Karen Burbach

Construction projects take shape

Construction continues on two eye-catching projects slated for completion this year on the UNMC campus. Read about the progress of the Durham Research Center and the new parking garage, as well as a hanging permit requirement for all parking structures.

Feb 3, 2003

Preventing rejection of pig organs without severe immune suppression

In a major innovation in organ transplantation that could offer hope to millions of Americans with organ failure or diabetes, a study by Ximerex, Inc. in conjunction with researchers from UNMC has demonstrated that acute rejection of pig heart transplants could be prevented without the need for severe immune suppression. The findings were reported in the February issue of the Annals of Surgery.

Feb 3, 2003

Christmas Day clean-up crew receives TEAM award

Nine members of the Facilities Management and Planning department received the UNMC Business and Finance department’s TEAM (Team Excellence and Merit) Award for their quick response to a water main break on Christmas Day.

Jan 31, 2003

Student Senate changes hands

The UNMC Student Senate recently welcomed a new slate of officers and senators. On Jan. 20, David Crouse, Ph.D., interim vice chancellor for academic affairs, administered the oath of office to Casey Johnston, student senate president and student regent; Kristin Sonderegger, student senate vice president; and new student senators.

Jan 30, 2003

403(b) SRA info missing from mailed 2002 W2 forms

For those UNMC employees who took part in the 403(b) Supplemental Retirement Account (SRA) in 2002, the recently mailed W2 tax forms are missing required data. This is a university-wide situation and affects employees participating in the 403(b) SRA plan at all four NU campuses and in central administration. See story for details.

Jan 30, 2003

Keep it quiet — a weekly HIPAA message

HIPAA, the “Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996,” provides federal protection of patient health information. You will be receiving weekly messages to help you understand the topic and how it impacts your job. Today’s HIPAA message tells you what to do if you overhear co-workers loudly discussing confidential information.

Jan 28, 2003

UNMC among nation’s healthiest companies

UNMC recently received the Gold Well Workplace Award from the Wellness Councils of America (WELCOA) and the distinction of being one of America’s healthiest companies.

Jan 28, 2003

Honoring the donor’s decision

As it stands now in Nebraska, someone who wants to donate their organs and tissue must sign a donor card or drivers’ license and tell their family about their wishes. It is then up to the grieving family to decide whether to go ahead with the donation. A bill before the Nebraska Legislature would change that process by honoring the donor’s signature.

Jan 24, 2003

Nominations invited for Outstanding Teacher Awards

UNMC students and faculty may submit nominations for the 2002-2003 UNMC Outstanding Teacher Awards. Nomination forms and selection criteria are available from the Office of the Faculty Senate. See story for details.

Jan 23, 2003

HIPAA training requirements impact all employees

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) impacts all UNMC employees. This federal mandate must be implemented by April 14. See story to find out how to comply with HIPAA training.

Jan 23, 2003