Sam Schreiber and Vice President for Alumni Relations Mike Pede
Since graduating from Bauer College of Business, Sam Schreiber (’74) has spent his career in banking, currently serving as president of Chain Bridge Bank in McLean, VA. But when it comes to Cougar Pride, his enthusiasm isn’t limited to one field.
Take, for instance, President Renu Khator’s goal of founding a University of Houston medical school. “That should resonate with all of us as alumni,” Sam explains, “because it creates a greater value proposition for the University.”
Since moving to the Washington, D.C. area in 1999, Sam has made a point to attend as many local University of Houston events as possible. The reception on December 2 at the Decatur Carriage House, however, stands out. “The reception was the largest gathering I can recall of our alumni groups in D.C.,” he says. “It shows the depth and breadth of our alumni base, and their heightened interest level.” He also hosted a smaller-scale dinner for President Khator and other UH supporters afterward, which included “a very diverse group, full of spirited discussion about the future of the University of Houston.”
That enthusiasm is rooted in UH’s recent accomplishments, and powerful potential for growth. “What’s great about President Khator is that she is equally passionate about all facets of the University,” Sam says. “Her vision is bold and achievable. I believe she has the ability — along with those of us who can assist in that vision — to really shape the University for decades to come.”
A New York City native, Sam’s own interest in Houston began during family visits as a child, and persisted when he began to apply to colleges. As a result, he was one of the first students to move into Moody Towers after their construction. “At the time, Houston seemed like a place where there was opportunity,” he recalls. That turned out to be true for him, especially in terms of his career; he got his start at what was then Texas Commerce Bank. “Attending UH turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.”
Distance hasn’t slowed down his involvement. “I’ve had a chance to live in a number of different cities, and it’s great to always have a claim to the University through the Alumni Association,” he says. He is also a consistent donor, citing a strong connection to the foundation UH gave him. “I’ve been successful in my business career, and I think it’s only prudent and appropriate to give back whenever possible,” he explains.
The Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl on December 31 was another opportunity to reminisce with friends, of which Sam took full advantage. Of course, being a UH alumnus isn’t just about football, or a medical school, or business, but a unified endeavor toward excellence. The Highlight Houston events in December, it was another opportunity for Sam — and the growing D.C. alumni population — to learn about that vision. “I’m proud to be an alumnus and proud to be involved,” Sam says. “For UH, I think the best is yet to come.”