May 18, 2004

UNDERHILL’S DEDICATION RECOGNIZED
WITH THIS YEAR’S MCELHINNEY AWARD

In 1964, the Beatles took the world by storm, the St. Louis Cardinals beat the New York Yankees in the World Series, and Lyndon Baines Johnson was elected U.S. President. It also was the year Ona Underhill began her career with the University of Houston. Underhill, this year’s recipient of the C.F. McElhinney Distinguished Service Award, has seen many changes at UH since her arrival on campus. One thing, however, has remained consistent -- her dedication to both her department and the university. “I like where I work,” said Underhill, department business administrator for finance and operations in the Plant Operations Department. “I like being around people in this department because they work so hard. There are always challenges, and there is always something new to learn.” Underhill lived in the Houston area prior to joining the UH staff. Thanks to a tip from the Texas Employment Commission, she secured her first job at the university as a clerk for the physical plant.
		Ona Underhill, recipient of the C.F. McElhinney Distinguished Service Award

Since then, Underhill’s administrative talents have been tapped for a variety of tasks in her department. From serving as a secretary to manager of personnel and training to her current role as a business administrator, Underhill’s ability to work in multiple roles has made her an asset to the university.

Her current position requires Underhill to oversee many of her department’s financial responsibilities including purchase requisitions, accounting and billing.

“Her dedication to her job and the university has been outstanding,” said Clif Rapier, director of finance and operations. “Her work ethic is without equal. She sets only the highest standards for herself and has been instrumental in finding better ways for Plant Operations to serve the university.”

Rapier added that Underhill has been instrumental in upgrading a work order system that allows for more efficient service and that she always involved in helping streamline department processes.

“She’s beginning her 40th year at UH. I don’t believe that there is another staff member who has given more of herself to help the university succeed in its mission,” he said.

As this year’s McElhinney honoree, Underhill will receive a plaque and $2,500.

Just as UH has benefited from her many years on staff, Underhill herself feels indebted to her department and to the university. When she was looking for a job 40 years ago, she never thought she’d work for a university. Now, she could not imagine life without working at such an institution.

“I have a position of responsibility and I appreciate that,” Underhill said. “This university is a great place to work, and I think I happen to be in the right department for me.”

Mike Emery
memery@central.uh.edu