Announcing Our Esteemed Guest Speaker for the 2025 Bishop's Celebration of Catholic Schools
April 23, 2025
The Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools is thrilled to announce that Dr. Brandy L. Ficek, M.D., M.B.A., has accepted Bishop Joensen’s personal invitation to be the guest speaker at the 2025 Bishop's Celebration of Catholic Schools.
A Testament to Catholic Education
Dr. Ficek is not only a nationally recognized leader in Palliative Medicine but also a proud product of our own Diocese. A 2000 graduate of St. Albert Catholic High School, Dr. Ficek credits her Catholic school upbringing as foundational to the successful and compassionate physician she is today. Prepare to be inspired as she shares her personal journey and reflects on how her time in Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools shaped her values and prepared her for a life of service and achievement.
An Accomplished and Compassionate Leader
Raised with the belief in using one's talents to help others, Dr. Ficek has dedicated her career to improving the quality of life for patients and families facing serious illnesses.
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Current Role: She serves as the Medical Director of Palliative Medicine & Supportive Care and Clinical Bioethics teams at Stormont Vail Health in Topeka, Kansas.
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Pioneering Work: In 2018, she was appointed the founding Chair of the Kansas Palliative Care and Quality of Life Advisory Council, instrumental in developing the state's first-ever 5-year Palliative Care State Plan.
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Focus on Family: Her work and research emphasize holistic care, particularly in cancer, dementia, and supporting medically fragile children.
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Accolades: Dr. Ficek's dedication has earned her numerous awards, including Phoenix Magazine’s “Top Doctor” (2016), Arizona Business Magazine’s “Most Influential Millennials” (2016), and the Center for Practical Bioethics “Ethics Champion" (2020).
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Education: She earned her medical degree from the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine and completed fellowships at the University of Arizona College of Medicine and the Mayo Clinic.
Driven by Faith and Family
Dr. Ficek embodies the values instilled through her Catholic education. Inspired by her parents, both educators, she approaches medicine with deep empathy and a focus on the "small victories each day."
"To me, palliative care is the purest form of medicine, centered completely around the patient,” she said. "We can’t cure everything, but we can help everyone."
In 2021, driven by love and loss after her young nephew and godson passed away from brain cancer, Dr. Ficek co-founded the non-profit "Love from Levi". This incredible organization, for which she serves as director, provides customized books and toys to bring comfort and understanding to children facing illness in hospitals and clinics. To date, they've reached children in over 35 states and three countries.
Join Us for an Inspiring Evening
Don't miss this unique opportunity to hear from one of our own distinguished alumni. Dr. Brandy Ficek's story of faith, service, and excellence is sure to resonate deeply and highlight the profound impact of Catholic education.
Her presence underscores the importance of the Bishop's Celebration in supporting the mission of our schools – forming students who lead lives of purpose and contribute meaningfully to the world.
Support Our Catholic Schools
Your attendance and generosity at the 2025 Bishop's Celebration directly benefit the students and programs within the Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools. Help us continue to provide an education that forms leaders like Dr. Ficek.
Event Details & Registration: Bishop's Celebration of Catholic Schools
Learn More About Dr. Ficek & Her Work:
We look forward to celebrating with you and hearing Dr. Ficek's inspiring message.