UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER Breakthroughs for life.

UNMC ® Connect FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS

JEFFREY P. GOLD, M.D., WINTER UNMC’S EIGHTH CHANCELLOR 2014 (chancellor’s perspective) UNMC Connect is the campus/alumni magazine published twice a year by the Departments of Public Relations and Alumni Relations at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the University of Nebraska Foundation. Issues of the UNMC poised for greatness magazine can be found at www.unmc.edu, News and Events. Permission is granted to reprint any its partner, The Nebraska Medical written materials herein, provided proper credit is given. Direct requests to [email protected]. Center; UNMC Physicians; Bellevue Medical Center; our patient referral network; and others UNMC is accredited by The Higher Learning – is a necessary fi rst step. Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC-NCA) and The decisions that are necessary to move enjoys full accreditation of all its professional UNMC forward will not be made in a vacuum. academic programs. I think that all voices should be heard and UNMC’s mission is to improve the health respected, and I always welcome input from of Nebraska through premier educational our alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends. programs, innovative research, the highest I promise to take the ethical high road to quality patient care and outreach to underserved populations. decision-making. In the coming months, I look forward to The University of Nebraska Medical Center does learning more about the state of Nebraska not discriminate in its academic, employment or admissions programs, and abides by all federal and what is important to its citizens. Our regulations pertaining to same. medical center must offer solutions to health issues affecting our state’s citizens, fi rst and UNMC Chancellor: Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. foremost, and be a thought leader in affecting health change in our communities. Vice Chancellor for External Affairs: Whether we are partnering with local Robert Bartee schools on exercise and nutrition, with faith- Alumni Relations: based organizations on physical and emotional Roxanna Jokela, director Catherine Mello, associate director health, with other governmental and private agencies on community fi tness, or with other Public Relations: Bill O’Neill, director groups on meaningful ideas, we will be Karen Burbach, senior associate director As the popular song goes, “There is no leaders in improving the health of individuals Elizabeth Kumru, publications editor place like Nebraska.” Although I’ve lived in and communities. We collectively own this University of Nebraska Foundation: the state for only two months, it’s been quite responsibility and the keys to its success. Jennifer Arnold, senior director of public relations evident to me that I am in a special place. My wife, Robin, and I share the very strong Design: DAAKE The hospitality, innovative spirit, can-do ties that I know are woven tightly across Photography: attitude, willingness to work together – all Nebraska families. Our son, Matthew, works Scott Dobry of these traits and many others make this a for Google in California, and our daughter, UNMC PR Staff remarkable region of the world. Stephanie, is a medical student at Cornell. UNMC Alumni Association Board of Directors: I am honored to be given the opportunity I could not be prouder of them; they are the to serve as chancellor of the University of “wind that fi lls my sails.” President John C. Mitchell II, MD, ’84 Nebraska Medical Center. I knew when I I look forward to working with all of you to accepted this position that UNMC was on advance UNMC to become the powerhouse Vice President Joshua Hite, PharmD, ’06 the rise. I now know that UNMC is poised to medical center for which it is poised to be. become one of the nation’s elite academic Professional Affi liate Members Sue Christensen, DDS, ’81 health science centers. My job is to continue the Anita Evers, MSN ’72, ’96 medical center’s momentum and accelerate it. Stephen G. Jackson, MPH, ’06 We face challenges, as do all academic Carol McGlade, RSTE, ’81, ’82 health centers across the country. One of the Pat Leuschen, PhD, ‘74, ‘76 most important tasks is fully integrating the Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. clinical enterprise associated with UNMC (see UNMC Chancellor story, page 12). If we are to fl ourish, we will need to continue to strengthen our partners and ourselves to offer the highest-quality health care. A unifi ed clinical enterprise – of UNMC; WINTER UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER Connect 2014 (contents)

ON THE COVER: On Feb. 1, Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., took the helm of UNMC as its eighth chancellor.

FEATURES:

MEET UNMC CHANCELLOR JEFFREY P. GOLD, M.D. 4 A Q & A with UNMC’s new chancellor, who talks about his goals and the critical web IN THE challenges facing academic healthextra 9 science centers. web extra unmc.edu/connect

web extra Loop 6 SCIENCE ON TAP From Science Cafes to Science Festivals, DR. MCINTYRE LEGACY LIVES UNMC expands science literacy to MAY 8 web 14 College of Nursing Northern Division - Nebraskans of all ages. extra ON AT UNMC Second-generation physician honors Norfolk Commencement web extra unmc.edu/connect his father with named professorship. College of Nursing Kearney Division - web THE PROMISE OF E-LEARNINGextra Commencement 8 Dramatic changes are on the horizon for medical education. 15 KEY INVESTMENT MADE MAY 9 TO NEW HEALTH SCIENCE Lincoln Commencement TESTING 1, 2, 3 …..YEP, IT’S STREP EDUCATION COMPLEX MAY 10 Continuing education opportunities 11 Rapid fl u and strep tests available at some Omaha Commencement for health care professionals in greater grocery store are part of study. Nebraska get a boost from the Phelps MAY 10 Memorial Health Center of Holdrege, Neb. Lymphomathon CLINICAL ENTERPRISE INITIATIVE Mahoney State Park 12 A more effi cient and integrated clinical MAY 10 enterprise is emerging at The Nebraska PHOTOS SHOWCASE DIVERSITY 16 Travel around the world through fi ve winning College of Nursing Dental Hygiene Program Medical Center. photographs recognized during UNMC’s - West Nebraska Division Commencement web International Week celebration. extra JUNE 8

web Garden Walk extra unmc.edu/connect

web Dundee/Midtown area, Omaha extra JULY 12web OwL Ride extra Downtown to midtown Omaha

18 UNMC NEWS 21 ALUMNI NEWS 31 ONE LAST THING web extra unmc.edu/connect 20 COLLEGE ROUNDUP 24 CLASS NOTES web web extra extra

web web extra unmc.edu/connect extra unmc.edu/connect web web web extra extra extra

FOLLOW US: facebook.com/unmcedu twitter.com/unmc youtube.com/unmcedu pinterest.com/unmc MEET UNMC CHANCELLOR JEFFREY P. GOLD, M.D. effrey P. Gold, M.D., began work Feb. 1 for funding from private sources, but we need Q: What role do students play as UNMC’s chancellor. Below, he talks to ensure that our industry-funded research is in the vibrancy of UNMC? J about his vision for UNMC. done ethically and in a transparent manner. A: I really prefer the term “learners,” Q: What excites you about being In education, student learning is shifting because that term encompasses residents, UNMC’s chancellor? rapidly from traditional classrooms to high- fellows and all those seeking continuing A: I’m excited for the opportunity to technology delivery mechanisms, such as education. We all should be learners at every advance the greatness and distinction of clinical simulation and virtual reality, among phase of our professional life, and I hope that UNMC, the related clinical enterprise and the others. We need to be a leader in these we have a campus full of learners. health care delivery system in Nebraska. All of areas not only to provide our students with This zest for learning creates a passion the foundational elements for a highly regarded the environment that they expect, but more for knowledge and discovery that every great and successful academic health science center importantly to provide the best education academic health science center has. are present in very high quality in Nebraska. possible to improve care delivery. Per traditional students, I view my role to not I look forward to working hard to further On the clinical side, the forces that led only be accessible as a mentor professionally, integrate our clinical care, research and to creation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) but also to ensure that our medical center is an education missions, so that we can serve the perhaps offer our greatest challenges and absolutely state-of-the-art learning environment. people of our state. Nebraskans expect and opportunities. Access to health care must be To do so, we must embrace the best deserve the best. It’s my goal to build upon this reshaped, our payer system must be improved, pedagogy and the latest, best technological institution’s legacy, elevating UNMC and health professional workforce shortages tools. I fully anticipate that we will accelerate even higher as a very top-tier academic are curbing our efforts to provide health care to our efforts on this front. medical center. those who desperately need it. In addition, the learning environment is Q: What are some of the critical In addition, all reputable indices indicate a key determinant of educational and clinical challenges facing academic health that Americans don’t get what they pay for in outcomes for our learners and our patients. science centers? health care – our costs are by far the highest in This focus is critical for our future. A: Challenges abound throughout the the world, but our life expectancy nationally is Q: How important are alumni enterprise, but I know that these challenges about 10 years lower than the world’s best. That’s and community leaders to the success 4 also bring opportunities. Federal research unacceptable, and UNMC must be a thought of UNMC? funding is flat or declining, and competition for leader in offering solutions to these challenges, A: All alumni of UNMC have given to the these dollars is fierce. There are opportunities serving our state and as a model globally. institution their time, talent and investment,

WINTER 2014 and they need to be respected for their contributions – both past and present – to the medical center. ABOUT DR. GOLD Part of my responsibility is to ensure that the university is delivering a return on that Dr. Gold served at the University of and completed his general surgery investment by advancing its reputation, as the Toledo, the third-largest public university residency at The New York Hospital and UNMC diploma’s value ebbs and fl ows as the in Ohio, since 2005. In that role, he Memorial Hospital, where he served as university’s reputation fl uctuates. had full leadership responsibility of the the administrative chief resident. He did We will engage our alumni through clinical, education and research programs his cardiothoracic residency training at numerous channels, and I will urge them to be of the university’s health sciences, the the Brigham and Women’s Hospital and key ambassadors for our university throughout faculty practice plan and the clinical Boston Children’s Hospital of Harvard their communities and their professional delivery system. Medical School. organizations. Certainly, UNMC has had Dr. Gold graduated from the Cornell Prior to joining the University of tremendous success in receiving the support University College of Engineering, where Toledo, Dr. Gold served at the Albert of community and philanthropic leaders. We he majored in theoretical and applied Einstein College of Medicine and the Weill will build on these private-public partnerships mechanics. He earned his M.D. from Cornell Medical College. He was fi rst in and will continue to be an academic medical the Weill Cornell College of Medicine his class in engineering and medicine. center in which people want to invest. There’s no question that alumni and community support will be essential to accomplishing many of our goals. We will steward their loyalty with great care. Q: As chancellor, you also will serve in the new role of chairman of the board of the clinical enterprise. Why is this an important assignment? A: It’s a great honor to join the team at a time that such important governance changes are being completed. The newly formed clinical enterprise organization will streamline patient experiences and reduce duplication of administrative services. The new governance model will provide a mechanism of oversight that will ensure that all of our missions – clinical care, research and education – are working as mutually benefi cial and highly integrated units. It is imperative that all of our faculty and staff – whether they’re focused on research, education, clinical care or support services – collaborate and cooperate toward the common goals of the overall medical center. This will enable us not only to survive, but to thrive in our current health care environment and into the future. The established time frame to complete these governance changes is critical to deriving optimal success.

Listen to some of Dr. Gold’s web personal observations. extra u nmc.edu/connect

Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., chats with Connie web Miller,extra Ph.D., unmc.edu/connectdirector of the Learning Resource Center, College of Nursing, and Darwin Brown, assistantweb professor, physician assistant, School of extra Allied Health Professions. SCIENCE ON TAP

o Kacie Gerard, it sounded like a good Tidea: Gather a group of people in a casual setting, maybe a bar, listen to an expert discuss an interesting scientifi c topic, then open it up for questions. The manager of the Slowdown thought the concept was interesting. So one February night, neurosurgeon William Thorell, M.D., talked about brain aneurysms. From that fi rst event in 2009, it was a hit. Dr. Thorell’s presentation drew approximately 80 people. A neurologist’s follow-up presentation on how the brain works drew more than 200. UNMC’s Science Café was born. This February, Steven Wengel, M.D., chairman, presented on bipolar disorder, marking the fi fth anniversary for the event, one of UNMC’s most successful science outreach efforts ever. But Science Cafés aren’t the only way UNMC expands science literacy in Nebraska. In April, UNMC will be the presenting sponsor of the second annual Nebraska Science Festival, with many of its colleges and departments represented by educational booths at the expo. After a fi rst year that drew more than 2,000 people in Omaha, the Science Festival is expanding with more venues, more presenters, and a greater reach across Nebraska, with activities in Lincoln, Wayne, Ashland and Jansen. Events that promote science literacy have evolved over time. From 1997 to 2008, UNMC sponsored the semiannual Mini-Medical School lectures that were broadcast across the state. Last year, Gerard was named the science outreach coordinator for UNMC and tasked with expanding the Science Festival and the Science Cafes while creating even more events. 6 Jeff Corwin, “Animal Planet” host and leading conservationist, will headline the Nebraska Science Festival in April.

WINTER 2014 UNMC expands science literacy SCIENCE ON TAP to Nebraskans of all ages. by John Keenan

“It gives me the opportunity to reach Festival, we aim for all ages. We defi nitely features a character with bipolar disorder, out to communities and develop new science have specifi c activities geared to children and UNMC experts discussed mental illness. outreach programs throughout the year,” families, but this year we’ve added a lot of “It was a way to try something new and she said. adult programming.” reach an audience that wouldn’t normally For the Science Cafes, topics have run Gerard thinks outside the box. With attend a science-related event,” she said. the gamut – sex, brain surgery, mental Omaha Community Playhouse offi cials, In 2015, Gerard wants to move the Science illness, dinosaurs, sleep apnea, asteroids, she developed two well-attended, post- Festival even further west, as well as create immunizations, suicide. performance discussion events. Science Cafes for high school students – Although the cafe was envisioned as When the playhouse mounted “Evil Dead: though not in bars. outreach to young professionals, Gerard The Musical,” faculty of UNMC’s College of “There are a lot of great possibilities, said it has proved popular across all ages. Public Health gave presentations on surviving and if you do it right, people will always be A similar event is held regularly in Lincoln, a zombie apocalypse that was loaded with interested,” she said. “Make it interesting, and and UNMC-sponsored Science Cafes also information on disaster preparedness, they’ll have a great time.” have been held in Kearney, Scottsbluff and pandemics, biohazards and other public Nebraska City. health topics. Learn more the “The Science Cafes are specifi cally for And for the recent production of “Next to web Nebraska Science Festival extra u nmc.edu/connect adults,” Gerard said. “With the Science Normal,” a Pulitzer Prize-winning musical that nescifest.com

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UNMC Connect The promise of e-learning Strategic initiative to enhance learning, teaching innovation by Karen Burbach

my Cannella, M.D., knows some students of gout, and correctly answer questions about change in the past 100 years in the science Adon’t like to sit in lectures, especially the disease.” of teaching.” when they can obtain the information at home, Racers collect bonus points for making Interactive e-learning provides students on their own time. choices that lower their risk for the disease. and faculty members with opportunities to To better engage students, she and On a modest scale to begin, UNMC is maximize learning – both at home and in the a team of rheumatologists are developing building a health science version of Khan classroom. As part of a strategic initiative an e-learning game in which students and Academy, a popular e-learning site that to enhance on-campus learning, Dr. Davies patients ride a dune buggy as they navigate boasts interactive courses in math, science, has challenged faculty to develop a blended the symptoms and treatment of gout, a economics and humanities. approach that uses e-modules and e-courses potentially disabling form of arthritis. “Across the country, we’re seeing a coupled with fl ipped classrooms. “There are high stakes,” said Dr. Cannella, dramatic change in how we teach,” said Dele “E-learning comes in with a promise,” he said.

8 internal medicine, . “Players Davies, M.D., vice chancellor for academic “Whether it meets that promise will depend on must avoid hazards, which increase their risk affairs at UNMC. “It’s the fi rst transformative how creative and innovative we are with it.”

WINTER 2014 Campus leaders have a vision to create an interprofessional teaching academy that enables UNMC to become a leader in teaching innovation.

With support from the vice chancellor for academic affairs and an interprofessional steering committee, the long-term goals include: ❚ Being a leader in innovation in interactive e-learning for students; ❚ Being leaders in the research of the science of teaching; ❚ Continued improvement in the quality of teaching on campus; and ❚ Development of an e-learning laboratory that helps faculty redesign courses. A fl edgling e-learning laboratory has been started inside McGoogan Library, where faculty can redesign or develop new e-learning modules and courses. Students from the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Information Science and Technology program are available to provide gaming and technical assistance and UNO’s Department of Theatre can provide student actors and actresses for taping various role-playing scenarios. The goal is to grow the resource lab into a future e-learning center of excellence and provide a full spectrum of audio and video capabilities, instructional design consultation and computing resources, Dr. Liu said. To support UNMC’s educational vision for on-campus learning, including the Teaching Academy, contact the University of Nebraska Foundation.

On a life-size virtual dissection table, Carrie Elzie, Ph.D., and Ryan Splittgerber, Ph.D., view 3-D images that can be incorporated into their e-learning modules. Drs. Elzie and Splittgerber are creating e-learning modules, thanks to support from the vice chancellor for academic affairs and the School of Allied Health Professions.

“Still, our goal is to be a national leader Assistant professors in UNMC’s positions and planes of the body. In addition in blended (online integrated with face-to- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and to fi rst-year students, they envision the face) classrooms. This will enhance teaching Anatomy, Drs. Elzie and Splittgerber are modules being used as tutorials by high at all levels, allow us to adopt best practices transforming traditional PowerPoint lectures school students, summer undergraduate quickly, and promulgate research in teaching into 18 interactive, self-contained, e-learning students, even patients. innovation among our faculty.” modules that can be used with fl ipped “They’ll be brief and basic and give Dr. Cannella and UNMC faculty members classrooms, to better help fi rst-year students feedback that PowerPoint never did,” Dr. Carrie Elzie, Ph.D., and Ryan Splittgerber, Ph.D., prepare for gross anatomy. Splittgerber said. “Students can learn by are among the more than 25 faculty members “We’re bringing one-dimensional doing, get it wrong and do it again until leading e-learning innovation at UNMC, PowerPoints to life,” Dr. Splittgerber said. they understand.” thanks to a grant from the vice chancellor for The planned modules, designed with That’s one of the promises of e-learning, academic affairs. mobile capability, will cover an array of Dr. Davies said. “You put a lecture online and 9 topics from terminology to anatomical build in opportunities to practice and master

UNMC Connect The goal is to have a blend of interactive Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), e-learning modules, some traditional which drew great interest in 2012. Such classrooms and some fl ipped classrooms, courses, however, are designed for large in which students watch an e-learning module audiences and continue the traditional model and then come to class to put the lessons of a cohort tied to a course with a set start and into practice. end date. “They can be excellent, but they are “This generation is excellent at getting not for everyone,” Dr. Davies said. information,” Dr. Davies said, noting that they E-learning courses also offer the promise opt to listen to the recorded lecture on their of reducing the cost of education, Dr. Davies own at double speed. “Up to 50 percent of said. Students may be able to move along students may not show up for a lecture and at their own pace, which could shorten their do fi ne in spite of not coming. What they training, as well as lower the tremendous debt aren’t as good at is critical thinking and how burden carried by many students. to use the information.” “The fl exibility afforded by this blended With a fl ipped classroom, students review model of learning will be critical to the success didactic material prior to class and then, in of our students, faculty, alumni and partners class, gain context for their training. UNMC’s in the new era of the Affordable Care Act,” long-standing Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and Dr. Davies said. Integrated Clinical Experience (ICE) courses are For Drs. Elzie and Splittgerber, the greatest strong examples of a fl ipped classroom, where promise is in a more engaged learner. the teacher becomes more of a facilitator than Built-in assessments, including multiple a content deliverer. choice questions and embedded 3-D images, During PBL, groups discuss a case and will enable Drs. Elzie and Splittgerber to know students develop a differential diagnosis whether students struggled with particular or hypotheses to explain the nature of the sections or quickly mastered it. patient’s problems and make decisions “As teachers, we want to help students about diagnostic testing and therapeutic learn at their maximum potential,” Dr. Elzie management. During ICE, students are said. “This mirrors how students engage and exposed to clinical issues and receive learn today and, with the feedback, allows us instruction on topics from history and physical to tailor or place greater emphasis on certain examinations to communication skills and topics during class.” behavioral sciences. As they develop the modules, they also are “With fl ipped classrooms, conversations sharing their knowledge with colleagues across can occur at a higher level,” said Howard campus. “We want to be a resource to other Health professional students will learn more about gout Liu, M.D., director of faculty development faculty and elevate those who are interested,” via an e-learning game that’s being developed by Amy Cannella, M.D., James O’Dell, M.D., Ted Mikuls, M.D., programs at UNMC who is playing a major Dr. Elzie said. and Alan Erickson, M.D. role in this initiative. “Students know the The initial interest from faculty and their background knowledge, so they can focus on stellar proposals bode well for UNMC’s it, similar to Khan Academy where you work at developing higher order skills such as critical current and future status as a national and your own pace and repeat until ‘voila’ you’ve thinking when they come to class.” international leader in teaching innovations, mastered it.” A learner-centered mission requires Dr. Davies said. Khan Academy enables students to meeting the students where they are, and “These courses should be an excellent receive instant feedback, select videos and today’s students are comfortable with foundation for building our vision of a interactive challenges that resonate best with technology, he said. “From the students’ premier health sciences e-learning center them, synthesize connections between topics perspective, they always want what’s best on campus.” and access lifelong learning resources. and most effi cient.” Mirroring that concept, UNMC is E-learning offers the promise — and examining new teaching methods that potential — to fl atten the world. Khan combine online learning modules with Academy’s goal is to provide a world-class classrooms that are freed for critical thinking, education to anyone, anywhere and at team-building and problem-solving exercises. anytime, all for free. That’s different than

10

WINTER 2014 Testing

Yep, it’s strep RAPID FLU AND STREP TESTS AVAILABLE AS PART OF STUDY by Kalani Simpson

UNMC employee Kalani Simpson was among the fi rst in Omaha to take part in a College of Pharmacy study to research whether pharmacists and community pharmacies can effectively administer rapid fl u and strep tests in collaborative agreements with physicians. Hy-Vee pharmacist Stacy Ebel, Pharm.D., P’10, administered the test.

y symptoms – chills, aches, test, we’d know the results within minutes. And, The pharmacy tech was excited: Yes, they Mfatigue, fever, swollen glands through the collaborative practice agreement, had! She almost ran to get the paperwork, and a particularly icky and painful the pharmacist could then immediately fi ll then stopped, puzzled: Hey, how did you know? sore throat – kept getting worse. a prescription to treat us. All in a single, I had an inside tip. (The press release I’d But I wondered: What if it was convenient, walk-in visit. written would hit the news the very next day.) The pharmacists offer to share this The pharmacist talked to me, took my simply psychosomatic? information with your doctor – and if you’re vitals and swabbed my throat. It couldn’t have Through my job at UNMC, I’d been in really bad shape, they’ll refer you on anyway. been more than 5 minutes before a pink line talking, reading, writing about strep throat “This is not to replace physician services,” appeared: positive. and infl uenza for months. Dr. Klepser said. When I emailed Dr. Dering-Anderson, I seem to get strep at least every other But logic says that we are more likely she replied: “Can I be sorry you have strep year, and it hits hard. That’s why I was so to seek immediate treatment (and keep and thrilled at the same time?” excited when Donald Klepser, Ph.D., and infectious diseases from spreading) if it’s The study later confi rmed it: I was the fi rst in Ally Dering-Anderson, Pharm.D., assistant convenient. And, with more people having Omaha to test positive and receive medication professors of pharmacy practice at the UNMC health insurance, under health care reform, per the collaborative practice agreement. College of Pharmacy, fi rst told me about their physicians, physician assistants and nurse But at the time I was just glad to have been research project several months ago. practitioners are going to be more overbooked able to walk in, see a trained professional, get Drs. Klepser and Dering-Anderson have than ever. A highly-educated, professionally- tested and start treatment, all in one easy visit. a pilot study, in collaboration with Ferris trained pharmacist can, in this instance, I was then able to look forward to feeling better, State University and scores of community fi ll the gap. thanks to the UNMC study. pharmacies in Michigan, Minnesota and So, we’d been talking about the program Nebraska. In it, through a collaborative for months. And then, the very week the study practice agreement between pharmacists and was rolling out in Omaha, I could feel the old, physicians, you or I wouldn’t have to go to a familiar symptoms slipping in. doctor’s offi ce or physician assistant or nurse I approached the counter at the Omaha 11 practitioner’s clinic to get tested for fl u or strep. Hy-Vee pharmacy at 108th and Fort streets. Instead, we could go to the pharmacy and see Had they started the rapid testing program yet? a specially-trained pharmacist. With a rapid

UNMC Connect Clinical enterprise leaders are: ❚❚ Joe Graham, senior vice president of Operations & Transformation Improvement; ❚❚ Dave Fuller, interim chief process officer; ❚❚ David W. Mercer, M.D., senior vice president of medical services; ❚❚ Cory Shaw, senior vice president of the System Provider Network; Clinical Enterprise ❚❚ Harris Frankel, M.D., senior vice president of Medical Affairs; ❚❚ Mike Sitorius, M.D., senior vice president of Initiative by Elizabeth Kumru Clinic Operations; ❚❚ Tadd Pullin, interim human capital officer & senior vice president of Marketing in our outpatient and Planning; When patients think of the medical center, ❚❚ Levi Scheppers, chief administrative officer; they make no distinction between the UNMC clinics, but rather ❚❚ Paulette Davidson, chief operating officer, College of Medicine, The Nebraska Medical how we move Bellevue Medical Center; Center, UNMC Physicians, Bellevue Medical patients across ❚❚ Rosanna Morris, chief nursing officer for Center and Private Practice Associates. the continuum the Enterprise and chief operating officer Campus leaders say the more than 11,700 of care in a for The Nebraska Medical Center; employees of these entities, must do the same seamless way.” ❚❚ Dennis Bierle, chief operating officer, as they work toward a more efficient and The clinical Clinic Operations; integrated clinical enterprise. The goal: Be the integration project, ❚ ❚ Stephanie Daubert, chief financial officer; region’s leading health system, comprised which began in ❚❚ Chris Kratochvil, M.D., clinical enterprise of nationally recognized academic and 2012, is leading research; and community-based providers, aligned to deliver toward a full legal Brad Britigan, M.D., president ❚❚ Kelly Caverzagie, M.D., education. the best health care for patients. integration of UNMC’s new chancellor, Jeffrey Brad Britigan, M.D., dean of UNMC’s UNMC Physicians, P. Gold, M.D., chairs the advisory College of Medicine and clinical enterprise Bellevue Medical board. The other members are: president, and CEO Bill Dinsmoor announced Center and The ❚❚ Brad Britigan, M.D., dean of the UNMC the new executive leadership structure for the Nebraska Medical College of Medicine and president of the organization in January. Center. Clinical clinical enterprise; The new leadership structure, built for the enterprise leaders ❚❚ Bill Dinsmoor, CEO of the clinical enterprise; future of health care reform, unifies ambulatory expect that legal ❚❚ Mogens Bay, CEO and chairman of the clinic and hospital operations. What once were designation to board of Valmont Industries; separate operations managed by UNMC be completed by ❚❚ Bruce Grewcock, chairman and CEO of Peter Physicians, The Nebraska Medical Center or July. Hundreds Kiewit Sons’, Inc.; Bellevue Medical Center are now connected. of staff members Bill Dinsmoor, CEO ❚❚ Nancy Keegan, co-founder, Prestwick from all corners of Companies; former chair of the University of “We have been, historically, a collection Nebraska Foundation; of tribes,” Dinsmoor said. “That doesn’t work the clinical enterprise are currently working on ❚❚ Jim McClurg, Ph.D. president, Technical anymore. We can respect our past cultures, but dozens of performance improvement projects Development Resources Company, former we are building for the future. We are building that will improve patient experiences, quality, chairman of the University of Nebraska Board a new culture. and the work environment. of Regents; “We’re in the midst of a profound and “It is more important than ever that our ❚❚ Charlie Burt, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon; historic change in the way health care is entire clinical enterprise be aligned, strategic chair of Nebraska Orthopaedic Hospital; organized and delivered.” and focused,” said University of Nebraska ❚❚ Tim Kingston, M.D., general surgeon; The integrated approach is necessary to President James B. Milliken. “This new structure, longtime member of The Nebraska Medical pursue strategic opportunities in an evolving thoughtfully developed with the involvement of Center and Bellevue Medical Center health care environment, said Cory Shaw, scores of key health care leaders, positions us medical staff; senior vice president of the System Provider very well for success in this new era.” ❚❚ Debra Romberger, M.D., UNMC Network of the clinical enterprise and former A new advisory board also has been professor of internal medicine, critical care pulmonologist, and; chief executive officer of UNMC Physicians. created to provide the clinical enterprise with ❚❚ Carl Smith, M.D., chair of UNMC’s “We need to think differently about how advice, support and eventually oversight. Department of OB/GYN; president of we deliver care,” he said. “Not just what “The level of clinician leadership on this UNMC Physicians. happens in the four walls of the hospital or board is extremely important,” Dr. Britigan said. “We’re entering a time in health care when the The board will serve in an advisory role for An agreement was signed by the nine voice of the provider will be more important the next several months. Leaders expect to form founding health systems of the regional than ever in shaping the most efficient and best an official legal entity by July, at which time a provider network, a group of that quality care for our patients.” governing board of directors will form. eventually will cover most of Nebraska and “It is a great honor to join the team at a In February, more than 500 staff members parts of western Iowa. The nine founding time that such important governance changes from across the system began work on 45 members are: The Nebraska Medical Center are being completed,” said Jeffrey P. Gold, performance improvement projects. The and Nebraska Methodist Health System, M.D., UNMC Chancellor. “This structure will projects range in scope from clinical care to Omaha, Neb.; Bryan LGH Medical Center, well serve the future needs of the region, financial operations and culture change. Lincoln, Neb.; Faith Regional Health Services, optimizing the resources to provide university- The momentum already has begun. Norfolk, Neb.; Regional West Medical Center, quality, patient-centered care. Congratulations The Accountable Care Alliance (ACA), now Scottbluff, Neb.; Fremont Area Medical Center; to all those with the vision to make this a reality.” covers nearly 17,000 people – the employees Great Plains Regional Medical Center, North The board’s makeup represents the of the medical center’s clinical enterprise and Platte, Neb.; Columbus Community Hospital; history of the different organizations coming Methodist Health Systems. and Mary Lanning Healthcare, Hastings, Neb. together to create this new enterprise, Dr. Jim Canedy, M.D., and Marcel Devetten, Also, construction will proceed on a Britigan said. Past members of The Nebraska M.D., continue their roles as medical leaders new ambulatory clinic and surgical facility Medical Center’s board of directors, leaders in with the ACA. Joining them is Troy Wilhelm, at 41st and Emile streets, as well as an academic medicine and research, current chief financial officer for UNMC ambulatory surgery facility at Village Pointe private practice community physicians Physicians. Dinsmoor believes the ACA will in west Omaha. and international business leaders will bring play a major role in the future of the clinical an understanding of the importance of enterprise, accounting for 50 percent of innovation and culture to the creation of future revenue. a successful organization.

You’re invited to a FREE Schedule of Events:

“Lunch and Learn” Friday April 25, 2014 hosted by the Nebraska Lunch and Learn | 11:30am-1:00pm Nebraska Champions Club Coalition for Lifesaving Cures 707 Stadium Drive Lincoln, NE Paul S. Knoepfler, PhD, an Associate Professor of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy at the UC Davis School of Medicine will be the featured speaker at a “Lunch and Saturday April 26, 2014 Learn” April 25 and 26 in Lincoln and Omaha. Lunch and Learn | 11:30am-1:00pm The Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures invites UNMC Sorrell Center For you to be its guest to hear Dr. Knoepfler discuss and Health Science Education, answer questions about stem cell science that will NE Corner of 42nd St. & Emile help attendees distinguish between false hype and Omaha, NE legitimate hope. Dr. Knoepfler is a cancer survivor, patient advocate, writer and only faculty For more information or to level academic blogger on stem cell research in the world. He was the reserve your space today, recipient of the Genetic Policy Institute 2013 National Advocacy Award, previously won by Michael J. Fox. visit Nebraskacures.com 13

UNMC Connect The legacy of A. Ross McIntyre, M.D., Ph.D., lives on through the creation of a named professorship in physiology. Dr. McIntyre legacy lives on at UNMC by Carrielle Sedersten

onald McIntyre, M.D., remembers his anesthesia. He was the fi rst to use curare, a “UNMC granted me a doctor of medicine Dchildhood days spent at UNMC with poison used by natives in the Amazon River degree, which became the basis of my his parents, who both had advanced degrees region, as an aide to anesthesia. professional life. In a sense, UNMC has in the sciences. The medical center was a A native of London, Dr. McIntyre received supported me my entire life. The creation of stimulating environment for his growing mind. his doctorate in 1930 and medical degree in this professorship allowed me to show my Some weekends were spent in the lab with his 1931 all from the University of Chicago. gratitude to both the university as well as to father amid fascinating research. During his time at UNMC, Dr. McIntyre my dad and to honor him for his successes and After college, he returned to UNMC as a not only taught, but also served as department contributions to the fi eld of medicine.” medical student, studying with his father, who chairman for 32 years. He developed graduate In November, Kaushik Patel, Ph.D., was was teaching in what was then known as the programs that eventually led to the granting of named the inaugural A. Ross McIntyre M.D., department of physiology and pharmacology. a master’s degree and Ph.D. in physiology and Ph.D., Professor. Even though a young McIntyre no longer pharmacology. roams the halls of UNMC, the legacy of the In honor of his contributions to medicine Faculty support remains a top priority McIntyre family and his father’s teaching lives and medical education, Dr. McIntyre received for UNMC through the University of on through the creation of the A. Ross McIntyre, the Distinguished Service to Medicine Award Nebraska Foundation’s Campaign M.D., Ph.D., Professorship in Physiology. from UNMC in 1975. Now, his son has ensured for Nebraska. For more information, Dr. A. Ross McIntyre was a professor of that his legacy lives on. contact Meg Johnson at (402) 502-4107 physiology and pharmacology at UNMC “My dad’s job at UNMC allowed him or [email protected]. for nearly 40 years. He was a well-known to shelter, feed, clothe and educate me,” pharmacologist who was credited with Dr. Donald McIntyre said. 14 developing a new adjunct for general

WINTER 2014 KEY INVESTMENT MADE TO NEW HEALTH SCIENCE EDUCATION COMPLEX by Carrielle Sedersten

n support of continuing education The building, which can be expanded in the registered nurses in the United States and more Iopportunities for health care professionals, future, will feature clinical simulation, anatomy than 3,800 nurses in Nebraska. Similarly, the Phelps Memorial Health Center of Holdrege, and physiology laboratories and state-of-the- national demand for allied health professionals Neb., has become a community partner with art technology for distance nursing and allied is expected to increase by 30 percent by 2020, a contribution to the UNMC and University health education programs. representing a net increase of more than 3.6 of Nebraska at Kearney’s (UNK) new Health Mark Harrel, CEO of the Phelps Memorial million jobs. Science Education Complex. Health Center, said one of his chief goals is to “We have worked closely with UNK The 30,000-square-foot building will be at help build an exceptional health care workforce. for years and appreciate the opportunities the corner of Highway 30 and University Drive, “The addition of the UNMC/UNK UNMC/UNK are bringing to this area,” just west of the West Center Building on the Health Science Complex will further solidify said Rhonda Johnson, director of the UNK campus. Construction is set to start this the workforce in this area. And, knowing Phelps Memorial Health Center Foundation. spring with proposed completion by June 2015. we will be able to use the new simulation “As more students are educated in the “The gift from Phelps Memorial Health laboratories to help our nurses and new health science complex, the entire Center is a tremendous investment in the others gain experience in some necessary health care community in south central future of nursing and allied health education at procedures will help us continue to be well Nebraska benefi ts.” the Kearney Division,” said Juliann Sebastian, equipped to serve our patients.” Ph.D., dean of the UNMC College of Nursing. One of the goals of expanding facilities To learn more about supporting the building “Investments like these are vital to realizing the and programs on the UNK campus is to project, contact Sarah Gloden Carlson at full potential the new health science education prepare students for health care opportunities (402) 502-4113 or [email protected]. building will represent and ensuring lifelong in rural Nebraska. learning opportunities for clinicians practicing By 2020, the U.S. Department of Labor in rural Nebraska.” projects a shortage of nearly 1.2 million

The future Health Science Education Complex on UNK’s campus. 15

UNMC Connect Clayton Damme – “Latraviesa”

he richness of diversity on the T UNMC campus was the focus of the first International Week celebration PHOTOS in early November. Sponsored by the Global Health Student & Faculty Advisory Committee, the celebration SHOWCASE provided opportunities for the UNMC community to meet and mingle with faculty, 16 students and staff who hail from other parts of the world. DIVERSITY by Lisa Spellman WINTER 2014 Among the many activities during the week From that group, one was honored as the OTHER WINNERS WERE: was an international photography contest. best in show. Every year, international visitors from more Omaha area photographers and UNMC- Juefi e Wu Caitlin Please “Sandhill Cranes” “Bridge” than 60 countries come to campus and many approved vendors Scott Dobry and Philip faculty, staff and students travel around the Nealey chose the fi ve entries listed for their Nirakar Zijian Qin Rajbhandari “Sunburst” world. Entrants were encouraged to share interesting and colorful imagery. “Henna Tattoo” those experiences. The grand prize winner, Clayton Damme, Forty-six photographs were submitted for M1, who submitted “Latraviesa,” was praised 17 consideration, and of those, fi ve rose to the top by the judges for his “bold use of color, strong web Enjoy the photo contest gallery as the most aesthetically appealing. composition and great light.” extra unmc.edu/connect

UNMC Connect web extra unmc.edu/connect

web extra (unmc news)

McElroy to take reins at McGoogan Library of Medicine

mily McElroy was appointed the new also has held positions at the University E director of the McGoogan Library of of Oregon and Loyola University’s Health Medicine, effective Dec. 16, 2013. Sciences Library. She is a nationally “Emily brings a special set of recognized speaker on the management management, leadership and interpersonal of library resources. skills to UNMC which should help us build Marie Reidelbach had served as upon the excellence for which the library is interim director of the library since the known,” said Vice Chancellor for Academic retirement of Nancy Woelfl, Ph.D., on Affairs Dele Davies, M.D., in announcing June 30, 2013. the appointment. McElroy was the associate university Lynell Klassen, M.D. librarian for content management and systems at Oregon Health and Science Dr. Klassen to step University (OHSU), where she worked down as internal since 2007. As a member of the senior management team, McElroy helped medicine chairman oversee collection development, digital collections, scholarly communication and hen Lynell Klassen, M.D., accepted the electronic resources including systems. position of chairman of the UNMC W Prior to OHSU, she was head of library Department of Internal Medicine in 2005, he Emily McElroy, the new director of the acquisitions at New York University. She McGoogan Library of Medicine. indicated he would hold it for no more than 10 years. “As I begin my ninth year as chair, it is time to initiate a smooth transition of leadership of the department,” he said. “At the request of the dean, I UNMC to begin student exchange will continue to discharge the duties of department chair until he appoints my replacement.” with South Korean university Brad Britigan, M.D., dean of the College of n November, UNMC signed a SNU is considered Medicine, anticipates the search will take between memorandum of understanding to begin the best university in 12 and 18 months. Once a new chairman is found, I a student exchange with Seoul National South Korea, said Jialin Dr. Klassen, the Henry J. Lehnhoff Professor, will University in Seoul, South Korea. Zheng, M.D, associate vice return to a faculty position in the rheumatology The agreement, which begins in chancellor for academic division, continuing his clinical, research and the 2014-2015 academic year, will affairs and director of teaching activities. mark UNMC’s entry into South Korea UNMC’s APRDP. Initially, the “As chair of internal medicine and throughout and expand the scope of the medical student exchange will involve his 30-plus years as a faculty member, Dr. Klassen center’s Asia Pacific Rim Development two students from each has contributed immensely to the success of the Woo-Yang Kim, Ph.D. Program (APRDP). campus, he said. department and UNMC,” Dr. Britigan said. Currently, UNMC has partnerships with A South Korean native, Woo-Yang Kim, With more than 180 physicians and scientists, four Chinese institutions – Tongji University Ph.D., assistant professor, department of internal medicine is the largest department within in Shanghai, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, developmental neuroscience at UNMC’s the UNMC College of Medicine. The department is Xian Jiao Tong University and Beijing Life Munroe-Meyer Institute, will serve as a organized by disease specialty into 10 divisions. Science Institute of the Chinese Academy of contact person and faculty advisor for the Sciences – as well as in India. exchange program. 18

WINTER 2014 Mural unveiling celebrates ‘The Gift of Sight’ UNMC designated as endoscopic surgery n December, the Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye inaugural director of the Institute and chair IInstitute and the UNMC Prevention of Global of and visual sciences. testing center Blindness Division unveiled “The Gift of Sight,” a roughly 13-foot by 21-foot mural designed NMC is one of the first three centers in to recognize vision-saving efforts throughout U the country to be designated as a testing the world. center for the Fundamentals of Endoscopic Featuring images donated from award- Surgery (FES) program. winning photojournalists and other organizations, The program is a comprehensive the montage will be on display at the Truhlsen educational and assessment tool designed to indefinitely. teach and evaluate the fundamental knowledge, “The ‘Gift of Sight’ was developed to clinical judgment and technical skills required in showcase the gratitude the Prevention of Global the performance of basic gastrointestinal (GI) Blindness Division and all of our international and endoscopic surgery (endoscopy). domestic partners receive for the work we do,” The program allows participants to learn said Jessica Feilmeier, development director for the fundamentals of endoscopic surgery in a the institute. “Giving the gift of sight is humbling consistent, scientifically accepted format and when the response is so overwhelming, and to test cognitive and technical skills, while we merely tried to capture that in the images improving the quality of patient care. selected for this piece.” “Being able to use flexible endoscopy “It is wonderful for the Truhlsen Eye Institute for upper GI procedures and colonoscopies to celebrate The Gift of Sight as a testimony to is an important skill for surgeons,” said Dmitry one of our missions: to preserve and enhance Oleynikov, M.D., the Joseph and Richard Still vision for patients from every corner of Endowed Professor of Surgery. “Just like you the world,” said Quan Dong Nguyen, M.D., have to pass a driving test to be able to drive a car, the testing center will allow us to make sure that surgeons are proficient in endoscopic procedures.” The UNMC center was made possible in part by a donation from Paul Hodgson, Montgomery Gentry to headline Cattlemen’s Ball M.D., establishing the Paul E. Hodgson, M.D. Innovations in Surgical Technology Fund he country music duo Montgomery Gentry began in 1998, the Cattlemen’s Ball of Nebraska through the University of Nebraska Foundation. T will headline the entertainment at the 2014 has raised more than $9.73 million. This year’s Dr. Hodgson, former chairman of the UNMC Cattlemen’s Ball of Nebraska, which will be held goal is to raise $2.5 million for cancer research Department of Surgery, died Aug. 28, 2013, June 6-7 at Hoot Owl Ranch, near Harrisburg, in and local medical causes. at the age of 91. Banner County in the Nebraska Panhandle. As in past years, 90 percent of the proceeds Dr. Hodgson’s fund paid for half of the The duo, which includes Eddie Montgomery will go to the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer equipment and materials needed for the and Troy Gentry, has had 14 Top 10 singles, Center at UNMC with the remaining 10 percent testing center. The other half of the funding including five No. 1 hits – “Something to be Proud earmarked toward regional medical organizations. will come from the Alton K. Wong, M.D., of,” “If You Ever Stop Loving Me,” “Lucky Man,” Host families for this year’s event will be Distinguished Professorship held by pediatric “Back When I Knew It All” and “Roll With Me.” Kenny and Misty Stauffer along with the ranch surgeon Ken Azarow, M.D. The Cattlemen’s Ball is hosted annually by owners Jeff and Kathy May. Co-chairs are Jeff a different Nebraska family involved in the beef Heldt and Monty Stoddard. industry. Its mission is to raise money for cancer research, while showcasing rural Nebraska and Tickets are on sale at cattlemensball.com 19 promoting beef as part of a healthy diet. Since it or by calling (308) 235-2289.

UNMC Connect COLLEGE ROUNDUP

College of Dentistry mutant staph bacteria is essential in allowing College of Public Health scientists to better understand how staph ❚❚ Paul Johnson, a fourth-year dental student, ❚❚ The COPH has expanded its online program genes cause . It also is critical in earned first place in the 54th American Dental offerings, tailored to fit the needs of helping pharmaceutical companies develop Association/DENTSPLY Student Clinician professionals regardless of where they reside. new drugs to combat staph infections. Research Program at the ADA annual session A major advantage is that all online students in New Orleans. Johnson, who competed pay the same affordable tuition per credit with students from 56 U.S. dental schools, College of Nursing hour. Online programs include Professional presented “Alveolar Bone Loss in Subjects with ❚❚ In May 2013 the Nebraska Legislature Certificates in Public Health and Emergency Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis.” approved $12 million for a new College of Preparedness, Master of Science in Emergency ❚❚ The Dental Hygiene Program recently Nursing building in Lincoln. Another $5.5 Preparedness, and Master of Public Health in celebrated the fact that their students have million must be raised to complete the Biostatistics, Environmental and Occupational not had a single failure on the National funding needed. The building will provide Health, and Public Health Practice. Board Dental Hygiene examination since additional space for educating nurses, nurse ❚❚ The COPH offers MPH dual-degree 1999. More than 300 dental hygiene practitioners and faculty members and for programs in collaboration with UNMC’s students over the past 14 years have expanding nursing research. Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy and School contributed to that amazing feat. ❚❚ The College of Nursing received full of Allied Health Professions; the University ❚❚ Julie Marshall, D.D.S., interim chair of the accreditation of the Doctor of Nursing of Nebraska at Omaha School of Social department of adult restorative dentistry, is Practice program until 2018, the maximum Work, College of Information Science and the inaugural Dr. William and Kathryn Greer period allowed. Technology, and College of Business; and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College Faculty Fellow. Dr. Greer (D.D.S. 1955), and ❚❚ Lani Zimmerman, Ph.D., was named to the of Law. Dual-degree programs offer students Mrs. Greer, a University of Nebraska-Lincoln Florence Niedfelt Professorship in Nursing the opportunity to integrate their training graduate, established this endowment as for a three-year term. Dr. Zimmerman will with a population-based public health degree. an expression of gratitude for the excellent focus on the use of technology in nursing The seven dual-degree programs are: BSIT/ education they received at the university. research and on expanding nursing faculty MPH, JD/MPH, MBA/MPH, MD/MPH, engagement in interdisciplinary, multi-site, MPAS/MPH, MPH/MSW and PharmD/MPH. College of Medicine multi-campus translational research. ❚❚ The COPH continues its strong trajectory of ❚ ❚❚ The College of Nursing’s West Nebraska ❚ UNMC has been selected as one of four growth. COPH student enrollment increased Division relocated its classrooms and offices institutions to participate in a pilot program 13 percent to 223 total, with 50 PhD students, in summer 2013 due to renovations at the designed to transform the way resident 138 master’s students and 35 certificate and Elliott Building in Scottsbluff. Faculty offices physicians are trained in primary care. The non-degree program students. COPH received are in Regional West Medical Center and project Primary Care Faculty Development 240 qualified applicants for its programs in classrooms and administration are at the Initiative brings together three key disciplines fall 2013, a 95 percent increase over fall 2012. Western Nebraska Community College. This – family medicine, internal medicine and Additionally, COPH grants and contracts strengthens partnerships with both institutions. – in a coordinated effort to better increased by 45 percent in FY12-13. prepare physicians for the rapidly evolving health care system. The pilot project will College of Pharmacy require collaboration between UNMC, The Eppley Institute/Fred & Pamela ❚❚ The existing College of Pharmacy building will Nebraska Medical Center, UNMC Physicians Buffett Cancer Center be named the Joseph D. & Millie E. Williams and Children’s Hospital & Medical Center. Science Hall. Two auditoriums in the planned ❚❚ Julie Vose, M.D., has been elected president ❚❚ A 73-year-old grandmother worried for several Lozier Center for Pharmacy Sciences and of the American Society of Clinical months whether or not she would be able to Education and Center for Drug Discovery (ASCO) for a one-year term beginning in June get her driver’s license renewed. The Weigel also will be named for the couple. Joe and 2015. She will take office as president-elect in Williamson Center for Visual Rehabilitation Millie have been longtime advocates for, June during the ASCO annual meeting. helped her overcome her anxiety. Through and donors to, the College of Pharmacy, the use of the center’s bioptic telescopes, she establishing a Scholarship Leadership Award Munroe-Meyer Institute “could see 20/20.” The center trained her how and recently serving as a principal donor to ❚❚ Autism affects one in 68 children. Thanks to use the aid by having her read road signs the new state-of-the-art facility. as a passenger. Gradually, she was able to to the United Way of the Midlands’ Karnett ❚❚ Third-year students Caroline Jamison and begin driving while using the aid. Family Trust grant, UNMC’s Munroe-Meyer Ashley Schenk represented the college at Institute is able to provide treatment to more ❚❚ Through the creation of a library of the American Society of Health-System children on the spectrum. Held at the Autism more than 2,000 mutant strains of the Pharmacists’ midyear meeting in the clinical Center of Nebraska, the Autism Clinic for Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, UNMC skills competition. More than 100 teams Toddlers targets the youngest children (18-36 has provided an important tool for scientists competed. Jamison and Schenk were the only months) for early intervention. around the world seeking answers for how to P3s in the country to finish in the top 10. better deal with staph infections. Developed over the past four years, the library of

20 (alumni news)

Alumni House Renovation Complete

he UNMC Alumni House will look different T the next time you visit campus. In recent months, the Alumni House has undergone both internal and external renovations. Outside the House, visitors will see a new roof, yard and landscaping. The yard at the Alumni House is frequently used for student picnics and will continue to be available for activities in the future. The internal renovations include refi nishing the House’s original woodwork, new fl ooring in common areas and offi ces and a partial Thomas Hejkal, MD ’90, PhD, receives an award for 20 years of service from chairman and director of the Stanley M. kitchen renovation. Truhlsen Eye Institute, Quan Dong Nguyen, MD, and Diana Do, MD, associate professor and vice chairwoman for The Alumni House is home to the UNMC education and residency program director. Alumni Relations Offi ce, and is available for UNMC Department of Ophthalmology & rent for both alumni and private events. Visual Sciences Hosts Alumni Reception

he Stanley M. Truhlsen Eye Institute and the department and the Truhlsen Eye Institute. T the Department of Ophthalmology and “Thank you to everyone who attended the Visual Sciences hosted a resident and alumni alumni reception and helped make it a reception at the 2013 annual meeting of the resounding success,” said Quan Dong Nguyen, American Academy of Ophthalmology in New MD, director of the Truhlsen Eye Institute and Orleans. More than 30 guests attended the chairman of the department. The event also Nov. 17 reception, which was an opportunity honored two of the department’s employees for resident alumni, fellows, UNMC College in appreciation for 20 years of service: Kathy of Medicine alumni, and friends to reconnect Austin and Thomas Hejkal, MD, PhD. For more information about renting web the UNMC Alumni House, visit and learn about the advances and goals of extra www.unmc.edu/alumni/rentals.htm

web extra unmc.edu/connect

web School of Allied Health Professions ❚ Patricia Hageman, Ph.D., professor, physical ❚ Amber Donnelly,extra Ph.D., associate professor therapy education, was appointed by U.S. and program director of cytotechnology ❚ This past fall, Joe Norman, Ph.D., professor Secretary of the Department of Health and education, was awarded a $50,000 of physical therapy education, was named Human Services Kathleen Sebelius to serve American Society for Cytopathology director of the physical therapy program. on the U.S. Health Resources and Services Investigator Grant to investigate the Tammy Jones, assistant professor of radiation Administration (HRSA) External Advisory development of an online cytotechnology science technology education, was named Committee. Dr. Hageman was a contributor program using virtual microscopy. director of the radiography program. to the recently released 12th annual report of the US-HRSA External Advisory Committee, “Redesigning Health Professions Education and Practice to Prepare the Interprofessional Team to Care for Populations.” 21 (alumni news)

New Alumni Chapter: Graduate Studies

he newest chapter of the UNMC Alumni from such disciplines as the basic sciences, T Association offi cially has a board of directors nursing, public health and the medical sciences. and dues structure. The UNMC Graduate These graduates include medical scientists Studies Alumni Chapter was formed last fall. and academicians. The new chapter will The board of directors has fi ve members with M. support the UNMC Graduate Studies Offi ce Patricia Leuschen, PhD, serving as the inaugural and its students. president. “I look forward to working with the One of its fi rst offi cial functions will be to Graduate Studies alumni to build a strong support the Graduate Studies Offi ce in planning network of professionals and to continue to its inaugural Honors Convocation on May 9. support UNMC,” Dr. Leuschen said. Graduate studies alumni should expect an initial Founding members of the UNMC Graduate Studies The Graduate Studies Alumni Chapter is membership packet this spring with information Alumni Chapter Board of Directors include, from left: Pam Carmines, PhD; Anna Brynskikh Boyum, PhD open to UNMC alumni who earned degrees on how to join the chapter. ’13; M. Patricia Leuschen, PhD ’76; Geoffrey Thiele, from the UNMC Graduate Studies Program of PhD ’85; and Alice Schumaker, PhD.. Not pictured is Interested alumni also may Wayne Stuberg, PhD ’89. the University of Nebraska Graduate College; web contact the UNMC Alumni Offi ce extra at [email protected] or may join which is made up of master’s and PhD programs online at www.unmc.edu/alumni.

web unmc.edu/connect Alumni Reunion 2013 Awardextra Recipients West Nebraska web extra ach year, during Alumni Reunion Weekend, the alumni chapters honor outstanding graduates Division Nursing Ewho have made substantial contributions in their fi elds. Campus to Host The 2013 award recipients were: Alumni Reunion ALUMNI CHAPTER AWARD NAME RECIPIENT Distinguished Alumnus Richard Hranac, MD he UNMC College of Nursing Alumni College of Medicine Award Class of 1973 TChapter has formed a committee to plan Early Career Achievement Sheila Sternberg Ellis, MD an all class reunion scheduled for Sept. 12-13, College of Medicine Award Class of 1992 for alumni from West Nebraska General Distinguished Alumnus Cynthia Dougherty, PhD, ARNP, FAHA, FAAN Hospital and the College of Nursing West College of Nursing Award Class of 1977 (ASN), 1979 (BSN) Nebraska Division. Early Career Achievement Elizabeth Hermsen, PharmD, MBA, BCPS-ID Reunion activities include: an opportunity College of Pharmacy Award Class of 2001 to “go back to school” with current students, campus tours, the White Coat ceremony at the For more information about these CODAA honorees in 2013 were: West Nebraska Division, and a tailgate party individuals’ signifi cant achievements, visit: Distinguished Service Award for the Nebraska vs. Fresno State football www.unmc.edu/alumni, where you also can Paul Swanson, DDS ’58 game (televised). download a nomination form to nominate a Alumni Achievement Award “We look forward to welcoming our colleague for a future alumni award. David Neumeister, DDS ’69 outstanding nursing alumni to Scottsbluff to The College of Dentistry Alumni Association Honorary Life Membership Award learn how things have changed in nursing (CODAA) also honored alumni during its John W. Reinhardt, DDS education,” said Sue Wilhelm, assistant dean, annual Homecoming Reunion, held on Oct. 4-5. Dean of the College of Dentistry UNMC College of Nursing West Nebraska Outstanding Teaching Award Division. “We are excited to see our alumni and Eric Fung, PhD learn about their achievements.” web Full bios of these distinguished 22 individuals are available at Alumni who would like to organize this reunion extra unmc.edu/dentistry. or get involved should call Roxanna Jokela at the UNMC Alumni Relations offi ce at web extra unmc.edu/connect (402) 559-4385 or email [email protected]. WINTER 2014 web extra Alumni Gather in Omaha for 2013 Alumni Reunion Weekend

nother successful reunion weekend was held Oct. 11-12 in Omaha for alumni of the colleges Aof medicine, nursing and pharmacy. More than 175 alumni and their guests attended the weekend events, which included class parties, campus tours, a welcome back lunch with the deans, continuing education, the celebration and awards banquet, and two Ollie the Trolley tours of Omaha. Members of the College of Nursing class of 1963 at the reunion welcome back lunch with the UNMC deans. The 2013 Alumni Reunion Weekend celebrated “honor years” ending in “3” or “8.”

Highlights from the weekend included: ❚ The College of Pharmacy offered the Fall Continuing Education Program for pharmacists, preceptors and alumni during reunion weekend. ❚ Cynthia Dougherty, PhD, ARNP, FAHA, FAAN (ASN ‘77, BSN ‘79), received the College of Nursing Alumni Chapter second annual Distinguished Nursing Alumnus Award. Her presentation was titled, “Interventions to Promote Physical Functioning and Psychological Adjustment in Advanced Heart Disease.”

❚ More than 50 alumni and guests participated in walking tours of campus and two College of Medicine Alumni Chapter President Bill Ollie the Trolley tours, with a capacity of 22 guests each, were sold out. Lydiatt, M’88, right, presents the Distinguished Alumnus Award to Richard Hranac, M’73. ❚ 130 alumni, including many with their guests, attended an honor year class party during the reunion.

Alumni Reunion Weekend 2014 will be Oct. 17-18 in Omaha. The Alumni Relations Offi ce seeks honor year class coordinators for the 2014 reunion. If you are interested in serving as a leader for your class, please contact Alumni Relations Director Roxanna Jokela at (402) 559-4385 or [email protected]. Also, if you plan to attend the reunion, call for reservations at the Embassy Suites Downtown/ Old Market at (402) 346-9000 and ask for the UNMC alumni rate of $142/night. Alumni are “all aboard” for a narrated Ollie the Trolley tour of Omaha.

Alumni Gather for Husker Tailgate Party

s part of outreach events across ANebraska, the UNMC Alumni Association hosted a tailgate party at the Grand Manse in Lincoln, Neb., prior to the Nebraska vs. Wyoming football game. The Aug. 31 event brought together more than 50 alumni and guests from the colleges of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, public health and the school of allied health professions. Alumni who attended the football game enjoyed a 37-34 Husker win. The UNMC alumni and guests gather at the Grand Manse in Lincoln, Neb., prior to the Wyoming at Nebraska football game. UNMC Alumni Association hosted a spring training game in Scottsdale, Ariz. A second 23 event, the Showdown in O-Town for Nebraska web at Creighton, is set for April 29. extra For more information about these events, visit www.unmc.edu/alumni.

UNMC Connect web extra unmc.edu/connect

web extra (alumni class notes) CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science D - Dentistry G - Graduate N - Nursing M - Medicine P - Pharmacy PH - Public Health PA - Physician Assistant PT - Physical Therapy RSTE - Radiation Science Technology Education

oLarry Wilson M’73 Deborah Perry M’84 Medicine Excelsior Springs, Mo., accepted the position of chief Omaha, Neb., was recognized by medical officer at the Kansas City Military Entrance the College of American Pathologists oStanley Schonberger M’40 Processing Station. (CAP) with the CAP Excellence in Oakland, Calif., has been retired for 17 years. He Teaching Award at a ceremony plays bridge, walks and goes to hospital meetings. oThomas Tonniges M’74 in Orlando, Fla. in October. She He will celebrate his 98th birthday in May. Omaha, Neb., received the Lifetime Achievement received the award for her role Award from Voices for Children in Nebraska, a non- as a facilitator for the nationally oErnest Johnson M’56 profit organization that advocates for the needs of recognized Laboratory Medical Director Advanced Sacramento, Calif., retired last year after 50 years children. Practical Pathology Program. of practicing otolaryngology in Sacramento. He still continues medical practice up to two days a week. oDaniel Durrie M’75 oJulie Vose M’84 Mission Hills, Kan., will serve as the chief physician Omaha, Neb., was elected president of the PFredric Boyden, M’60 officer of the newly established Alphaeon American Society of Clinical Oncology for a one- Reno, Nev., received the Arthur J. Lurie, MD, Corporation, a company operating solely in the self- year term beginning in June 2015. She takes Distinguished Physician Award from the Renown pay lifestyle sector of health care. He is a refractive office as president-elect in June 2014. ASCO is the Health Foundation. The award is given to a physician surgeon and the founder and president of Durrie largest international organization of health care in recognition of humanitarian, medical and Vision, a self-pay vision correction surgery center in professionals in oncology. community service. Overland Park, Kan. oMark Duff M’85 oJames Bell M’62 Kurt Johnson M’77 Manhattan, Kan., practices general pediatrics as Newport Coast, Calif., is fully retired and spends Ogallala, Neb., retired as a family physician in a partner in a seven-person group in Manhattan, time with his six grandchildren. October. He spent 33 years as a family doctor where Kan. He also serves on the Mercy Hospital Board he has seen countless patients and delivered more of Directors. He and his wife Annette recently oCalvin Hobel M’63 than 1,000 babies. celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary. Palos Verdes Estates, Calif., works part time doing research on Vitamin D deficiency and pre-term birth oJames O’Dell M’77 oMichael Johnson M’85 and obesity. Omaha, Neb., recently completed a term as president Hastings, Neb., has practiced family medicine for 24 of the American College of Rheumatology. Last July, years in Hastings. He has three teenagers. oKeith Shuey M’64 he published an article in the New England Journal of Tecumseh, Neb., has worked full time at the same Medicine on the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Jeffrey Binder M’86 office since 1966. He does not plan to retire for at Milwaukee, Wis., was named chairman of the Society least another two or three years. Dennis Hickstein M’78 for the Neurobiology of Language, an international Bethesda, Md., was inducted into the Grand Island organization formed in 2009 to foster progress in oSteve Cunningham M’70 (Neb.) Senior High School Hall of Honor, of which understanding the neurobiological basis for language. Reno, Nev., enjoys retirement after 30 years of he is an alumnus. He directs the National Institutes He practices at Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee. with Alpine Bone and Joint Clinic of Health program in molecular oncology and gene in Reno. transfer and designs clinical trials in hematopoietic Bryan Bredthauer M’85 stem cell transplantation and gene therapy for Omaha, Neb., joined Fremont Area Medical Center oJoseph Drozda M’70 children and adults with genetic immunodeficiency as an orthopedic surgeon. Chesterfield, Mo., was appointed chair of the diseases. Healthcare Transformation Group’s Research Team, Jeffrey David M’86 an alliance of five large health systems working to Robert Wergin M’79 Lincoln, Neb., was named the Nebraska Medical create a system for using electronic health record Lincoln, Neb., was chosen president- Association Physician of the Year due to his wide data for doing post-market surveillance of medical elect of the American Academy of ranging community involvement as a physician-leader. devices and comparative effectiveness research. Family Physicians. Previously, he He is a pediatrician with the Lincoln Pediatric Group. served three years as a member oRichard Elliott M’70 of the organization’s board of oTimothy Sullivan M’86 Sun City West, Ariz., marked two honors this past directors. He practices family Lincoln, Neb., started a new full-service family year – he was named a distinguished alumnus medicine in Milford, Neb. practice in Lincoln early this year called Coddington from Weeping Water High School and received the Medical Family Practice. Banner Medical Group’s Best Physician Award. Dennis Bozarth M’83 Lincoln, Neb., joined the medical staff at Lincoln David Vlach M’89 oLowell Harvey M’70 Orthopedic Center as an orthopedic surgeon who Hartington, Neb., joined Avera Medical Group Wichita Falls, Texas, continues to practice full time as focuses on returning individuals to an active and Yankton Behavioral Health. a critical care/pulmonary physician. He received the productive lifestyle. 2013 Distinguished Service Award from the Wichita Charles Smith M’91 County Medical Society for his dedicated and loyal Luanne Thorndyke M’83 Blair, Neb., joined Memorial Community Hospital practice of medicine for more than 35 years. Shrewsbury, Mass., was named the 2013 recipient in Blair. He also will see patients at the Tekamah of the Individual Leadership Development Award Cottonwood Clinic. His interests include family David Imes M’73 by the Group on Women in Medicine and Science practice, obstetrics, pediatrics and sports medicine. Gering, Neb., retired Jan. 1 from Regional West Leadership of the Association of American Medical Physicians Clinic-Family Medicine in Gering after Colleges. The award recognizes leaders for Troy Dawson M’97 and Roger Rudloff M’94 nearly 40 years of service to the community. their extraordinary, innovative and far-reaching Neligh, Neb., were both recognized by the Nebraska contributions to advancing women leaders in Rural Health Association with the 2013 Nebraska academic medicine. Outstanding Rural Health Practitioner Award. 24

WINTER 2014 CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science D - Dentistry G - Graduate N - Nursing M - Medicine P - Pharmacy PH - Public Health PA - Physician Assistant PT - Physical Therapy RSTE - Radiation Science Technology Education

The award recognizes individuals that exhibit Joshua McConkey M’03 Jason Lambrecht M’10 outstanding leadership in bringing and/or improving Holly Springs, N.C., accepted a faculty appointment Papillion, Neb., joined Alegent Creighton Health health services in rural Nebraska. They practice at at Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, Bergan Mercy Medical Center as a hospitalist. Antelope Memorial Hospital and reside with their N.C., in July 2013. He is an assistant professor in the respective wives and families in Neligh. division of emergency medicine. Craig Pekny M’10 Columbus, Neb., joined Columbus Medical Center oJames Malone M’95 Benjamin Bissell M’04 in Columbus as a family physician. He is returning to Atascadero, Calif., continues his North Platte, Neb., joined CNOS P.C. in Dakota his hometown with his wife, Kasey, who is a special private practice. He also continues to serve as Dunes, S.D. He is an orthopedic surgeon specializing education teacher. lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve and in sports medicine, shoulder, knee and hip surgery, is an Iraq War veteran. and general orthopedics. Tiffany Ward M’10 Demopolis, Ala., joined the Chu Clinic in Demopolis Deborah Clements M’97 Benjamin Fago M’04 after completing her residency in Texas. She will Glenview, Ill., was named program director of the Hastings, Neb., joined Mary Lanning Healthcare practice obstetrics. Northwestern McGaw Family Medicine Residency in Hastings as the emergency services medical at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital. She also director. Natalie Stavas M’11 practices family medicine with the Northwestern Boston, Mass., was named a 2013 Bostonian of the Memorial Physicians Group in Grayslake, and is Benjamin Aaker M’05 Year by the Boston Globe Magazine for her heroic professor and chairwoman of the department of Brandon, S.D., joined Avera Sacred Heart Hospital response at the finish line after the Boston Marathon family and community medicine at Northwestern medical staff in Yankton, S.D. He and his wife Beth bombing in April 2013. University Feinberg School of Medicine. have two children. oTroy Plumb M’97 Elizabeth Hartman M’05 Nursing Omaha, Neb., was appointed chief of the Dakota Dunes, S.D., joined CNOS P.C. in Dakota division at UNMC after serving in the Dunes as a neurologist and multiple sclerosis *Beatrice Kalisch N’65 role on an interim basis. He was selected after a specialist. Ann Arbor, Mich., was chosen as the 2013-2014 national search. Distinguished Nurse Scholar-in-Residence at the Dana Hess M’05 Institute of Medicine (IOM) of the National Academies. oJulie Fedderson M’98 Philadelphia, Pa., is an orthopedic surgeon The program provides a year-long leadership Papillion, Neb., is the chief quality and outcomes completing a one-year hand fellowship at the opportunity in health care policy at the IOM. officer at The Nebraska Medical Center. Philadelphia Hand Hospital. oPamela Harvey N’69 Garret Shaw M’98 Tyler Adam M’07 Wichita Falls, Texas, recently retired from neonatal Blair, Neb., joined Gothenburg Memorial Hospital in Hastings, Neb., joined Fillmore County Hospital’s nursing. Gothenburg, Neb., as a family practitioner. Specialty Clinic. He started an ob/gyn practice in Hastings in 2011. oBunny Pozehl N’76, ’78, ’83 Andrew Buresh M’99 Lincoln, Neb., was inducted as a fellow into the Scottsdale, Ariz., was featured on the cover of the Ryan Martin M’07 American Academy of Nursing in October 2013. Phoenix Magazine Top Doctors 2013 issue. The Lincoln, Neb., began providing outreach services magazine picks the top doctors in 49 specialties in for the Nebraska Pulmonary Specialties Columbus Marie Haddad N’79 the entire Phoenix valley based on level of care and outreach clinic in October 2013. Omaha, Neb., was named president-elect of the patient satisfaction. American Society of Bioethics and Humanities Susan Cooper-Morphew M’09 (ASBH). The ASBH is a bioethics and health- oAnne Newland M’99 Champaign, Ill., joined the Christie Clinic’s related humanities organization that promotes Flagstaff, Ariz., completed her MPH and fellowship Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in interdisciplinary scholarship, research, teaching, in Minority Health Policy in May 2013 from the Champaign. policy development, professional development, and Harvard School of Public Health. She is the deputy collegiality among people engaged in endeavors chief medical officer for North Country Health Care, Melissa Mosel M’09 related to clinical and academic bioethics and a federally qualified health center in Flagstaff. North Platte, Neb., joined Great Plains Pediatrics in health-related humanities. North Platte. Christine Stanko M’00 Susan Hassmiller N’83 Gladwyne, Pa., is the owner/president of Bryn Brad Bohn M’10 Plainsboro, N.J., received the Harriman Award for Mawr . She and her husband have two Kearney, Neb., received the Young Alumnus Award Distinguished Volunteer Service from the American daughters. from the University of Nebraska at Kearney Alumni Red Cross. The award is the group’s highest honor Association in September 2013. He is a captain in in volunteerism. She currently serves as the board oNicole Anderson-Erickson M’01 the medical corps of the United States Air National chairwoman of the American Red Cross of Central Lincoln, Neb., is a hospitalist at Bryan LGH Guard. He started practicing at the Kearney Clinic in New Jersey, and the chairwoman of communications in Lincoln. the summer of 2013. for the National Nursing Committee. She has worked with the Red Cross since 1975. Douglas Althouse M’03 Joe Dangberg M’10 Eagle, Neb., joined Prairie Lake Family Medicine in Pender, Neb., joined the medical teams at Pender PMissy Fleck N’81, ’84 ’90 Lincoln, Neb. He has experience in hospice care, Community Hospital and Pender Mercy Medical Tecumseh, Neb., accepted a new position as the emergency medicine and family practice. Clinic. A native of Wayne, Neb., he and his wife director of nursing at Johnson County Hospital Denise are excited about living and working in a in Tecumseh. rural area similar to where they grew up. 25

oIndicates alumni dues-paying member | PLife Member in alumni association UNMC Connect (alumni class notes) CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science D - Dentistry G - Graduate N - Nursing M - Medicine P - Pharmacy PH - Public Health PA - Physician Assistant PT - Physical Therapy RSTE - Radiation Science Technology Education

Kimberly Siniscalchi N’88 Todd Falter N’07 PDaren Knoell P’89 Rockwall, Texas, was inducted as a Fellow into the Omaha, Neb., is an emergency room team leader Hilliard, Ohio, recently received the Ohio State American Academy of Nursing in October 2013. and emergency medical services coordinator for University College of Pharmacy Kimberly Professorship Midlands Hospital in Papillion, Neb. He also serves and was selected as chairman of the department of Polly Stern N’90 as director of risk management and control pharmacy practice and administration. Omaha, Neb., was appointed the new director of for the Lincoln Regional Center. clinical services at The Ambassador Omaha health Kim Aldridge P’91 system. She will oversee the clinical operation and Ann Scott N’09 Lincoln, Neb., is the pharmacy operations supervisor staff for the rehabilitation, adult pulmonary and Gothenburg, Neb., joined Gothenburg Medical Arts at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital. She and her pediatric specialty care units. She has been with the as a nurse practitioner. She will provide women’s husband Derek have four children. organization for 20 years. health services and also round at the Brady Rural Health Clinic two mornings per week. Jennifer DiGiacinto P’97 Kristen Rickertsen N’93, ’09 Washington, D.C., joined RRD International as a Gothenburg, Neb., recently joined the staff at Angela Patrick N’11 senior technical advisor. She will work closely with Gothenburg Family Practice as a nurse practitioner. Grant, Neb., joined the Grant Medical Clinic as a partner companies to provide strategic direction on She and her husband have three children. family nurse practitioner. She also volunteers at the clinical pharmacology and regulatory issues related Perkins County Schools reading program and for to their development programs. Merikay Berg N’95 health screenings. Lexington, Neb., was elected president of the Marcus Thoendel P’03 Nebraska Philanthropic Educational Organization, Manuela Wolf N’11 Bellwood, Neb., joined Bob’s U-Save Pharmacy which celebrates the advancement of women. Franklin, Neb., was appointed chief executive officer in Columbus, Neb. He and his wife Carrie have at the Harlan County Health System in October three children. Melissa Borman N’95 2013. Previously, she was the chief nursing officer. Lincoln, Neb., joined the Bridge at Cornhusker Place oBen Grote P’04 as medical manager. She will oversee all medical Sarah Anderson N’12 Papillion, Neb., recently accepted a staff pharmacist staff and strategic decisions related to the medical Tilden, Neb., joined Tilden Community Hospital as a position in South Sioux City, Neb., and is proud of his needs of those served at the facility, which is a non- nurse practitioner. eldest daughter, who is now serving overseas in the profit substance abuse treatment center. U.S. Air Force. Gara Sibley N’13 Kathy Hoebelheinrich N’97 Red Cloud, Neb., accepted a position at the Michael Daly P’05 Lincoln, Neb., was named Nurse of the Year at the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City, Kan., in Ballwin, Mo., accepted a new position as the clinical Nebraska Nurse’s Association annual convention the cardiothoracic surgery intensive care unit. manager at St. Louis University Hospital. in October 2013. As executive secretary of the Nebraska Nurse’s Association, she led a successful Taylor Westring N’13 Amy Reiner P’12 scope of practice credentialing review for nurse Stromsburg, Neb., joined St. Elizabeth’s Regional Columbus, Neb., is an inpatient pharmacist at practitioners in the past year that recommends Medical Center in Lincoln, Neb., in the Progressive/ Columbus Community Hospital. She and her removal of the Integrated Practice Agreement Modified Intensive Care Unit. husband Scott celebrated the first birthday of their requirement between nurse practitioners and daughter, Charlotte, in September 2013. physicians. She is a diabetes case manager at the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department. Pharmacy Colby Haynes P’13 Auburn, Neb., joined Chief Drug in Tecumseh, Neb., Emily Hensley N’01, N’13 Kevin Linn P’76 and Robert Bailey P’89 as the full-time pharmacist. Kearney, Neb., joined the staff of the Richard Young Mitchell, Neb., and Grand Island, Neb., respectively, Behavioral Health Center Outpatient Clinic. She have gone into business together and opened a new Holly Mussman P’13 specializes in psychiatry and mental health. pharmacy in Mitchell, Neb. The two are old friends. Bruning, Neb., joined Waver Pharmacy in The new business, Mitchell Drug, opened in the Geneva, Neb. Celeste Warlick N’03 summer of 2013. Marshall, Mich., joined the Oaklawn Medical Group Cristin Soucie P’13 in Battle Creek, Mich., as a nurse practitioner. She Kathryn Labbe P’78 Cambridge, Neb., is a new pharmacist at U-Save earned a master’s degree in nursing from Old Mesa, Ariz., received the 2013 Bowl of Hygeia Award Pharmacy in McCook, Neb. Dominion, Norfolk, Va., in 2012. from the Arizona Pharmacy Association. The award is the highest recognition for an Arizona pharmacist. Shannon Kuehn N’05 Dentistry Heartwell, Neb., joined Kearney County Hospital oNancy Sloan P’80 and the affiliated Minden Medical Clinic as an Scottsbluff, Neb., was honored by UNMC’s College Paul Swanson D’58 advanced nurse practitioner. She has experience in of Pharmacy as the 2013 Preceptor of the Year. Redlands, Calif., received the Distinguished Service the emergency room, hospital and specialty clinic Award from the UNMC College of Dentistry environments as a nurse and charge nurse. Mitch Marsh P’88 Alumni Association during the October 2013 Lincoln, Neb., was named pharmacy residency homecoming reunion. Angela Curran N’07, N’13 program director for Saint Elizabeth Regional Lincoln, Neb., joined Surgical Associates, P.C. in Medical Center in Lincoln. He established the James Slominski D’63 Lincoln as a nurse practitioner. program in 2012 after joining Saint Elizabeth Falls City, Neb., recently retired and is transitioning in 2001 as the clinical pharmacy coordinator. his dental practice, Parkside Dental, to Kobza Dental April Schubert N’07, N’13 Previously, he spent 10 years as a clinical pharmacy operated by UNMC alumnus J. Travis Kobza, D’06. Champaign, Ill., joined Carle Foundation Hospital as specialist at Ingalls Hospital in Harvey, Ill. Dr. Slominski will practice two days per week during a nurse practitioner specializing in women’s health. the transition. 26

WINTER 2014 CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science D - Dentistry G - Graduate N - Nursing M - Medicine P - Pharmacy PH - Public Health PA - Physician Assistant PT - Physical Therapy RSTE - Radiation Science Technology Education

Roger Curry D’69 Papillion, Neb., received a national award as the Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society’s Volunteer of the Year.

David Neumeister D’69 Brattleboro, Vt., received the Alumni Achievement Award from the UNMC College of Dentistry Alumni Association during the October 2013 homecoming reunion.

Janna Spahr D’98 In December, seven physician assistant graduates were inducted into the Alpha Eta Honor Society, which Milford, Neb., received the Academy of General promotes scholarship and friendship and the recognition of high attainments in the allied health professions. Dentistry Association’s Mastership Award during From left: Morgan Achterhoff, Bethany Berg, Hannah Hoy-Elswick, Sadie Johnson, Amy Newbold, Emily Plautz the 2013 annual meeting. The Mastership Award and nuclear medicine student Dana Riter. The students are with Alpha Eta chairman Jim Temme (left) and SAHP is the highest AGD honor available. She received Dean Kyle Meyer, PhD, PT (right). the award for completing more than 1,100 hours of continuing dental education. Stacie Christensen PT’08 Sarah Poe PT’13 Kearney, Neb., is in her fifth year working at Good Omaha, Neb., accepted a physical therapist position Stephanie Vondrak D’02 Samaritan Hospital in Kearney. She has two sons, with Community Rehab Physical Therapy and Sports Omaha, Neb., was named to the Midlands Business Drake and Aiden. Medicine in Omaha. Journal’s list of 40 Under 40 for 2013. The list o recognizes local entrepreneurs, executives and Lindsey Oldaker PT’10 professionals under age 40. Albion, Neb., practices at the Valley County Physician Assistant Health System clinics in Ord and Burwell, Neb. Elizabeth Katzberg D’10 Her areas of interest include orthopedics and Roger Wells PA’87 Lincoln, Neb., joined the Genesis Orthodontics post-surgical rehabilitation. Saint Paul, Neb., received the Outstanding Rural practice in Lincoln. Health Achievement Award from the Nebraska Krista Cullen PT’11 Rural Health Association. The award recognizes Piper Larson D’12 Kearney, Neb., joined McMeen Physical Therapy at its individuals for leadership and noteworthy initiative in Omaha, Neb., joined Premier Dental in Omaha. Kearney location. She previously was a staff therapist promoting the development of community-oriented, at Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy in Fort Collins, rural health care delivery. Erin Anderson D’13 Colo. She is a certified exercise expert for aging adults. Norfolk, Neb., joined the Dental Wellness Center Bryan Myers PA’94 o practice in Norfolk. Les Kleinjan PT’11 Stromsburg, Neb., opened a new urgent care Lincoln, Neb., was elected in the summer of 2013 to clinic in Wahoo, Neb. He also has a clinic in the UNMC Physical Therapy Alumni Chapter Board Papillion, Neb. of Directors. Physical Therapy Carol Cornelius PA’00 o John Long PT’94 Elliot Tapprich PT’12 Benkelman, Neb., joined the Grant Medical Clinic in Lincoln, Neb., was granted fellow status in the Omaha, Neb., works for Excel Physical Therapy at its Grant, Neb. American Academy of Orthopedic Manual South Omaha location. He was elected in the summer Physical Therapists. He is one of 887 fellows in the of 2013 to the UNMC Physical Therapy Alumni Christy Snyder PA’02 United States, a number that represents less than Chapter Board of Directors. Waverly, Neb., joined East Lincoln Internal Medicine. 1 percent of all physical therapists. He is one of She practices internal medicine and enjoys caring for three in Nebraska. Stephanie Borst PT’13 diabetic patients and practicing women’s health. Lincoln, Neb., joined the staff at Midwest Physical oDawn Venema PT’99 Therapy Pine Lake in Lincoln. Cody Sasek PA’09 Omaha, Neb., was selected as the 2013 recipient Omaha, Neb., joined the UNMC Physician Assistant of the Achievement in Education Award from the Brandon Deeds PT’13 Program as an assistant professor. Since graduation, Nebraska Physical Therapy Association. She is an Falls City, Neb., joined Physical and Respiratory he has practiced orthopedics and sports medicine in assistant professor at UNMC in the physical therapy Therapy Services in Falls City. private practice in Kansas City. education program. Kyle Fornoff PT’13 Diana Podlecki PA’10 oMichael Moravec PT’04 Gothenburg, Neb., recently joined McMeen Physical Columbus, Neb., joined Columbus Scottsbluff, Neb., is the supervising physical therapist Therapy at its Gothenburg location. His areas of Community Hospital. at Monument Physical Therapy in Gering, Neb. He interest are sports and orthopedics rehabilitation. and his wife, Lisa, have four boys; Lisa is a dental Timothy Nickell PA’11 hygienist and works at the UNMC Dental Hygiene Kelsi Lemon PT’13 Shell Lake, Wis., joined Essentia Health Spooner College satellite location in Gering. He was elected Papillion, Neb., works for RehabVisions as a physical Clinic Family Medicine Department in Spooner, Wis. to the UNMC Physical Therapy Alumni Chapter therapist. She was elected in the summer of 2013 to Board of Directors in the summer of 2013. the UNMC Physical Therapy Alumni Chapter Board Michael Iten PA’12 of Directors. Broken Arrow, Okla., joined the Utica Park Clinic Rebecca Setlik PT’06 Broken Arrow North location in Oklahoma and Loup City, Neb., practices at the Valley County Aaron Olson PT’13 specializes in family medicine. He has served as an Health System Loup City Clinic. Her areas of interest Sioux Falls, S.D., joined the Orthopedic Institute of infantry combat medic for the U.S. Army National include orthopedics and post-surgical rehabilitation. Sioux Falls. He and his wife, Becca, recently relocated Guard since 2003. 27 to Sioux Falls, where she will teach in the Sioux Falls Public School System.

oIndicates alumni dues-paying member | PLife Member in alumni association UNMC Connect (alumni class notes) CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science D - Dentistry G - Graduate N - Nursing M - Medicine P - Pharmacy PH - Public Health PA - Physician Assistant PT - Physical Therapy RSTE - Radiation Science Technology Education

Clinical Laboratory Graduate Studies Science oGeoffrey Thiele PhD’85 Omaha, Neb., is a professor of internal medicine Verlin Janzen CLS’78, M’85 at UNMC in the division of rheumatology. He has Hutchinson, Kan., is in his 18th year of practice in been married to his wife Lorraine for 30 years. Their Hutchinson, Kan. He directs the lab in a 70-physician daughter, Jennifer, graduated from the UNMC practice with more than one million tests per year. College of Pharmacy in 2012. Their son, Geoffrey, While he also is trained as a physician, he has used was accepted into medical school starting this his medical technology training every day. August. Dr. Thiele is a founding member of the UNMC Graduate Studies Alumni Chapter. oGeorge McMillan CLS’92 Council Bluffs, Iowa, works for Catholic Health oWayne Stuberg PhD’89 (PT’77) Initiatives as an application developer. Clinical Laboratory Science Alumni Chapter board Omaha, Neb., was named associate director of the members Karen Stiles CLS’78, Kevin McGuire CLS’11, Munroe-Meyer Institute (MMI) at UNMC. A federally Pam Foster CLS’95 Marnie Imhoff CLS’95 and Donna Kruger CLS’91 designated University Center of Excellence for Manhattan, Kan., recently accepted the position share a congratulatory cake with CLS students at Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and of director of Equal Opportunity at Washburn their winter party in December. Service, MMI specializes in providing services and University in Topeka, Kan. support for persons with intellectual, developmental and/or genetic disorders. He is a founding member PKris Brandl CLS’97 Christina Araujo RSTE’06 of the UNMC Graduate Studies Alumni Chapter. Lincoln, Neb., became engaged to Chris Geis in Omaha, Neb., was named the new clinical October 2013 and is planning a fall wedding. They education coordinator for the radiography and Archana Chatterjee PhD’93 also welcomed a grandson, Liam, in January. cardiovascular interventional technology program Omaha, Neb., was named chairwoman of the at UNMC. She started her position in December. University of South Dakota Department of Pediatrics. Sarah Keim Janssen CLS’01, PhD’08 Omaha, Neb., was recognized by Chadron State Brandi Heyden RSTE’13 Vivek Gautam PhD’09 College with the Distinguished Young Alumni Award Omaha, Neb., completed the newly developed Medford, Mass., is a research fellow at in October 2013. She is the course director for vascular externship program in the fall of 2013 Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard the physician assistant/physical therapy anatomy and earned the credentials of RVT, Registered Medical School. He recently received an award from and medical embryology courses and co-director Vascular Technologist. the Bright Focus Foundation to support his research for neuromuscular physical therapy at UNMC’s in the field of Alzheimer’s disease. Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy. Bethany Renz RSTE’13 Omaha, Neb., completed the newly developed Zagit Gaymalov PhD’09 Ashley Collins CLS’12 vascular externship program in the fall of 2013 Chapel Hill, N.C., co-founded NeuroNano Pharma Fort Bliss, Texas, is stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, and earned the credentials of RVT, Registered pharmaceutical company with his PhD advisor, Texas with the United States Army. She works in Vascular Technologist. Alexander Kabanov, PhD, DSc. the laboratory of the Soldier Resilience and Readiness Center and was promoted to sergeant in oAnna Brynskikh Boyum PhD’13 December 2013. Public Health Omaha, Neb., is a researcher at UNMC. She co-founded Elegant Instruments, a company that Megan Dirks CLS’12 oBrandon Grimm PH’05 creates laboratory tools. She is a founding member Omaha, Neb., works at the Bellevue Medical Center Papillion, Neb., completed his PhD in December of the UNMC Graduate Studies Alumni Chapter. in Bellevue, Neb. She traveled to the Ukraine in health promotion, disease prevention research for a week in March where she taught English to at UNMC. college students. In Remembrance… oMaha Farid PH’12 Tamara Ritter CLS’12 Memphis, Tenn., is working on a post-doctoral Louis Gilbert M’43 Kearney, Neb., accepted a position in November research position in the University of Tennessee Green Valley, Ariz., June 5, 2013. at Kearney Regional Medical Center, a new hospital Health Science Center in Memphis. She works in the in Kearney. Children’s Foundation Research Institute on a project PRhoda Caswell N’46 that seeks to understand how infant exposure to Cairo, Neb., Sept. 14, 2013. particulate matter and air pollutants could lead Radiation Science to the development of respiratory disease later in Lloyd Downing M’47 Technology adulthood. She had a baby in March. San Antonio, Texas, July 6, 2013. oChad Wetzel PH’13 Frederick Hecox D’48 Education Omaha, Neb., was hired as an epidemiologist at Cozad, Neb., July 1, 2013. the Douglas County Health Department in Omaha oTammy Jones RSTE’00 in April 2013. Since that time, he has worked Richard Elston M’50 Gretna, Neb., was named director of radiography in alongside disease investigators to investigate and Spokane, Wash., Dec. 25, 2013. the UNMC School of Allied Health Professions. track reportable infectious diseases and outbreaks within the community. Most notably, he aided in Robert Gillespie M’50 the investigation of the nationwide Cycolospora Longmont, Colo., July 25, 2013. outbreak that occurred last summer. 28

WINTER 2014 CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science D - Dentistry G - Graduate N - Nursing M - Medicine P - Pharmacy PH - Public Health PA - Physician Assistant PT - Physical Therapy RSTE - Radiation Science Technology Education

Betty (Petr) Littrell N’52, ’53 Omaha, Neb., Dec. 12, 2013. Births oNicole Anderson M’01 Lincoln, Neb., married Bruce Erickson on Dec. 29, 2012. Willard Guard D’53 Karen Clark PT’99 Littleton, Colo., May 26, 2013. Omaha, Neb., welcomed a son, Nathaniel Howard, Christina Araujo RSTE’06 on April 8, 2013. Omaha, Neb., married Bob Gregg on Dec. 7, 2013. Gordon Pejsar D’55 Lincoln, Neb., July 8, 2013. Lacey Frank Hess N’02 and Dana Hess M’05 Melissa Bivens RSTE’09 Philadelphia, Pa., welcomed a daughter, Londyn Kay, Omaha, Neb., married Michael Bachman on Dave Van Buren Stephenson M’58 on Sept. 3, 2013. March 9, 2013. Gunnison, Colo., July 7, 2013. Angela Arnold CLS’03 Kathryn Bartek N’10 Robert Lund P’59 Lincoln, Neb., welcomed a son, Liam, on Nov. 25, 2013. Highlands Ranch, Colo., married Bradford Potthoff Vermillion, S.D., July 1, 2013. on April 27, 2013. oKathleen Brandert PH’04 oWillis Mundt M’60 Omaha, Neb., and her husband Corey welcomed a Nicole Felker N’11 Green Valley, Ariz., June 30, 2013. son, Clayton Larell, on Dec. 6, 2013. McCook, Neb., married Jon Olsen on Aug. 2, 2013.

Donald Asbjornson D’62 Karin Bellows RSTE’10 Jeff Gossman PT’13 Lincoln, Neb., Dec. 7, 2013. Council Bluffs, Iowa, and her husband Paul Neligh, Neb., married Kellie Wilkinson on welcomed a son, Noah Allen, on March 21, 2012, Aug. 17, 2013. Owen Smith M’76 and a daughter, Alexis Avery, on Sept. 12, 2013. Leawood, Kan., Aug. 12, 2013.

Richard Dermer N’91 Marriages Scottsbluff, Neb., July 15, 2013. Richard Dolbec M’63 Linda Glenn N’97 San Francisco, Calif., married Alex Freeman on Lincoln, Neb., Oct. 26, 2013. Oct. 11, 2013.

Please visit www.unmc.edu/alumni for a complete listing of class notes. Thank you for your notes.

UPCOMING EVENTS We love hearing from you! Please College of Medicine Alumni Chapter College of Nursing West Nebraska Division send your professional and Latta Lecture Alumni Reunion personal news for Class Notes to: April 24 Sept. 12-13 Presented by Evelyn McKnight Scottsbluff, Neb. UNMC Alumni Relations College of Nursing, Room 2010 985200 Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Neb. UNMC Alumni Reunion Weekend Omaha, NE 68198-5200 Oct. 17-18 Showdown in O-Town Omaha, Neb. Phone: (402) 559-4385 Creighton vs. Nebraska Baseball Game Toll free: (888) 725-8664 April 29 email: [email protected] Old Mattress Factory & TD Ameritrade Park Omaha website: www.unmc.edu/alumni Omaha, Neb. Prefer to receive UNMC Connect electronically?

Send your request and email address to: [email protected]

Be sure to indicate if you are a UNMC alum. For more information about these events, contact the UNMC Alumni Relations Office at (402) 559-4385 or [email protected]. 29

oIndicates alumni dues-paying member | PLife Member in alumni association UNMC Connect UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA MEDICAL CENTER 2005 Amount Raised Toward $500 Million Campaign Goal 2014 $527,011,059* 679 79% new funds have been established during the campaign to support students, faculty, of UNMC campaign gifts are from Nebraska households/organizations. facilities and programs at UNMC. 29% 16,419 95% of donors supporting UNMC during the individuals have made donations to UNMC during the campaign. of UNMC students apply campaign are UNMC graduates. Approximately 57% are fi rst-time donors to UNMC. for fi nancial assistance.

* In addition to this fundraising total $243,700,000 has been committed for the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center project. These funds were provided from sources other than private gifts or were private gifts committed but not yet meeting the Campaign for Nebraska’s reporting criteria. To date a total of $392,119,102 has been committed to the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center.

campaignfornebraska.org/unmc

All statistics as of December 31, 2013. The Campaign for Nebraska began in July 2005 and will conclude in December 2014.

For information on how you can support UNMC, please contact: UNMC College of Dentistry Fred & Pamela Buff ett Amy Volk Susan Norby Cancer Center 402-502-4112 402-458-1183 Tom Thompson [email protected] [email protected] 402-502-4116 [email protected] College of Medicine College of Nursing Anne Constantino Sarah Gloden Carlson Munroe-Meyer Institute 402-502-4115 402-502-4113 Melonie Welsh [email protected] [email protected] 402-502-4117 [email protected] Meg Johnson College of Pharmacy 402-502-4107 Patty Sherman School of Allied [email protected] 402-502-4114 Health Professions [email protected] Patty Sherman Karen Levin 402-502-4114 402-502-4921 College of Public Health [email protected] [email protected] Karen Levin 402-502-4921 Melonie Welsh [email protected] 402-502-4117 [email protected] (one last thing)

IRA COMBS A CHAMPION OF CHANGE by Elizabeth Kumru

YOU LEARN SOMETHING – make America healthier – based on wellness Internship Program in partnership with and prevention, rather than sickness and UNMC. It has helped more than 45 young YOU GIVE BACK. disease. Nearly 900 people were nominated, people prepare for and start college with That’s the philosophy Ira Combs, according to the White House. a focus on entering the fi eld of health care. community nurse liaison in UNMC’s Center for A non-traditional student, Combs received Combs also coordinates health fairs for Reducing Health Disparities in the College of his nursing degree at the age of 40 and minority and underserved populations. Public Health, has had for more than 20 years, immediately created North Omaha Area “I try to keep people healthy so they don’t as he has encouraged African-Americans to Health (NOAH), an agency that addresses have to go to the emergency room,” he said. become involved in health education. the needs of the underserved in North Omaha. “This is what it’s all about,” Combs said. An oncology nurse whose emphasis now “I work with a handful of dedicated “Reaching people one-by-one at their point is public health, Combs was selected last fall community volunteers and limited funding of need can change their life and the lives by the White House as a Public Health and to produce health-oriented comics and of their family. Prevention Champion of Change. The program coloring books for kids, and sponsor and “I thought about retiring last year, but recognizes everyday Americans who are maintain websites and social media networks with this award I will use it to benefi t the making positive changes in their communities. that provide information about healthy living,” community. This is quite an honor,” he said. This event honored people who are leading he said. extraordinary efforts in prevention and public He is perhaps best known for his puppet health that will have lasting effects on the characters, Dr. Jesse (shown above), Dr. health of Americans. Healthy (a female doctor) and Mr. Jones, who Combs was honored at a White House never does anything right, and such other reception and participated in a panel discussion African-American superheroes as Prevention Read more about the Champions with seven other Champions from around the of Change: Prevention and Public Health Man, Medical Dude and Vernon the web whitehouse.gov/champions/ country. These leaders help communities focus Vegetarian Veggie Bird – all who make it fun to extra prevention-and-public-health on prevention and public health by tackling learn about health. Learn more about Ira Combs childhood obesity, health disparities and health unmc.edu/publichealth/crhd/ He created Youth Expressions of Health, IraCombs.htm web unmc.edu/connect care acquired infections. They create ways to which includes an annual Youth Summer extra web extra 31

UNMC Connect NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHA, NE PERMIT NO.454

University of Nebraska Medical Center 985230 Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5230 Connect CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

NOW & THEN UNMC Alumni Reunion Weekend October 17–18, 2014

For alumni of the UNMC Colleges of Medicine, Nursing & Pharmacy Honor Years: 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009 Half Century Club Members: Those who graduated prior to 1964 Accommodations: Embassy Suites Downtown/Old Market Special Rate of $142/night available until Sept. 26 Make your reservation now! 402-346-9000

For more information visit: www.unmc.edu/alumni or call (888) 725-8664