Members of the Omaha City Council visited the UNMC campus recently, meeting with UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D., and Ken Cowan, M.D., Ph.D., to receive a report on the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center.
During the week of Dec. 16, council members Chris Jerram, Franklin Thompson, Rich Pahls and Pete Festersen met with Drs. Maurer and Cowan, as well as UNMC Vice Chancellor for External Affairs Bob Bartee, to view a PowerPoint presentation on the new center.
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From left, Vice Chancellor for External Affairs Bob Bartee, Councilmen Chris Jerram, Rich Pahls and Pete Festersen, UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D., and Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center Director Ken Cowan, M.D., Ph.D. |
“It appears this project is part of Dr. Cowan’s soul,” Pahls said. “The potential of 3,000 or more high-paying jobs would be like adding a new giant corporation to Omaha. The impact of this center would go way beyond the boundary of the city.”
Festersen said he appreciated an update on the construction project and other campus developments.
“The economic impact and new jobs associated with the cancer center will have a huge impact on our community,” he said. “I was pleased to have the opportunity to learn more about the science of cancer research and the comprehensive approach the center will take to improve the lives of cancer patients and their families.”
Jerram said many people in the community have shared their excitement about the project and its impact on cancer research and treatment with him.
“However, it will also have a transformational impact on the economy of Omaha and redevelopment in Midtown,” he added.