Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee. This week, we learn more about:
- Name: Debbie Von Seggern-Johnson
- Hometown: Albion, Neb.
- No. of years at UNMC: 13 years
Tell us a bit about what you do here at UNMC.
I am the EMS/trauma coordinator for the Center of Continuing Education. A large majority of my work is conducting all of the American Heart Association courses we do across the state. We train approximately 1,500 students here on campus and another 8,000 across the state. The most gratifying components of my position are brainstorming, presenting, and developing curriculum. We also coordinate educational opportunities in the areas of trauma and emergency medicine when a need arises or someone has an idea. I love trying to solve an educational problem, fulfill a gap and make a difference.
“Commitment to excellence” is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us about a time you’ve seen a commitment to excellence at UNMC.
I observed this in my office just last week. A student was experiencing a financial hardship due to their critically ill child and was working on a payment plan with our registration office. She needed a course to fulfill her job requirements at another facility and wasn’t going to be able to work until she took this course. One of our registrars decided to pay for the course out of their own pocket so this student wouldn’t lose their position. The CCE team I work with are awesome and truly work together to provide the best to our students. We have 285 instructors from across the state that provide excellent educational courses on a daily basis and our programs have been selected over and over as a model program for others to follow.
What is your favorite spring activity?
Most favorite activity has to be gardening and camping hands down. We plant a garden every year and we have theme gardens on our acreage. We reuse items found in old barns to decorate these gardens. It is so relaxing to work in them and get your hands dirty. The reward is being able to sit with your morning coffee and enjoy! Camping is another way to unplug and get away for a few days or weeks. Spend time with friends and eat way too much.