Lookin’ at U – Elizabeth Fiala

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee.
This week, we learn more about Elizabeth Fiala, data associate, Health Professions Tracking Service, College of Public Health.

• Name: Elizabeth Fiala
• Hometown: David City, Neb.
• No. of years at UNMC: 9 years

Tell us a bit about what you do here at UNMC.

I’m a data associate with the Health Professions Tracking Service located within the College of Public Health, which means I work a lot with data verification and data comparisons. We survey Nebraska licensed health care professionals and maintain a database that is constantly being updated and verified — so the work never ends. The data we collect is used for many purposes, particularly by the state for shortage area designation, and is an important resource used in many studies and publications. I’m also on the Wellness Council for the college and the newly formed Wellness Council for UNMC.

Being a leader is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed a person or group act as a leader at UNMC.
The best thing I love about working at UNMC is that there are plenty of opportunities to be a leader in your workplace. Over the years working here, especially within the college, I’ve noticed people willing and excited to take the lead and run with it. That inspired me to get more involved with groups like the Wellness Council or events like Tomato Tomӓto’s CSA Spring/Summer season. I consider myself lucky to be surrounded by strong leaders and people who inspire me to be my best.

What is your favorite spring activity?

I love being outside when the weather gets warmer and the grass gets greener. I’m a big fan of walking around a lake or going for a hike. I especially love walking around the farmer’s markets, watching people and dogs.

List three things people may not know about you.

• I’m a student at UNO and am finishing a bachelor’s degree.
• I have a dream of visiting every national park in America and I’m planning a road trip with friends to the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Parks for next summer.
• A year ago I had to drive myself to the emergency department to receive stitches when I sliced open my thumb on a potted plant that I tripped and fell on.