Jeanne Ferbrache, who worked at UNMC for more than four decades, died July 3 at the age of 72.
Ferbrache joined UNMC in 1980 as a staff member of the registrar’s office. When she retired in 2020, she was director of institutional research in charge of reporting campus information to various federal, state and outside agencies.
“Jeanne was a trusted colleague and an extraordinary member of the UNMC community,” UNMC Chancellor H. Dele Davies, MD, said. “She brought remarkable knowledge and a steady presence to every challenge, but she will be remembered most for the genuine care she showed to those around her. My deepest condolences are with her husband, Jack, and her family and friends during this difficult time.”
Although she held different positions, she stayed in the UNMC Office for Academic Affairs throughout her career. One reason for that, she said when she retired, was that she loved working with students – especially UNMC students.
“This has been a great, positive environment,” she said upon her retirement. “I enjoyed the people I worked with, and I enjoyed the students. Thinking back, I’ve had a lot of fun.”
In the course of her career, Ferbrache went from typing up student registrations to assisting in the creation of the postdoctoral office of education to coordinating the Summer Undergraduate Research Program to taking the lead in the campus implementation of the PeopleSoft student records system. In a 2017 interview following her receiving the Gold U she credited her drive to her mother, who, she said, “always expected quality before quality was a buzzword.”
Kendra Schmid, PhD, interim associate vice chancellor of academic affairs, who worked with Ferbrache for many years, said she was sad to learn of her friend’s passing.
“Jeanne was very kind, quiet, and she was someone whose work was often behind the scenes but extremely important to the institution,” Dr. Schmid said. “She was so welcoming to me when I joined academic affairs, and I will always remember her graciousness and willingness to help others. While not everyone had the opportunity to know her personally, her name and the important roles she played in supporting UNMC over her many years was well-recognized.”
Visitation will be next Tuesday, July 21, at 1 p.m., followed by a service at 2 p.m., both at Faith Family Church at 9515 Blondo St. See the online obituary.
Jeanne was one of UNMC’s countless unsung heroes. She didn’t seek the limelight – she just got the job done. Thanks for the great tribute – she truly made a difference.
Jeanne was a wonderful colleague-kind and encouraging. I am saddened to hear of her passing. I will remember her smile and gentle spirit.
Forty years of dedication, wisdom, and service. The university was better because of you, and so were the people fortunate enough to know you. Thank you, my friend.
Sadden to hear of her passing.
Jeanne was a wonderful “people” person and was always fun to be around. Her work at the University was exceptional and always top notch.
She has left this earth way too soon.
Rest in peace Jeanne you will be greatly missed.
Jeanne was a great friend and professional colleague for many years. She was dedicated, talented leader in both academic records and institutional research. Thanks for this excellent article on Jeanne’s many contributions to UNMC.
So sad to learn about Jeanne. Jeanne was a competent employee and excelled at everything she did. Not only did we share our love of UNMC and gardening, but we were friends since high school in Kearney. She will be missed.