Anne McConkey, Experiential Programs Associate
Anne said, “I’m excited to get to know our students and learn about the medical education environment. I’m looking forward to helping the COD Experiential Program continue to grow and provide excellent experiences for our students and preceptors.”
Background: I have an undergraduate degree in studio art and a master’s degree in student affairs, both from the University of Nebraska-Kearney. My background is in financial aid counseling and academic advising, and I’ve worked for both UNK and UNL.
Where I grew up: I lived in Omaha until I was nine, then we moved to Panama in Central America because my parents wanted us to have an overseas experience. I consider Panama home and I try to get back there as often as I can.
About my family: I have a son, daughter-in-law and three wonderful grandchildren. They live about two hours away, so I get to see them fairly often. I have two sisters and a brother that I’m close with, and a sweet rescue beagle named Dulce who looks exactly like the Peanuts beagle Snoopy, except ten times the personality!
My favorite things to do on a day off: Play music, draw, spend time with family, watch old movies and do yoga.
Fun Facts:
- I worked in a dental office many years ago as their office manager.
- I’ve lived in three countries and visited 14.
- I’m in a small band and we play around the Lincoln area.
Angelica Maria Mendoza, Patient Appointment/Registration Clerk
Angelica said, “I’m looking forward to being part of the team, getting to know new people, and learning more about the dentistry.”
Background: I worked in the hotel industry for four years in Lincoln while I was attending Southeast Community College for business administration.
Where I grew up: I was born in Cottonwood, Arizona, and have lived in Lincoln for over nine years.
About my family: I have two younger brothers. My parents are here in Lincoln, and I just got a new puppy!
My favorite things to do on a day off: Get all the sleep I can, bake, and spend time with family and friends.
Jason Ott, Building Mechanic
Jason said, “I’m looking forward to meeting everyone, learning a new job, and doing something different.”
Background: I was the general manager of a restaurant for the past 10 years.
Where I grew up: Lincoln
About my family: My wife, Kelly, and I have two kids: Landon, 8, and Heidi, 4.
My favorite things to do on a day off: Mountain biking and watching my son play baseball and soccer.
Fun Facts:
- I won the 100 meter dash at the Nebraska State Games when I was ten years old.
- I competed in the Dakota Five-0, a well-known mountain biking race.
Dr. Raul O. Franco, Volunteer Faculty, ARD, Silver Clinic & Veterans Clinic
Raul O. Franco, DDS, grew up in Colorado Springs and earned his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and his DDS from the UNMC College of Dentistry. During dental school, Dr. Franco commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force. After graduating, he was promoted to the rank of Captain and proceeded to serve four years on active duty.
Dr. Franco completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency with the United States Air Force at Offutt AFB in Omaha. During his residency, he completed over 150 hours of advanced education expanding his skill set, including IV and oral sedation, implants, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, wisdom teeth removal, root canals and a variety of advanced surgical procedure.
After residency, he was stationed at McConnell AFB in Wichita, Kansas, for three years. Serving his country remains one of Dr. Franco’s proudest accomplishments.
Dr. Franco currently practices at Hastings Family Dental. He is committed to providing the highest quality of care to his patients and believes building a relationship based on trust is essential. “Integrity First” is an Air Force core value that he is committed to upholding at all times and under all circumstances for his patients and the community.
During his downtime, Dr. Franco enjoys boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, bowhunting, grilling, camping, and spending quality time with friends and family.