Get to know: NEOMED (week of Sept. 14)
We probably all know someone like this: You say good morning when you pass in the hall, you chat while waiting for your coffee order and you see them at University events and programs. But you don’t really know who they are or what they do at NEOMED. We’re here to help with the new feature, “Get to know NEOMED”! Each week we’ll share brief profiles of some new faces and some long-time staff.
This week we feature Jami Brewer and Deanne Girard.
Jami Brewer
What is your role here at NEOMED?
As a program coordinator in the Department of Psychiatry at NEOMED, I manage and support the implementation of multiple grant-funded Project ECHO programs through the BeST Center. My role includes overseeing online learning and collaboration platforms, coordinating continuing education activities, providing training and technical support to facilitators and partners, and ensuring the successful delivery of programs that improve access to behavioral health best practices. I also collaborate with national and international partners, represent NEOMED at professional conferences, and contribute to strategic initiatives that expand the University’s impact and strengthen program effectiveness.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
What I enjoy most about my work is the opportunity to collaborate with a wide range of professionals, from medical directors and psychiatrists to peer support specialists and many others across the behavioral health field. Working alongside individuals with different backgrounds, expertise and experiences allows me to learn something new every day. While I do not have a clinical license myself, I find it incredibly rewarding to support clinical teams in their efforts to improve care and make a meaningful impact in communities. Being part of work that ultimately helps expand access to knowledge, resources, and best practices is what makes my role fulfilling.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
A fun fact about me is that I’m a mom first and foremost. My family is at the center of everything I do and keeps me happily busy. When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me coaching youth robotics, serving as a 4-H advisor, cheering from the stands at a baseball game or driving my kids between sporting events, ice skating rinks and agricultural activities. Life is busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Deanne Girard
What is your role here at NEOMED?
I joined NEOMED in March as an administrative coordinator in the College of Medicine, Office of the Dean and Medical Education. My role provides administrative and project support, specifically to the associate deans of clinical faculty affairs, admissions and student affairs, and quality initiatives. I provide organizational support for the office, including supply ordering, travel arrangements, reimbursements and purchase requisitions, amongst other administrative functions. I also serve as a point of contact between the office and outside constituents that involve work requests, etc. Currently, the College of Medicine is in the process of preparing for our LCME accreditation, and I’ve been collaborating with colleagues to handle all the logistics for the site visits.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
What I enjoy most is the incredible people that I have the privilege of working alongside every day. I feel fortunate to work with such talented, dedicated and genuinely wonderful people each day. Their support, collaboration, kindness and commitment make even the most challenging days rewarding. I’m continually inspired by the people around me and grateful for the opportunity to learn from, laugh with and grow alongside such an incredible team.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
Two fun facts about me:
My favorite times are hanging with my family. My husband and I have 4 young adult children and 2 crazy dogs. Anytime we can all be together is a huge blessing that I never take for granted.
The beach is my happy place! If my toes are in the sand and I have a cold drink in my hand, life can’t get any better! Our family has been vacationing in the Outer Banks for almost 30 years, and I can’t wait to go with my husband in September. We’re also planning a family trip next year with all 6 of us!
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