Flag Lowering for Elaine Hess

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) flag will be lowered on Tuesday, Sept. 1, in memory of UNO retiree Elaine Hess.

Elaine passed away on Aug. 8, 2020. She was 85 years old at the time of her passing.

In her time at UNO, Elaine served in many roles.

She first arrived on campus in 1965 when it was the University of Omaha, as an instructor in the Department of Sociology, as one of just two women teaching in the department, before leaving for a brief time to earn her doctorate.

Elaine returned to UNO in 1970 as an assistant professor of sociology and, in the proceeding years, served as chair of the Department of Sociology, interm dean of the College of Fine Arts, and Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs before retiring in September of 1997.

In her time at UNO, Hess worked with five presidents and chancellors: Milo Bail, Kirk Naylor, Leland Traywick, Ronald Roskens and Del Weber.

An interview with Elaine, recorded in 2000, is available on the UNO Libraries Archives and Special Collections website. In the interview, she reflects on her career, the growth of the university, and the colleagues she worked alongside during her time at UNO.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Sylvia J. Hosler, of St. Louis. She leaves behind her brother, Philip Hess of Naperville, IL; and nephews and nieces.

The thoughts and condolences of the university community are with Elaine’s loved ones during this difficult time.