Cheryl Underwood Honored with "Friend of the Division Award" for Outstanding Contribution to the Division of Student Affairs

DSA News
December 12, 2023

The Division of Student Affairs proudly announces Cheryl Underwood as the recipient of the prestigious "Friend of the Division Award". Dr. Daniel Maxwell, interim vice president for student affairs recently presented Cheryl with the award at her retirement celebration and shared, “In recognition of her exceptional dedication, care, and professionalism in support of the division over the last decade, I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition then Cheryl Underwood.”

Cheryl Underwood, serving as an administrative assistant at the University of Houston (UH) at the Sugar Land instructional site, has been a cornerstone of support for students and colleagues alike. Her commitment to fostering a positive environment has significantly contributed to the success of the Division of Student Affairs.

The "Friend of the Division Award" is a coveted accolade aligning with the division’s value of "Collaboration," specifically designed to honor faculty or staff members outside the Division of Student Affairs. Nominees are sought for their outstanding contributions to co-curricular activities and their role in advancing the division's overall mission. Cheryl said, “I am deeply honored to receive the UH ‘Friends of the Division Award,’ and overcome with joy at being chosen by the UH Division of Student Affairs for such a coveted accolade. Your recognition of my work has touched me deeply, and I thank you from my heart.”

"We are so fortunate that Cheryl oftentimes was the first person people met when they came to our Sugar Land site,” said Jay Neal, associate vice president of the Sugar Land and Katy instructional sites. “Her warmth and consideration conveyed our very spirit of welcome that we hope to express to all our faculty, staff, students, and visitors. We’re so proud of her and celebrate this award with her.”

Throughout her tenure, Cheryl has actively supported co-curricular activities provided by the Division of Student Affairs and has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure the success of students. Her ability to work seamlessly across divisions has been instrumental in creating a cohesive and supportive campus community. Dr. Monica Thomson, interim associate vice president for student affairs said, “Serving as the welcoming face in our lobby, Cheryl personified warmth and kindness, becoming a beacon of inspiration for countless guests and students. Throughout the fluctuations of organizational change, she stood as an unwavering pillar, shaping the atmosphere with unparalleled dedication and exceptional support for her colleagues. Cheryl's enduring spirit reminds us that in the face of life's challenges, kindness, and respect cost nothing but resonate profoundly.”

The "Friend of the Division Award" is a testament to Cheryl Underwood's outstanding contributions and commitment to the University of Houston at Sugar Land. The award ceremony, set to take place in May 2024, will celebrate Cheryl's achievements and highlight her impact on the Division of Student Affairs.

Germaine Washington, Director of Marketing and Communications – Division of Student Affairs