After an amazing decade at UNMC, Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, marked the end of his tenure as chancellor with gratitude and an appreciation for the progress he’s seen in the institution and its people.
As Dr. Gold prepares to become the next University of Nebraska System president July 1, dozens of UNMC and med center colleagues and friends offered their own thanks and congratulations at a celebration in his honor.
“I deeply appreciate all of you,” he said. “I appreciate this experience. I have learned a great deal. I’m very optimistic about the future, and I wish you all Godspeed on your journey.
“Thank you very much of the privilege of being with you today.”
Click play to watch “Excellence to Eminence: Celebrating a Decade of Leadership at UNMC.” Produced by UNMC’s Rich Watson and Chris Christen, the video recounts memorable moments from Dr. Gold’s tenure.
Dr. Gold told the group his career has unfolded in 10-year chunks – and he’s looking forward to his next decade.
“The challenges are real – there is no doubt about it,” Dr. Gold said. “But that’s what we’re here for. The mission is noble, and each of you are part of that.”
Nicole Kent, MD, a UNMC College of Medicine graduate and former president of the UNMC Student Senate, said there are countless ways Dr. Gold has made a difference in the lives of those around him. And his leadership has been transformative, she said, elevating UNMC and fostering a community where everyone feels valued and heard.
“Dr. Gold, on behalf of students at UNMC past and present, thank you for your support, for your guidance, your leadership and your unwavering commitment to us,” Dr. Kent said.
Jordan Warchol, MD, a UNMC Faculty Senate representative who is vice president/president-elect and an assistant professor of emergency medicine, said Dr. Gold’s dedication to the UNMC faculty is another hallmark of his time here.
Dr. Warchol said, “Your faculty would like to thank you for the years you spent here leading UNMC, for your support of us, your faculty, during those years and to continuing to work together as you take this university to even higher heights.”
Bob Bartee, who retired in 2023 as UNMC’s vice chancellor for external affairs, offered a lengthy list of exceptional traits befitting Dr. Gold. Among those, he said, are Dr. Gold’s visionary leadership, being comfortable with complexity and being thoughtful and kind.
“We thank you for your service, for your dedication, your commitment, your kindness,” Bartee said. “We wish you the very best as you embark on this new path in your career journey. You’re a special person.”
“He has more energy than anybody I know.” That statement from Mogens Bay really sums it up. Dr. Gold has always worked tirelessly for UNMC and Nebraska Medicine and I’m sure he’ll do the same for the University of Nebraska system. Congrats, Dr. Gold and great job Rich and Chris on the video highlighting all his accomplishments!
What a spectacular decade. Thank you for your visionary leadership, Dr. Gold. We are so fortunate to have you at the helm of the NU system now. I look forward to another GOLDen decade.
Thank you for making the world a better place!
He’s four people in one. Tireless. Brilliant. Visionary. Inspiring.
I served on the faculty at UNMC from 1973-2005. I have watched from afar the development of UNMC in terms of research and clinical medicine under Chancellor Gold’s leadership. The successes and innovations during his tenure are remarkable. Makes me wish I had stayed at UNMC.
I look forward to connecting and collaborating with Dr. Gold and the University of Nebraska as we move forward in producing and hosting the Healthy America Summit 2025 to be held at CHI Health Center on April 21-23
Best Regards
Phil
I treasured my nearly 19 years in Public Affairs at UNMC (1989-2008) and it has been very exciting to see the growth under Chancellor Gold. He has taken the institution to the next level, building on the visionary work and accomplishments of the Chancellors before him. I see great years ahead for the University system under his leadership.
Awesome video! Loved seeing Dr. Gold through all of these various milestones. Good luck on the next chapter.
I interviewed with Dr. Gold when I came to UNMC 5 & 1/2 years ago as Department of Ophthalmology Chair. His vision for this great University is the reason why I came, and I’m excited he’s now taking it to the next level as the University President.