Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee. This week, we learn more about:
- Name: Karen Burbach
- Hometown: Sutton, Neb.
- No. of years at UNMC: 18 years
Tell us a bit about what you do here at UNMC.
I work in the UNMC Public Relations Department, where I serve as senior associate director of communications and creative services. In short, I have the privilege of managing a talented team of writers, a brand specialist and a graphic designer. As a department, we strategically look at how best to contribute to UNMC’s goals and share the remarkable stories that make up UNMC . . . don’t hesitate to let us know about the great work being done in your area.
Excellence is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed a person or group demonstrating excellence at UNMC.
It happens all the time here. The drive to achieve exceptional results is in our DNA; it represents who we are and for what we stand. I witnessed this when I first interacted with UNMC and UNMC’s Public Relations as a print journalist. It’s the reason I wanted to work here. And, I continue to see it today — in every area of campus — as we each do our part to improve life for others.
What is your favorite spring activity?
Getting outdoors — to run, swim laps, wear Birkenstocks, walk the dog or read.
List three things people may not know about you.
- I took a six-credit hour EMT class one semester — on top of a 15-credit course load in college. Loved the class and still have the book!
- Served as sports information director while at Hastings College, and began my career in print journalism taking box scores at the Hastings Tribune.
- For almost six months, a few of my PR colleagues and I did one-minute planks throughout the workday. (Hey, team, we need to restart these . . .)
Three other things you should know about Karen — (1) She is one of the nicest people in the world. (2) She is a great writer who needs very little editing. (3) She is the fastest walker in our department….she has to slow down for the rest of us to stay with her.
I have known and worked with Karen during her entire tenure at UNMC. As well as a fellow runner. She is one of the most pleasant, obliging and sincere people that I know. Always willing to listen and be creative. A true PR person.
My pleasure to know.
Keith
Always representing the best of our department. Love working with you, Karen!
Karen is the greatest! My fellow Hastings College alumnus! GO BRONCOS!
Karen is a terrific representative of UNMC and the world's best co-worker!
Karen also has that rare quality in a co-worker and friend — she returns the books she borrows, and in the same shape they were in when you lent them to her.