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“It’s really liberating,” said the New Jersey native, who used to skate competitively.
Along with the M.D., Ph.D., program, the rink “was a selling point,” Savalia said, because it sends a message that UNMC cares about its students, both in and out of the classroom.
Savalia was one of dozens of UNMC students, faculty and staff who celebrated the opening of UNMC’s new ice rink Friday during their lunch hour.
As if on cue, tiny snowflakes flitted through the 23-degree air as skaters glided to “Jingle Bell Rock,” supportive cheers and laughter.
The outdoor rink, made possible by a gift from Omaha philanthropists Ruth and Bill Scott, is part of UNMC’s student plaza near the Sorrell Center.
“The ice rink will provide fun-filled moments for the students, the staff, the children and others to reduce their stress and enjoy life,” said UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D., who came up with the skating rink concept based on his fond memories of the ice rink at Rockefeller Center in his native New York.
“The ice rink and student plaza will keep our batteries charged,” said Andrew Klutman, vice president of the UNMC Student Senate. “The students at UNMC could not be more thankful to the Scotts.”
“The ice skating rink is really cool,” said Rachel Scott of Omaha, a granddaughter of the Scotts, who participated in the celebration. “I’m honored to be here for my grandparents.”
The UNMC ice rink is open to the public through Feb. 28. Read for more details, including hours and admissions.
UNMC’s Paula Turpen, Ph.D., director of research resources and a competitive ice skater, christened the rink and offered skaters the following advice:
- Bend your knees as deep as you can; and
- Don’t look at down – there’s no money on the ice.
Deb Lytle, a research technologist in pathology/microbiology, joined the early throng of skaters. “I love the feel of flying over the ice,” she said.
Lynn Borstelmann, director of oncology services for The Nebraska Medical Center, plans to visit the ice after work. She’s been hooked on skating since taking lessons 2 ½ years ago. “It’s great exercise, fun to glide and a great stress reliever,” she said.