Dean Marcia Hern - In Person

As much as these titles describe and apply to the work that happens at the University of Louisville, they don’t get to the essence of what makes UofL unique — its people.

Once or twice a month, UofL Today profiles people who help to make the university what it is. This week get to know nursing Dean Marcia Hern — In Person.

Name: Marcia J. Hern, EdD, CNS, RN

UofL title and department: Dean and professor, School of Nursing

At UofL since: Sept. 1, 2007

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

First job and what I learned from it: I became a candy striper/nurse’s aide when I was 16 years old. It reaffirmed my desire to become a nurse, especially a pediatric nurse.

The thing I like most about what I do: The opportunity to work with such brilliant and community-minded colleagues within the School of Nursing and across the university.

I am: so a morning person, and treasure the thought of a new day with more adventures and hopes in store.

I never: want to live without sunshine!

Guilty pleasure: Chocolate

Favorite book: “Leadership: the Eleanor Roosevelt Way,” by Robin Gerber

Favorite TV show: “Dancing with the Stars” (in my next life I plan to come back a dancer, even though I really cannot dance!)

In the car I listen to: NPR or CDs, such as Sarah Brightman and Andrea Bocelli

Favorite quote: “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people,” Eleanor Roosevelt, and “Incremental change is easy; transformational change is wrenching.” Dr. Darrell G. Kirch, president and chief executive officer, Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC); Flexner Symposium, UofL, May 4, 2010.

These animals share my world: Only her photo on the mantle reminds me now of our cat Snickers of 18 years that passed away last May 15, 2010.

My day begins: immediately with a great cup of coffee.

I wish I had more time to: play golf and travel for fun.

When I’m not cheering for the Cards, I’m cheering for: the Dallas Cowboys

Most Friday nights you’ll find me: relaxing at home or hanging out with neighbors.

If my life were a movie: I hope people would understand that I am a strong, caring woman whose greatest legacy is my three wonderful adult children.

Anything else you’d like the UofL community to know: This is the best and most fulfilling job I have ever had.