Lookin’ at U: Julie Ditter

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee.

This week, we learn more about:

• Name: Julie Ditter
  
• Hometown: Humphrey, Neb.
  
• No. of years at UNMC: 28

Tell us about what you do here at UNMC.
I am the administrator for the Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience (PEN). I manage the overall financial, operational, and administrative functions for the entire department. I also provide guidance, direction, and moral support for an amazing administrative team with the main goal of working hard and having fun doing it. Prior to my 20 years in PEN, I also worked in Psychiatry and Sponsored Programs Accounting (called “Grants Accounting” back in the day).

Teamwork is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed a person or group demonstrating teamwork at UNMC.
I see teamwork in many aspects of my position. Our department is highly successful in the research mission of UNMC. Teamwork is an integral part of grant submissions, from PEN’s PIs, researchers, and administrative staff to the Sponsored Programs Administration staff, all must come together by 5 p.m. on deadline day to successfully submit an application. At last count, we have 15 grant submissions for January!

In addition to the research mission, I see teamwork to fulfill the education mission of UNMC. Educators, mentors, students, and staff must come together with the common goal of providing an excellent educational experience to each and every one of our students.

What is your favorite winter activity?
Excessive binge watching of Netflix and Hallmark Christmas movies.

List three things people may not know about you.

• I am the youngest of seven children. For the past 30+ years, our family and friends go to Las Vegas for the NCAA Basketball Tournament. Last year, we celebrated my mother’s 93rd birthday there. She is adamant that she will not be going this year, but time will tell . . . I have already purchased her ticket and am hoping that we can change her mind.
  
• In college, I had two part-time jobs. The first one was at an egg factory – a friend and I started on the same day. We left the first night and both agreed we would not be going back the second day. (Imagine the “I Love Lucy” episode of Lucy and Ethel in the chocolate factory.) My second attempt at a job was at the mattress pad factory. After the egg factory experience, this one was a keeper. I worked there until I graduated.
  
• I always have a new year’s resolution to get more organized and de-clutter. Sadly, it usually is forgotten by February — 2019 is going to be the year! Now that I have shared this with all of you, maybe I will have enough pressure to actually succeed!