Jerome garrett '05

Why did you decide to attend UW-Parkside?

I decided to attend UW-Parkside due to the optimal student to faculty ratio, proximity to Milwaukee and Chicago and the diversity within the UW System. 

What activities were you involved in at UW-Parkside?

I was involved with Parkside Student Government Association, Black Student Union and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. I also worked as a Building Manager for the Student Union. 

How did your UW-Parkside experience impact your professional or personal life?

My involvement in all my co-curricular activities as a student allowed me to make mistakes in a low-risk environment to learn and grow so when I established my professional career, I was able to reflect on those experiences and not repeat those mistakes again. 

What has been one of the top highlights of your career?

Earlier in my career I led a change management initiative within a large multi-specialty physician group practice that resulted in creating a department from the ground up to improve patient access and customer experience. Positive customer experience and patient access are crucial to ensure that health care is provided in a timely, equitable and high-quality manner. 

Who has had the biggest influence on your life or your career and why?

Dr. Ann Nattinger hired me into my first leadership role in Academic Medicine. Under her leadership and guidance, she sparked a passion for the tripartite mission in research, education and clinical care that exists in Schools of Medicine, hence why I am in my current role today. 

What is your favorite inspirational quote? 

“Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.” – Saint Augustine 

What is something that would surprise us about you?

During my freshman year I went back to Milwaukee every weekend and worked at a hospital as a Certified Nursing Assistant. 

What advice do you have for current UW-Parkside Students?

Get involved in student organizations to help identify your strengths and opportunities for growth. Your involvement and experience in student organizations will help you build your resume and demonstrate to prospective employers that you have experience working in teams to achieve a common goal. Cherish the time you have as an undergraduate student and the relationships you build with those in your community.