Lookin’ at U – Jeffrey Ebel

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee.

This week, we learn more about:

• Name: Jeffery (Jeff) Ebel
• Hometown: I was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. My family moved to Omaha when I was 5, and after the service (USMC), this has been home.
• Number of years at UNMC: 25 years. Wow — have I seen some amazing changes!

Tell us about what you do here at UNMC.
I work for the campus security department. In 1990, I started as an officer on “C” shift, also known as the evening shift. A few years later, I took on an additional role as the uniform/equipment coordinator. In this role, I am responsible for issuing uniforms and equipment to all security staff, as well as ensuring supplies and equipment are in stock and working properly. In February 1995, I was promoted to sergeant of “A” shift, also known as the midnight shift, where I oversee 16 officers. This opened up a whole new world to me.

“Leadership” is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed an example of leadership at UNMC.
Daily! I have had the honor of working with 52 of the finest security staff here at UNMC, including the officers under my supervision. Each officer shows leadership skills daily when dealing with situations on campus. Our training and education help us handle the smallest details, from securing (lock/unlock) doors, providing rides to ensure the safety of overnight staff, or helping a guest or family member find their car, to the more concerning and challenging tasks such as breaking up fights, restraining out-of-control patients or crowd control.

What’s your favorite springtime activity?
Anything outdoors! Working in the yard, grilling and spending time with friends and family.

List three things people may not know about you.

• I was in the United States Marine Corps and served as a military police officer in Oahu, Hawaii. I was also a primary marksman instructor (PMI) at Paris Island, S.C. OOOH RAH!
• I am married and have two sons, a daughter and a grandson. My wife recently started working at Nebraska Medicine. My oldest son, Tyler, works for SEI installing security systems. He has a 6-year-old son, Alex. Next is Jared. He is in the United States Coast Guard and currently stationed in New Jersey. Brianna is the youngest. She is a UNO graduate now working as a sports copy editor for The Daily Nonpareil and as a receptionist for Airline Plastics.
• I love to do remodeling work on the side – bathrooms and kitchens are my specialty.