University of Nebraska Medical Center
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Allied Health Blog

Welcome new faculty: Paige Johnson

Paige Johnson, MLS(ASCP)CM, is the new clinical coordinator of microbiology/serology in the medical laboratory science program. Here’s more about Paige in her own words: I was born and raised in Omaha, and I am excited that I get to continue my career in the same city I know and love. I attended the University of […]

Jun 5, 2026

Paige Johnson portrait

Genetic Counseling Program Awards Outstanding Faculty

The Master of Genetic Counseling program is proud to announce the recipients of its annual awards, recognizing faculty and staff who precept, educate, and overall support the mission of the program. This program is housed in the College of Allied Health Professions and in partnership with the Munroe Meyer Institute. Inspiring Confidence Through Education The […]

Jun 4, 2026

Drew and Hannah pose with award certificates

Welcome new faculty: Denise Arrick

Denise Arrick, MS, is a new assistant professor in the College of Allied Health Professions with a focus on anatomy education (gross anatomy, histology and embryology). Here’s more about Denise in her own words: I am pleased to return to the University of Nebraska Medical Center after relocating to Louisiana with my husband in 2011. […]

May 21, 2026

Denise Arrick portrait

Welcome new faculty: Matt Walker, PhD

Matt Walker, PhD, recently joined the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Allied Health Professions as Director of Academic Affairs in 2026. Here’s more about Dr. Walker in his own words: Prior to joining UNMC, I spent more than two decades at Northwest Missouri State University, where I served in a variety of faculty […]

May 19, 2026

Matt Walker, PhD

Diagnostic Cytology students shine at annual conference

UNMC Diagnostic Cytology student, Emily Miller at P & C Labs, KY clinical placement location received the American Society for Cytology 2026 Bob Gay Scholarship award at the ASCT conference May 1-2, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Betty Perozo Ferrer, an Omaha Diagnostic Cytology student, was invited to present her Interesting Case: EUS-FNA Diagnosis of […]

May 5, 2026

Emily Miller holds her scholarship award plaque

Outstanding Dietetics Student Award

by Rachel Lietka and Lisa Dusatko Kara Ruocco, a student in the UNMC Medical Nutrition program, received the 2026 Nebraska Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics Outstanding Dietetics Student award at the NAND Annual Conference held April 23 and 24 in Lincoln, Neb. The award recognizes Kara’s dedication to service, leadership, and excellence in nutrition and […]

Apr 28, 2026

Kara Ruocco poses with her Outstanding Dietetics Student award.

National DNA Day

by Halley Stewart and Anna Wilwerding, 2nd-year genetic counseling students What is National DNA Day? National DNA Day is celebrated on April 25th each year. It was established in 2003 by the United States Congress to celebrate the completion of the Human Genome Project and the anniversary of the discovery of the DNA double helix. […]

Apr 24, 2026

DNA strand with text National DNA Day April 25th

Welcome new staff: Richard Harmon, JD

Richard Harmon, JD, LLM, MLS(ASCP)CM, is an alum and new staff member in the Medical Laboratory Science program. Here’s more about Dr. Harmon in his own words: I am a fourth-generation Kansan but am excited to be a Nebraskan! I earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from Washburn University, and a post-graduate degree from the University […]

Apr 20, 2026

Richard Harmon portrait

Welcome new intern: Carmen Rivera

Carmen Rivera is the new events intern for the College of Allied Health Professions. Here’s more about Carmen in her own words: I’ve lived in Omaha, Nebraska all my life. I moved around to different parts of the city growing up, so I know the place pretty well. I’m currently going to school to get […]

Mar 25, 2026

Carmen Rivera portrait

Lots of Socks for World Down Syndrome Awareness Day

Written by second-year genetic counseling students, Josh Truong and Tess Williams What is World Down Syndrome Awareness Day?World Down Syndrome Awareness Day celebrates individuals with Down syndrome and raises awareness about the condition. The National Down Syndrome Society, the creators of this awareness day, aims to promote full inclusion for people with Down syndrome in […]

Mar 19, 2026

Text: Stand with us on 21 March, World Down Syndrome Day #LotsOfSocks Together against Loneliness