Today is the first in a series of “Meet the Staff” posts. First up: Greg Emmel, one of our directors.
What’s your role at the D2 Center?
I’m a director. Basically, that means I’m involved in most everything that happens at the D2 Center.
How long have you worked at the D2 Center?
Since September of 2010, but we didn’t actually start working with students until the late spring and summer of 2011.
Tell me about your education.
I graduated from Lincoln High School in Sioux Falls, SD. I’ve got a Bachelor’s degree from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, SD, a Masters degree in educational administration from UNO, and a specialist in educational administration from UNO.
What is your professional background?
I was a language arts and social studies teacher at Monroe Junior High in Omaha Public Schools (OPS), a Student Personnel Assistant, assistant principal at Northwest High School, then principal at McMillan Middle School, then principal at Central High School.
Why were you interested in working at the D2 Center?
When I retired after 33 years with OPS, I was intrigued to hear that Omaha, through Building Bright Futures, would start a re-engagement center for youth in our community. I knew right away that this is what I wanted to do after a career in education. I’m excited to be a part of this new initiative, working with co-director Carolyn Miller, to develop a new program to serve youth in our community and fill a need to help students re-engage with their high school education.
What’s your favorite thing about working at the D2 Center?
The tremendous challenge of working with disengaged high school youth. Every student has a unique story—we need to continually adapt and find ways to help them meet their educational and career goals. I love having a job that keeps me motivated to come to work every day. I’m learning every day!
Tell me about your family.
I’ve been married to Betsy for over 34 years; we have one daughter, Ashley, who graduated from Burke in 2001 and Creighton in 2006, and is a nurse in emergency/trauma at UNMC.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Playing cards and pool, biking, boating, reading, working out, spending time with my wife and daughter.
Greg Emmel