Lookin’ at U – Frauke Wilcox

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee.

This week, we learn more about:

• Name: Frauke Wilcox
• Hometown: Nienburg (Lower-Saxony), Germany
• No. of years at UNMC: 5 ½

Tell us about what you do here at UNMC:

As a grant/office associate in the UNMC Department of Family Medicine, my role spans from scheduling and coordinating residents’ month-long behavioral rotation to assisting with multiple aspects of research and scholarly activity.

I work closely with our director of behavioral health and our residency coordinators. During the rotation, residents gain exposure to services and resources available through UNMC/Nebraska Medicine and the community. I also coordinate a one-week educational stay for residents at an inpatient substance abuse facility.

In addition, for an obesity specialist, I manage research projects, work on IRBs, conduct literature searches and collect and enter data. I proofread manuscripts and prepare them for submission and assist with proofing posters before they go to print.

Teamwork is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed employees communicating effectively, listening well and respecting diversity.
I am taking the chance of sounding “cliche” when I say that we really are a family here in the UNMC Department of Family Medicine. July is one of our busiest months, since our new residents have their orientation. Everyone helps with logistical details. Our ability to work together effectively and efficiently is born out of the respect and admiration for our co-workers and team members. Although our group of support staff mostly consists of women, we are still a diverse group to include military, multi-ethnic and multi-national backgrounds. Our secret? We just tell it like it is and get the job done without wasting any time on drama.

What is your favorite summer activity?

My favorite summer activity is spending time with my family. We recently replaced our backyard deck and added some nice outdoor furniture and a large canopy to provide shade. I enjoy sitting outside in the warm rays and also chasing my grandson around the yard with a water hose.

List three things people may not know about you.

• I am a group-fitness instructor at Offutt and here at UNMC.
• I have a master’s degree in guidance and counseling for K-12.
• I first learned English in fifth grade.