Wilma C. Coates began her Carolina career in 1964 as a bookkeeper for the Medical Foundation, then moved to the development office, first as secretary to the director and then as administrative assistant.
She was cited for her “gentle courtesy to visitors and meticulous attention to detail” that made her an invaluable asset to the University. Her “knowledge of the University’s inner workings and deft skills in dealing with University friends and alumni” also were noted.
“From the complicated invitation lists for the inaugurations of chancellors through the myriad details of University Day arrangements and fall football luncheons,” the citation read, “no task was too demanding for her if it required exacting precision in detail and tact in execution.”