• 2025 Flu Vaccine Guidelines
• Letter from the Chair
• Division of Cardiology Hosts Successful 2025 Midwest Pediatric Cardiology Society Annual Meeting
• Launch of VAD Program Offers New Hope for Children with Heart Failure 
• Summer Brings Opportunities to Strengthen Ties with Community Partners
• Don't Forget to Register for the CHRI Scientific Conference on December 3
• Congratulations Marilee Schaner, MD – August House Officer of the Month
• Five Questions: Carolyn Curry, MD
• Celebrations
• September General Faculty Meeting Recording
• Staff Milestones

2025 Flu Vaccine Guidelines

Please review the 2025 guidelines and opportunities for flu shots below. Dually employed and contingent workers of UNMC and Children’s Nebraska are required to report their flu vaccine status to UNMC and Children's.

Children's Nebraska

As flu season approaches, it’s time to take action to protect yourself, your team and the patients and families we serve. At Children’s Nebraska, we strongly encourage all team members to receive the influenza vaccine as an important step in creating a safer, healthier environment for everyone.

What’s Changing This Year

Beginning this year, the flu vaccine is no longer mandatory; however, it remains strongly encouraged for all team members. Team members now have the option to either receive the vaccine or complete a declination form by Nov. 30 each year. This change reflects a more flexible, people-centered approach that acknowledges the diverse needs and personal circumstances of our team. The declination form is available within the Immunization Programs Policy and must be submitted to Employee Health by the deadline.

How to Get Vaccinated

We’re committed to making flu vaccinations as accessible and convenient as possible for all team members, across all shifts:

• Clinical team members will receive their vaccine within their departments, unless already completed during their compliance review or through other arrangements.
• All other team members are welcome to attend any of our open Employee Health flu shot Night shift team members may receive the flu vaccine on any Med/Surg unit during their shift or may attend a flu clinic at their convenience.
• Team members may also choose to get vaccinated through their primary care provider or at their local pharmacy.
• Team members receiving the vaccination outside of a Children’s-provided option must submit documentation to Employee Health by either dropping it off in person or sending an email.

As a reminder, team members must either receive the flu shot or submit a declination form by Nov. 30. If you have previously been granted a medical or religious exemption, you will still need to complete this form. For more information, refer to the Immunization Programs Policy or contact Employee Health with any questions. Your individual actions help protect our teams, our patients and the families who trust us with their care.

UNMC

Complete the Influenza Vaccination Documentation

All UNMC students, staff and faculty are required to participate in UNMC-related monitoring of flu vaccination by confirming vaccination or declination using the electronic monitoring processes established by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Click the link below to access the Health Tracking System.

Nebraska Medicine clinics

No appointment needed. Just bring your badge and complete the influenza questionnaire in the Health Tracking System before arriving. Instructions for accessing the

Health Tracking System off-network.

Nebraska Medical Center, lower Storz Pavilion

• Thursday, Oct. 9, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Thursday, Oct. 16, 7 to 11 a.m.
• Friday, Oct. 17, 8 a.m. to noon
• Tuesday, Oct. 21, 7:30 a.m. to noon
• Wednesday, Oct. 22, 8 a.m. to noon
• Thursday, Oct. 23, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Oct. 28, 8 a.m. to noon
• Thursday, Oct. 30, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Thursday, Nov. 6, 7 to 11 a.m.
• Tuesday, Nov. 11, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Thursday, Nov. 13, 8 a.m. to noon
• Monday, Nov. 24, 7:30 a.m. to noon

Other Nebraska Medicine clinics are scheduled for:

Bellevue Medical Center, Conference Room A, garden level

• Wednesday, Oct. 29, 8 a.m. to noon
• Wednesday, Nov. 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Village Pointe, room 10103 A&B

• Wednesday, Nov. 12, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

ECCP, level four, room 4061

• Friday, Nov. 7, 8 a.m. to noon

October has arrived and the fall season is in full swing!

We have been keeping busy in the Department of Pediatrics, and I'll highlight a few of our summer activities and recent happenings in this month's newsletter.

First off, the Cardiology division recently hosted the Midwest Pediatric Regional Cardiology Society Conference here in Omaha. They did a tremendous job showcasing the exceptional cardiac care and scholarly work accomplished here at UNMC and Children's and also offered attendees unique experiences in Omaha including a behind-the-scenes zoo experience. Congratulations to all on a fantastic event! 

The growth in the Heart Center has led to incredible new technologies and clinical programs to support our patients, and the Ventricular Assist Device program is also highlighted this month. This program has increased the number of patients who are able to stay in Nebraska for their care, and we are grateful for the medical and surgical expertise that has made this program a reality. 

The summer community engagement activities are also outlined in this edition. Thanks again to all the faculty and staff who helped support the recent outreach programs that encourage youth in our communities to consider health careers.

Congratulations are in order for Dr. Marilee Shaner, Med-Peds resident who was named the UNMC August House Officer of the Month! 

Finally, October is also the start of flu shot season! Please note the opportunities to get your flu and COVID boosters at the UNMC/NM or Children's Nebraska campuses and the directions for how to enter your immunization documentation into the tracking systems for the hospitals. As pediatricians in 2025, we are faced daily with growing public misinformation around vaccines and regulatory guidance formed by opinions rather than published evidence. We will continue to work together to support best practices in vaccination for our patients and their families, to advocate for evidence based practice and to support one another in the work we do to keep our patients and communities healthy! 

The Division of Cardiology proudly hosted the 2025 Midwest Pediatric Cardiology Society Annual Meeting on September 18 and 19. Held at the Holland Performing Arts Center, the event brought together 151 attendees from across the region. The event had not been held in Omaha since 2011.

The meeting was co-chaired by Jeffrey W. Delaney, MD, chief of the Division of Cardiology, and Jeffrey A. Robinson, MD, associate professor in the division, with extensive planning support from Priscilla Phillips, division administrator. Cardiology faculty members Jonathan W. Cramer, MD, associate professor; Alex J. Foy, MD, assistant professor; Amanda Marshall, MD, assistant professor; and Daniel Vari, MD, assistant professor introduced the session presenters and moderated the post-talk question and answer sessions.

Day one kicked off with talks on the subject areas of Cardiac Rehabilitation and Advances in Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing; Lipid Disorders and Pharmacologic Management; Emerging Trends in Cardiac Genetics; and Artificial Intelligence in Everyday Practice. The presenters represented a wide variety of institutions across the Midwest, as well as representatives of Children's Nebraska and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Lois Starr, MD, PhD, chief, Division of Genetics, gave her talk, "Decoding CHD: The Promises and Pitfalls of Rapid Exome/Genome Sequencing," during the cardiac genetics session.

Day two showcased a series of oral abstract talks covering a wide range of topics, including epidemiology, echocardiogram and cross-sectional imaging, catheterization, genetics and adult congenital heart disease. Thomas J. Blount, MD, assistant professor, Division of Cardiology, presented on, "Reviving an Old Concept in a New Domain: Utilizing Pulsatility Index To Predict Hemodynamic Significance in Patent Ductus Arteriosus." Spencer Robinson, MD, represented the cardiology fellowship program by giving his abstract talk, "Cardiac Surgery in Patients With Trisomy 13 and 18: A Single-Center Experience."

A unique highlight of the meeting was the Thursday evening dinner at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Attendees were treated to an inspiring talk by Sarah Chaney, DVM, PhD, director of Animal Health, who shared insights about her role and responsibilities. The following evening, participants were invited to a behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo, led by Taylor Yaw, DVM, DACZM, DABVP, vice president of Science and Animal Health.

"The 2025 MPCS Annual Meeting not only celebrated advancements in pediatric cardiology but also fostered collaboration and camaraderie among attendees," Dr. Robinson said. "The Division of Cardiology extends its gratitude to all the attendees, faculty and staff who made the event's success possible." 

Dr. Jason Cole observes as Dr. Camille Hancock Friesen implants a VAD device

In 2024, Children's Nebraska and the Department of Pediatrics introduced Nebraska’s first Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) program. Under the leadership of medical director Jason Cole, MD, assistant professor, Division of Cardiology, and surgical director Camille Hancock Freisen, professor, Department of Surgery, this groundbreaking program provides a powerful lifeline for children battling severe heart disease where medication therapy is no longer sufficient.

A VAD is a mechanical pump that supports or takes over the heart’s function, ensuring and maintaining blood flow to the vital organs of the body. For older children, these devices can be implanted inside the body, while younger children utilize an external device due to their size. Depending on a patient’s needs, the VAD can support the left side of the heart (pumping blood to the body), the right side (pumping blood to the lungs) or even both sides.

How VAD is Transforming Care

VADs offer critical support for children whose hearts cannot recover with medication alone. Most often these devices are used as a temporary bridge to heart transplantation; the device gives patients time to grow stronger and healthier while waiting for a donor heart. This transformation in care has made a significant difference in both pre- and post-transplant complications and survival.

The program, which launched with its first VAD implantation in August 2024, has already made a large impact to the children of the region. To date, four patients have benefited from VADs at Children’s Nebraska. The VAD program’s success was instrumental in the reactivation of pediatric heart transplant program, successfully bridging its first patient to transplant in March of 2025.

Meet the Team Behind the Program

Dr. Cole and Wenyuan Xu, MD, assistant professor, Division of Cardiology, are the two members of the division specially trained in heart failure, heart transplant and VAD. Once a VAD is determined as the best course of treatment for a patient, the heart failure and transplant team selects the appropriate device and oversees its function post-implantation.

The VAD installation procedure is performed by Dr. Hancock Friesen, MD, whose surgical expertise makes the VAD program possible. Additionally, Cassie Price, APRN, the hospital’s dedicated VAD coordinator, plays a crucial role in guiding families through the entire process, from device procurement to ongoing support through recovery or to heart transplantation.

Expanding Access and Innovation

The program is not just a milestone for Nebraska but also a beacon of hope for nearby states. Families from surrounding areas can now access this life-saving technology closer to home. Meanwhile, advancements in VAD technology are on the horizon, offering improved outcomes and VAD options for even the smallest of patients. The Children’s Nebraska VAD program team will continue to be on the cutting edge of these therapeutic options as they become available.

“By offering VAD support for our patients, we change the outlook and outcomes for patients and their families,” Dr. Cole said. “These devices are giving hope to patients that would otherwise not be able to survive the prolonged wait times for pediatric patients awaiting heart transplantation. My team and I are excited to bring this life-saving strategy to Children’s Nebraska.” 

This summer, the Department of Pediatrics' community engagement efforts were in full swing, bringing education, inspiration and hands-on experiences to children, families and students. From health science sessions to career days, the department made a significant impact through its programs and initiatives.

Completely Kids Summer Health Science Sessions (May 31 - July 26)

The summer health science sessions were a resounding success, thanks to the incredible leadership and enthusiasm of the volunteers. Participants enjoyed exploring health science topics and working on scientific projects throughout the summer. The following individuals contributed their time and expertise to make the sessions memorable:

• Audrey Bavari, Data Associate II, Child Health Research Institute
• Mitzi Cardona, Asthma Program Coordinator, Children’s Nebraska
• Winnie Dupree, Respiratory Therapist, Children’s Nebraska
• Brian Hackfort, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology
• Hunter Meyers, DO, Department of Pediatrics Resident
• Kari Neemann, MD, Associate Professor, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Jamie Protaskey, Nurse Practitioner, Children’s Nebraska
• Ruben Quiros, MD, Chief, Division of Gastroenterology
• Amy Rezac-Elgohary, Global Health Research & Education Programs Manager
• Kathy Schall, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery
• Gwenn Skar, MD, PhD, Associate Professor, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases

15th Annual Santee Health Fair (June 27)

At the 15th Annual Santee Health Fair, members of the Community Engagement Committee staffed the UNMC Pediatrics/CHRI table and connected with around 250 families. The team shared valuable resources, including information on UNMC pathway programs, the Youth Enjoy Science (YES!) program for Indigenous young scientists aimed to strengthen Native American representation in cancer research and health professions and the International Children’s Advisory Network. They also shared informative vaccine resources requested. Special recognition goes to Audrey Bavari for her dedication and efforts in making this event a success.

UNMC Community Partner Career Day on Campus (July 23)

For the third consecutive year, the UNMC Community Partner Career Day welcomed around 20 students from partner organizations Completely KIDS, Girls Inc. and NorthStar to the campus. Students rotated through healthcare science stations, gaining hands-on experience and insights into healthcare careers. This year’s stations included:

• Kick-off Talk by Sharon Stoolman, MD, Vice Chair, External Affairs, Department of Pediatrics
• Pediatric Surgery Simulation led by Kathy Schall, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery
• Teamwork in Patient Care led by Kelly Kadlec, MD, Professor, Division of Pediatric Critical Care and his Children’s Nebraska pediatric intensive care peers Shannon Williams, Erin Anderson, Peggy Cornelison, Kaitlyn Sterns and Shikyra Welch
• The Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology Lab of Caroline Ng, PhD, Associate Professor, UNMC Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, led by lab team Alaina Mann, Aariana Tucker and Kenzie Todd l
• Healthcare education and career discussions moderated by Amy Rezac-Elgohary, Global Health Research & Education Programs Manager

The department extends its gratitude to all the volunteers and station leads who made this day both educational and inspiring. Special thanks to volunteers Jenny Mobley, Steph Montgomery, Jackie Ostronic, Sarah O’Neill and Chuck Koster. 

Girls Inc. Eureka! Summer Externship Program (July 8 - July 31)

The department hosted two talented interns, A’Layah and Calarra, as part of the Girls Inc. Eureka! summer externship program. Over the course of the program, the interns rotated through four labs and research teams, gaining invaluable experience and mentorship. The host labs were led by:

• Ann Anderson Berry, MD, PhD, Chief, Division of Neonatology and her lab team Rebekah Rapoza and Audrey Bavari
• Jeff Salomon, MD, Associate Professor, Division of Pediatric Critical Care and Department of Physiology and his lab member Monalisha Elango
• Gwenn Skar, MD, PhD, Associate Professor, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Caroline Ng, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology and her lab team Alaina Mann, Aariana Tucker and Kenzie Todd

The department thanks these leaders for providing a welcoming and enriching environment for the interns.

Looking Ahead

The Community Engagement Committee has multiple opportunities to volunteer this fall:

·        NorthStar Family Night, Oct. 29, 4:30 - 7 p.m.

·        Girls Inc Career Nights, Nov. 10, 4:30 - 7 p.m.

·        Girls Inc Career Nights, Nov. 11, 4:30 - 7 p.m.

·        Completely Kids Career and College Fair, Nov. 14, 3-6 p.m.

Mark your calendars. More details will be released in the upcoming weeks. Reach out to Amy Rezac-Elgohary with questions or to volunteer. 

CHRI members, pediatric researchers, stakeholders in children's health,

Registration is now open for the CHRI Scientific Conference on December 3. Early bird pricing is available until October 14.

The keynote speaker will be Marius George Linguraru, DPhil, MA, MSc, the Connor Family Professor and Endowed Chair in Research and Innovation at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C.

Dr. Linguraru loves to work with multidisciplinary teams of clinicians, scientists and engineers to advance global health and improve the lives of vulnerable children and patients with rare diseases through AI-driven solutions. A distinguished leader in AI research, he also holds faculty appointments as Professor of Radiology and Pediatrics at The George Washington University. He co-founded PediaMetrix Inc., a company focused on improving pediatric health through AI. He joined Children’s National from the National Institutes of Health, earned his doctorate from the University of Oxford, and completed fellowships at the French National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology (INRIA) and Harvard University.

Dr. Linguraru has received numerous honors for his contributions to science and medicine, including the Excellence in Engineering Award at the UK Houses of Parliament, the Distinguished Service Award from the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS), and he is a fellow of the Medical Image Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention (MICCAI) Society. His work has been featured in The Economist, The Washington Post, and The Times (London). He has served in leadership roles across prominent scientific societies, including IEEE EMBS, the IEEE Signal Processing Society, and the Society of Medical Information Processing and Analysis (SIPAIM). He is the President of the MICCAI Society.

Research Submission

Outstanding scientific work will be recognized via opportunities to present during the CHRI Scientific conference. Abstract submission will be open until October 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. CST. Investigators who submit must be registered or register for the CHRI Conference by the registration deadline (November 25).

Marilee Schaner, MD, Med-Peds House Officer III, has been named the August House Officer of the Month.

“Marilee was the best supervisor I could have asked for on my first wards month. She leads with such grace and confidence, but always approaches people and situations with kindness. Her intelligence and teaching abilities are incredible.”

What brought you to your given specialty/role? 

It's been a long road! Going into Internal Medicine-Pediatrics residency, I had particular interests in mental health and women's health (pap smears, birth control, periods, etc.). I knew that adolescent medicine encompassed these areas quite well, so made sure to do an elective in that area early in my second year of residency (otherwise most people do it at the end!) I loved it. From there, I did research in the area and decided to do fellowship. Mainly, I wanted and want to be the kind of doctor that I would've liked to have had when I was a teenager. Looking back, I struggled a lot with anxiety growing up, especially in my teenage years. My somatic symptoms were never really explained to me, and I felt written off and not a priority in the healthcare system as a patient. I want to be the physician to whom patients can ask embarrassing questions and confide in about their mental health. Overall, my goal is to make my teenage patients feel heard and like they are of value while improving their health. 

What’s your favorite place in the world? 

My favorite place in the world is Yellowstone National Park! I was lucky enough to get to vacation there a few times growing up as my aunt lives in the area. I love the scenery, the hiking and the wildlife. It is truly a magical place. In the park, I've had the pleasure of seeing bears and geysers and going white water rafting. It is a great place for a family vacation, and I have so many fond memories from there. I look forward to bringing my family there when my son gets older and can appreciate it. 

What are you a fan of or very interested in? 

I have a lot of random interests. I love watching documentaries, true crime and otherwise, and doing jigsaw puzzles. I also like using my Peloton and cross-stitching.

Is there any book, music or TV series or movie that you admire and would recommend to others, particularly if it relates to the medical world?

I tend to avoid watching medical shows and reading medical books since I get enough of that world in my daily life. Some more recent books I've read and recommend include Broken Country and The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches. Broken Country is a beautifully written book that discusses first loves and coming of age. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a perfect fall book. It's about a group of misfits coming together to make a family. Reading it felt like a warm hug. 

What was the most important lesson taught to you during your career training? 

The most important lessons I remember every day is to admit that you don't know everything and to be curious. If you don't know the answer right away, let your patient know you'll research it and get back to them. You don't have to know everything and shouldn't pretend to. As long as you keep striving to learn and better yourself to take optimal care of your patients, I think you're doing a pretty good job.  

Celebrations: