Evelyn Grixbys commitment to people doesnt end when she goes home
from work. Known as super mom by her neighbors, she begins the last part
of her day as a devoted mother and a woman active in community service.
Those who nominated the human resources assistant for the University
of Nebraska Medical Center Community Service Award describe her as a role
model for parental involvement and helping others in the community. The
award is given annually to individuals who have exceptional records of
community service that go beyond their job responsibilities.
When Grixby found out she was chosen to receive the award, she said
she was numb. I had to pat myself to see if I wasnt asleep, but I accepted
it with great honor. My first thought was Me? I want to say a special
thanks to my HR (human resources) family who nominated me, said Grixby.
Currently she is active in UNMCs Community Academy Exploration program,
serves in the Parents Association at Boys and Girls Club of Omaha, is a
member of the Parent Teacher Association at Jesuit Middle School and Central
High School, as well as volunteers with the young adult choir at the Greater
New Hope Baptist Church.
Many of the activities involve her two sons, Cortney, 15 and Ronnell,
12, who both also are involved in sports. Her nurturing spirit goes on
even after the activities are over. She gives rides home to those children
who have no ride. Ive never even met some of their parents, she said.
People who know about Grixbys activities outside work wonder where
she gets the energy. I get to rest when Im watching my sons play football,
she said. Son, DeAntae, 21, plays on special teams as an I-back for the
University of Nebraska Cornhusker football team.
But more than that, her energy comes from the feeling that shes giving
back some of the time that was given her. Its also the fun and the hugs
she gets from kids.
Theres not an activity I go to that I dont get hugs, Grixby said.
The spirit of her volunteerism began while growing up in a family that
showed her the value of volunteering. At age 13, she started helping with
programs for young children at her church. Thats when she also became
a mentor.
Ive always been active in school. Ive always liked children, Grixby
said. My brother was active in the Omaha Boys and Girls Club, Inc. I was
the only girl in the family so I would go with them and do things like
prepare and sell snacks and run the scoreboards.
My parents were so family-oriented and played an integral part in anything
we did. They were such good role models, Grixby said. When I got married
and had children, I carried that on. I was always around where my kids
were. I thought my involvement would help and enrich them in many ways.
Activities shes been involved in recently and over the years include
a number of church activities: serving as president of a young womans
Bible study group and a mentor, organizing visits to the elderly for help
with housework, deliver food baskets during the holidays and childrens
caroling groups. Shes also been a choir member and focal point for transportation
and refreshments for team sports.
John Russell, executive director of UNMC Human Resources, said Grixby
is well-known by her colleagues at UNMC for her commitment to people. I
am extremely pleased about Evelyn receiving the award but not surprised,
Russell said. Ive observed her exemplary service at work every day.
Rod Kelly, director of strategic staffing and Evelyns supervisor said,
One word comes to mind. Awesome. She is an awesome employee.