For seven decades, Margene "Jeannie" Bufkin has been a familiar face at Renown Health, touching countless lives through her dedication, compassion and
commitment to caring for others.
For Jeanne Bufkin, what began as a job at Washoe Medical Center in 1956 became a lifelong commitment to serving the northern Nevada community. Today, as Renown Health celebrates her remarkable 70 years of service, we honor not only the years she has devoted to healthcare but also the lasting impact she has made on patients, families and colleagues.
From her early days as a nurse's aide to her decades of service in Labor and Delivery, Jeanne's story is one of perseverance, hard work and a genuine love for helping others.
A Career Built on Commitment and Hard Work
Jeanne's journey began when she moved from Mississippi to Reno as a young woman looking for new opportunities. In 1956, she joined what was then Washoe Medical Center as a nurse's aide. Little did she know that her first healthcare job would become a career spanning seven decades.
Over the years, Jeanne continued to grow in her role, eventually transitioning to the Labor and Delivery unit. There, she served in surgical support roles, including as an operating room scrub technician and floor scrub technician, helping care teams prepare for procedures and supporting the safe delivery of babies.
Throughout her career, Jeanne has witnessed extraordinary changes in healthcare, from advancements in medical technology to the growth of Renown Health. One thing has remained constant: her dedication to doing her job well and supporting the people around her.
A Familiar Face in Labor and Delivery
For generations of northern Nevada families, Renown has been the place where some of life's most meaningful moments begin. Behind those moments are dedicated healthcare professionals like Jeanne, whose work helps make exceptional care possible.
Known for her strong work ethic, attention to detail and commitment to doing things the right way, Jeanne has spent decades helping ensure that our Labor and Delivery teams have the instruments, equipment and support they need.
Her role may often be behind the scenes, but her contributions are an important part of the care provided to mothers and babies.
For Jeanne, every detail matters. Whether preparing a room, supporting a procedure or working alongside her colleagues, she brings the same commitment to excellence that has defined her career.
Seven Decades of Making a Difference
Few careers span 70 years, and even fewer are spent serving the same community and organization.
Throughout her time at Renown, Jeanne has worked alongside generations of physicians, nurses and healthcare professionals. She has witnessed countless milestones, built lasting friendships and helped shape the culture of teamwork within Labor and Delivery.
Her remarkable career also reflects a story of resilience. As an African American woman who began working in healthcare during the 1950s, Jeanne experienced significant social and professional changes throughout her lifetime. Through challenges and opportunities alike, she remained committed to her work and the patients she served. Her dedication has earned the admiration of colleagues who recognize the experience, consistency and pride she brings to her role.
More Than a Career — A Lasting Legacy
While 70 years of service is an extraordinary accomplishment, Jeanne's legacy extends far beyond the number of years she has worked. It can be found in the countless families whose lives she has touched, the colleagues who have worked alongside her and the example she continues to set for future generations of healthcare professionals.
Her story is a reminder that exceptional healthcare is built not only on medical advancements and technology but also on the people who show up every day with a commitment to making a difference.
As Renown Health celebrates Jeanne's remarkable milestone, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for her seven decades of service and the lasting contributions she has made to our organization and community.
For physicians seeking a career that combines patient care, research, teaching and leadership, finding the right opportunity can make all the difference. When Dr. Gingrich joined Renown Health in 2024 as a surgical oncologist and assistant professor of surgery at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med), she found the chance to do all four while serving the community she calls home.
For patients in Fallon, Silver Springs and the surrounding rural northern Nevada communities, access to quality healthcare is a top priority. Some drive over two hours just to see a primary care provider or walk into an urgent care clinic. Practice Site Leader Erin (formerly a Sr. Medical Assistant for Renown Medical Group – Fernley) is one of the dedicated team members ensuring those patients feel seen, heard and cared for the moment they walk through the door.
What started as an externship close to home has grown into a fulfilling career marked by mentorship, professional growth and a deep passion for patient care. We sat down with Erin to learn more about her journey.
Dr. Jose Cucalon Calderon combines patient care, teaching and advocacy to help build a healthier Nevada through the partnership between Renown Health and the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med).
