Lookin’ at U – Grace Johnson

picture disc.Quick, think of five things others should know about you.

That’s the theme behind a series in UNMC Today called “Lookin’ at U.”

Each Thursday, we will randomly select a medical center employee to feature.

This week, we feature Grace Johnson, assistant professor, physical therapy education in the School of Allied Health Professions. Here, in her own words, are some fun facts about Grace:









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Grace Johnson
  • My parents immigrated to the United States from the Philippines in 1960 with only pocket change and a dream. I’m still amazed at what they accomplished.

  • I started college as a music major after playing and studying the violin for many years. Even though I love Mozart, my goal was to play in the backup string section for Earth, Wind and Fire. Through the miracle of life’s experiences, I ended up as a physical therapist.

  • I was at the Grammy Awards and saw Michael Jackson win all those awards for his album, “Thriller,” in 1984. My best friend was working as a production assistant and got me a job as a seat-filler.

  • Before leaving the West Coast for PT school (Washington University in St. Louis), I got on the game show, “$25,000 Pyramid,” trying to win money for tuition. I got to the Winner’s Circle twice, got a shoulder massage from Dick Clark and left with a year’s supply of Lee Press-on Nails, Mr. Bubble Bubblebath, a rechargeable vacuum cleaner and $1,300.

  • I grew up in the San Joaquin Valley in California, with a mother who was always chopping fresh fruits and vegetables. Consequently, I have a passion for fresh produce. I once bought a basket of figs only because they were such a beautiful purple color that contrasted so perfectly with the little green basket. (I should’ve taken a picture.) And, I’ll never forget when my favorite produce manager was being transferred to a store on the other side of town. I brought a thank you card to him and cried while standing next to the bananas!

Read UNMC Today next Thursday to see who is featured in the next Lookin’ at U article. Who knows — it could be U.

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