Hila Rao (2001)

Rao started as a receptionist in the President’s Office in 1976; eventually left a huge imprint in the Athletic Department from 1977 until her retirement in 1997.  At the Lincoln campus, she was the Athletic Department’s first secretary and administrative assistant.  Her superb administrative abilities helped gain the National Youth Sports Program even more nationwide acclaim.  She also was a guiding force during the department’s biggest growth spurt when it expanded to include 15 men’s and women’s competitive sports programs.