We hope you’re enjoying a successful and productive spring semester. Though we are still firmly in winter as I write this message, spring, a season of growth and possibility, is just around the corner.
The Office of Graduate Studies has entered a new chapter, as director Terri Vadovski has moved on to another opportunity after nearly 15 years of dedicated service to our UNMC graduate student community. Terri’s warmth, compassion and commitment to service have inspired our students, faculty and staff since she joined our team in 2011. We are grateful for Terri’s leadership and wish her every success in her next endeavor. As we search for a new director, our amazing team is working hard to ensure that our office operations continue smoothly during this transition phase and beyond. If you have questions or need support and are not sure who to contact in Graduate Studies, please send your query to unmcgraduatestudies@unmc.edu.
Our 2026 Lunch and Learn series kicked off last month and continues with presentations on microcredentialing, artificial intelligence and building a strong online presence. Students are invited to join Jered Garrison, PhD, interim assistant dean of graduate studies, on Thursday, Feb. 19, to learn more about the Digital Badge Program and how microcredentials can showcase skills to future employers.
After an intensive two-year initiative during which more than 350 faculty members, including all faculty mentoring graduate students, participated in the eight-hour CIMER training sessions, we’ve moved to a new phase in our mentorship training workshops for faculty. We now offer the training once per semester for new faculty or as a refresher course.
This issue of Graduate Posts includes highlights from the recent Elevator Pitch Contest. We also feature the GSA’s STEM education partnership with the Morton Middle Boys & Girls Club and offer a sneak peek of the UNMC residence hall opening next fall. Our student spotlight this issue features Kristine Hoagstrom, a PhD candidate in IGPBS Cancer Research. Be sure to check the calendar for the latest events as well.
While the health science landscape continues to evolve, I encourage you to view each stage of your academic and professional journey as an opportunity for growth and a chance to become the best version of yourself. Remain curious and committed to your professional development, your well-being and your community. Give yourself space to adapt and learn at every step of the process.
As always, all of us at UNMC Graduate Studies are here to support you. Go Labs, and have a great semester!