��߲ݴ�ý University News

Nguyen receives Gilman Scholarship to study in South Korea

Kellan Heavican — Wed, 15 May 2024 13:42:17 +0000

Nguyen receives Gilman Scholarship to study in South Korea

A ��߲ݴ�ý University student will study abroad this fall in South Korea after receiving the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship.

CeCe Nguyen (’25), a psychology major from Lincoln, Neb., will study at Ewha Woman’s University in Seoul as part of the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP).

“I have an interest in Korean culture, and I also want to explore how culture affects mental health in Asia because I want to work with the Asian population as a psychologist,” she says.

Nguyen is minoring in East Asian studies and sociology-anthropology. She will study Korean language and East Asian history and culture while she’s abroad.

“As a Vietnamese American, I want to experience what it’s like being in Asia since I've never been there. I want to meet other international students and learn about other cultures, too,” she says.

The scholarship program supports students who study or intern abroad to build skills critical to national security and prosperity through the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).

Nguyen is the 64th ��߲ݴ�ý student selected as a Gilman Scholar since the program began in 2001.

Kellan Heavican Wed, 05/15/2024 - 8:42am

Real estate prices will continue to rise, ��߲ݴ�ý research shows

Kellan Heavican — Mon, 13 May 2024 13:46:12 +0000

Real estate prices will continue to rise, ��߲ݴ�ý research shows

Research from a ��߲ݴ�ý University senior shows that real estate prices across the state will likely be on the rise for the next several years.

Khang Hoang (’24), a data analytics major from Vietnam, says the trajectory of housing prices have been steadily increasing. “In the last 10 years, housing prices have almost doubled to $238,000 for a single-family home in Nebraska.”

He says that trend will continue through 2030. “I used a specific model to determine what the next five years will look like. The housing price could be about $350,000 by the end of the decade.”

There are several factors that impact the housing market across the state. “More people are moving to Omaha and Lincoln, which has increased demand. Mortgage rates are slowly starting to decline, and unemployment rates are good.”

But, Hoang says, the biggest economic indicator is household income because that helps determine how large of a mortgage someone can afford. “In the last 10 years, median household income has increased from $60,000 to $80,000 (in Nebraska).”

His advice to potential homeowners is buy now. “History shows us that housing prices always go up and they rarely ever decline.”

Hoang presented his findings during the 2024 Student Symposium: Celebrating Research and Creative Endeavor.

Kellan Heavican Mon, 05/13/2024 - 8:46am

Balancing baseball and business, Hughes returns to diamond after injury

Kellan Heavican — Tue, 07 May 2024 14:03:36 +0000

Balancing baseball and business, Hughes returns to diamond after injury

On the last day of the fall baseball season in 2022, Theo Hughes (’24) thought he’d never again be able to play the sport loved.

"I tore my ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), which is what holds your elbow together,” he says. “I underwent Tommy John surgery in December with the hopes that one day I would be able to pitch again.”

UCL reconstruction is more commonly known as Tommy John surgery after a Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher who tore his UCL in 1974. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it’s one of the most severe injuries a pitcher can sustain.

Hughes began playing high school baseball in Seward, Neb. before earning a starting role at ��߲ݴ�ý University (��߲ݴ�ý). He transitioned into a supporting role after the injury and rehab process. “Coming out of the bullpen was something that was new to me in college,” he says.

The recovery process can take up to 18 months. But at 14 months post-surgery, the right-hander says he was ready to be back on the diamond. “I picked up my first career save against Grinnell College. Having the opportunity to come in and close was awesome.”

Hughes says the biggest key to recovery was staying active, rehabbing and being with the team. “I'm one of the leaders, and I tried to do as much as I could to stay involved and keep guys motivated.”

He says he worked to balance his recovery and baseball with his studies in order to earn his degree on time. “I was able to have great relationship with professors. They were flexible and helped me meet my goals throughout out this process.”

Hughes graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration and a minor in Accounting. He plans to earn a Master of Business Administration while playing baseball for ��߲ݴ�ý, with the goal of reclaiming a starting role in one of his last years of eligibility.

“I’ve learned not take anything for granted. Your baseball career or anything can end like that. It’s important to have a positive mindset every single day and just attack it.”

His goal after baseball is to join his family’s business in Seward upon his father’s retirement.

Kellan Heavican Tue, 05/07/2024 - 9:03am

��߲ݴ�ý Choir and Jazz Choir to hold season finale

Kellan Heavican — Fri, 03 May 2024 13:48:02 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý Choir and Jazz Choir to hold season finale

The ��߲ݴ�ý University Choir and Jazz Choir will culminate their 2023-24 season with a concert tour inspired by civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The performance, "Lead Us On to the Light", is influenced by a phrase from King's favorite hymn. ��߲ݴ�ý's Conductor of Choirs Tom Trenney says his arrangement of "We Shall Overcome" and U2's haunting "MLK" will be highlights of the program.

"Though music may not have the power to cure us, we believe that singing from the heart can bring healing," he says. "We experience this often in our choir. There are days when we may not be feeling joy, but we get to sing a song together that reminds us what joy feels like, and that can make a big difference in opening us to a glimpse of light to carry into the day. We hope that our tour program will bring an extra measure of hope to our students and to all those who may hear us along the way."

The home performance will take place on Saturday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m. at First-Plymouth Church in Lincoln, featuring the chamber choir from Lincoln Southwest High School. It caps off a five-day tour that begins in Salina, Kan. on Sunday, May 5. Other stops include Kirkwood, Mo. on Monday, Memphis, Tenn. on Tuesday, Franklin, Tenn. on Thursday and Manchester, Mo. on Friday.

The program will also feature music by Rosephanye Powell, Moses Hogan, Maurice Duruflé, Tomás de Torrejón y Velasco, and Dolly Parton. Nationally celebrated concert pianist, organist, and composer Anne Wilson will serve as accompanist for the tour performances.

A live stream will be available.

Kellan Heavican Fri, 05/03/2024 - 8:48am

From the West Coast to the Midwest: How one MSW student will graduate to pursue her dream

Kellan Heavican — Wed, 01 May 2024 20:14:48 +0000

From the West Coast to the Midwest: How one MSW student will graduate to pursue her dream

After trading the big city vibes of Los Angeles for the serene landscapes of Nebraska, Tina Hurd (MSW ’24) found herself at a crossroads in 2015.

“I was starting a new chapter in my life, and I thought where do I want to go and what do I want to do?”

She dedicated 15 years to shaping young minds while balancing the demands of motherhood. She knew that she needed a change. “My real passion was social work and always had been. I told myself I have the flexibility to truly do what I want.”

Standing in the way of her dream was a college education. Once her oldest child chose to attend college in Nebraska, Hurd’s family made the bold decision to relocate, seeking a quieter and more intimate lifestyle.

After that, she began her college search soon after her daughter’s had wrapped up.

Hurd enrolled in ��߲ݴ�ý University’s (��߲ݴ�ý) Bachelor of Social Work program and says it was a perfect fit because of its small size. “I’m a part of an older generation who decided to go back to school and that can be intimidating. I didn’t want to be overwhelmed with a big campus and a fast lifestyle. I already did that in California.”

She continued the seamless transition from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree at ��߲ݴ�ý. Hurd did her practicum with the university’s counseling services where she helped students process stress, anxiety and trauma.
Once Hurd receives her MSW degree on Saturday, she’ll be one step closer to owning her own practice. “I've worked so hard for it, I'm ready for it, but it's also a new chapter,” she says.

She’s not intimidated by new beginnings—just look back nine years and you’ll see where it all began.

Kellan Heavican Wed, 05/01/2024 - 3:14pm

Commencement set for May 4

Kellan Heavican — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 15:35:30 +0000

Commencement set for May 4

��߲ݴ�ý University will confer degrees to almost 400 students during its 134th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 4.

"The Class of 2024 holds a special place in my heart, beginning their college journey amidst the challenges of a pandemic,” says Darrin Good, president of ��߲ݴ�ý. “From wearing masks to virtual classes and gatherings, they navigated challenges with patience and perseverance as life eventually returned to normal. These students are a testament to resilience and achievement."

Jason Ball (’00), president and CEO of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, will deliver this year’s address. As chamber president, he oversees operations of the Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Ball will receive an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

Ball is a certified economic developer and a graduate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organization Management and Oklahoma University’s Economic Development Institute. Ball earned a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from ��߲ݴ�ý in 2000, and an MBA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2006.

��߲ݴ�ý will present an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters to both Judith (Trimble) Maurer (’69) and Keith Mauer (’69). Keith is a founding member of the President’s Board of Advisors. He served on the Science Initiative Cabinet for the Duane W. Acklie Hall of Science. He also served on the Board of Trustees from 1989-1999 and on the Board of Governors from 1983-1985.

Judith served on the Board of Governors twice, from 1973-1978 and again from 2009-2018, including a three-year term as chair from 2013-2016. In 2022, she was elected Governor Emerita.

The university will also honor two retirees. Jeanette Milius, Ph.D., associate professor of accounting, served ��߲ݴ�ý for seven years. She actively contributed to the university community through committees like Forum and Academic Standards. She co-advised the ��߲ݴ�ý FBLA chapter for five years. Milius has played a key role planning the ��߲ݴ�ý Business Summit and the ��߲ݴ�ý Brugman Pitch Contest.

Tami Thompson, Ph.D., associate professor of business administration, is retiring after 21 years with ��߲ݴ�ý. She became assistant professor of business in 2015 and was promoted to associate professor in 2021. Thompson earned a Ph.D. in organization and management, a Master of Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree with honors in statistics. She directed ��߲ݴ�ý’s adult business and Master of Business Administration programs, and has chaired the Department of Business, Accounting and Economics since 2015.

Commencement begins with the traditional Final Walk through campus and the arch at 8:40 a.m. Baccalaureate service at First United Methodist Church begins at 9 a.m.

See a complete schedule of events.

Kellan Heavican Fri, 04/26/2024 - 10:35am

Lincoln YMCA, ��߲ݴ�ý students collaborate to enhance community impact

Kellan Heavican — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 17:39:09 +0000

Lincoln YMCA, ��߲ݴ�ý students collaborate to enhance community impact

The YMCA of Lincoln recently joined forces with students from ��߲ݴ�ý University (��߲ݴ�ý) for a problem-solving competition aimed at increasing awareness, inclusivity, and participation in the YMCA's programs.

Twenty-four ��߲ݴ�ý students gathered at the Copple YMCA earlier this month to develop marketing ideas to help the renowned non-profit enhance its outreach and engagement efforts beyond fitness activities. “We feel the public does not fully understand the YMCA’s mission and core objectives and does not fully utilize our diverse array of services,” says Renee Yost, YMCA president and CEO. “We are keen on encouraging broader participation, particularly in underutilized programs, and nurturing progress in the vital realm of social responsibility."

��߲ݴ�ý students from different areas of study competed on six teams. For two hours, the teams developed marketing campaigns and then presented their ideas to the YMCA staff, who selected the best pitch.

Yost says the YMCA plans to implement several of the suggestions. “We were thrilled with the ideas that came out of the event. These concepts will undoubtedly aid us in expanding our programs and furthering our reach into the community.”

She credits the students’ success to broad array of backgrounds and expertise. “A cross-disciplinary approach to problem-solving is important because it brings together diverse perspectives, skills, and methods for tackling complex issues. Many real-world problems do not fit neatly into one disciplinary box,” she says.

Owen Kimble (’27), a history major from Lincoln, Neb., says his group included students studying biochemistry, political science, and business. “They offered different perspectives from someone with educational experiences like me,” he says. “Biochemistry and history are about as different as it gets, but if it were just a bunch of history majors, I don’t think any idea would’ve panned out.”

Kimble says his skills to do research and deliver presentations fit well with the event and helped his group create a solution. “Initially we all had different ideas about how to go about it, but I think having different backgrounds helped us work out the kinks.”

And, Kimble says, he can apply this approach to real-world problems. “I think it is really valuable, not just for a problem-solving event, but for anything.”

This semester’s problem-solving event was the first competition under the new Philip S. Mullin Innovation and Entrepreneurship program. Beginning this fall, students in any discipline can enroll in the innovation and entrepreneurship major and learn the basics of being an entrepreneur.

Kellan Heavican Tue, 04/23/2024 - 12:39pm

Klinkebiel receives Holder Fellowship to enhance sleep, dreaming course

Kellan Heavican — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:06:36 +0000

Klinkebiel receives Holder Fellowship to enhance sleep, dreaming course

��߲ݴ�ý University awarded Chelsea Klinkebiel, assistant professor of psychology, the annual 2024 Holder Fellowship for Instructional Improvement, to recognize her instructional innovation and teaching excellence.

Klinkebiel will use the award to enhance the curriculum of the "Psychology of Sleep and Dreaming" course, which she will teach this fall. “Students will learn the basics about how we sleep, why we sleep, sleep stages and what makes for effective sleep, both quantity and quality. They will also learn about dreaming.”

The course has traditionally been taught from a learning and memory-focused approach that’s based on cognitive psychology. The new curriculum will integrate clinical aspects, including sleep disorders and treatment and pediatric sleep medicine.

The fellowship funds will help update resources essential for student engagement and learning, including textbooks, research materials and new equipment that will track sleep patterns.

Part of the curriculum will explore the origin of dreams. “There’s not a ton of research in this area, but some of the foundational theories that formed the discipline of psychology focus on dreaming,” she says. “For example, there are many instances where things are brewing in our unconscious and we're not aware, and those come out in our dreams.”

Klinkebiel says students should come away with a greater appreciation for sleep after taking the course. “We always want them to apply what they're learning to their own lives. But, I also want them to think about sleep and how it influences and affects them.”

And, she says, she hopes that students prioritize sleep as an essential component of their health and well-being.

Kellan Heavican Tue, 04/16/2024 - 9:06am

Spring 2024 Holder Lecture to address how to argue differently

Kellan Heavican — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 14:05:41 +0000

Spring 2024 Holder Lecture to address how to argue differently

Barry M. Kroll, PhD, professor emeritus from Lehigh University, will speak about “Learning to Argue Differently” when he delivers the annual Holder Lecture on Thursday, April 25.

Kroll has investigated children’s writing abilities, explored patterns of writing and reflective thinking in adolescents, and developed an innovative approach to teaching the art of argument for college students.

In The Open Hand: Arguing as an Art of Peace (2013), he explains how the body movements of aikido–a form of Japanese martial arts–and practices of mindfulness meditation can support transformative approaches to arguing.

The Holder Lecture will begin at 4:30 p.m. in the Callen Conference Center and is free and open to the public.

The Holder Lecture was established in 1991 by the Department of English to honor the life of Kenneth R. Holder, PhD, professor of English and provost at ��߲ݴ�ý University. Holder joined the faculty in 1972 and served as provost from 1987 to 1991.

Kellan Heavican Tue, 04/09/2024 - 9:05am

Thomas named Fulbright Student

Kellan Heavican — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:47:48 +0000

Thomas named Fulbright Student

Macie Thomas (’24) of Hickman, Neb. has been selected for the Fulbright English Teaching (ETA) Program and will spend the 2024-25 school year in the Czech Republic.

She will be teaching English in a rural town outside of Prague, the country’s capital city. “It’s a prestigious honor. I want to one day be a professor and this is a great opportunity to pursue my passion of teaching.”

The English and communication studies double major and political science minor says her mom has influenced her decision to be an educator. “She's an elementary school teacher and to see the hard work and dedication she puts into the job, and to see the smiles on her students' faces is everything. I want to be able to make small impacts like that on other people.”

Despite her passion, when she enrolled at ��߲ݴ�ý University, she was undecided. “I was going to major in biology and pursue a pre-med track to do optometry or something like that,” she says. “But I found that everything I was doing, whether it was in the Career Center or at the Cooper Center, I was teaching other people, and I really enjoyed being able to help others in that way.”

Thomas was going to attend University of Wisconsin-Madison to complete a five-year program in communication science to obtain a Ph.D, which would’ve allowed her to become a professor. However, she says, that will wait until her time abroad ends.

The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.

Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic or professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields.

Kellan Heavican Mon, 04/08/2024 - 8:47am

��߲ݴ�ý celebrates its first HOLI Festival

Kellan Heavican — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 17:55:14 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý celebrates its first HOLI Festival

Students at ��߲ݴ�ý University recently celebrated their first Holi Festival of Colors, a vibrant and joyous Hindu festival that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

“We decided to do it because we have a lot of international students who are part of the Hindu religion. We are trying to promote our cultural understanding and cultural intelligence by learning from each other here at ��߲ݴ�ý,” says Aung Thura Min, vice president of ��߲ݴ�ý’s International Relations Organization.

At the celebration, students tossed powdered color and rejoiced with music and dancing. These activities represent how the festival is celebrated in India, Nepal and other parts of South Asia.

Thura Min says it’s also a time to celebrate diversity and vibrancy of life. “Our goal was to bring people together, even if you’re not from the Hindu religion,” he says. “I want to celebrate that culture and learn about differences from one another. It’s also an important way to help international students with their sense of belonging.”

The festival typically falls in March, marking the arrival of spring and the end of winter.

Kellan Heavican Wed, 04/03/2024 - 12:55pm

Scientist to examine virus impacts on immune systems

Kellan Heavican — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 15:36:29 +0000

Scientist to examine virus impacts on immune systems

Dr. Lindsey Crawford, an assistant professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), is making significant strides in understanding how viruses affect our immune system.

Crawford will share her research and insight on processes that affect immune systems at ��߲ݴ�ý University’s annual Fetzer Lecture on Thursday, April 4.

As a member of the Nebraska Center for Virology and the Nebraska Center for Integrated Biomolecular Communication, Dr. Crawford brings a wealth of expertise to her research.

Her work at the Crawford lab is dedicated to understanding how viruses infect stem cells. Her team hopes to address fundamental questions at the intersection of virology, immunology, and stem cell biology.

Dr. Crawford's research not only sheds light on how viruses manipulate host cells but also holds promise for developing targeted therapies against viral infections and advancing our understanding of immune system function.

The lecture begins at 7 p.m. in Olin B Lecture Hall and is free and open to the public.

The Amos Fetzer and Alice Fetzer Memorial Lecture was established by Dr. W.R. Fetzer (’17) in memory of his parents. The lectureship is designed to bring to campus distinguished scholars in science, math, computer science, and the environment.

Kellan Heavican Wed, 03/27/2024 - 10:36am

��߲ݴ�ý student finds fulfillment through Greek life, volunteerism

Kellan Heavican — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 13:33:19 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý student finds fulfillment through Greek life, volunteerism

��߲ݴ�ý University sophomore Angelina Orent (’27) says she has an unwavering dedication to serving her community and campus.

“I believe in the power of service to bring positive change into the world,” says the social work major from Omaha, Neb.

Orent is actively involved in several organizations on campus. Some include captain of the ��߲ݴ�ý women’s swimming team, secretary of the Student Affairs Senate, a student ambassador and vice president of philanthropy for Delta Zeta sorority.

“Being a part of Greek Life has allowed me to make meaningful connections and friendships with members from different chapters,” she says. “These connections provide a supportive network of friends who share similar values and goals.”

Orent is just as active in the Lincoln community. She volunteers with five different organizations including Tabitha GracePoint, an assisted living facility not far from campus. “I love serving there because I get to work one-on-one with residents experiencing memory loss and form meaningful connections with them.”

She says Greek life and volunteerism can be fulfilling for students trying to get involved . "You have the chance to make a meaningful difference in the community, and you get to do it with others who want to make a similar impact.”

Orent says she plans to use her social work degree to continue to impact people she serves.

Kellan Heavican Mon, 03/25/2024 - 8:33am

Greek Week celebrates service, community at ��߲ݴ�ý

Kellan Heavican — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:46:44 +0000

Greek Week celebrates service, community at ��߲ݴ�ý

��߲ݴ�ý University is buzzing with excitement for Greek Week. It brings together members of fraternities and sororities for a week-long celebration of service, community spirit and recruitment.

Lead, Serve, Belong is the motto of ��߲ݴ�ý’s Greek community and are guiding principles for Greek life.

“Greek life at ��߲ݴ�ý is incredibly uplifting and supportive of each other,” says Grace Barton (’25), vice president of community development with the Panhellenic Council – the governing body for sororities. “Students are less identified by their individual chapter and more so by the entirety of Greek life, which I think is unique to our campus and a reason I wanted to join a house.”

Barton says many Greek students are involved in other organizations or sports and also participate in philanthropy events. “We also serve through the work we do for our campus and community by making it a welcoming and inviting space for everyone, whether they are in Greek life or not.”

Throughout the week, Greek students are engaging in a myriad of events, which show their dedication to service, leadership and community. Some activities include study nights, boat racing and a community service day.

“While these events happen in one week, we live these principles out over the course of the school year,” says Braike Jones (’28), vice president of recruitment and membership development with the Interfraternity Council - the governing body for ��߲ݴ�ý fraternities. “There is a standard that we hold ourselves to. We want to push every member to grow and build each other up so we can be the best students we can be.”

Greek Week kicked off Monday, March 18 with a display of house banners and will conclude on March 25 with the annual lip sync competition.

Kellan Heavican Wed, 03/20/2024 - 9:46am

��߲ݴ�ý’s MSW program receives accreditation

Kellan Heavican — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 15:02:09 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý’s MSW program receives accreditation

��߲ݴ�ý University’s Master of Social Work program has been awarded accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

The accreditation indicates ��߲ݴ�ý’s program meets or exceeds standards of quality through a peer review accreditation process.

“It's our way of being able to demonstrate that we have the seal of approval from the people who design what social work should be,” says Toni Jensen, MSW program director at ��߲ݴ�ý.

An accredited program means it has sufficient resources to meet its mission and goals. “The law is very clear. You cannot be a licensed social worker without graduating from an accredited program. This means our students can become licensed as social workers in our state.”

Students can learn how to help their clients integrate the impacts of past or ongoing trauma within their lives. This trauma-conscious approach prepares students to pursue clinical licensure or practitioner certification.

The program is accredited until 2032 without condition.

Kellan Heavican Mon, 03/18/2024 - 10:02am

��߲ݴ�ý student athletes inspire the next generation through baseball and softball clinics

Kellan Heavican — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 18:06:10 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý student athletes inspire the next generation through baseball and softball clinics

Student athletes from ��߲ݴ�ý University are teaching lessons of the game to the next generation.

Through a partnership with The Malone Center, a nonprofit that provides programs for underserved youth in the Lincoln community, members of ��߲ݴ�ý’s baseball and softball teams put on four clinics this winter. Students in kindergarten through eighth grade were taught to hit, pitch, and field ground balls and pop flies.

“When I interacted with them, I saw the light in their eyes,” says Addi Duranski (’25), a left fielder on the softball team. “It seemed like it meant the world.”

“As college students, we may not realize the impression we leave on some of these kids,” says the biology major and psychology and chemistry double minor from Columbus, Neb. “Being a role model and having connections with them hopefully inspires them to take up college athletics one day.”

Jason English (’24), a first baseman from Phoenix, Ariz., says similar programs helped inspire him to become a baseball player. “I learned a love for the sport. Programs like this help introduce kids to something they may never have had the chance to experience.”

His passion for working with kids is why he’s studying to be a teacher and coach. “I'm a mixed American. Hopefully it shows them you can be a minority and progress through high school, into college and through life. I think that's done a lot for them.”

English says the biggest lesson might not even be about baseball. “It’s about impacting others. It's something I want to do for the rest of my life. Recognizing that everybody starts somewhere and knowing that it's okay to grow at your own pace. I love seeing this. It just fulfills me.”

Kellan Heavican Wed, 03/13/2024 - 1:06pm

Latest art exhibition features celebration of vision

Kellan Heavican — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 13:31:50 +0000

Latest art exhibition features celebration of vision

Come On, Come Over is an invitational exhibition highlighting Elder Gallery as a nexus for artists in Lincoln, Nebraska and beyond. The philosophy of the gallery gives artists the ability to present the exhibition they envision. Artists model the exhibition process from start to finish for students to help show ��߲ݴ�ý's educational mission. The name Come On, Come Over is from the house party song of the same name by the late Jaco Pastorius.

Featured artists: Aaron Joseph, Allison Woods, Amanda Smith, Angeles Cossio, Anthony Park Kascak, April White, Brad Krieger, Byron Anway, Casey Callahan, Cathy Patterson, Chad Michael Olsen, Dana Fritz, David F. Routon, Elijah Swanson, Eve Lanik, Gretchen Larsen, Hannah Demma, James Bockelman, Jared Circusbear Flores, Joelle Wellansa Sandfort, Jon Love, Joseph Holmes, Josh Johnson, Julia Leggent, Kate Gracie, Kimberley D' Adamo, Kinzee Hillis, Lana Miller, Larry Gawel, Laura Cobb, Lonna Huisingh, Laird Nygren, Madeline Cass, Margaret Elsener, Matthew Nolde, Michael Zimmerman, Nathan Murray, Peggy Gomez, Peter Pinnell, Quentin Fortney, Santiago Cal, Shawn Teseo Ballarin, Shelby Austin Tourney, and Susan Horn.

Kellan Heavican Mon, 03/11/2024 - 8:31am

Transformation: Corey Allmendinger's journey in mental health and corrections

Kellan Heavican — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 16:39:48 +0000

Transformation: Corey Allmendinger's journey in mental health and corrections

Corey Allmendinger (’24) is an example of what taking advantage of a second chance looks like.

“I've struggled with addiction. I've been in recovery for 11 years now,” he says. “Most people who go into recovery realize, after three years, that they want to be a counselor. That’s what I wanted to do, and it could’ve been a lot different for me had I not turned my life around.”

Allmendinger's story is a testament to personal transformation, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact.

He is a behavioral health practitioner supervisor at the Reception and Treatment Center for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. Allmendinger supervises counselors and manages the residential treatment unit, providing support to 58 incarcerated individuals. He’s also enrolled in ��߲ݴ�ý University’s Master of Social Work program. And he interns with Methodist Hospital in Fremont.

He says he wants to help provide inmates the skills to be able to make positive changes when they reenter the workforce. “I’ve known a lot of people who’ve struggled with mental health challenges, who’ve gone to prison, who’ve gotten out and then spiraled because they weren’t prepared to reenter society.”

Allmendinger says it can be a challenge to balance work and personal life with a daily commute from Fremont and eight children. “They're a motivator for me. My wife is also in recovery. Our kids have seen us at our lowest and they see us now. They help inspire me to push myself and do better.”

Allmendinger says he wants to leverage the skills he’s learned at ��߲ݴ�ý for something bigger: establish a residential treatment center outside of Fremont to serve individuals leaving incarceration. "The dream is to get a little piece of land right outside of Fremont, about five acres. We'll build a brand-new facility from the ground up." It will have residential services, co-occurring treatment beds, mental health respite beds, and transition planning to support successful reintegration into society.

"Being able to come into this environment and help individuals like that is just a rewarding thing. It's what I feel I'm called to do."

Kellan Heavican Wed, 02/28/2024 - 10:39am

��߲ݴ�ý unveils first of its kind innovation and entrepreneurship program

Kellan Heavican — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 14:40:59 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý unveils first of its kind innovation and entrepreneurship program

��߲ݴ�ý University is launching the next generation of innovators through a new program that will help diversify the region’s economy and strengthen workforce development.

“We want and need to be a part of the solution to the state’s brain drain issue,” says ��߲ݴ�ý President Darrin Good. “Our innovation and entrepreneurship program will prepare our students to be successful in the workforce and help them keep their talents in Nebraska, which is where the vast majority of our graduates stay.”

��߲ݴ�ý’s location in the heart of the Silicon Prairie will provide students access to a network of innovators, entrepreneurs, and alumni who are seeking creative problems solvers. “They want our graduates who can attack problems with a multifaceted mindset that our curriculum intentionally fosters,” says Good.

The innovation and entrepreneurship major is the first of its kind in the state because it’s not exclusively tied to a university business program. Open to all students in any field of study, it’s designed to equip them with skills to refine ideas, start businesses, and tackle complex, societal issues.

“We often think about entrepreneurship and innovation as being solely in the domain of a business program,” said Assistant Professor of Political Science Zachary Baumann. “Our state and nation are constantly changing. Our students need to think about novel solutions to big problems that extend well beyond business alone and into the worlds of public policy, the arts, sustainability, biotechnology and so much more.”

The program is made possible by a $2 million gift from Lincoln business icon and ��߲ݴ�ý alumnus Philip Mullin (’65). He served in multiple roles with Garner Industries before purchasing the company in 1992 and transformed it into a world-class manufacturer.

“These are students who’d like to own their own business, but they don’t know where to start,” Mullin says. “Students who have a passion for this kind of thing—they’ll get the follow through, the help and advice they need to learn how to talk to a banker or go out and find a lawyer.”

The Philip S. Mullin Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program is designed to enhance the value of several focus areas:

Business, marketing and sports
Creative design and the arts
Policy and justice
Science and technology
Sustainability and environment

��߲ݴ�ý has launched a search for its program director with entrepreneurial experience who can connect students to new insight and opportunities.

Classes will begin in fall of 2024.

Additional background on Philip Mullin:

Mullin began working parttime at Garner Industries during college running a punch press. He returned in 1968 and began a distinguished 50-year career leading his company through periods of historic growth by investing in new services, including injection molding, the company expanded its scope to supporting manufacturers nationwide.

In 2001, Mullin was recognized as “Entrepreneur of the Year” by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s College of Business Administration. In 2017, Garner Industries was recognized as the “Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year” by the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In 2019, Garner was recognized by the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce as the “Lincoln Manufacturer of the Year,” and Mullin was inducted into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame.

Kellan Heavican Wed, 02/21/2024 - 8:40am

��߲ݴ�ý contest helps reshape how business tackle complex problems

Kellan Heavican — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 19:15:59 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý contest helps reshape how business tackle complex problems

��߲ݴ�ý University’s problem-solving contest enables students from different fields of study to collaborate and assist businesses in addressing complex challenges.

Jason Coyle (’96) is the chief auditor and chief risk officer with Mutual of Omaha. “One issue we regularly deal with is fraud within the supplemental insurance for Medicare that seniors receive. For example, provider fraud and medical equipment fraud.”

Coyle then pitched that problem to nearly 30 ��߲ݴ�ý students.

They were paired in groups of five or six, had two hours to analyze data, identify problems and present a solution. Coyle says one problem was for a patient who was billed for an out-of-state ambulance ride that they never received. “We wanted to give students an opportunity to use real life data, come up with insights on a problem that we continue to try and solve at Mutual of Omaha.”

He says students in different fields of study would be able to approach the problem with different viewpoints, which then led to novel solutions.

“When we bring a group of folks together that have either a similar discipline or a similar background, we may not notice things that are obvious,” Coyle says. “We had accounting students, but then we also had some criminal justice students that paired well with students who study data science.”

Coyle says his company has implemented some of the solutions the students presented. “When they looked at different elements of the data from a different lens, that really helped. It gave us better perspective in regard to some theories that we were thinking about.”

Two other companies have enlisted ��߲ݴ�ý students to help solve problems and another contest is planned this spring.

��߲ݴ�ý’s problem-solving contest helped lay the groundwork for the new Philip S. Mullin Innovation and Entrepreneurship program that was recently announced.

Kellan Heavican Mon, 02/19/2024 - 1:15pm

��߲ݴ�ý's accredited athletic training program celebrates 20 years

Kellan Heavican — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 18:53:27 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý's accredited athletic training program celebrates 20 years

As ��߲ݴ�ý University celebrates two decades of excellence with its athletic training program, it’s also looking toward the future.

“Celebrating 20 years of outstanding education has been a gratifying experience for everyone who’s contributed the program’s success,” says Samantha Wilson, athletic training program director.

The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) approved ��߲ݴ�ý’s offering of a new Master of Athletic Training, which will begin in the summer of 2025. The MAT is now required for professional certification as an athletic trainer.

Alumni and current athletic training students recently celebrated both milestones during the men’s and women’s basketball games at Snyder Arena.

��߲ݴ�ý head athletic trainer Jason Ensrud says ��߲ݴ�ý has a proven track record of developing talented clinicians since the program began in the early 2000s.

“I take joy in watching high caliber students gain the experience to become successful young professionals, but also to see them take those skills into the real world and grow into thriving clinicians, community leaders, and create their own legacies.”

��߲ݴ�ý is one of four accredited programs in Nebraska and is the only small institution to offer the degree.

Kellan Heavican Tue, 02/13/2024 - 12:53pm

��߲ݴ�ý professor strikes the right chord with Lincoln Symphony Orchestra

Kellan Heavican — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 14:37:10 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý professor strikes the right chord with Lincoln Symphony Orchestra

Joyce Besch still remembers singing and playing the piano as a child for anyone who would stand still long enough to hear her.

Then, came the fifth grade when her teacher challenged her to try a new instrument: the bassoon. “As an agreeable student, I said yes, and stuck with it.”

The hum of learning never faded away for Besch. The adjunct professor of bassoon instruction at ��߲ݴ�ý University has been the third bassoon/contrabassoon player with Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra for 16 years. On Sunday, February 18, she will play with the symphony piccolo player in a Concerto for Piccolo and Contrabassoon in the Johnny Carson Theatre for two sold-out performances.

“While there is a lot of practice and preparation that goes into obtaining an orchestra job, there is also a great deal of lucky timing,” says Besch. “When I moved to Lincoln, I found out that there was a bassoon position open with the symphony. Since there are only three bassoonists with the group, it was a rare opportunity.”

The Lincoln Symphony Orchestra performs large masterworks at the Lied Center and smaller, family concerts at ��߲ݴ�ý’s O’Donnell Auditorium. Musicians practice on their own and then rehearse together 2-5 days before performances.

Besch says orchestra work is often supplemented by teaching. “Many of us like myself in the (Lincoln Symphony) Orchestra balance a full schedule of being a mom, practicing music, teaching, and playing with as many different music groups that will have us.”

From teaching at ��߲ݴ�ý to playing in the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra, her passion has hit all the right notes. “Some amazing opportunities have included Nebraska Chamber Players, The Nutcracker, and the Omaha Symphony,” Besch says. “It’s not impossible to have made these musical connections without having been a LSO member, but it would have taken a lot more work.”

Kellan Heavican Fri, 02/09/2024 - 8:37am

CHIP program sends ��߲ݴ�ý student athletes to Washington D.C.

Kellan Heavican — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 20:18:02 +0000

CHIP program sends ��߲ݴ�ý student athletes to Washington D.C.

As members of the ��߲ݴ�ý University Men’s Soccer team, Zach Weis (’25) and Chance Hergott (’25) have spent hours on the pitch. This semester they traded cleats and uniforms for suits and ties as interns in our nation’s capital.

“It’s been hard to wrap my head around the fact that I’m working the in the United States Capitol,” Hergott says. “People told me that you see the legislative news on TV, and now I’m there getting to make the news.”

Weis and Hergott are among a group of ��߲ݴ�ý University students who earn college credits through the Capitol Hill Internship Program. One of the requirements of the program is landing a job or internship.

Hergott is pursuing a business major with minors in economics and finance and didn’t anticipate that his internship would be immersed in politics.

He says his experience in Nebraska Congressman Mike Flood’s office came full circle when he witnessed the intricacies of politics and policy. “I didn’t believe it until my second day when I sat in the gallery of the chamber and watched the proceedings on the House floor. It was hard to wrap my head around that.”

Weis has an internship with a criminal defense firm and spends his time reviewing body camera footage, drafting legal documents and attending court.

“It’s an awesome experience. I went in with one of the attorneys, and they called roll for people who needed attorneys. Lawyers were assigned different clients, quickly met them, entered a plea deal,” Weis says. “It was very unique to witness the prosecutor and defense working together to find something that worked for both sides.”

Weis is double majoring is philosophy and religion and political science while minoring in criminal justice. He plans to apply to law school next year.

Kellan Heavican Tue, 02/06/2024 - 2:18pm

��߲ݴ�ý Honors Academy celebrates decades of success with re-accreditation

Kellan Heavican — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 21:54:18 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý Honors Academy celebrates decades of success with re-accreditation

��߲ݴ�ý University Honors Academy has secured re-accreditation for its dedication to providing high-quality dual credit programs.

“We provide strong, individualized support that recognizes the unique situations in every high school so that our teachers can focus on teaching, and our students can focus on learning,” says Director of Wesleyan Honors Academy Heather Zaruba.”

The Wesleyan Honors Academy has flourished since its origin in 1995 when it offered dual credits at one high school. ��߲ݴ�ý now provides 55 different courses to students at more than 80 Nebraska schools.

Zaruba says the growth reflects the academy’s mission to equip students with college credits and skills to thrive in higher education. “Many of my former dual-credit students have shared how much more prepared they were for college-level work than their peers on campus.”

��߲ݴ�ý is the only Nebraska school to hold National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP) accreditation with a Concurrent Enrollment Program Endorsement. ��߲ݴ�ý will keep the achievement until 2030.

Kellan Heavican Thu, 01/25/2024 - 3:54pm

��߲ݴ�ý Theatre opens its 2024 performance season

Kellan Heavican — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 14:43:51 +0000

��߲ݴ�ý Theatre opens its 2024 performance season

��߲ݴ�ý University theatre students are ushering in the 2024 season with a pair of show-stopping performances.

Romeo and Juliet is directed by faculty member Anne McAlexander and will tell the greatest tragic love story ever known. “The students are bringing fresh and modern perspectives to a beloved and ageless bedrock of the theatrical tradition.” McAlexander says. “This production honors and respects Shakespeare’s beautiful language, while also infusing contemporary theatrical elements and approaches, making it enjoyable for long-time Shakespeare enthusiasts, and first-time viewers alike.”

There will be 8 performances including 6 different iterations of the cast, which will feature understudies and swings. “This is an incredibly unique learning experience for our students, and one that mirrors professional experiences, as well as for audiences that might like to attend more than one performance,” says McAlexander.

The performances runs Jan. 25 through Feb. 4. Costume and sound design and original compositions have been created by ��߲ݴ�ý students and faculty. Lighting design is by Bentley Heydt, guest artist from New York City. Scenic design by guest artist Austin Mueck.

The Hello Girls musical tells the story of WWI female soldiers who returned home and were denied benefits, status and the recognition of the country they served. “Our telling of the story focuses on each person’s opportunity to make history by engaging, speaking out and serving our community and world,” says director Dr. Talea Bloch, assistant professor of musical theatre with ��߲ݴ�ý.

The musical has a unique tie to Lincoln. These soldiers answered General John J. Pershing's call to serve in France - the 1890’s military science instructor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, for whom Pershing Auditorium was named.

Costume design by ��߲ݴ�ý faculty and scenic and lighting design by ��߲ݴ�ý alumni. The performances run Feb. 15 to Feb. 25.

Purchase tickets for both performances at the ��߲ݴ�ý Theatre Box Office or online.

See the entire spring performance schedule.

Kellan Heavican Thu, 01/25/2024 - 8:43am

���߲ݴ�ý University News

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Commencement set for May 4

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���߲ݴ�ý’s MSW program receives accreditation

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Latest art exhibition features celebration of vision

Transformation: Corey Allmendinger's journey in mental health and corrections

���߲ݴ�ý unveils first of its kind innovation and entrepreneurship program

���߲ݴ�ý contest helps reshape how business tackle complex problems

���߲ݴ�ý's accredited athletic training program celebrates 20 years

���߲ݴ�ý professor strikes the right chord with Lincoln Symphony Orchestra

CHIP program sends ���߲ݴ�ý student athletes to Washington D.C.

���߲ݴ�ý Honors Academy celebrates decades of success with re-accreditation

���߲ݴ�ý Theatre opens its 2024 performance season

��߲ݴ�ý University News

Real estate prices will continue to rise, ��߲ݴ�ý research shows

��߲ݴ�ý Choir and Jazz Choir to hold season finale

Lincoln YMCA, ��߲ݴ�ý students collaborate to enhance community impact

��߲ݴ�ý celebrates its first HOLI Festival

��߲ݴ�ý student finds fulfillment through Greek life, volunteerism

Greek Week celebrates service, community at ��߲ݴ�ý

��߲ݴ�ý’s MSW program receives accreditation

��߲ݴ�ý student athletes inspire the next generation through baseball and softball clinics

��߲ݴ�ý unveils first of its kind innovation and entrepreneurship program

��߲ݴ�ý contest helps reshape how business tackle complex problems

��߲ݴ�ý's accredited athletic training program celebrates 20 years

��߲ݴ�ý professor strikes the right chord with Lincoln Symphony Orchestra

CHIP program sends ��߲ݴ�ý student athletes to Washington D.C.

��߲ݴ�ý Honors Academy celebrates decades of success with re-accreditation

��߲ݴ�ý Theatre opens its 2024 performance season