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 will run in Nebraska Today through March 31.
The series continues today with Marsha Yelden, an administrative support associate with the Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine. She was nominated by three colleagues — Renee McFee, Barbara Banks and Marcia Oetjen.
In her work, Yelden manages the administrative activities across all veterinary medicine courses and is the primary contact for students. She also coordinates the program’s admissions process, new student orientation and unit celebrations/receptions.
“For all of her skills, what makes Marsha invaluable and a pleasure to work with is her natural ability to remain calm, and gently, with a great sense of humor, assist students, staff and faculty with anything they may need,” her nominators wrote. “She is never too busy to help and takes interruptions in stride.
“Marsha is always positive and professional, and makes a person feel like they are a valued part of the SVMBS community. She is one of the best people with whom we have worked. All those who work with her benefit from her professionalism, expertise and character.”
Yelden sat down with the Chancellor’s Commission on the Status of Women to discuss what inspires her on and off campus.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born and raised in Seward County, and I live in Seward with my husband. We are now adapting to being empty-nesters. Our oldest daughter lives in Stanton, Nebraska. Our son and youngest daughter both attend UNL.
How long have you been at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln?
I’ve been here for 35 years.
What do you look forward to when you come to work?
I love working with the students. Having the opportunity to make a difference in a student’s experience at UNL is important to me. I love the variety of duties and responsibilities I have. I know that the people I work with have my back and consider me a valued part of the team.
What is your favorite memory at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln?
I don’t have a single favorite memory, but I do cherish all of the friendships that I have made at UNL.
What is your life like outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy reading (pretty much any genre), being outdoors and walking. I also enjoy houseplants — I am trying real hard to keep my cacti happy and healthy. I recently took up pickleball and this summer discovered the joy of relaxing in a hammock.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
Growing up my dad ran in demolition derbies. My sisters and I would spend all of our summer vacation helping him get the cars ready during the week. Weekends were spent going to county fairs throughout Nebraska. A couple of years ago, he was inducted into the Nebraska Figure 8 and Demolition Derby Hall of Fame.
