DR. CERISE ELLIOTT

Class of 1995
​Inducted in 2023

Dr. Cerise Elliott was inducted into the SHSAA Hall of Fame in 2023.

After graduating from South in 1995, Cerise went on to Creighton University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry.  She received her Ph. D in Medical Sciences Interdepartmental Area with concentration on Neuroscience from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2004. 
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Dr. Elliott evaluates the scientific productivity of a $100 million National Institute on Aging grants portfolio focused on the dementias of aging and creatively disseminates information regarding the progress of Alzheimer’s Disease research at the National Institutes of Health. 

Cerise is a recognized leader in federal grant program development for clinical research participant recruitment, health disparities, Alzheimer’s Disease Research Centers and biomedical research training.  For over 15 years, she has informed researchers at national and international forums an overview of the NIA’s grant research programs, the state of participant recruitment and progress of the Centers. 

Her Bryan Middle School Vice-Principal, Cookie Katskee nominated her for this award.  In her letter, Cookie stated, “She always sparked my interest as her personality was one of happiness, an exceptional student, willing to work for the betterment of the school and gladly eager to assist her teachers – an exceptional young lady.”  In Cerise’s senior yearbook, she was picked as one of the “Most Likely to Succeed” seniors.

Cerise is proud to be a Packer because of the dedication of the staff and the opportunities that were available for every student. She was able to participate freely in any activity, craft her intellectual interests and collect lifelong friendships along the way. The historical significance of our school, neighborhood and graduates keeps enduring and she is honored to have the accomplishments that she has completed thus far in her life be noticed by the educators and community who cared for her for the last 34 years. She is also endeared to the Alumni Association who continue to ensure that the legacy of Omaha South High Packers is known throughout the land.