Yvonne Hougham graduated from U-High, and went on to become Benefits Manager in the Human Resources Department at ISU.  In that capacity, she was able to maintain the relationships she established with the U-High faculty, and, as she puts it, “ . . . retired most of them.”  Yvonne found that aspect of her job to be one of the highlights of her career.  “I was able to thank them for some of the tools they had provided me through their dedication to teaching.”

Yvonne’s service was not just appreciated by U-High faculty.  During her career, she trained and supervised personnel, conducted pre-retirement seminars for all staff, and managed all benefits programs for all ISU personnel.  She has been the recipient of the Civil Service Award for Outstanding Service and the ISU Annuitant’s Association Award for Outstanding Service.  Yvonne worked at ISU for 32 years, retiring in 1989.

Since retirement, Yvonne has stayed very active.  She feels privileged to have served on the committee to organize the first U-High Alumni Association.  Today, she is a vital member of the U-High Alumni Association Board.  Her benefits knowledge has led her to be very involved with the ISU Annuitants’ Association, the State Universities Annuitants’ Association and the ISU Senior Professionals.  She also participates in the Bloomington-Normal Women’s Club, the DAR, the Westminster Retirement Home Foundation and the Wesley United Methodist Church.

Yvonne was married to Robert Hougham (Class of 1946), who is deceased.  Robert remained active with U-High, returning several times for sports assemblies.