Throughout her career in higher education, April Mann has sought jobs that keep her close to students. At UMMC, she found one that also keeps her closer to her loved ones.

From offering directions to giving a kind word or smile to patients and visitors, volunteers at the University of Mississippi Medical Center have long been celebrated for their selfless service to all who enter through the hospitals’ doors.

The hundreds of volunteers are a vital part of the Medical Center and its operations, while patients and families rely on their assistance to navigate the maze of hallways and offices on campus.

This year, two volunteers have been recognized for their outstanding service, one from the Adult Hospital and another who works at Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children and Winfred L. Wiser Hospital for Women and Infants.

Dr. David Dzielak’s career path has zigged and zagged since he received his doctorate in pharmacology in 1982 from UMMC’s School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences.