Lookin’ at U – Melanie Wells

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee.

This week, we learn more about:

• Name: Melanie Wells
• Hometown: Tecumseh, Mich.
• No. of years at UNMC: 2.5 years

Tell us a bit about what you do here at UNMC.

I am the program coordinator for the Cancer Epidemiology Education in Special Populations (CEESP) Program at the College of Public Health. The CEESP Program trains and funds MPH and public health doctoral students to conduct public health cancer research in low- and middle-income countries and special needs populations in the U.S. I also do grant administration, travel coordination, manuscript submission and so much more.

Being a trusted resource is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed a person or group act as a trusted resource at UNMC.

There are so many amazing people at the College of Public Health and throughout UNMC. The CEESP program transferred to UNMC from the University of Michigan about 2.5 years ago, along with me. I was excited for the opportunity to share this great program with another great institution, although I knew there would be some work in figuring out all the new policies and procedures and how the CEESP program would work. As I started to learn the steps needed for CEESP to work well here, I found that so many people were always willing to help, provide information and research on who I would need to see next to find out more information. It has been a great experience having the opportunity to interact with so many people throughout the UNMC campus.

What is your favorite spring activity?

I love going outside and enjoying nature. I really enjoy running outside.

List three things people may not know about you.

• I have a master’s of social work from New York University and I worked as a clinical mental health social worker for more than three years.
• I have celiac disease. I love cooking and experimenting with new recipes to find new ways to make gluten-free meals.
• I absolutely love killer whales. I took a vacation last summer to see killer whales in the wild, it was such a great experience.