On behalf of the Board of Regents, I am pleased to present a KUDOS Award to Ms. Susan Pedersen, Assistant Nursing Director and Clinic Nurse for Student Health at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
A lifelong Nebraskan, Sue was born in Lincoln and moved to Kearney in the third grade. With over 40 years of nursing experience, she has worked in hospital medical units, mental health, orthopedics, urology, and immunization clinics. In 1997, she joined the UNK Student Health team, dedicating her expertise to serving students, faculty, and staff for nearly three decades.
Sue says, “I never saw myself working in Student Health when I was a young nurse but fell in love with it from the very beginning. I love our students and love serving them.”
UNK Professor Dr. Peter Longo shared, “Sue's care demonstrates a high degree of competency and empathy, earning many praiseworthy comments from students. On a personal note, she was a lifesaver for me while I experienced a major artery burst on April 29. Her swift diagnosis and prompt referral to the ER were crucial to my recovery. We are fortunate to have her gifted presence on our campus. She truly is saving lives every day.”
Sue is actively involved in the Kearney community, volunteering with Loper Cats, Kearney Rescue Cats, the Boy Scouts, Habitat for Humanity, and her church. A passion for nature drives hobbies in birdwatching, maintaining a local blue bird trail and gardening. She also enjoys running, hiking and training two dogs for competitive events with her husband, Ken Pedersen. Ken is with her today.
Congratulations to Sue Pedersen, her positive spirit and unwavering commitment make her not only a valued colleague but also a vital member of our clinic's heart and soul.