Union Adventist University honored Nebraska Orthopaedic Center with their Community Partnership Award at the school’s annual Community Appreciation Breakfast on Feb. 11, 2025.

“Their expertise and dedication have ensured the health and well-being of our athletes,” said the university’s athletic director, Drew Mekelburg, when presenting the award. “If you have a warm blanket that makes you feel safe, you know the feeling Nebraska Orthopaedic Center gives our athletic program.” 

Staff from the medical practice attend athletic events in order to quickly evaluate injuries on the court. The practice also provides clinical rotations for Union’s physician assistant students and often becomes their place of professional employment. The connection between the two organizations has endured for 20 years.

“We want to continue to be blessed by the opportunity to support the pursuit of organizational excellence, as well as the pursuit of individual excellence as you nurture your students.” said the practice’s CEO, Suzi Gausman while accepting the award.

This is the twelfth year that Union has presented the award to a local business that helps the university accomplish its mission — to create a personal, student-focused community that empowers students for a lifetime of learning, service and leadership.

Union also honored retired police captain Mike Woolman with the Valued Partner Award. Woolman served at the police substation based on Union’s campus that serves Southeast Lincoln. 

“We’re so grateful for all the service that you’ve provided,” said Kim Canine, Union’s vice president for Student Life, while presenting the award. “You’ve done it with integrity. You’ve done it with grace.” 

The award itself is sponsored by the Lincoln Independent Business Association.