HCU to Expand On-Campus Housing with Repurchase of University Place Property

Houston, Texas, Sept. 25, 2025 - Houston Christian University (HCU) board of trustees voted to approve the repurchase of University Place, a residential complex adjacent to its main campus, on Tuesday, Sept. 16. The repurchase is set to take effect in or about July 2026, under the terms of a right of repurchase agreement with Memorial Hermann Health System (MHHS).

The land where University Place is located was sold to Memorial Hermann Health System by HCU (formerly Houston Baptist University) in 1988 with a repurchase option. HCU exercised its purchase option to be effective in or about July 2026.

HCU President Robert Sloan shared his enthusiasm about the upcoming acquisition that aligns with the University's goals of growing the student population to 10,000 by 2030.

"The opportunity to re-purchase University Place comes at a very opportune time for HCU. We are growing dramatically, and our on-campus housing is completely full. The additional 350 beds provided by this acquisition - which is surrounded by the HCU campus - will allow us to continue to grow and provide a great residential experience for our students," said Dr. Sloan.

University Place is a five-story residential facility encompassing 200,000 square feet and including 186 units. The building includes one- and two-bedroom apartments ranging from 528 to 1,056 square feet, suitable for accommodating junior-level to graduate students, as well as students with families. Each unit features a full-sized kitchen, and the facility provides modern amenities, including a commercial kitchen with a dining hall, and outdoor features such as a swimming pool and on-site parking.

Once repurchased, HCU will begin a strategic refresh of the facility, with planned upgrades including new furniture, updated finishes, branded signage and reprogramming of shared spaces to include social lounges and group study areas. The University anticipates reopening the facility as student housing in fall 2027.

"This acquisition represents a significant step forward in HCU's commitment to enhancing the student experience and meeting the evolving needs of our growing campus community," said Sandy Mooney, HCU Chief Financial Officer/Chief Operations Officer.

University Place is a natural and strategic extension of the University's housing portfolio, which currently includes 1,052 beds and operates at 98% occupancy.

The addition of University Place will expand the University's residential capacity by 33%, providing more students with the opportunity to live, learn and thrive within a connected campus environment.