Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee.
This week, we learn more about Sonja Russell, grants and program associate, Rural Health Education in the College of Public Health.
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Sonja Russell |
- Name: Sonja Russell
- Hometown: Stuttgart, Germany
- No. of years at UNMC: Five
Tell us a bit about what you do here at UNMC.
Throughout my time at the College of Public Health’s Rural Health Education Network, I have supported the center with accounting, grants, program planning/implementation and research activities.
Being a leader is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed a person or group act as a leader at UNMC.
I have experienced many such moments, but the most recent proud moment that comes to mind is when our dean, Dr. Ayman El-Mohandes, announced at our college picnic that our colleague Dr. Jim Stimpson spoke in support of the expansion of Medicaid in front of the board of regents. It’s an honor to be a part of a courageous team of public health professionals who stand up and become the voice of those who otherwise do not have one.
What is your favorite fall activity?
I very much enjoy taking my road bike out on the area trails and watching the leaves turn color. It’s so beautiful to observe nature’s life cycle; so important to me to go out and experience the seasons change because it helps me close out and start over as well.
List three things people may not know about you.
- I have two older sisters, 11 and 14 years older than me. I was an unexpected surprise!
- In my spare time, I enjoy drawing charcoal portraits, reading and going on runs with my 11-year-old Siberian Husky, “Dakota.”
- I am half ethnic German. My father and his family fled their hometown of Maehrisch Truebau in 1945, which became Czechoslovakian territory after World War II ended. Changing borderlines continues to have a devastating effect on public health around the globe. Unfortunately, history continues to repeat itself, creating much turmoil and human suffering.
Hey Sonja,
Keep up the good work!
-Alicia Schiller
Great job Sonja!!
I have had the pleasure of getting to know Sonja on a work level and on a personal level. She is a joy to be around and is so passionate about her work and in her home life as well. We have in common, that we both lived in Stuttgart part of our lives. Thank you for putting out such a great article on one of our very own "CoPHites."
I enjoyed reading your article. What do you mean by "ethnic German"? I'm impressed that you know so much about your background. From reading this article, I can tell you have the heart & soul for the job you have! Keep up the good work!
You are a very good listener. For me, that stands out among all others.
Great write up Sonja!
Special young lady – deserving of all she has attained!
Congrats Sonja! Love Debbie Disieno
Thank you for all your support and friendship along the way! Thank you Sue, I realize this is a Wiki link, but it give a very accurate description of ethnic germans, in particular, Sudetendeutsche: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sudeten_Germans