A skilled audio-visual operator with an infectious attitude, Vern Johnson will retire this Friday from UNMC’s Center for Continuing Education.
Johnson’s colleagues offered high praise for the technician they’ve coordinated with for events large and small over his 29 years with the center. Johnson’s skill and smile will be missed, they said.
A retirement open house for Johnson will be held Friday from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Center for Continuing Education, in Annex 14, second floor.
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| Vern Johnson |
Johnson joined the center as an audio-visual operator and over time took on the role of multimedia technician, said Whitney Van Arsdall, the Center for Continuing Education’s educational projects coordinator.
"Vern’s smile and infectious attitude I will never forget, and he was always there for you during your presentation," said Jason Johanning, MD, professor of vascular surgery in the UNMC Department of Surgery.
Lana Molczyk, director of the Olson Center for Women’s Health Resource Center, recalled one of the Olson Center’s first educational events in 1995 — a breastfeeding conference. Johnson showed his expertise coordinating the audio-visual displays for the large event, as well as his calmness, Molczyk said.
Over the years, Molczyk said, the center continued to hold monthly brown bag sessions in the Eppley Science Hall Amphitheater. When people asked why that location, Molczyk replied, "because that is where Vern is."
Lisa Bally, the Center for Continuing Education's director of finance and operations, said Johnson witnessed a multitude of changes throughout his 29 years with the center.
Said Bally, "He has served in a number of capacities supporting events across campus and always provided a professional experience, often saving the day. It has been a privilege to work with him all these years. His humor and easy-going nature will be sorely missed by all!"
You will be greatly missed, Vern! Our chats & laughs are the best. Shari
Congratulations Vern! Enjoy retirement. 🙂
Congrats Vern!
Vern has seen SO MUCH–the good, the bad and the ugly! Chasing updates in technology and solving misbehaving A/V is no small feat! Always calm under pressure, always making us look good, and always smiling–what will UNMC do without you, Vern!
Congratulations Vern! Patty and I wish you the best in your retirement.
Congratulations, Vern! I hope you have a wonderful retirement!
No matter what crisis occurred with AV equipment, you could count on Vern to calm things down and work miracles. I feel honored that I the opportunity to work with and count him as a friend. He’s truly a jewel.
We will miss you in the Department of Surgery, Vern! You have always went above and beyond for us! Thank you!
It was a great pleasure working with Vern in CCE. He's truly a good guy!
Hope you have a great retirement!!
BJ
Congratulations on your retirement Vern!
Congratulations on your retirement, Vern! I will miss our discussions about Young & the Restless 🙂
Vern- Congrats on your retirement. You will be missed.
Congrats on your retirement!
Congratulations Vern! You have been an inspiration to us all. Your laughter and responses when you found the hidden manikins in the Continuing Education closets in the old building was wonderful. Thanks for always helping us out with all our classes. You made all our jobs fun.
Marjorie Van Riper