Debbie Vidlak’s commitment to science, teamwork and making a difference, both at work and in her community, have earned her UNMC’s Gold U Award for February.
In her role as a research project coordinator lead in the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center Clinical Trials Office, Vidlak has been instrumental in elevating and bringing cutting-edge clinical trials to patients and has created new standard operating procedures that streamline processes and improve outdated ones.
“We help bring first-in-class drugs and novel treatments to people who may not have any other options,” she said. “It’s validating to know that the work we’re doing is making a difference and giving hope.”
Although her role is administrative rather than patient-facing, the work she does with external sponsors and trial coordination has a direct impact on patient care in Nebraska. “She’s a great resource for all,” one nominator said.
Her career at UNMC began over 26 years ago as a laboratory technician sterilizing glassware in the biochemistry department. “I started the semester before I graduated from college,” she said. Over the years, she has embraced opportunities to grow and adapt, always driven by her love for learning and collaboration.
Vidlak, who will be recognized at Friday’s University of Nebraska Board of Regents meeting, attributes much of her success to the people she’s worked with. “There’s such diversity at UNMC, people from different backgrounds and departments. You’re constantly meeting new people and learning new things,” she said. She credits key mentors for shaping her career, particularly during her time in preclinical research. “My graduate school mentor, Tom Jerrells, had a profound influence on both my personal and professional life, encouraging me to never stop learning,” she said.
Of the many trials Vidlak has worked on, those that evolve from early concepts to FDA-approved treatments hold a special place in her heart, she said. “It’s amazing to see a trial go from infancy to something that’s helping patients. That’s incredibly rewarding.”
Beyond her contributions to UNMC and Nebraska Medicine, Vidlak is deeply involved in her community. After moving to a small town outside Omaha with her husband, she quickly became a vital part of local initiatives, from sustainability projects to animal rescue efforts. A passionate trap-neuter-return program advocate, Vidlak provides care for community cats, fostering animals and coordinating outreach efforts. “In a small town, it’s easy to make a difference,” she said. Her passion for sustainability is evident through her role on the board of Keep Cass County Beautiful, where she promotes environmental stewardship.
“She is conscientious about the work environment,” one of her nominators said. She encourages office colleagues to recycle and practice energy curtailment. Said one nominator: “She is the first one to close the blinds and make sure we are all doing our part to make this world a better place.”
Despite her busy schedule, Vidlak finds time for herself and her family. She enjoys traveling with her husband, spending time on the lake and connecting with friends and family.
Winning the Gold U Award is both humbling and validating, Vidlak said. “Knowing that your peers and coworkers took the time to recognize your work – it’s truly an honor. It’s validating to know the work you’re doing is making a difference, and people are noticing it.”