Fumika Brudnak

What’s your favorite UIS tradition or event?

The Rising Stars program, which brings new UIS employees together through a variety of activities, stands out as a particularly meaningful experience. I also value the Employee Development Series and the many other training opportunities UIS offers, as they highlight the university’s commitment to supporting and investing in its employees. I enjoy taking advantage of these programs whenever possible.

Who’s someone you admire?

I admire my grandmother, who was a nurse in a remote village in southern Japan. Alongside my grandfather, a physician, she traveled to patients’ homes in all weather to care for elderly members of the community. She also operated a small village clinic, providing medical care to anyone in need.

She was hardworking, intelligent and deeply compassionate. She died in 2011 at age 96, and I miss her greatly.

Have you traveled to any interesting places?

When I was in college, I spent a summer in Freiburg, Germany, participating in an intensive German language program. During that time, I also traveled throughout Europe, an experience that deepened my interest in international travel. Just before the COVID-19 pandemic, my husband and I took our three sons on another trip across Europe, giving us the opportunity to explore new places together as a family.

Beyond Europe, I have traveled to China, Singapore, Brazil, Mexico and Canada, as well as many destinations across the United States. As a native of Japan, I have also had the opportunity to explore much of the country. While every destination offers something unique, Berlin remains one of my favorite cities, largely because of my interest in Cold War history. Another especially meaningful experience was visiting a small village in Slovakia where my husband’s grandfather was born. Seeing our children connect with an important part of their family heritage made the trip particularly memorable.

What’s your guilty pleasure snack?

Cookies from the UIS cafeteria are my go-to indulgence. When I really want to treat myself, I make a trip to Incredibly Delicious.

Is there a book, movie or TV show that you recently watched and liked?

I tend to gravitate toward nonfiction, particularly works that explore history and the people who shaped it. Two of my favorite books are Born a Crime by Trevor Noah and The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. I also enjoy films such as Hidden Figures and Bohemian Rhapsody. I am drawn to nonfiction because it offers insight into historical events and the lives of influential figures, as well as the experiences that continue to shape the world today.