Two Long-Time Shriners Children's Ohio Staff Members Share their Reflections

In her 44-year career at Shriners Children’s, Vicki Keehnen has done a little bit of everything – ranging from data entry and computer coordination to her current roles as administrative assistant for performance improvement and volunteer coordinator at Shriners Children’s Ohio.

Vicki has seen many changes over her more than four decades of service, especially in the use of technology.

“When I started there were no computers and the office staff used typewriters,” Keehnen recalled. “At the time, the cutting edge technology for office assistants was using an IBM Select typewriter.”

What hasn’t changed in Keehnen’s tenure is the commitment to philanthropy by Shriners International and the dedication of Shriners Children’s employees.

“Our Shriners raise money to support our organization so children can get the very best care,” she said. “Working here is so special because we’re all a family. We celebrate the good times and support each other through the tough times.”

Although Keehnen’s role doesn’t provide direct patient care, she knows she plays a small part in a patient’s recovery. “I am in awe of what we do for these children,” she said. “When I see the transformation of a patient, the smile on their face and the happy tears from the family, it makes me proud to be part of this organization.”

Laura Fowler has spent her entire career at Shriners Children’s and she wouldn’t want it any other way. “This was the only job I applied for after I graduated and it was the best decision I ever made,” she said.

Fowler started at Shriners Children’s Ohio 35 years ago in patient care. She worked in reconstructive care, the intensive care unit and even briefly on the transport team. Fowler joined the research team in 1992 and became clinical research coordinator in 2013. She currently serves at the lead protocol coordinator for the system-wide Shriners Children’s Genomics and Precision Medicine Project. She said the role allows her to work across multiple departments.

“Research allows me to interact with different people with the same common goal: improve the quality of care and outcomes for our patients,” she said. “I’m proud to champion the mission of making a difference in the lives of children and families.”