A festive event benefiting the mission of University of Houston Libraries and Public Art of the University of Houston System was held recently at the home of Irma Brindis, a Houston philanthropist and real estate developer. Guests of “Un Brindis por University of Houston” enjoyed an elegant celebration of Día de los Muertos to support cultural archival collections for engagement, research, and learning.

UH Advancement student ambassadors Ida Hailu and Kenya Cardenas, development coordinator Melinda Colmenero, chief development officer Jaha Williams, development officer James Hays, and dean of UH Libraries and Elizabeth D. Rockwell chair Athena Jackson helped to produce the successful “Un Brindis por University of Houston.” Photo credit: Mauricio Lazo.

The Honorable Paula Mendoza and Mexico City-based sculptor Javier Marín were the evening’s honored guests. Venezuelan-born tenor Jonathan Sandoval delivered the evening’s vibrant musical entertainment, while guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner prepared by renowned chef Beatriz Martines, who hails from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico.

“Un Brindis por University of Houston” came to fruition through the generosity of Irma Brindis, who is active in chairing and hosting fundraising events for a wide range of causes. She began supporting the mission of UH Libraries in 2018, advancing student success and research productivity.