Alumni Association

A Flurry of Nostalgia and Gratitude:
NMC Class of 1975 Celebrates 50 Years

Like the blizzard they navigated in 1975, the memories came swirling back in a flurry: weekends by the pool, choir trips to Chicago, and assorted shenanigans long outside the statute of limitations, including epic water and toilet paper battles in the dorms.

The Class of 1975 gathered for its 50-year reunion brunch in late September. Over salad, charcuterie and S’mores dessert, they filled the room with laughter, hugs and stories.

“It just doesn’t seem like that much time has passed,” said Kathy (Hladky) Haack.

Like many of her classmates, Kathy reflected on the fun but also on the educational foundation that allowed them to deliver nursing care across Omaha, the nation and the world.

“It was the best preparation,” she said, “so much clinical experience.”

Susan (Haworth) Hase agreed. She chose Methodist School of Nursing (now Nebraska Methodist College) because it was a hands-on, three-year diploma program.

“When I stepped into a patient’s room, I knew how to do whatever they needed. It was first nature,” Susan said.

A fond memory for her? Stepping up during that epic blizzard in January of 1975.

“They pulled all the senior students out of the dorm so we could work the shifts and give the staff time to sleep,” Susan recalled.

Those shared challenges—along with the rigor of their studies—forged lifelong bonds.

As part of the reunion celebration, the Nebraska Nurse Honor Guard paid tribute to classmates who’ve passed. Alumni also connected with current students and toured campus. The day was a whirlwind of nostalgia, gratitude and inspiration.

“The experience here—sometimes you felt it was too much,” Carolyn reflected. “But afterward, I knew that I could do anything in nursing. I could work in ICU; I could work in Neuro. I had a fabulous education.”