Member Spotlight: Joanne Veloz

UCSC Member Joanne “Jo” Veloz joined UTHealth in 2019 and was recently promoted to the role of Sr. Research Nurse.  She currently works in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences with Principal Investigator Dr. Sandra Hurtado and Sub-Investigator Lori Wink, NP. “We all work as a team within UTHealth’s Women’s Research Program – Memorial City, and focus on conducting clinical research trials aiming to find new treatment options in women’s health.”  Her favorite memory thus far has been “moving into (the departments) dedicated research office last year. Watching the office build-out from start to finish was a great first-hand experience.”

Joanne joined the University Classified Staff Council (UCSC) in hopes of “feeling more connected to the university” as she is currently housed in a UT Physician’s clinic, within the Memorial City area. “Once I received the opportunity to join the University Classified Staff Council, I gladly joined. I appreciate being connected to other classified staff council members, and relaying updates to my peers who also work in the Memorial City community with me.  I personally work with the greatest team, and every morning we each walk in with the best foot forward, knowing it’s a new day and determined to make it a great one.”

Outside of work Joanne enjoys disconnecting and spending time with family. “My favorite thing to do is spend time with my family. Sitting down, turning off our phones, and enjoying time with one another is time well-spent. My boyfriend Jose is an amazing cook, he continuously works on developing my palate and showing me new dishes to try.”

In addition, Jo loves running and spending time with her adorable pups.  “I like to run, although life has gotten in the way of it. I hope to get back into the groove of it soon. Running helps me clear my mind and really helps release endorphins.”

“My dog TJ is a tri-pod, but he definitely does not seem to realize it by the way he runs and jumps. He loves finding and chewing on socks, and patiently waiting for a snack (any snack). Mack is his older brother, and is full of love. He simply wants all the attention in the world, and is the gentlest (and the biggest) lap dog you will ever meet. Their special power includes smelling food from a mile away and galloping toward any potential snack.”

The University Classified Staff Council is very excited to have Joanne serving her first year as a member and looks forward to seeing all she will contribute to our communications committee.