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Guarding of the Rings: A Cherished UH Tradition at the Houston Zoo

December 05, 2024 —

University of Houston students, alumni and guests will participate in the time-honored Guarding of the Rings tradition on Friday, Dec. 6, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Houston Zoo.

This special event celebrates Cougar spirit and honors UH graduates as the zoo’s resident cougars, Shasta VII and his brother Louie, guard the rings of the University’s newest alumni.

Event Highlights

  • Class Ring Display: Rings will be showcased in a UH-themed box within the cougar habitat, symbolizing the strength and resilience of UH graduates.
  • Cougar Keeper Chat: Don’t miss the exciting behind-the-scenes insights during the cougar keeper chat at 11:30 a.m.
  • View the Cougars in Action: Watch Shasta VII and Louie as they interact with their habitat and guard the rings — a unique tradition blending the spirit of UH with the majesty of these iconic animals.

How to Reserve Tickets

  • UH Students enjoy free admission with a valid UH ID and reserved ticket. Select “College Student” under the “Discount Admission” section when reserving online on the Houston Zoo website.
  • Non-Members must purchase tickets online in advance from the Houston Zoo. No tickets will be available at the gate.
Shasta VII and Louie as cubs in 2022.
Shasta VII and Louie as cubs in 2022.
Shasta VII standing over a red crate that has an image of a UH class ring printed on it.
Shasta VII guarding the class rings at the Houston Zoo.
Shasta VII enjoying the view at the Houston Zoo.
Shasta VII enjoying the view at the Houston Zoo.

The Story of Shasta VII and Louie

Shasta VII and Louie, now emblematic representatives of the University of Houston, joined the Houston Zoo in November 2022 after being rescued as orphaned cubs in Washington state. At just four weeks old, the brothers were unlikely to survive on their own. After their transfer to the Lone Star State, the cubs found a home at the Houston Zoo and quickly became an integral part of the UH family.

This tradition began when the cubs were only 11 weeks old, and today, Shasta and Louie proudly carry on their duties, representing the strength, spirit and determination of the Cougar community.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with UH’s vibrant legacy and witness the symbolic union of tradition and wildlife at the Guarding of the Rings.

For more information about the Guarding of the Rings, visit the UH Alumni Association website.

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