Speakers

H. Dele Davies, MD, interim chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, is a longtime pediatrician, researcher, educator, academic leader, and fellow Rotarian. A pediatric infectious diseases specialist, Dr. Davies is devoted to serving patients and families, educating future health care professionals, and advancing UNMC’s mission to improve the health of Nebraska and beyond.

During his talk, Dr. Davies will share his vision for the future of UNMC and its continued role in strengthening Nebraska’s healthcare workforce, supporting communities across the state, and advancing research and innovation. He will also discuss UNMC’s role in the recent hantavirus response, offering insight into how Nebraska’s expertise serves people locally, nationally, and globally.

Taryn Smith rowed 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, completely alone, becoming the first American woman to compete in The World’s Toughest Row as a solo athlete. She chronicled her crossing on Instagram, gaining the support of celebrities and fans around the world, including Sharon Stone, Pierce Brosnan, and Katie Couric.  

Drawing on her experience as a yoga instructor, Taryn’s Atlantic row was a meditation on joy, impermanence, and community. Amidst 30 foot waves, sharks, and unrelenting wind, Taryn found happiness and purpose. Her message is simple: we are meant to do big things and the resilience required comes from community.

Happy Fourth of July!