As I scan the bookshelf in Dr. Rowen Zetterman’s office, one book title jumps out at me — “The Joy of Work” by Scott Adams.
Having spent an hour with the physician who has pretty much been a fixture at UNMC since he started medical school 54 years ago, one thing has become very apparent — Dr. Z has loved every single minute.
At the end of this month, he will officially retire. That means he’ll only be working two five-hour days a week as associate vice chancellor for strategic planning. He’ll move to the second floor of the 4230 Building.
“I was always at home at UNMC — as a student, resident, faculty member and administrator,” he said. “I could have gone to other places. I always found it to be secure, fun and challenging. It always made it feel like home.
Click here to view a rundown of Dr. Zetterman personal and career highlights.
“I’ve never regretted a single day of my life as a physician. I have no complaints.”
A gastroenterologist, Dr. Zetterman was mentored by two UNMC legends — Drs. Michael Sorrell and Fred Paustian.
Dr. Paustian was tireless. He would frequently do hospital rounds between 10:30 p.m. and midnight.
“The old joke among residents was that we were pretty sure Dr. Paustian had been home four times because he had four kids,” Dr. Zetterman said.
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Rowen Zetterman as a UNMC medical student. |
He loved being a GI physician. “It’s the patients. I had so much fun. When I first started, each patient was a diagnostic dilemma. There weren’t a lot of options.
“It’s remarkable how far we’ve come in the past 40-50 years. Just think what the next 40-50 years will bring. It will be even more remarkable.”
Dr. Zetterman’s administrative skills are boundless. He served as president of the American College of Gastroenterology, the Metropolitan Omaha Medical Society and the Nebraska Medical Association. He also held key posts in the American College of Physicians, the American Medical Association and the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education.
“I loved administration. You got to meet some fascinating people, and you had a chance to help people,” he said. “Everything we do in administration effects patient care and education.”
In 2009, Dr. Zetterman left UNMC for four years, but only because he had the opportunity to realize a dream job — medical school dean — at Creighton University. He returned to UNMC six years ago and has been an anchor in spreading his positivity through mentoring while providing expertise in strategic planning and health care policy.
I’ve seen his knowledge in health care policy first-hand. I’m pretty sure he’s memorized every single facet of the 2,300 pages in the Affordable Care Act. He’s incredible.
So, before you head off into semi-retirement, Dr. Z, there’s one thing I want you to know — as much as you loved this place, we loved having you here even more.
It has been an absolute honor to work with Dr. Zetterman. Oh, how I am going to miss your counsel. I know I am not alone. Thank you for everything you have done for UNMC and the medical profession.
Rowen, it has been a pleasure to work with you. Thanks for everything you have done to make UNMC the organization it is today.
Dr. Zetterman has made the world and our campus a better place. Truly an extraordinary physician and leader who has left his mark on UNMC and our community. He will be missed.
Well done, Rowen and best wishes for your retirement!
Congratulations on your retirement Dr. Zetterman. You've shared so much of your wisdom with so many. I am particularly grateful for your work in the Native American community. To that I say: Pilamayaye!
There are no words for my deep admiration of Dr. Zetterman. You have been such a positive influence in my career at UNMC. Enjoy the spoils of your semi-retirement…you've earned it!
Rowen, Thank you for your service and your friendship. Carl Gumbiner
I count myself lucky to have worked with Dr. Zetterman for the last two years. Thank you for the mentoring. You will be missed.
Rowen, it was always a pleasure to work with you on the situations that brought us together over the years. Retirement? Strategic planning at UNMC/NM is more than a full time job!!! Onward. Rick
It has been an pleasure to work with you, Dr. Zetterman. Thank you for your kind mentorship and guidance with the LGBTQ+ Employee Alliance. Best wishes for a wonderful retirement.
So grateful for all that Dr. Zetterman has done at UNMC and at NWI VA! He effectively led change in his time as Chief of Staff role at VA. He has been a wonderful resource in mentoring and hopefully we still get to take advantage of his enormous experience and insights in his retirement.
Good luck Rowen! Thanks for everything. It has been a pleasure working with you.
Congratulations to you, Dr. Zetterman. It has been a great privilege to have the opportunity to work with you! Thank you for all you have done for UNMC!
Congratulations Rowen on a stellar career as physician, scientist, educator and administrator. Best of luck and hope we still see you around often. Irv