Recognized for leadership during a time of exceptional challenge, Shelly Cutsor, director of research finance at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, has received the Kudos Award from the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.
The systemwide honor, presented Oct. 3, celebrates staff members who go above and beyond in service to the university and its broader mission.
Cutsor was honored for stepping in to lead Sponsored Programs’ post-award team amid significant staff turnover, low morale and a growing backlog of work. Despite the difficult circumstances, Cutsor provided clear direction and steady leadership, helping transform the unit into a more resilient, efficient and collaborative team.
She quickly assessed the situation, established priorities and implemented systems to resolve delayed invoices and subaward payments. Working long hours and often outside her formal responsibilities, Cutsor managed workflows while rebuilding trust and morale across the team.
Cutsor’s leadership helped the unit respond successfully to a major National Science Foundation audit, meet critical deadlines and restore campuswide confidence in post-award operations. Her efforts set the stage for long-term improvements and sustained operational excellence.
“Shelly’s work has had an immediate and lasting impact on the university’s research operations,” said Becky Zavala, associate vice chancellor for research and innovation. “She exemplifies the highest qualities of service and leadership.”
Cutsor has been with the university since 1999.
She was joined at the Board of Regents meeting by her mother, Loretta Hardies; Jen Nelson, interim vice chancellor for research and innovation; and Zavala.
Learn more about the Kudos honor.
