PASADENA, Texas (AP) — South Houston High School celebrated its rich legacy and the remarkable achievements of its alumni with a heartwarming Hall of Honor induction ceremony on September 20, just before its much-anticipated homecoming game. The event brought together generations of proud Trojans, highlighting the enduring impact of the school on its community. 

Established in 2015, the alumni association began as a charitable initiative to promote educational programs, foster alumni unity and fellowship, support periodic reunions for alumni and students, and conduct fundraising and other charitable activities benefiting the school, its current students, and alumni. 

The preparation for the Hall of Honor was a community effort, especially after the alumni all revitalized around 2010 through social media postings and community events to form what is now their alumni association.

From that first Trojan social media community, the group transitioned into thousands of alumni getting involved with giving back to the school that invested in them. 

Al Carter, vice president of the SHHS Alumni Association, understands the value of being a lifelong Trojan, and for him, his roots run deep at SHHS.

“This was the 10th school I had attended by the time I got to the ninth grade. So, this was a special place to me. I actually got to know people, got to study people, got to know teachers. And so, it was a wonderful four-year experience for me, and since I’ve graduated, I’ve never lost the sense of being a Trojan,” Carter said.

The South Houston Wall of Honor has always been a significant tribute to dedicated Trojans, and for this new class of inductees, the honor was deeply personal. This year’s class included three former students and two faculty members. It was a phenomenal experience to see how far they’ve grown.

As festivities began, alumni discussed past spring shows, reminisced about the changing landscapes of the school, and honored the exceptional stories of their fellow Trojan friends from the past.

The amazement didn’t stop there as all alumni and inductees entered the South Houston Hall of History Museum, established in 2010 to showcase the beauty, essence, and pride of classes from 1957 to the late 2010s and beyond. 

With over 240 donations from graduates, the museum continues to display a real-world blast to the past.

As the museum tour ended, the inductees, other alumni, and families entered the auditorium for a meal and a beautiful chorus of “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire, performed by the Trojan choir and South Houston culinary students, ahead of the induction ceremony.

Various generations of Alumni watched as Current Trojan teachers like Elton Dyer and Lieutenant Sergeant Cheeks shared stories of faculty inductees like Patrick Fox, whose spirit and heart profoundly impacted their lives.

“He taught me how to be a teacher, he instilled a purpose within me,” Dyer said. The event honored those who have lost one of these inductees and exemplified what it means to be a true Trojan.

As the induction continued one alum was a true unsung hero for the Trojans as this year's David Ainsworth Alumni Spirit Award goes to Mr. Bobby Allen for his significant contributions to the Trojan community. After donating over $10,000 to the museum and other projects his impact has been resounding and will continue to be celebrated over generations. 

“South Houston was my home, this is where I got my first big play, and I’ve never stopped loving it. To me I’ll forever be a trojan,” said Allen. 

The South Houston community came together to celebrate the legacy of excellence fostered by its alumni. The Hall of Honor induction not only highlighted the school’s rich history but also inspired current students to strive for greatness. 

Meet the 2024-2025 South Houston Trojans Alum Inductions 

David Ainsworth Alumni Spirit Award: Bobby Allen (Class of 1965) 

Bobby Allen was a standout football player at South Houston High School, becoming the first all-state player in the school’s history. He continued his football career at Texas Tech, where he also excelled. After college, Allen achieved significant success in business and remained a generous supporter of his alma mater. He funded various programs and initiatives, including the establishment of the Hall of History, even getting the museum dedicated to him was the cherry on top. Allen is recognized for his unwavering commitment to giving back to South Houston High School. 

Alumni Inductee: Brand Norman Griffin, Class of 1965  

Brand Norman Griffin graduated from South Houston High School in 1965. He pursued higher education in architecture, earning degrees from the University of Texas and Washington State. Griffin’s career includes significant contributions to NASA, where he was involved in designing lunar bases and space habitats. He has also served on the faculties of several universities and authored numerous technical publications. Griffin’s work has been recognized for its impact on space exploration and architecture. 

Alumni Inductee: Carla Thomas, Class of 1980 

Carla Thomas graduated from South Houston High School in 1980 and went on to have a distinguished career as a senior photographer at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center. Her work has been featured in prominent publications such as National Geographic and Aerospace America. Thomas has received several awards for her outstanding contributions to aerospace photography, including the Women in Aerospace’s 30th Anniversary Commemorative Award. Her photography often captures high-altitude and dynamic scenes, showcasing her exceptional skills and dedication. 

Alumni Inductee: Michael Seale (Class of 1963) 

Michael Seale had a distinguished career in the Air Force, serving in Vietnam and Operation Desert Storm, and retiring with the rank of colonel. He was known for his expertise in logistics and transportation, holding several high-level positions within the Air Force. After his military service, he continued to contribute to government operations as a compliance manager. Seale’s dedication to service and his community is celebrated through his induction into the Hall of Honor. 

Faculty Inductee: Ammon Ford Alford (1959-1968) 

Ammon Ford Alford was a chemistry teacher at South Houston High School from 1959 to 1968. He conducted a notable nutrition study with his students, which gained national attention and was even featured in a commercial on the CBS game show “What’s My Line?” Alford was also an integral part of the football coaching staff, administering oxygen to players on the sidelines. After his tenure at South Houston, he taught at Channelview High School and continued his research in nutrition. Alford’s contributions to education and student well-being have left a legacy.