In a bustling university environment, where logistics and efficiency play a pivotal role in smooth operations, there exists an unsung hero who has been spreading warmth and a sense of belonging for nearly two decades: Debora Evans, the manager of UHD’s Shipping, Receiving & Mailroom Auxiliary Services. Her dedication and exceptional leadership were recognized when she was awarded “Best Boss” at the Staff Awards event.

Leading Through Authenticity

Evans attributes her success to her unwavering authenticity. “I've never changed since I've been here. This is my personality—friendly, always outgoing, and always trying to be helpful. Whatever I can do to make it easier for you, that's just me. That's just how I was raised, and I bring that into what I do at the University,” she shared.

Evans and her small but efficient team handle all incoming and outgoing mail and packages, ensuring every item reaches its intended destination on time. This may seem like a mundane task, but considering the sheer volume of packages that flow through a busy university like UHD, it’s evident that Evans’s team plays a crucial role in keeping the University running smoothly.

Evans’s approach to leadership centers around empathy and genuine care for her team members. “You spend so much of your time in a work environment with people, they should be able to come to me as a manager if something is going on in their lives,” Evans said. She believes in fostering open communication and providing support, ensuring her staff feels valued both as employees and individuals. Evans further boosts her team’s morale by treating them to occasional lunches and homemade pancakes, reinforcing camaraderie and appreciation.

Beyond the Mailroom

Evans extends her mentorship to her student workers, providing valuable guidance and support during their transition from college to the workforce. Her dedication to their personal and professional growth has made a lasting impact on their lives, and many former student workers credit Evans for their successful career journeys.

But Evans’s contributions don't stop at the mailroom door. She is an active member of various organizations related to postal services and mail management, where she strives to improve relationships between the University and postal authorities. Her passion for sustainability is evident through her personal involvement in maintaining UHD’s campus gardens, as well as her continuous efforts to improve recycling practices on campus.

Seeking Improvements

Looking ahead, Evans has ambitious goals to further enhance her department’s efficiency and security. She hopes to integrate the department’s tracking systems to streamline operations. Additionally, she is seeking ways to manage recycling more effectively and encourage other departments to be mindful of the materials they contribute to the recycling bins.

Evans’s genuine care for her team, dedication to excellence, and positive impact on the UHD community make her a remarkable leader. As she stands on the verge of receiving the National Excellent Mail Manager of the Year award at an upcoming conference, she continues to serve as a shining example of what it means to be the Best Boss—inspiring, supportive, and always striving for improvement.