Star City Six – Jen Graff
Located at 1001 South Street, Lancaster Rehabilitation Center is the largest skilled nursing facility in the state of Nebraska. Jen Graff is the Social Services Director at Lancaster Rehabilitation Center (lancasterrc.com).
Tell us a little about your role at Lancaster Rehabilitation Center.
My focus is the psychosocial well-being for those we care for. I began working here in 2009 and have since managed several departments. As part of the leadership team I’m tasked with guiding and developing staff members, supporting decisions, and hosting events.
How did you get started in the business?
I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Family Sciences from UNL and following graduation I began my career in social services at a local skilled nursing facility. During my tenure I was given a new opportunity to become the social services director. After ten years I had additional opportunities to work in marketing and home health care. I subsequently returned to the skilled nursing setting where my heart will always be.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
As a health care professional, I think the biggest challenge any one of us faces is ensuring the people we take care of get all of the resources and support necessary for successful outcomes. At times resources are not always available or appropriate to the specific needs of individuals and the barriers they face in order to have everything they need.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Having the opportunity to build a team of professionals who work together to provide the best quality of life for the population we serve.
Tell us a little about your family.
I’ve been married for 23 years to my high school sweetheart Jim. We were born and raised in Lincoln and attended East High School, where both of our boys, Cole (20) and Alex (17), also attended.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Becoming a mom and starting a family is my greatest accomplishment and was life-changing. That being said, careerwise it was when I was given the opportunity to establish a new team of social workers for our facility and assisting in growing our business in a positive way.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I like retail therapy, so it’s shopping, shopping, shopping. I also like to spend time with my husband and kids and being around my family.
What are you the most proud of?
Personally, I’ve taken the most pride in raising my boys and having a family that supports one another. Professionally, I’m tremendously proud to work for an organization that recognizes people’s talents and allows us to use them to help our residents.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
My previous supervisor told me, “People will always come and go, but it is the relationship you develop during your time together that makes a difference.”
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Problem-solver.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to be able to sing. I try in the car…but only so others do not have to hear it!
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Event planner. I have always been involved in planning events and parties. I like the details and organization, and of course the end results.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 441-4101; Email: socserv2@lancasterrc.com; Website: lancasterrc.com.