March 29, 2024

Neill helps make CAPS a positive place for students, coworkers

Elizabeth Neill (center) with members of her family.
Courtesy

Courtesy
Elizabeth Neill (center) with members of her family.

In observance of Women’s History Month, Nebraska Today has partnered with the Chancellor’s Commission on the Status of Women to feature female office/service staff who go above and beyond in their work at Dear Old Nebraska U. This Women of Service series has been featured every Friday in March.

Women of Service icon

The 2024 series concludes today with Elizabeth Neill, office associate with Counseling and Psychological Services. She was nominated by Tricia Besett-Alesch, CAPS director.

Besett-Alesch praised Neill for her positive approach and ability to connect with care and compassion to students seeking assistance.

“Elizabeth is a delight to have on staff,” Besett-Alesch said. “She always goes above and beyond. We are grateful for her consistency and commitment to all the students and the CAPS team.”

Neill sat down with the Chancellor’s Commission on the Status of Women to discuss what drives her to success on and off campus.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am from Palmdale, California. I went to college at the University of Wyoming and got a degree in anthropology and a minor in drawing. I have one older brother and two younger sisters. A new job opportunity is what brought me to Lincoln. Plus, my sister is out here.

How long have you been at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln?

In April, it will be two years.

What do you look forward to when you come to work?

The most rewarding parts about working at CAPS are the people I get to work with and seeing the clients’ faces light up when they see their counselor. I look forward to helping the clients and learning new things. Every day is something new.

What is your favorite memory at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln?

My first day working for Counseling and Psychological Services and meeting all the amazing people here. Another time is when CAPS when to the natural history museum to get to know each other better. Also, my first monster cookie from Annette (Contreras). Those are amazing!

Drawing is among the hobbies that Elizabeth Neill pursues when she is not at work for Counseling and Psychological Services. Her work includes this hummingbird drawing.
Courtesy
Drawing is among the hobbies that Elizabeth Neill pursues when she is not at work for Counseling and Psychological Services. Her work includes this hummingbird drawing.

What is your life like outside of work?

I enjoy spending my time creating art, watching TV, reading, getting Starbucks, and hanging out with friends and family. I also enjoy going for walks when it is not hot outside. When I can, I enjoy spoiling my niece and nephews, including the furry ones. I also enjoy taking time to relax.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I am a huge fan of Harry Potter and Disney. I have been to both parks. I want to go back. My favorite season is fall because of all the beautiful color and great food. I’m getting good at making green chili, tacos and pasta.