Editor’s Note: Here, Keith Swarts highlights his work with one non-profit organization.
Each year I take a non-profit event and try to immerse myself, as well as my energy, into one aspect of that organization. This is my way of giving back to society some of what I have taken out of it. This also provides me a means of getting more in tune with the organization and its mission. I also try to ensure there is a strong relation with the Medical Center.
I decided to get involved with Night of a Thousand Stars after attending last year’s pre-party hosted by Dr. Joe Hoagbin. I decided then that I would take the lead and, with the help of Mike and Carol McGlade, Jayme Nekuda and Dr. Susan Swindells, host the Night of A Thousand Stars pre-party for 2003. What makes this year easier to host is the fact that the premier celebration for Omaha will be held in the Qwest Center, with appearances by singer Lionel Richie and comedian Jay Leno. These factors, plus the usual desserts and other entertainment, make this an enjoyable event. It also further supports the Nebraska AIDS Project, which has a very definite relationship with UNMC.
This year, our pre-party will be at the Omaha Woman’s Club, 518 S. 38th St., from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6. We are planning an elegant and festive affair. The house will be decorated and the spirit of the holidays will be felt throughout. Free valet and self-park shuttle parking, in addition to a wonderful selection of hors d’ouvres and beverages will be available. These amenities are being made available by utilizing past relationships with other organizations. Thus, most of the expenses for the event will be underwritten and the full amount of the suggested donation will be forwarded to the Nebraska AIDS Project.
Those attending the UNMC event will be admitted to the main event, which will begin at 9 p.m. at the new Qwest Center Omaha. Anyone who attends our pre-party will not walk away disappointed. All will experience a fun and entertaining evening.
The requested donation to attend the UNMC event is $30 per person ($15 for UNMC students). Tickets for the event are available from the following individuals:
- Mary Helms – Library of Medicine, 559-7099
- Lola Martin – College of Nursing, 559-4350
- Jane Jessen – Adult Dentistry, 559-8743
- Julie Ditter and Robin Taylor – Pathology/Microbiology, 559-3549
- Patty Davis – University Hospital, 559-9538
- Don Miller – College of Pharmacy, 559-6579
- Deanna Hansen – Infectious Diseases, 559-5392
- Jayme Nekuda – Business and Finance, 559-8448
- Bill O’Neill – Chancellor’s Unit, 559-9152
- Amy Lamer – Business & Finance, 559-5221
- Marlene Schneider – Faculty/Employee Assistance Program, 559-5175