When co-workers need a sympathetic ear, Radiation Oncology Administrative Manager Sandra Durr is always ready to listen.

“I believe I take the time to listen to anyone who needs help, advice, or just a kind ear to let someone ‘vent’ whenever they need to,” she says. “I have a sign right inside my office door that says ‘The Doctor Is In,’ and I really mean it! And I don’t even ask for the 5-cent fee!”

For 35 years, Mrs. Durr has been listening to others at UT Southwestern and acting as a go-to person whenever her co-workers need support.

Not surprisingly, she considers helping supervisors and employees solve problems as the most rewarding part of her job.

“The variety of work keeps me coming back every day and seeing the growth and success of my colleagues in their careers over the years,” she says. “I’ve often said that ‘juggling five flaming basketballs’ is a wonderful challenge!”

A people person, Mrs. Durr stays busy working as a writer and departmental historian among her many duties. Her other responsibilities include assisting with hiring; coordinating performance appraisals; serving as a liaison to recruiters; performing employee relations functions; and helping with supervisor training, policy interpretation, and multiple other needs to support the 450-member Department of Radiation Oncology.

Away from the job, Mrs. Durr enjoys sewing, needlework, and quilt-making. Over the years, she has given many of her quilts as wedding, graduation, and baby gifts. She also enjoys watching sports – especially college football – and reading.

Her dedication to helping others extends beyond the workplace to assisting anyone in need. In fact, Mrs. Durr is a frequent participant in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day walks and has raised more than $30,000 for breast cancer research.

When she retires in August, Mrs. Durr plans to travel, do yardwork outside her home that sits on 5 acres, and enjoy more time with her husband, Steve.

Still, saying good-bye to UT Southwestern will be difficult.

“I will be taking away a ton of great memories,” she says. “I am incredibly grateful for all the support I have received over the years.”