Employee Spotlights
Hear from some of the dedicated staff and faculty who work on our campuses in Kansas City, Salina and Wichita.
Our talented workforce includes dedicated professionals in diverse fields, working together to advance KU Medical Center's missions in education, research and health care. Get to know a few of our longest-serving employees below.
Garold Minns, M.D.
Title: Dean and Professor of Internal Medicine, KU School of Medicine-Wichita
Campus: Wichita
Start date: July 1, 1980
What is the main reason you have stayed at KU Medical Center for so long?
I believe in our mission and owe my medical education to KU Medical Center. So I felt this is one way I could pay back KU Medical Center and the state of Kansas. I grew up in Kansas and many of our family still lives here.
In one sentence, describe your time or experience at KU Medical Center.
I have valued the opportunities I have been given at KU Medical Center and the ability to contribute to the education of so many talented students.
How has your role changed during your time working at KU Medical Center?
I've gone from being a junior faculty to dean of one of our regional campuses.
What is your favorite memory of working at KU Medical Center?
All the great colleagues I have met over the years.
What fun fact would you like to share?
Rita Clifford was one of my instructors in medical school, and she is a great teacher. KU Medical Center was doing interdisciplinary education before it was "cool!”
Sherry Bassett
Title: Senior Administrative Associate, Department of Radiology
Campus: Kansas City
Start date: March 4, 1981
What is the main reason you have stayed at KU Medical Center for so long?
The university has given me the opportunity to learn and grow within the organization. I also enjoy helping people and being part of a team.
In one sentence, describe your time or experience at KU Medical Center.
My time at the university has been rewarding and fulfilling with many opportunities to grow.
How has your role changed during your time at KU Medical Center?
Over the years, so many clerical duties have changed for me that I had to learn many new tasks such as doing payroll, purchasing supplies and equipment and working with medical students in the Radiology Clerkship Elective, to name a few.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I like to do word search puzzles, read books and craft with my grandkids.
Donna Sweet
Title: Professor, Internal Medicine, KU School of Medicine-Wichita
Campus: Wichita
Start date: July 1, 1982
What is the main reason you have stayed at KU Medical Center for so long?
The administration at KU School of Medicine-Wichita has given me the time and freedom to follow my passion of providing HIV care to all. They have allowed me to be involved nationally and internationally in the provision of HIV care and education, which affords our patients and our learners with the latest information and care options at the local level.
In one sentence, describe your time or experience at KU Medical Center.
I found that I could reach my dreams and goals without moving from my home state.
What is your favorite memory of working at KU Medical Center?
I have many favorite memories, so it is impossible to choose just one. Wonderful patients, some no longer with me, but many who have been with me for my whole career top the list. Also working with people who are very committed to caring for vulnerable populations is a joy I experience daily.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I still play golf (even though I am not very good anymore) and I thoroughly enjoy it!