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Perspective built in 17 years |
Lorelei Kurimski
Occasionally, Lab Link visits with a Hygienic Laboratory subject matter expert (SME) for insight into the individual and her responsibilities within the lab. This month, we sit down with Lorelei Kurimski, director of the Office of Organization Development, and leader of the lab’s strategic planning, quality management and systems performance.
Describe your previous and current roles with the State Hygienic Laboratory?
I started at the Hygienic Laboratory more than 17 years ago in external programs, which included grants, contracts, web development and outreach.
The personal side
of an SME
What things are on your "bucket" list?
I have over fifty activities on my bucket list. It just keeps growing. They range from enjoying a natural hot springs spa in Colorado to seeing the lavender fields in Provence.
What is your favorite college memory?
I was 21 years old when I purchased a one-way ticket to Seattle. What an adventure!
Who is your favorite author?
Ernest Hemingway
Top two choices of what you wanted to be when you were growing up:
Business or politics. I once thought I would end up in D.C.
If you could choose one, what would your super power be?
To empower everyone to find their passion and pursue it. Life’s too short.
How have things changed over the years at the Hygienic Laboratory?
In 2008 I redefined my focus to process improvement. This was an exciting new area for me because I could identify with the philosophy. We used this approach to also implement our strategic plan. By 2012, I had transitioned to organizational development, which brought many of my passions together: teaching and facilitation, problem-solving, using data to help drive decisions, and working with teams.
How did your past life experiences prepare you for your current job?
My education is in engineering, which gave me a good background in process flow and design. I also completed two years as a member on the Board of Examiners for the Iowa Recognition for Performance Excellence Program (Malcolm Baldrige). This first introduced me to the perspective of organizational systems.
What is the best part of your job?
I really enjoy facilitation. It’s exciting to bring a team together to achieve a goal and see their final results.
What are some things that you would like to do in the future?
As a public health resource, our workforce is so dedicated. They are our greatest asset. There are always new approaches and innovative ideas for teaching, mentoring, coaching and facilitation.
What challenges you?
System thinking – always keeping in mind that we are part of a complex system and understanding those interrelationships.