Renee Fry, J.D., director of government relations, has been named the new director of UNMC public affairs.
Fry, who started as UNMC’s first government relations director in 2005, will start as director of public affairs on Sept. 4.
“I’m very excited to lead a department that has so much experience and talent,” Fry said. “I’m looking forward to helping this outstanding staff do what it does so well, and that is carry the UNMC message to the world through its publications and special events.”
Fry will step away from her government relations position to assume her role in public affairs, which means a search for her successor will begin soon, said Bob Bartee, vice chancellor for external affairs.
During her tenure at UNMC and in her time at other positions, including serving as an aide to several political office holders, Fry has displayed a strong understanding of government, the media and how both entities work with the medical center, Bartee said.
“Renee brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding of how UNMC is viewed in the public eye and she has a firm grasp on what should be done to ensure the medical center remains a bright spot in Nebraska and beyond,” Bartee said.
Fry’s experience in building the UNMC Government Relations Office from the ground up showed her innovativeness and ingenuity when confronted with new situations and these traits will serve her and the medical center well as she enters into her new position, Bartee said.
“Rapid changes are occurring in the world of health care and in the media world as well,” Bartee said. “Renee understands these changes and has a clear vision on what needs to be done for UNMC to maintain a high standing in the public eye. She thinks strategically and effectively advocates for UNMC.”
Fry succeeds Sandy Goetzinger-Comer, who in her new role as senior associate director for new media, will lead UNMC’s use of emerging communications technology.
“During her 12 years as public affairs director, Sandy has led the department to new levels,” Fry said. “I’m excited that she’ll be leading our development of new media capabilities. Becoming a leader in the use of emerging communication methods such as blogs and podcasts will be vital to helping our department and UNMC as a whole reach world-class status.”
A Wisconsin native, Fry graduated from the University of Nebraska College of Law in 1998.
Before coming to UNMC, Fry held several positions working with Nebraska legislators. She served as legislative aide and legal counsel to then Speaker of the Legislature Doug Kristensen, as legal counsel to the Judiciary Committee, then chaired by Sen. Kermit Brashear of Omaha, and as legislative aide to Sen. Joel Johnson of Kearney.
In April 2003, Fry accepted a position in legal procurement with First Data Corp. in Omaha.
Fry and her husband, Patrick Bourne, have two children, Jack, 14, and Samantha, 1.