Lookin’ at U – Keith Swarts

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee.

This week, we learn more about Keith Swarts, director of business services.

Keith Swarts

• Name: Keith Swarts
  
• Hometown: Hooterville (a.k.a. Elmwood, Neb.)
  
• Number of Years at UNMC: 37

What is your best memory from your time at UNMC?

The early growth years — the mid 1970s. The foundation for UNMC was laid during these years. We had few resources but lots of vision, goals and stamina. This is when Del Lee and I were the budget office duo for UNMC, and we were forging unknown paths for the future of the medical center. Some of our friends called us the “dynamic duo” in honor of Batman and Robin.

Our four brand values are leadership, commitment to excellence, working together and being a trusted resource. Pick one and tell us a time you witnessed it embodied at UNMC.

Working together to build and grow UNMC is the brand value that I think has shown the greatest precedent during my tenure at UNMC. Through the years, visions and goals have been created and then realized due to a team approach by the UNMC community.

List three things people may not know about you.

• I have run on every continent and have competed in 55 marathons, including The Runner’s World Top Ten World Marathons — New York, Boston, Chicago, Honolulu, Paris, London, Berlin, Stockholm, Rotterdam, Amsterdam and the pinnacle — the 2,500th running of the Athens Marathon.
  
• I have been to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
  
• My motto is, “Let’s make this happen and have some fun while we’re at it!”