Gold U winner Feldman is an ‘invaluable resource’

A selfless team player who keeps the mission and goals of UNMC at the heart of everything she does, Diane Feldman is described as the face of the UNMC College of Nursing Kearney Division program.

In recognition of her dedication to the college, Feldman received the August Gold U award.

“I am very honored and proud to receive the Gold U Award,” Feldman said. “I’m grateful to my co-workers who nominated me. The faculty and staff at the Kearney Division are the best.”

As the learning resource center coordinator there, Feldman provides a multimedia learning environment where students acquire knowledge, skills and attitudes that promote safe, patient-centered care. Learning resource center staff also partner with faculty to provide learner-centered activities that integrate curricular concepts with psychomotor skills/behaviors, critical reasoning and clinical judgment.

One nominator said Feldman works hard to make sure the program stays relevant to current nursing practice through innovative teaching opportunities or forwarding interesting continuing education opportunities or products.

“This building would not run smoothly without her,” a nominator said.

Described as an invaluable resource for faculty, staff and students, Feldman assists with everything from orientation and white coat ceremonies to proctoring, community projects and assisting new staff.

“She wants the students and staff to succeed and exceed all expectations,” another nominator said.

Said Feldman: “I’ve been at this job for 26 years. Many things have changed in those years. When I first started, I’d spend an hour teaching students how to use the email system — then called Lotus Notes. Now I just give them the URL, and they are on their way. My job is very rewarding and still different every day.

“There are many things that are done each year — ordering supplies, setting up the skills lab, fixing computer problems and helping with simulations — but each new class of future nurses brings new challenges and joys. It’s a pleasure now to see sons and daughters of former students following in the footsteps of their parents and starting nursing school.”

In addition, Feldman was recognized by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents in the form of their Kudos Award.  These are the highest staff recognition awards that the campus bestows.