by Gordon Nary
Gordon: When did you attend Illinois State University, what degree did you ear, what was your favorite course, and why was it your favorite?
Debra: In 1997, I earned my Master's degree in Sociology from Illinois State University. My studies and research focused on the fascinating intersection of personal relationships and cultural norms. Essentially, I explored how the society and culture in which we grow up, shape our concepts of love, who we love, and the way we express that love. It's amazing how these dynamics vary across different cultures. I don’t think I had a favorite course – I enjoyed ALL my courses. It is unfortunate ISU did not have a PhD program, otherwise I would have stayed and continued studying.
But the absolute highlight of my time at Illinois State University was teaching. At the same times I was taking courses and writing papers, I taught Sociology 101 to undergraduates. I absolutely loved teaching and interacting with the students.
Those two years at ISU were two of the best years of my life.
Gordon: When did you work at DeVry (a school at which I was a teacher), what positions did you hold. and what is one of your favorite memories when you were there?
Debra: I worked at DeVry University from 2009 to 2012. Unlike my experience at Illinois State University, I was not a teacher; I did research. Some call is “market research” or “consumer insights.” In my role, I managed research projects that helped us understand and improve students’ experiences. Also, I managed projects that helped us understand the degree programs students were most interested in and how to design those programs in a way that best fit the needs of students. DeVry's focus on serving adult learners with full-time jobs and families necessitates creating flexible and supportive experiences alongside a high-quality education.
Gordon: Please share with our readers an overview of your work at GFK, where you were on the Government, Academic, and Healthcare research team. And where did you enjoy most?
Debra: At GFK I again was a researcher. Our clients were mostly academics and non-profits that were awarded grants to conduct studies on a wide range of topics. They did not have the means to conduct large research studies themselves, so they hired our firm to help. Two projects I remember are – One, we did a study that measured the impact of a specific smoking cessation program on actual behavior – did the program help people stop smoking? The good news was, yes. The second was a longitudinal study measuring the impact that exposure to news media can have on mental health. Think of all the atrocities we witness in our daily news feed – what is this doing to our mental health and levels of anxiety? Unsurprisingly, the more we watch, the more sensitive and anxiety prone we become.
It was fulfilling work because, ultimately, we were supporting researchers who were trying to help society live healthier lives – by either quitting smoking or limiting the amount of news media one consumes.
Gordon: Tell is about your current work at the American Medical Association.
Debra: At the American Medical Association, my work is centered around how healthcare technology can be used to improve patient care and reduce the burden our physicians face daily. Physicians are experiencing burnout at alarming rates. Developments and improvements in technology, like Electronic Health Record systems, can help. Less time doing paperwork and navigating complex computer systems, means more time caring for patients – which is what physicians love most.
Gordon: Please share with our readers on overview of your volunteer service at The Art Institute.
Debra: Having visited the Art Institute with my father throughout my childhood, it was a dream come true to join their volunteer team and guide visitors through one of the world's finest art collections. My role was simple yet fulfilling: stationed at the main entrance desk, I answered a wide array of questions during the bustling Sunday afternoon shift. Inquiries ranged from locating specific masterpieces like Van Gogh's "Bedroom in Arles" to navigating back to the train station. And of course, the perennial favorite: "Where's the best Chicago-style pizza?" My go-to recommendation was always Giordano's. Sadly, the volunteer program has been suspended since the pandemic.
Gordon: Who is your favorite artist and why is that artist your favorite?
Debra: My artistic preferences change every decade or so. Currently, my favorite is Doménikos Theotokópoulos, better known as El Greco. His "Christ Taking Leave of His Mother," on display at the Art Institute, resonates deeply with me. It shatters my heart. While perhaps not his most renowned piece, the raw emotion conveyed in the damp eyes of the Mother and the Son is heart-wrenching. This painting evokes in me a profound sense of sorrow and understanding of the sacrifices made by Mary, Jesus, and the Father. All given up for us. It leaves me speechless.
Gordon: What parish do you attend and why do you find most rewarding about your parish?
Debra: Living in Chicago, I'm blessed to have several parishes within a mile of my home! As a result, I regularly attend two parishes that each offer something unique. St. Clement in Lincoln Park is a vibrant, youthful community bursting with energy. They frequently host social events and provide many opportunities for spiritual growth and learning throughout the year.
In contrast, St. Michael’s in Old Town provides a more serene and contemplative atmosphere, which I find especially comforting as I get older. Additionally, St. Michael's holds a special place in my heart due to my family's history there. My mother attended school here, graduating in 1948. Sitting where she once sat and praying where she once prayed brings me peace and a connection to her.
Gordon: Thank you for a great interview.