After 38 years, an unsung UNMC legend is calling it quits.
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Tom O’Connor |
It’s been quite a ride for Lee, who arguably knows more about UNMC than just about anybody on campus.
He’s worked under seven different chancellors — everyone except Cecil Wittson, M.D. An accounting major in college, Lee has been involved in just about every financial facet that involves the medical center.
“He’s done it all,” said Don Leuenberger, vice chancellor for business and finance. “Everything from accounting to purchasing to facilities to audit to sponsored programs to budget. Del has been the go to person for business and finance.”
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Del Lee |
Four years ago, Lee wanted to retire, but the College of Medicine convinced him to stay on a part-time basis. They needed him to help work through the details of UNMC’s affiliation with Children’s Hospital & Medical Center.
So, just exactly who is this wunderkind who the majority of people on campus have probably never even heard of?
My dealings with Del were mostly in large meetings with lots of people talking. He didn’t say much, but when he spoke it was like an E.F. Hutton commercial — everybody listened. If Del said it, it was true.
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- He has never been seen in a meeting without a can of Diet Coke in front of him.
- He is the man who pioneered casual dress on the UNMC campus. While the rest of his administrative peers were running around in suits and ties, Del always wore khakis and a golf shirt. Every day was Casual Friday for Del. Smart guy, huh?
Lee’s last official work day will be May 13. He’ll then head off to his home on Lake Okoboji to be with his wife, Wanda.
Enjoy your retirement, Del. You deserve it. And, oh yeah, you got any old neckties you’re trying to get rid of?
Del hired me and we have worked together for over 36 years. During his tenure at UNMC he proved to be a very innovative, thoughtful and caring leader. He has had considerable input and involvement in growing UNMC to where it is today. I will truly miss not only his collaboration but his friendship as well.
Del has been a wise and trusted adviser to UNMC leaders over the years, particularly in matters of finance and facility planning. His star will always shine brightly in the UNMC constellation.
Beginning in 1981 I worked for Del for 25 years. During those years we implemented two financial management systems and a variety of efficiency improvement initiatives. With Del's extensive knowledge and experience of business and finance operations, state and university regulations, we were able to accomplish most of our goals in providing improved customer service. Del always thought in terms of providing efficient systems that customers could utilize in obtaining goods and services in a timely manner for health care, research and educational needs.
Del Lee was an icon on this campus. He had institutional memory that influenced many decisions. He was fair and trusted by all and served often in the role of mediator or negotiator at my request. I often counted on his knowledge of facilities and financial matters in making decisions. He is one person who is not replaceable.
I have had the unique privilege to work closely with Del during his last 4 and 1/2 years here at UNMC. His knowledge of the inter-workings of UNMC as well as his past experience on countless special projects is unlimited. When you combine that knowledge and experience with his tremendous integrity and then sprinkle in thought-provoking style, you get one very special person. I was very lucky to be able to learn what I have from Del.
It's been such a pleasure working with Del the past 11 years. When I first arrived at UNMC, questions I asked to various UNMC administrators were often replied with "I'm not sure– but Del will know." Indeed– he always did know and always provided thoughtful advice along with a history of the UNMC approach to the situation. He may not be here physically, but I know he will always be available for advice– of course it may take a drive to Okaboji to get it– but I've been wanting to go there for 11 years — now I have a really good excuse.
Hi Del,
It's been some time since our paths have crossed here at UNMC. Good luck and enjoy your retirement.
I wish Del nothing but the best. I had the privilege of working with Del during my years in the Chancellor's Office and always had a sense of comfort knowing he was close at hand and always willing to help. Enjoy many happy years of retirement together with Wanda.
Del, whenever I think of you, I think of someone who is a wise counselor, someone always willing to help, someone who always makes sense and can explain even the most complicated information in ways that we can all understand. You are one in a million and will be greatly missed…..but I'm glad that you will finally be able to truly enjoy a full retirement.
Dear Del – Please know I so appreciate all the assistance and advice you have provided to PT Education and me over the years. Wishing you a joyful retirement!
It is now 4-5 years since I set about convincing Del that his future lay with the College of Medicine, rather than returning to a life of water sports on Lake Okoboji. This period during which Del has served as executive assistant to the dean, has displayed his tremendous talents, a modest man who has worked alongside the dean, the dean's executive team and the department chairs; the consummate problem solver, and the go-to person to resolve the complex and most difficult issues of the day. A good example is Del's significant contribution to the affiliation agreement with Children's Hospital and Medical Center — and the list goes on! I thank you, Del, for your trusted and wise friendship. You will be greatly missed.