Why I Came, Why I Stayed: NMC dean of nursing Jillian Krumbach believes Methodist has allowed her to learn, grow and thrive

In “Why I Came, Why I Stayed,” you’ll get to know people who are making a difference every day at Methodist and how they contribute to providing The Meaning of Care. To explore career opportunities at Methodist, visit bestcare.org/jobs.

Jillian Krumbach DNP, RN, NE-BC               
Dean of Nursing            
Nebraska Methodist College

Tell us about yourself.

My connection to Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) began as a student. I’m a graduate of the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and later returned to complete the Master of Science in nursing, nurse executive track. I subsequently earned my doctor of nursing practice in clinical systems administration from Creighton University. 

I’ve been a nurse for nearly 20 years and have worked in a variety of clinical areas, including transplant, oncology, medical-surgical nursing, psychiatric nursing and orthopedics. A particularly meaningful part of my clinical career was spent at Indian Health Service in Rosebud, South Dakota, where I worked on an inpatient unit caring for patients from birth through the end of life. That experience shaped my understanding of nursing, strengthened my commitment to serving communities and inspired my passion for public and community health. It also played an important role in drawing me toward nursing education.

I returned to NMC in 2012 and have been there since. I started in Professional Development as an online program coordinator, and I’ve had the privilege of teaching students at the certificate, undergraduate and doctoral levels. Most recently, I served as the BSN program director for three years before being appointed dean of nursing. 

I’m the mother of five children, ranging in age from 6 to almost 16, so my life outside of NMC is active, busy and rarely quiet. I’m also a mediocre golfer, an OK half-marathoner, an enthusiastic reader and someone who will spend as much time as possible near – or preferably in – a swimming pool.

What brought you to Methodist?

The college drew me in because of my lifelong connection to Methodist Health System. I had been a patient within the health system since childhood and, over the years, developed a deep sense of trust and respect for the healthcare professionals who cared for me. When I began looking for a place to continue my nursing education, Methodist immediately came to mind. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt a sense of connection and belonging, and I knew it was where I wanted to continue my journey in nursing.

What’s kept you here?

I believe strongly in the mission and future of Nebraska Methodist College because I’ve experienced NMC from many perspectives: as a student, alumna, staff member, faculty member, program director and now dean. I understand the dedication required to become a nurse, the challenges students experience along the way and the tremendous responsibility that accompanies entry into the profession. I’m passionate about who we are as a college and committed to ensuring the continued strength, growth and success of the nursing division.

In addition, Methodist has provided a place where I could learn, grow and thrive for a majority of my career. I believe in what we do, and I feel the organization believes in me, which makes staying an obvious choice. 

Do you have any favorite Methodist memories?

This is very sad, but heartfelt. When my stepdaughter, Talia, passed away, I was so supported by not only colleagues I work with daily but also so many people who I have come to know over my time at Methodist. I was touched by the number of people who showed up to support my family in a devastating time in our life. It was unexpected but continues to be a wonderful memory of the people who make up this amazing organization. It was a moment when I saw The Meaning of Care. 

Have you had a mentor or colleague who has stood out during your time at Methodist?

So many people have contributed to my growth and development as a leader, but two stand out in particular. 

Phyllis Zimmermann was my longtime colleague in Professional Development, and together we were able to accomplish so many positive things for the college. Phyllis was deeply loved and respected throughout Methodist. She was the kind of quiet, confident leader so many of us strive to become. She was steady, thoughtful and deeply committed to both Methodist and education. She saw leadership potential in me and helped me recognize, develop and trust the leader that was already within me.

Dr. Deb Carlson is another mentor and supporter who has invested in my growth throughout the years. Deb has taught me so much about people, organizational culture and the responsibility leaders have to intentionally cultivate and protect both. Her mentorship has shaped the way I think about leadership, not simply as achieving outcomes, but as creating an environment where people feel valued, supported and able to do their best work.

What should people know about Methodist?

I believe consistency matters more than being flashy, and that is what Methodist represents to me. Methodist is an institution built through decades of steady commitment, trusted service and excellence in healthcare and healthcare education. That kind of reputation is not created through one moment or one accomplishment – it’s earned through consistently doing the right things well.

Even through the inevitable changes and challenges in healthcare and in the world around us, I remain confident in the strength and future of our health system. Year after year, Methodist continues to excel because of the dedication of our people, the strength of our culture and an unwavering commitment to quality. To me, that consistency is one of Methodist’s greatest strengths.