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 every Friday in March.

The 2024 series continues today with Wendy Kempcke, an office associate with the Nebraska Alumni Association. She was nominated by Jeff Sheldon, associate executive director for marketing and business relations with the Alumni Association.

Sheldon praised Kempcke for her friendly-spirit and being a one-woman shop, handling invoicing, accounts payable and receivable, postage, reception and anything else that needs to be done day to day.

“There’s no encyclopedia that could have as much institutional knowledge of the Nebraska Alumni Association as Wendy,” Sheldon said. “Every place needs someone like her to know the finer details of how an office and a staff runs. When she retires in March, not only will we lose a mainstay of our office, but also someone whose humor and kindness makes coming to work each day a joy.”

Kempcke 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 have a wonderful husband that is my soulmate, two daughters, one son, five grandkids and a dog named Padme. I am actually very shy — except at work when I am helping people.

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

Almost 23 wonderful years.

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

When I come to work, I look forward to everyone’s smiling face and greeting staff and visitors. I have such a versatile job that I am able to do what I love and what I do best.

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

I have favorite memories with homecoming. I love the time of year when the students come back to campus and there is that excitement in the air with homecoming and football.

What is your life like outside of work?

Outside of work I love spending time with my family, taking long walks or going for a bike ride. I love hot summer nights, sitting around the firepit, or anything with nature.

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

I was once a foster mom to many different children. I also was a medication nurse for about 10 years. I had never stepped into an office until I came to the Nebraska Alumni Association. When I did start working at the Nebraska Alumni Association, I wasn’t sure if the job was meant for me. As each day went by, I fell more and more in love with my job.