Houston Daily

The University of Houston's Diane Z. Chase has been recognized as one of Houston Woman Magazine's 50 Most Influential Women of 2024. With this accolade, Chase, the Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost at UH, joins other local leaders in the list released as part of the magazine’s 21st-anniversary celebrations.

Chase expressed her appreciation for the honor by attributing it to the work and dedication of the University of Houston community. "It is certainly an honor to be nominated to this list of amazing women," Chase stated. "Each day, I am motivated by the faculty, staff, and students of UH. They inspire me to work hard and support the success of this amazing University."

Chase, who took her position as chief academic officer at UH in 2023, is responsible for overseeing the Office of the Provost and the Division of Academic Affairs. In addition to her roles at UH, she serves as the UH System's senior vice chancellor for academic affairs, contributing to the academic quality across UH System’s institutions, including UH-Clear Lake, UH-Downtown, and UH-Victoria.

Apart from her administrative duties, Chase is an accomplished archaeologist, conducting research at the Caracol archaeological site in Belize, alongside her husband Arlen Chase, who is also a UH faculty member.

The recipients of this recognition were celebrated at a banquet attended by Houston Mayor and UH alumnus John Whitmire. "Houston is home to countless successful women dedicated to enhancing our city’s quality of life," Whitmire noted in his comments to honor the recipients. "The 50 women featured in the 2024 edition possess extensive social and professional networks and have earned distinguished reputations in their respective fields."

The list of influential women includes a diverse group of professionals, such as physicians, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Reflecting on this achievement, Chase said, "It is gratifying to have my name next to so many great minds within our city. All of these honorees are contributing to their respective industries and the growth of our city."

The recognition by Houston Woman Magazine underscores the significant contributions of these female leaders to both the city and their professional realms.