ATHENS, Ohio -- Three Ohio University employees were presented with 2001-02 Outstanding Administrator Awards at a May 7 reception at the Baker University Center. Rodney Dowler, general manager of Nelson Dining Hall; Sharon Huge, director of the Hannah McCauley Library at Ohio University-Lancaster; and Randy Shelton, director of Housing and Food Service, are this year's recipients. Each will receive $1,000 for professional development.
First given in 1975, Outstanding Administrator Awards are presented to individuals who exemplify a strong commitment and distinguished service to Ohio University. The awards program is sponsored by Administrative Senate and voted on annually by a nine-member committee.
Dowler, in his 13th year at Ohio University, manages Nelson Dining Hall and is best known for his smile and friendly attitude toward customers and coworkers. Described as hardworking, responsible and reliable, his colleagues say he always does whatever it takes to get the job done. He also was instrumental in the creation of the Nelson Mini-Mall and also oversees the university's concessions efforts and banquets held at Nelson Commons.
"I was shocked when I found out I won this award," Dowler said. "Just to be nominated is an honor and to actually win feels even better. I just want to thank my staff for nominating me."
Huge, who has been at Ohio University since 1989, is praised for her competence, warmth and helpfulness, as well as her professionalism, integrity and creativity. She has earned the respect of students, faculty and staff by demonstrating a strong commitment to the university. She has served as a senator, committee chairman and Senate chairman of Administrative Senate and also has been involved with the Athens County Habitat for Humanity. Known by her peers as an excellent bibliographer, teacher and reference librarian, she is applauded for her insightful and broad-based view of the institution, its missions and its political process.
"I am surprised, thrilled and humbled at receiving the Outstanding Administrator Award, most especially humbled because it's an award given by my peers for whom I have the highest regard and admiration," Huge said. "I have always thought that good administrators are like good umpires. If we do our jobs well with honesty and integrity, just like good umpires we'll hardly be noticed, but our students will achieve their best and our faculty will thrive."
Shelton has been at the university for four years and is credited with many of the significant changes in Dining Services. Under his tutelage, the "Grab and Go" meal option was instituted, as well as the opening of convenience stores at several dining hall locations. He also played a major role in the university's purchase and renovation of Bromley Hall and the opening of the "Food We Love" store at Nelson Commons. Last year, Shelton launched the Local Farm to University program, which buys locally produced food items for use in the dining halls. The program is currently in its infancy stage, but is expected to significantly aid local farmers and the local economy once it reaches maturity.
"Winning this award is not about one individual -- it represents a team effort," Shelton said. "I was fortunate enough to win the award, but it truly represents the hard work of my staff. Housing and Dining Services employees takes the welfare of the Ohio University student very serious and it shows in their performance."
