houston Zoo website.
• Non-Members: Tickets must be purchased online in advance, as no tickets will be available at the gate.

Meet Shasta VII and Louie

Shasta VII and Louie’s story is as inspiring as the tradition they represent. Rescued as orphaned cubs in Washington state, the brothers faced uncertain futures. At just four weeks old, they were unlikely to survive in the wild. Thanks to a remarkable rescue effort, the duo found their forever home at the Houston Zoo in November 2022.

Now thriving in their habitat, Shasta VII and Louie are living symbols of resilience and care. This tradition began when the cubs were just 11 weeks old, and today, their role as guardians of the rings has cemented their place in UH history.

Why It Matters

The Guarding of the Rings is more than a celebration; it’s a testament to the enduring bond between UH and the city of Houston. As a Tier One public research university located in one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse cities in the nation, UH stands as a beacon of opportunity, excellence, and community. This cherished tradition highlights the unique intersection of academia, wildlife, and Houston pride.

Join the Legacy

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind event that brings together the past, present, and future of the Cougar family. Whether you’re a proud alum, a graduating senior, or just a fan of traditions that roar with spirit, the Guarding of the Rings is a must-see.

For more information, visit the UH Alumni Association website.

This December, let’s celebrate resilience, community, and a little Cougar magic. Because at UH, tradition isn’t just something we uphold—it’s something we live.

For more info, visit https://houstonalumni.com/for-students/uh-class-rings/

#GoCoogs #GuardingOfTheRings #UHSpirit