Lookin’ at U: Julie Ditter

Julie Ditter. Photo courtesy of Katie Ditter.

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee.

This week, we learn more about:


  • Name: Julie Ditter
  • Hometown: Humphrey, Neb.
  • No. of years at UNMC: 28

Tell us about what you do here at UNMC.
I am the administrator for the Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience (PEN). I manage the overall financial, operational, and administrative functions for the entire department. I also provide guidance, direction, and moral support for an amazing administrative team with the main goal of working hard and having fun doing it. Prior to my 20 years in PEN, I also worked in Psychiatry and Sponsored Programs Accounting (called “Grants Accounting” back in the day).

Teamwork is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed a person or group demonstrating teamwork at UNMC.
I see teamwork in many aspects of my position. Our department is highly successful in the research mission of UNMC. Teamwork is an integral part of grant submissions, from PEN’s PIs, researchers, and administrative staff to the Sponsored Programs Administration staff, all must come together by 5 p.m. on deadline day to successfully submit an application. At last count, we have 15 grant submissions for January!

In addition to the research mission, I see teamwork to fulfill the education mission of UNMC. Educators, mentors, students, and staff must come together with the common goal of providing an excellent educational experience to each and every one of our students.

What is your favorite winter activity?
Excessive binge watching of Netflix and Hallmark Christmas movies.

List three things people may not know about you.


  • I am the youngest of seven children. For the past 30+ years, our family and friends go to Las Vegas for the NCAA Basketball Tournament. Last year, we celebrated my mother’s 93rd birthday there. She is adamant that she will not be going this year, but time will tell . . . I have already purchased her ticket and am hoping that we can change her mind.
  • In college, I had two part-time jobs. The first one was at an egg factory – a friend and I started on the same day. We left the first night and both agreed we would not be going back the second day. (Imagine the “I Love Lucy” episode of Lucy and Ethel in the chocolate factory.) My second attempt at a job was at the mattress pad factory. After the egg factory experience, this one was a keeper. I worked there until I graduated.
  • I always have a new year’s resolution to get more organized and de-clutter. Sadly, it usually is forgotten by February — 2019 is going to be the year! Now that I have shared this with all of you, maybe I will have enough pressure to actually succeed!

7 comments

  1. Alvin says:

    You rock Julie Ditter, Always a pleasure to talk to and to work with, don't forget your Coke fetish also!!!! Alvin Craig, from the "Old Grants Accounting". :>)

  2. Theresa Grutel says:

    Julie is an awesome administrator and boss! I have enjoyed working with her! She is always willing to help and go the extra mile.

  3. Larisa Poluektova says:

    Dear Julie,
    I am happy to be under your administrative umbrella. Wish you and your big family Happy New Year!

  4. Bryan Katafiasz says:

    Julie's teamwork expands campus wide as we in the GCBA Department consult her vast experience frequently. Thanks, Julie!

  5. Anne Lawlor says:

    Julie is the best! It's been a pleasure to work with you these past almost 20 years that I've been on campus. And we will have to trade college job stories – I actually did work in a chocolate factory!

  6. Tom O'Connor says:

    Love the family tradition of going to Vegas for the NCAA Tournament. What fun! Thanks for all you do for PEN and the medical center, Julie. It's an honor to have you on the team.

  7. Raj Dave says:

    Julie I love you! You rock!

Comments are closed.