For more than a quarter of a century, Kenton Shaffer, M.D., has diligently served the community of Kearney through his skillful practice of pediatrics and adolescent medicine.
And since 1982, Dr. Shaffer has mentored young physicians as a UNMC volunteer faculty member. For those 20 years of service, Dr. Shaffer earned the Volunteer Faculty of the Month Award for August 2002 from the College of Medicine.
“I’d say that being involved as a volunteer faculty member is one of the great traditions in medicine,” said Dr. Shaffer, who also was involved in teaching while a student. “I’ve always enjoyed teaching residents and I do it because my career was also tremendously influenced by those who taught and mentored me.”
A native of Holdrege, Dr. Shaffer earned his undergraduate degree from Hastings College in 1967. He then attended the University of Nebraska College of Medicine, where he received a bachelor’s degree in 1969 and a Doctor of Medicine with High Distinction in 1971.
“Kenton Shaffer should have my job — he is an outstanding physician, a scholar, a teacher and an innovator — and I am always in awe of what he has accomplished,” said Bruce Buehler, M.D., director of the Munroe-Meyer Institute. “He could be the chair of any department of pediatrics in the country, and I would gladly work for him.”
Dr. Shaffer completed an internship in pediatrics and internal medicine at UNMC in 1972 and served as chief resident of pediatrics during 1973-74. He then moved to Kearney, where he has worked in private practice at the Kearney Clinic since 1974.
“I think the most rewarding aspect for me,” said Dr. Shaffer, “is being able to associate with residents and then see them flourish in their respective careers.”