The Office of Research Services (ORS) is comprised of a diverse portfolio of services that support the NIH mission. In this section — I AM ORS, we showcase the exceptional employees behind these vital programs, spotlighting not only the important role they provide, but the opportunity to get to know them on a personal level too.
Debra Gale
It might come as a surprise, but NIH's very own Charity Cheerleader is a drag racing fan. Yes, four-wide racing, top fuel, funny car, pro stock, and pro stock motorcycle. All of it. "It's a thrill," she shares in her office located in Building 31 on the main NIH campus.
The week we sat down was the last week she would spend in ORS, making the rotation to NCATS, who will be the lead NIH agency for the 2018-2019 Combined Federal Campaign (CFC).
Since 2015, Debra has been the program manager of the CFC but also co-manages the "Take Your Child to Work Day," and the "Halloween Costume Challenge."
"I love to help others, and I love to help others who want to help others," she says proudly. "It's just always been a part of me."
Richmond, Indiana is where she grew up, just west of Indianapolis and is the daughter of a preacher. During her own time, she enjoys crafting and sending care packages to her son who is stationed in San Diego in the Navy.
Amy Kenney
The Division of International Services is a bustling office ambiance with foreign languages in the air, rustling of paperwork, and ringing phones. In one of the offices is Amy Kenney, an Immigration Specialist, who has an affinity to the French language.
"I was an English Teacher in France, and have made many good friendships there," she shares. She also was a teacher in Greece.
Since 2016, she has served on the Customer Service Team of DIS, answering various questions from our soon-to-arrive and onboarded foreign scientists, ranging from housing requirements, badging and even how to use public transportation.
"The sense of accomplishment comes from helping those who are making breakthrough discoveries on our campus," says Amy.
She is a graduate of the Elliott School of International Affairs at the George Washington University and is interested in pursuing another advanced degree or Ph.D program.
Gil Jones
Retired Army and Vietnam veteran Gil Jones keeps the Medical Arts office on its toes.
"I'm the guy who reviews proposals, sets up consultations, reviews deliverables, and help out wherever else they need me," Gil says. "We have a good crew and I make sure we've got Happy Campers."
His 33 year public affairs and photojournalism career in the Army took him from Virginia, to Fort Tilden in Queens, and now Ft Meade. He continues to enjoy this visual communications aspect of the Medical Arts office.
"We have an amazing group of talented folk who go above and beyond everyday," he says. On his desk there are many reports and new submissions from potential clients, who might be NIH scientists requesting illustrations and technical art for journals, research papers or website production.
An obvious New York Giants fan, he loves the playful jabbing with fellow NIH employees who cheer for the local teams.
