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Paul Celebrates 25 Years

Cassi Whitebird • Feb 08, 2024

This year UW-Biotechnology celebrated Paul's 25 years of service!

Paul Pierick and Liz Jesse in the UW Biotechnology Centers Outreach Lab.

"Laughter in Outreach - an appreciation of one of our UW Biotechnology Center's longest and committed employee"

Paul Pierick joined the UW Biotechnology Center (UWBC) 25 years ago. On February 2nd, 1999, Paul accepted a position in the Biotech's Outreach Program. Paul came with the skills and experience we desired, but his strength was his humor.


Paul's perspective on life carries him along effortlessly through his own hardship, sharing his infectious humor radiating positive vibes with a kind-hearted spirit. Paul takes such pride in his work at UWBC that brings purpose to his life! "There is life after accidents!" It will be thirty-two years this spring since Paul was hit by a car. Paul went on to share that he knows death after spending six weeks in a coma told he would never walk again. Paul beat those odds in spades. He walks and lives by himself with help from amazing people like Mattie Milz (Work Plus, Inc.) that give him "one more reason to get up in the morning." He worked the entire time he was interviewed on his invaluable role of preparing Outreach supplies for the K-12 students that visit our Outreach Lab that includes - DNA, soap, and wheat germ tubes. Paul wanted a few more tasks so Liz Jesse, UWBC Outreach Lead, and Tom Zinnen, UWBC Outreach Program Associate Director (retired), the talented tag team who shared the education outreach program, added in a recycling of lab supplies. Liz highlighted that she gets to enjoy Paul's curated music playlist as he works, which Paul obtained his appreciation of music being the second youngest of seven children. His older sister liked the Beatles and his enjoyment of Music branched out to included his favorites of: Richie Lee Johns, Mariah Carey, Steely Dan, Lucinda Williams, Melissa Etheridge, and Eric Clapton.


Paul shared that he recently went to Chicago with a friend for a short trip. My response, "that he certainly gets around," broke him out in song, "I get around - get around!" Paul appreciated my time with him although I received the gift. What a wonderful world if we strived to be like Paul!


Paul is a shining star in our midst. We love his humor that brings joy to us! Three stand-out qualities come to mind about Paul. First, is kindness - the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. Next, resilience - the ability to not only overcome setbacks, but to move forward. Then patience reminding us to be patient with ourselves just as nothing in nature blooms all year is true with the uncertainty of life. What we decide is how we respond and sometimes going dormant is best until courage prevails and that is Paul's example.


"Paul continues to be an example of diligence and tenacity as he adapts to changes in his own abilities and as he sustains year after year his commitment to support the public outreach mission at the UW Biotechnology Center," stated Outreach Program Assistant Director, (retired) Tom Zinnen. It is true, Paul is a beacon of joy and happiness and brings that positive light to our Center, to our staff, and our visitors! I thanked Paul and he reminded me to "Make him a star! You don't have to - but you can!" He is our star!


Article courtesy of UW Biotechnology Center Newsletter

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