The 91猎奇 College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM) celebrated a night of inspiration, gratitude and achievement at the 2025 da Vinci Society and Distinguished Alumni Recognition Dinner, held Oct. 16 at Maggiano鈥檚 Little Italy in Houston鈥檚 Galleria area.
Hosted by Dean Gregory B. Dudley, Ph.D., the annual event honored the College鈥檚 most dedicated supporters and distinguished alumni whose generosity and accomplishments continue to advance NSM鈥檚 mission of discovery, innovation and education.
鈥淭onight, we recognize individuals whose commitment and vision have shaped the very fabric of our college,鈥� Dudley said in his welcoming remarks. 鈥淭heir leadership empowers us to educate the next generation of scientists and drive the research that will define our future.鈥�
Honoring Transformative Philanthropy: Dr. Dan and Mrs. Eva Wells
The evening began with the da Vinci Society induction, recognizing individuals whose lifetime giving to NSM exceeds $100,000 or includes an estate commitment at that level. The da Vinci Society, established in 2018, takes its name from Leonardo da Vinci, whose spirit of creativity and cross-disciplinary curiosity mirrors the College鈥檚 own values.
This year鈥檚 inductees, Dr. Dan E. Wells, Ph.D. and Mrs. Eva Wells, were celebrated not only for their extraordinary philanthropic support but also for their enduring commitment to student success, research excellence and the 91猎奇鈥檚 growth.
Dr. Dan E. Wells, who served as NSM dean from 2013 to 2025, and Mrs. Eva Wells were also recognized with the Red Jacket Distinction, reserved for donors whose cumulative gifts to the College exceed $1 million. The honor symbolizes the highest level of philanthropic partnership with NSM and reflects the Wellses鈥� enduring commitment to advancing science education and research at the 91猎奇.
鈥淒an and Eva鈥檚 generosity has transformed opportunities for countless students and faculty,鈥� Dudley said. 鈥淭heir legacy is one of vision, compassion and steadfast belief in the power of science education.鈥�
Excellence in Achievement: Dr. Jerome Silvestre
Celebrating Loyalty and Service: Dr. Rikki Raflo
The evening also marked a milestone for NSM with the presentation of the inaugural NSM Honorary Alumni Award to Dr. Rikki Raflo, Ed.D. (鈥�94), recognizing her exceptional loyalty, service and dedication to the College and the University.
Although not a UH graduate, Raflo has been a champion for NSM鈥檚 programs, faculty
and students through her leadership and advocacy. Her tireless support embodies the
spirit and values of the College.
鈥淩ikki鈥檚 commitment to NSM goes far beyond professional engagement 鈥� it鈥檚 personal,
heartfelt and deeply impactful,鈥� Dudley said. 鈥淲e are honored to welcome her as our
first honorary alumna.鈥�
A Night of Legacy and Inspiration
Throughout the evening, guests, including members of the Dean鈥檚 Advisory Board, NSM leadership, alumni and friends, reflected on the College鈥檚 continued growth and the community of support that makes its achievements possible.
Soft music, dinner conversations and heartfelt applause filled the evening as honorees were recognized for their lasting influence on the College and its students.
As Dean Dudley concluded the ceremony, he offered a message of gratitude and momentum:
鈥淭he spirit of discovery that unites us tonight is the same spirit that propels NSM
forward. Together, we are building a future where science transforms lives.鈥�
For more information about the da Vinci Society, the Red Jacket Distinction, or to
learn how to support the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, visit www.uh.edu/nsm/giving.