Booked, Busy and Winning

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key — especially when it comes to health care.

Guaquita Lavelle-Watkins took that philosophy and turned it into an award-winning idea: the first online appointment scheduler for the University of Houston eye clinic. As a clinic administrator in the College of Optometry, Lavelle-Watkins recognized the need for expanded patient access.

“Even if someone is caring for a sick child at 3 a.m. or staying at a shelter, they can still book an appointment,” she explained. “It’s about meeting people where they are and making care more accessible.”

For her innovative thinking and visionary leadership, she is the first recipient of the Centennial Staff Innovation Award.

“The awards are a recognition and celebration of the innovative spirit embodied by the staff at UH and shares their creativity to the broader UH community,” said Ramanan Krishnamoorti, vice president for energy and innovation, who announced the program in February. “The award along with the [Innovation] seed grants will foster a rapidly growing culture of innovation.”

As UH moves toward its 100^th year, the Centennial Staff Innovation Award — which includes a $1,000 gift card and a commemorative plaque — honors the bold ideas shaping UH’s future.

Lavelle-Watkins was recognized at a ceremony in May for her work creating the college’s first online appointment booking system, an important step toward modernizing patient care and streamlining clinical operations.

Since launching in October 2024, the system has already processed more than 1,100 appointments, representing 8% of total clinic bookings. Patients can easily schedule appointments, complete forms, and access health history and balances online, creating a faster, more user-friendly experience.

What's more, her innovation hasn’t just improved the patient experience; it’s also made a significant impact behind the scenes. By reducing the administrative burden on clinic staff, the new booking system freed up time and resources for more personalized patient care.

“The smiles on our patients’ and students’ faces — that’s the most rewarding part,” she added. “It's a reminder that even small innovations can make a big difference.”

Lavelle-Watkins was nominated for the award by Dr. Andrew Mario Archila, associate dean of clinical operations at the College of Optometry. In his letter, he wrote:

“Guaquita’s vision, dedication and ability to lead change exemplify the excellence and innovation this award seeks to recognize. Her work didn’t just improve a process — it transformed our business.”

Now in her seventh year at UH, Lavelle-Watkins said her motivation hasn’t wavered. “Our patients are the heart of what we do, and our students remind us that great care always includes giving back,” she said. “Watching them grow into compassionate, skilled providers keeps me inspired every day.”

Staff leaders like Lavelle-Watkins embody the spirit of UH’s centennial — innovative, service-focused and committed to creating a brighter future.

“I’m grateful to my dean, associate dean, leadership and administrative team for believing in what’s possible,” Lavelle-Watkins said. “And most of all, I want to thank my amazing staff — they are my backbone when it’s hard to stand. I couldn’t do any of this without their support.”

Learn more about how to nominate yourself or a coworker for the Centennial Innovation Awards.