UNO Magazine Fall 2023

FALL 2023

GOING

THE

DISTANCE

STAYING CONNECTED. LIKE ONLY NEBRASKA CAN. PLANNED GIVING: THE TIE THAT BINDS Greg Snyder has never forgotten the impact his scholarship had on him as an urban studies undergraduate student at UNO. It wasn’t the amount he was awarded, but rather the gesture that UNO wanted him there and believed he was capable of success. Now, as a proud alumnus, Greg views giving back to the university and the College of Public Affairs and Community Service as non-negotiable. That’s why he set up a planned gift from his estate.

Not only does Greg’s dedication to giving back tie him to the place that gave him so much, but it also serves as a reminder that so much of who he is today came from his education at UNO. Read Greg’s story here: nufoundation.org/gregsnyder

Learn more about planned giving. nufoundation.org/giftplanning

IN EVERY ISSUE

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4 From the Chancellor 5

Letters to the Editor

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From the Editor

7 Alumni Association

22 24 28

10 Philanthropy Matters 14

The Colleges

20

Athletics

46

Class Notes

51

Future Mavericks

52

Sights & Sounds

54

For Fun

FEATURES

24

38

T he Enduring Impact of the Omaha 54

28 Then & Now 32

Passion to Profession

38 UNO Alumni Publications: Past, Present and Future

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VOL. 14, NO. 3 UNO MAGAZINE is a publication of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, the UNO Alumni Association and the University of Nebraska Foundation. unoalumni.org/unomagazine

42 Two Thousand Three

Hundred Seventy-Eight

FALL 2023

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FROM THE CHANCELLOR Mavericks, When I joined the University of Nebraska at Omaha as chancellor two years ago, I wrote in my first message to students, faculty and staff that I was ready to hit the ground running to serve this community.

As important as it is to have a quick, strong start in any endeavor, having the endurance, passion and focus to maintain a high level of performance over a long period of time is equally important. This is just as true for running as it is for a personal or professional project.

This edition of the UNO Magazine’s theme of “Going the Distance” is an homage to the people, places and things that refuse to settle for mediocrity or give up even when the journey to the finish line is arduous or demanding. It is a tribute to those who go to great lengths – literal distances – to bring UNO to the world and bring the world to UNO. Going the distance embodies the idea of exceeding expectations and striving for excellence. At UNO, we call this the Maverick Spirit.

In these pages, stories about a state-of-the-art flight simulator, a summer theatre academy, the Goodrich program, a long-running children’s summer camp and a student who ran across the state for charity underscore the idea that Mavericks are built for the long haul.

What drew me to UNO two years ago and inspires me still today is the sense of responsibility each Maverick has to move our university and community forward. With an institution as transformational as ours, it’s not a responsibility anyone takes lightly. To use the words of Olympian and pioneering long-distance runner Steve Prefontaine, to give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.

Sincerely,

MANAGING EDITOR Davina Schrier ASSOCIATE EDITORS Jennifer Arnold, Brandon Bartling ART DIRECTION/DESIGN Heidi Mihelich, cre8ivenergy COVER ILLUSTRATION Brian Wetjen, UNO BASA 1998 CONTRIBUTORS Brandon Bartling, Bridget Brooks, John Fey, Terry Forman, Ally Havenridge, Melodae Horst, Susan Houston Klaus, Bella Lockwood, Elle Nina Love, Robyn Murray, Hugh Reilly ADVERTISING Gary Domet gmd6@cox.net or 402-995-1918 Direct editorial inquiries to: Managing Editor, UNO Magazine 2285 S. 67th St., Suite 200 Omaha, NE 68106 800-432-3216 , unoalumni@unoalumni.org Send all changes of address to attention of Records or visit unoalumni.org/recordupdate.

UNO Magazine is published three times a year. UNO graduates in Nebraska receive two issues – the fall issue and either the spring or summer issue. All UNO graduates receive the fall issue. UNO Fund donors of $25 or more of the past two years receive all three issues.

Views expressed within this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, the UNO Alumni Association or the University of Nebraska Foundation.

Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA UNO Chancellor

The University of Nebraska at Omaha shall not discriminate based upon age, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, gender-identity, sex, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran’s status, marital status, religion, or political affiliation.

THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE BASED ON RACE, COLOR, ETHNICITY, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEX, PREGNANCY, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, RELIGION, DISABILITY, AGE, GENETIC INFORMATION, VETERAN STATUS, MARITAL STATUS, AND/OR POLITICAL AFFILIATION IN ITS EDUCATION PROGRAMS OR ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING ADMISSIONS AND EMPLOYMENT. THE UNIVERSITY PROHIBITS ANY FORM OF RETALIATION BEING TAKEN AGAINST ANYONE FOR REPORTING DISCRIMINATION, HARASSMENT, OR RETALIATION FOR OTHERWISE ENGAGING IN PROTECTED ACTIVITY.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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WRITE TO THE EDITOR Do you have an idea for a future theme, cover artist or feature story? We want to know what you love and what we can improve. Letters must include the writer’s first and last names, address and phone number. Letters may be edited for taste, accuracy, clarity and length if they are published in future issues of UNO Magazine. Submit a letter online at unoalumni.org/unomag-led or to unoalumni@unoalumni.org.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF COMMUNITY ENGAGED EDUCATION I loved the coverage in the latest alum magazine on the history of the Service Learning Academy. It took great vision, donors, who cared and leadership by many people to help create it, sustain it and grow it what a wonderful legacy of engagement.

Thanks for focusing on it in the magazine, and we can all be proud of what has been accomplished.

B.J. Reed, Ph.D. Professor, UNO School of Public Administration UNO Senior Vice Chancellor, Academic & Student Affairs

GOOD NEWS The Summer 2023 issue was packed with information and some eye catching photos. The Bullpen is an excellent example.

The arty covers promote interest…what is inside? Alums appreciate the good news. Looking forward to the next edition.

Bob Hladik, Sr. BS, 1970; MS, 1972

Where our passion drives

new possibilities

bestcare.org

©2022 Methodist Health System

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FROM THE EDITOR The UNO Alumni Association has kept our community connected through the publication of newsletters and magazines since 1941. From marking historical milestones to celebrating important achievements, these printed periodicals have documented UNO’s growth and transformation and served as a tangible representation of the university’s identity.

Since 2010, with the first edition of UNO Magazine, each issue has centered on a theme.

The theme of this issue – going the distance – underscores that reflection, illustrating UNO’s enduring power and the importance of documenting its influence.

Throughout the 82 years there have been changes in the format, content and design. The publications have grown, adapted and innovated, in part, due to the valuable insights provided by its readers. For a deeper exploration, read the feature story “UNO Alumni Publications: Past, Present, and Future” within these pages.

In a time when the landscape of print publications is undergoing significant transformation, we remain committed to delivering engaging and relevant content to our alumni and friends. Our mission to bridge the gap between past and present, fostering a sense of belonging and shared pride remains, but what we share and how we deliver it will continue to evolve to meet the needs of our audience.

To ensure that UNO Magazine continues to engage you, we invite you to participate in shaping its future. We value your input and would appreciate it if you could take a few moments to fill out the 2023 UNO Magazine Survey at unoalumni.org/magsurvey to help us better understand your preferences and interests.

Your responses will play a crucial role in steering the direction of UNO Magazine, making sure it stays vibrant and relevant. Together, we will continue to create meaningful connections and share stories that truly resonate with the Maverick experience.

Davina Schrier Managing Editor

17 AN ANNUAL EVENT FEATURING FOOD, FUN AND MAVERICK PRIDE!

SAVE THE DATE

ALUMNI NIGHT ON THE COURT OMAHA MEN’S BASKETBALL VS SOUTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

BAXTER ARENA

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

OUTSTANDING TEACHING AWARDS For 27 years the UNO Alumni Association has honored distinguished teaching in the classroom through its Alumni Outstanding Teaching Award program. Peer committees choose recipients, each of whom received a $2,000 award and a commemorative plaque at the UNO Faculty Honors Convocation on September 28, 2023.

2022 UNO ALUMNI OUTSTANDING TEACHING AWARD RECIPIENTS COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES Rafael Azpeitia Jr., Maggie Wadginski, Braidy Parrill and Madison Eisert

2023 UNO ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AND LEE DENKER SCHOLARSHIPS ELIZABETH L. CHALECKI, Ph.D. Political Science

MICHELE MARIE DESMARAIS, Ph.D. Religious Studies

PATRICE JUNE PROULX, Ph.D. Foreign Languages and Literature

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

COLLEGE OF COMMUNICATION, FINE ARTS & MEDIA

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING (UNL)

Congratulations to Rafael Azpeitia Jr., Madison Eisert, Braidy Parrill and Maggie Wadginski on receiving the 2023 UNO Alumni Association and Lee Denker Scholarships! The UNO Alumni Association awards $2,500/year scholarships to incoming University of Nebraska at Omaha freshmen who demonstrated leadership and involvement during high school. In 2022, an additional scholarship was added in honor of Lee Denker, UNO Alumni Association Executive Director from 2006–2021.

Learn more about these new Mavericks and why they chose UNO at unoalumni.org/ unoaascholarships.

MARY J. HALLIN, Ph.D. Marketing and Entrepreneurship

SETH SHAFER, Ph.D. Music Technology

JONGWAN EUN, Ph.D., PE Civil and Environmental Engineering

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, HEALTH, & HUMAN SCIENCES

COLLEGE OF INFORMATION SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

COLLEGE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS & COMMUNITY SERVICE

MAVS ON THE MOVE JANUARY 5, 2024

ASHLEY J. BLOUNT, Ph.D. Counseling

ROBERT FULKERSON, Ph.D. Computer Science

NURI HECKLER, J.D., Ph.D. Public Administration

UNO alumni and friends are invited to join us for a complimentary reception in Tempe on Jan. 5, 2024. This year, Mavs on the Move is coming to Arizona early to support Omaha Hockey during the Desert Hockey Classic! unoalumni.org/mavsonmove

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ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

UNO Magazine Receives Two Best of District VI CASE Awards!

SUMMER 2022

FALL 2022

Illustration by Traci Daberko

Illustration by Kirsten Ulve

of Nebraska at Omaha and is published three times a year. It is mailed to all UNO graduates and to community leaders in and

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #301 OMAHA, NE

6001 Dodge Street Omaha, NE 68182-0510

out of Nebraska. Please share your copy with anyone who might benefit from the work of our great university.

The influence and achievements of Nebraska’s metropolitan university reach across the state and beyond. Under the theme Beyond City Limits, the Summer 2022 edition of UNO Magazine cast a spotlight outside of the metro including stories about preventing agriculture cyberterrorism, increasing rural transportation accessibility and bridge longevity, wildlife conservation and law enforcement, emergency disaster response and more. For this cover, we brainstormed an aerial view of farmlands, much like the majority of the state of Nebraska, with crop circle designs including the Maverick bull, UNO’s mascot, and symbols representing several of the feature stories and articles within. Illustrator Traci Daberko used clean vector lines and shapes to bring the concept to life.

UNOALUMNI.ORG/UNOMAG

UNO MAGAZINE is the flagship publication of the University

VOL. 13, NO. 2

UNOALUMNI.ORG/UNOMAG

VOL. 13, NO. 1

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #301 OMAHA, NE

6001 Dodge Street Omaha, NE 68182-0510

UNO MAGAZINE is the flagship publication of the University of Nebraska at Omaha and is published three times a year. It is mailed to all UNO graduates and to community leaders in and

FA L L 2 02 2

In the category of Design – Covers, UNO Magazine was selected as two of the three Best of District VI CASE (Council for Advancement and Support of Education) Awards! The awards will officially be presented at the District V & VI Annual Conference in Chicago on April 14-16, 2024.

SUMMER 2022

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out of Nebraska. Please share your copy with anyone who might benefit from the work of our great university.

Under the theme Work, the Fall 2022 issue of UNO Magazine showcases how UNO uniquely prepares students to be innovative industry leaders and alumni perspectives on important workplace trends. Some examples include stories about UNO’s aviation program in partnership with Southwest Airlines; addressing future information science and technology workforce shortages; alumni entrepreneurs; the importance of internships and the evolution of remote work. For the cover, illustrator and designer Kirsten Ulve was selected to create a custom illustration of people with attire and attributes representing many of the careers included in the issue’s featured stories. The result was a bright visual representation of the current and future workforce developed at UNO and a spirited entrance into an issue about careers.

THE FUTURE OF UNO MAGAZINE The first issue of UNO Magazine was published in Winter 2010. The award-winning magazine evolved from a long history of alumni publications dating back to 1941 (see the feature story UNO Alumni Publications: Past, Present and Future herein.) Changes to the format, content and design over the 82 years have often been in response to the valuable insights of our readers. We invite you to complete the 2023 UNO Magazine Survey and help us understand what features of our publication you enjoy the most and what you would like us to change.

Complete the survey by December 29 and be entered to win a UNO alumni swag bag!

unoalumni.org/magsurvey

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

YOUNG ALUMNI ACADEMY CLASS OF 2024 Introducing the 13th class of the UNO Young Alumni Academy! The group of talented and engaged young professionals includes 50 participants from architecture, nonprofit, industrial development, banking, real estate, education, transportation, construction, agriculture and marketing, among other industries.

Learn more about the Class of 2024 and the award-winning professional and personal development program for alumni at unoalumni.org/yaa.

INTRODUCING...

UNO ALUMNI CHAPTERS

We are excited to launch UNO Alumni Chapters in cities across the U.S.!

UNO Alumni Chapters are an extension of the UNO Alumni Association, linking alumni with the university while providing opportunities to network with fellow Mavericks in their city. Just like the UNO Alumni Association, membership to a UNO Alumni Chapter is free!

Chapter members serve as ambassadors for UNO in their city and attend social events and activities throughout the year where they can network and have fun with fellow alumni and friends. Each chapter also has a LinkedIn group where alumni can stay connected and share opportunities and additional ways to engage.

Join a chapter or let us know you want to start one in your city at unoalumni.org/chapters.

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PHILANTHROPY MATTERS

THE IDENTITY OF AN

Chancellor Joanne Li celebrating “I Love NU” Day with students at the Nebraska State Capitol.

PHILANTHROPY MATTERS

URBAN UNIVERSITY

by Robyn Murray

Joanne Li did not grow up in Omaha. But while she is relatively new to the city – she became chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 2021 – the Hong Kong native’s passion for Omaha is clear.

Pointing to redevelopment projects, such as the RiverFront transformation that encompasses 72 acres and three downtown parks, Li said Omaha is a city where people care about each other and come together to achieve great things.

“I find Omaha fascinating,” Li said. “[It is] a very relational town. People work very hard to build relationships. And they work equally hard, if not harder, to maintain the relationship.

So that is actually very heartwarming.”

Li began her academic career in Florida as a first-generation college student. After graduating summa cum laude with her finance degree and her doctorate from Florida State University, she went on to earn her Chartered Financial Analyst designation. She served as dean and professor of finance at the Raj Soin College of Business at Wright State University in Ohio before becoming dean of the Florida International University College of Business, serving 11,000 students.

At UNO, Li impressed the hiring committee with her passion for the essential responsibility of an urban university, which she believes is to educate by inclusion, not exclusion.

“We know that we have to do right by our community,” Li said. “If we successfully provide affordable, accessible education … we’ll be able to elevate our community.”

Approximately 40% of UNO students are first-generation college students, Li said. In addition, more than one-third are eligible for Pell Grants.

“Our job here is to create social and economic mobility that will lead to what I call multigenerational prosperity, developing economic prosperity and mobility for the family,” Li said.

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PHILANTHROPY MATTERS In addition to being “a font of creativity and discovery,” Li said UNO’s responsibilities are threefold: educate the people of the world; contribute pragmatic research that impacts and improves the community; and serve the community to solve real problems.

“In any given year, UNO students and faculty donate more than 300,000 hours of community service to this community,” Li said. “And because this is the identity of an urban university … we say let’s understand the challenges of the community, let’s do something that can solve problems for all communities.”

Li’s community-based vision for UNO helped inspire a $19 million landmark gift to the university from Omaha philanthropists Barbara and Wally Weitz as part of Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future.

“It is thrilling to be a part of a place that is doing the kind of things that are happening at UNO,” Barbara Weitz said. “This institution, and the University of Nebraska as a whole, are incredibly valuable because of the education they provide and for their importance to the economy of the state. We must have welleducated citizens for Nebraska.”

UNO Chancellor Joanne Li believes education should be about inclusion, not exclusion.

A former faculty member of UNO and current University of Nebraska regent, Barbara Weitz is most recognizable on campus for her namesake, the Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center — a historic building that opened in 2014 and was a result of her vision for UNO as a community-first university.

IF WE SUCCESSFULLY PROVIDE AN AFFORDABLE, ACCESSIBLE EDUCATION, WE’LL BE ABLE TO ELEVATE OUR COMMUNIT Y. In June, Barbara Weitz and her husband, Wally, designated $14 million to create the Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund and $5 million to establish the Barbara and Wally Weitz Endowed Chair in Higher Education Leadership — a first for the University of Nebraska System as a gift attached to a chancellor’s position.

“First and foremost, I feel extremely honored to be the first chancellor that will hold an endowed position,” Li said. “Barb and Wally understand how the education leadership pool is getting very tight. They want to send a credible signal, not just for Joanne Li but all the future chancellors, that this university is worth investing in, let’s make sure that we can get the best leadership in place.”

Li said the Weitzes’ investment in innovation is visionary and particularly impactful as the university faces budget tightening.

“It’s a very smart way to incentivize the right behavior,” Li said. “So often universities will not have the opportunity to have what we call ‘financial slack,’ to invest in exciting initiatives that can propel research and improve operations that can bring in efficiencies.”

Li said universities use every dollar to invest in student success, but that can leave little room to look to the future.

“Research and development must be intentional,” Li said. The Weitz gift communicates “that we will stand by you, provide you the right aspiration, the right incentive to go and do great things that will bring great returns on investment for this university. It’s an ingenious gift and really timely.”

The investment reminds Li of what has made Omaha feel like home since her arrival on campus two years ago: a community that cares and aspires to be greater.

“There is no community better than a community that really believes in itself,” Li said. “So, their philanthropic support is a very credible signal to tell the world: This community believes in itself.”

PHILANTHROPY MATTERS

PRIORITIZING EXCELLENCE. LIKE ONLY NEBRASKA CAN. Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is a historic initiative that seeks to engage 18,000 unique donors to raise $300 million for the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

At the University of Nebraska at Omaha, the urban campus of Nebraska’s only public university, we are focusing on enhancing faculty and academic excellence. To attract and retain the best minds, UNO aims to significantly increase funding for endowed chairs and professorships as part of this campaign. By strengthening the programs these faculty members lead, we will be better able to grow the economy of Omaha and Nebraska through a new generation of graduates.

It’s all possible. And it’s all happening right here.

Only in Nebraska.

LEARN MORE AT OnlyinNebraska.org/UNO

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THE COLLEGES

UNO AVIATION SOARI

Legend has it Southwest Airlines discovered that hanging a rubber chicken on a flight simulator keeps it in perfect working order.

When someone attempted to remove them, simulators began breaking down. Once the chickens were returned, the simulators returned to normal.

If the superstition works for the pros, why not adopt the same practice at UNO? Visit UNO’s flight simulators, including the newest Boeing 737 flight training device, and you’ll notice rubber chickens hanging from each one.

of the class stands behind the captain’s chairs, watching as their classmates react while flying the mock aircraft.

“When something goes wrong, you don’t want it to be in an actual airplane the first time,” Vlasek said. “We can insert failures and rapid weather changes that will force them to use their training and critical thinking skills. If you can go through some of those things in a simulated environment, it’s certainly going to help the students.”

UNO’s Boeing 737 simulator offers fully tactile training for future pilots with a full replica cockpit built to scale. Using a simulator with actual aircraft yokes, buttons, switches, gauges and other instruments allows students to develop a physical, spatial connection to the environment they will be working in – something that can’t be replicated in a simulator comprised of only touchscreens.

Valuable experience flying a simulated Boeing 737 would not be possible if not for a gift from the Ethel S. Abbott Charitable Foundation. Its founder, Ethel S. Abbott, was an aviation pioneer who with her first husband, Raymond H. Page, operated the Lincoln Aircraft Company in Lincoln, Neb. The couple trained pilots, and together, they taught famed aviator Charles Lindbergh to fly.

Although Ethel passed in 1992, her legacy of educating future aviators lives on through this and other gifts.

With a state-of-the-art simulator, students have a unique opportunity to prepare for situations they may encounter after takeoff. Faculty instructors within UNO’s Aviation Institute manipulate the situations facing the virtual aircraft while the rest

This sophisticated level of training is on-par with the preparation future pilots receive from industry airline partners. UNO is one of twelve universities nationwide partnered with Southwest Airlines through its Destination 225° program and one of sixteen

THE COLLEGES

ING TO NEW HEIGHTS

universities nationwide partnered with United Airlines through its Aviate program. UNO was the first of only three universities to partner with both Southwest and United.

These pathway programs offer aspiring pilots the opportunity to set themselves on a career path with either airline, enabling them to be ready for the flight deck in as little as four years after graduation. UNO also maintains partnerships with regional airlines that operate under other industry giants such as American Airlines and Delta.

Vlasek believes the new flight simulator and participation in pathway programs with Southwest and United will boost student recruitment. Combined with UNO’s OUR Tuition program, which offers reduced tuition rates to students from 11 nearby states — many of which lack aviation programs — Vlasek said UNO is already attracting students from new areas. After tripling enrollment over the past decade, Vlasek said trends project that the Aviation Institute will double its current enrollment by 2028.

While flight training can be expensive on top of tuition and fees, starting salaries often in the six-figure territory, even with regional

airlines, can make it a worthwhile investment. “When parents see a clear path for their students to go from high school to college to a job, making the investment in flight training makes sense,” Vlasek said. “Knowing that you have a job, and a good paying job coming out of college makes that investment worthwhile.”

Since it was installed in the College of Public Affairs and Community Service building in Spring 2023, the Boeing 737 flight simulator has connected UNO’s Aviation Institute with future and current students as well as alumni.

“Something like this allows us to also give back to our alumni,” Vlasek said. “One of our alumni is getting ready to start at Southwest and has not flown a 737. He came in and was able to sit in the cockpit and run through some of the flows and checks.

Working with our alumni is something we want. We’re here to help you. They’re still part of the UNO Aviation Institute family.”

With the momentum behind UNO’s Aviation Institute, the training tools at its disposal and partnerships with industry leaders, it’s only a matter of time before the skies above are home to even more Mavericks.

— Brandon Bartling

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THE COLLEGES THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT OMAHA’S (UNO) AIM FOR THE STARS SUMMER CAMP IS CELEBRATING ITS 25TH YEAR OF OFFERING HANDSON LEARNING EXPERIENCES TO STUDENTS IN ELEMENTARY THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL. THE CAMP TAKES PLACE ON UNO’S CAMPUS AND OFFERS DIVERSE PROGRAMS IN FIELDS LIKE ROBOTICS, FORENSICS AND BIOMECHANICS, PROVIDING STUDENTS WITH IMMERSIVE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND TRADITIONAL CLASSROOMS. THE CAMP’S CONNECTION TO UNO ALSO ALLOWS STUDENTS TO ACCESS ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND AN EARLY INTRODUCTION TO HIGHER EDUCATION. Nearly 1,000 kids participate in the Aim for the Stars summer camps each year.

Aim for the Stars: 25 Years of Inspiring Young Innovators From exploring animal adaptations through field trips to the zoo to creating intricate dioramas that demonstrate engineering processes in the biomedical field, to learning how to land a plane in the Aviation Institute’s flight simulator, the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s (UNO) Aim for the Stars summer camp focuses on providing students ranging from third through tenth grade with a handson learning experience.

“The kids get to interact with the subject that they’re learning about. They’re getting to have actual experiences and are interacting with math and science in a way that they otherwise might not have the opportunity to do. They become immersed in the subjects, and that’s what helps them make connections with their learning,” said Erin Dahl, the director of Aim for the Stars.

This year, the camp marks its 25th summer inspiring the curiosity of budding scientists, engineers and mathematicians. The camp’s diverse programs are designed to engage with students in a way that can’t be done in a typical classroom setting. Dahl states that this is due in part to the camp taking place on UNO’s campus.

“Being connected to UNO has had a great impact on our organization. We’ve been able to establish relationships with different departments on campus, which has opened so many doors for the kids,” said Dahl.

they don’t have anyone supporting them. At school is where they feel loved and safe. They may go home somewhere else, but it’s that anticipation of school that makes them feel better about life.”

“Our astronomy camp was able to visit the Aviation Institute this summer and get to try out the flight simulator. Our 3D printing camps visit the creative production lab at the library where they’re able to 3D print their own creations and see the equipment.”

In the future, Dahl hopes that Aim for the Stars can expand their outreach to serve an even larger population of young innovators.

The program is looking at the possibility of extending the camp to include after-school outreach programs.

Dahl, who began her term as director of Aim for the Stars in January 2023, says that for many students the impact of camp goes far beyond what they’re learning in their classrooms. As a life-long educator who has been teaching in the Omaha community for nearly two decades, Dahl is committed to curating an environment that fosters stability and safety for kids.

In a world where classrooms might be the only safe spaces for some, Aim for the Stars steps in during the summer months, extending that sanctuary, and making lives better for countless young individuals.

Aim for the Stars is more than a camp; it’s a launchpad for dreams, a source of inspiration, and a testament to the power of hands-on education.

“Of course, I want the students who attend our camps to have an intense drive to go into those STEM fields, but I also want them to feel like this is a safe space for them,” said Dahl. “There are so many kids who go to school, and their classrooms are that safe space for them. Then, in the summertime,

Here’s to another 25 years and beyond of lighting up young minds and guiding them toward the stars.

— Bella Lockwood

THE COLLEGES

Community, Compassion and a 390-Mile Run For as long as he can remember, 19-year-old Brandon Schutt harbored a heartfelt dream: to give back to the community that has supported him. The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) student has always had a passion for running. Inspired by his favorite athlete, Hellah Sidibe, the first African American man to run across the United States, Schutt wanted to transform his favorite hobby into a powerful force for positive change.

After months of careful consideration and meticulous planning, Schutt knew what he wanted to do. His goal was to run across Nebraska, from the Colorado border back to his hometown of Bellevue, while raising money for Make-A-Wish Nebraska, Children’s Nebraska, Community Alliance and the Stephen Center. Schutt stated he believes it is a person’s moral obligation to help those around you in need if you are able.

“I wanted to do something that reached the entire community in a way that was impactful,” said Schutt. “I knew that I could focus more specifically on an issue or group of people in the metro area, but I wanted to mix it together. The goal was to try and help as many people as possible.”

On May 31, Schutt embarked on his 390-mile journey across Nebraska. On his trek, he was accompanied by nine of his closest friends and his dad who cheered him on while riding alongside him.

They all called an RV home for 11 days; the expedition proved to be far from comfortable.

“The first night was the hardest experience I think I’ve ever had in my entire life,” said Schutt.

Almost immediately into the trip, Schutt suffered an injury to his iliotibial band, that made running excruciating. In addition, Schutt and his team felt as though they were hitting every roadblock imaginable, from tires popping, to coming across rattlesnakes to realizing they were on the wrong route 10 miles in.

Schutt’s injury greatly impacted his daily running regimen. Instead of his ambitious goal of covering an impressive 40 miles each day, Schutt found himself limited to completing a mere four miles on the second day. This marked a stark and disheartening contrast to his initial aspirations, leaving Schutt and his crew feeling a deep sense of discouragement.

“We sat down as a group and had a one-hour meeting where it was my entire team and we kind of figured out our options,” said Schutt.

“We can either bite the bullet and turn back or we just dig in deep, work together and figure this out. We decided that we weren’t going back.”

Once the team decided to persevere, Schutt found that he had more drive than ever before. Rather than allowing the setbacks he faced to derail his mission, he used them as motivation to try even harder. On day three, he ran a total of 85 miles as his friends biked alongside him, using him as a “human relay baton.”

Schutt was quick to acknowledge the pivotal role that his community, especially UNO, played in bolstering his mission.

He emphasized that the support he received was not confined to familiar faces but extended to the broader community, even encompassing the kindness of strangers from across the nation.

Many news outlets, including The New York Times, Good Morning America and several local media outlets published stories regarding his philanthropic mission.

Ultimately, Schutt’s mission raised a remarkable $27,905, a testament to the compassion and generosity of those who believed in his vision. His journey across Nebraska serves as a vivid reminder that when a dream is fueled by passion, supported by a dedicated community and driven by unwavering determination, it has the power to create lasting change.

PHOTO ▸ Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald Brandon Schutt’s passion project raised $27,905 for four Nebraska charities.

— Bella Lockwood

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THE COLLEGES

Discipline and Dreams Take Center Stage From audition to applause in just four weeks, students from 16 area high schools bring the production of “Footloose” to life as part of the UNOTheatre Summer Musical Theatre Academy.

“You could say that SMTA is life-changing,” said Mekhi Payne, a student at Omaha South who played the lead character of Ren. “It’s really helped me realize that I want to do more. I want to act, and sing and dance.”

The academy culminated in several performances, all of which were free and open to the public. Two of the performances were held at the Black Box Theatre located in UNO’s Weber Fine Arts building. To bring this summer’s session to a close, SMTA presented their production at the Gene Leahy Mall pavilion as a part of The RiverFront’s Fourth of July celebration. A staggering 4,000 community members showed up to support the students and the SMTA. Area students perform in the UNOTheatre Summer Musical Theatre Academy’s production of “Footloose” in the Weber Fine Arts Building Black Box Theatre.

In the heart of Omaha, where creativity meets education, the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s (UNO) College of Communication, Fine Arts, and Media (CFAM) creates a stage where Broadway dreams come to life for the city’s talented youth. This groundbreaking initiative is more than just a program – it’s a symphony of inspiration and opportunity, a harmonious partnership between UNOTheatre and local high schools.

The Summer Musical Theatre Academy (SMTA), which just completed its second annual production, offers students an array of training and educational opportunities featuring established professionals from the theatre world, including masterclass teachers, production designers, directors and choreographers. It is led by UNO musical theatre instructor, Hal France.

This year’s academy was comprised of 50 high school students from 16 area high

schools, all of whom have a devoted passion to theatre and the arts. Over an intensive four weeks, these students underwent rigorous training that closely mimics the inner workings of professional productions, all while rehearsing a full production of their own. Students have the opportunity to experience every aspect of what it takes to run a successful show from acting and dancing, to directing, to running lights and sounds.

Students participating in SMTA endure countless hours of training, honing their skills under the guidance of Broadway veterans and established theatre production professionals. From vocal exercises to dance rehearsals, they push their limits and embrace the discipline required for success in the theatre world.

Led by director Vincent J. Orduna, known for his work on productions in the Seattle, Wash. area, students hit the stage with their production of “Footloose” this summer.

The impact of SMTA reaches far beyond the inner workings and teachings of the program.

Drew Milburn, a music major at UNO, was so inspired by the program that it transformed both his views on higher education and his plans for the future.

“My college path completely changed after SMTA, and the help of UNO and CFAM. They have been nothing but nurturing to me since I’ve been here,” said Milburn.

At SMTA, students don’t just witness the magic of theater; they are the magic-makers, orchestrating every note, every scene and every performance in a professional, nurturing and immersive environment. This is the stage where stars are born, dreams take flight and the spotlight shines on tomorrow’s theater luminaries.

“I’m going to take this experience and keep it with me my entire life, no matter what I go in to,” said Payne. “SMTA has taught me so much more than how to read notes or how to sing. It’s gotten me lifelong connections with new friends, and given me so many life skills I wouldn’t have had if I wouldn’t have been here.”

– Bella Lockwood

THE COLLEGES

ALWAYS A GOODRICHER

PHOTO ▸ Geoff Johnson

Vanessa Chavez Jurado is one of 2,200 Mavericks who will “always be a Goodricher”.

From the moment Vanessa Chavez Jurado speaks, you can tell she’s a force of nature and filled with a bubbly enthusiasm about her plans for the future.

Chavez Jurado has found her voice at UNO thanks to the Goodrich Scholarship Program. A firstgeneration student and a daughter of Mexican immigrants who value education, she knew she wanted to go to college and that she would have her parents’ blessing.

“But I knew I didn’t want that to be a burden financially,” she said.

When the right amount of financial support came in the form of the Goodrich program, she was quick to accept.

In the Goodrich program, Chavez Jurado found not only tuition support but also a community that supported her dreams.

Founded in 1972, the Goodrich program has helped about 2,200 students to date create a path to success.

Fifty years ago, it was an innovative concept created to address the inequities in access to education and to give Nebraska residents with financial need from all backgrounds and locations the opportunity to broaden their horizons.

“It was kind of a sociological educational experiment,” said Troy Romero, Ph.D., chair of the program. “We were a learning community before the term was even invented.”

Since then, the program has received honors both locally and nationally and has served as a model for other programs.

I KNOW FOR A FACT I WOULDN’T BE WHERE I AM TODAY WITHOUT THE COMMUNIT Y THAT GOODRICH HAS. All Goodrich scholars must demonstrate financial need and academic merit, which creates a diverse student body. About 76% of Goodrich students are first generation, 81% of students in the most recent cohort are people of color and the students come from all over the state of Nebraska.

“The support and resources provided in Goodrich help people grow and really build leaders in our community,” said Chavez Jurado. “If we can do this much on our campus, what’s not to say we’re going to do just as much or even better once we’re out in the community.”

The program provides tuition and general fees for those who are selected — this year’s cohort totals 60 students. The program also provides a two-year general education curriculum focused on humanities and social sciences, taught by Goodrich faculty and supported by Goodrich staff.

Today, she’s a proud alumna, working as an elementary school Spanish teacher in Millard Public Schools. She plans to earn a master’s degree in public policy and aspires to work in Washington, D.C. as the U.S. Secretary of Education. The support she received from the Goodrich program has given her the motivation to keep her eye on that goal.

“It really is meant to be a bridge to help them acclimate to getting to know other people on campus, getting to know their own skill sets,” said Romero.

For Chavez Jurado, the classes “were really engaging and really encouraged us to think about different topics, social issues from different perspectives.”

Chavez Jurado said she recognized early on in her time in the program that it was much more than the scholarship funds.

“I know for a fact I wouldn’t be where I am today without the community that Goodrich has,” she said. As her confidence grew, she sought out opportunities that would serve as a foundation for her future.

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Everything she gained through the Goodrich program, she said, will stick with her, and she knows the community will always have her back.

“Once you’re a Goodricher, you’re always a Goodricher.”

– Susan Houston Klaus To learn more about the 50-year history of the Goodrich program, visit goodrich50.com.

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ATHLETICS

Healing Through History:

UNO Wrestlin Program Reun Omaha Athletics celebrates Maverick Wrestling program legacy and honors the 2011 NCAA Division II National Championship wrestling team

Mike Denney freely admits there was deep hurt and, yes, anger that festered inside for 12 years following the shocking news that his highly successful UNO wrestling program was being dismantled. The hundreds of Maverick athletes who he not only coached but mentored shared his pain. But the healing process took an important first step on Oct. 14 when Denney, his top assistant Ron Higdon and more than 200 wrestlers representing 62 UNO seasons (32 under Denney) gathered for a reunion at Sapp Fieldhouse.

Joining the wrestling alumni were family members, friends and former athletic department staff members for more than three hours of swapping stories, memories and hugs. Smiling throughout was Denney, the last of just six UNO wrestling coaches.

“The time we had here was a blast,” Denney says. “These last 12 years, I haven’t been able to drive by [campus]. The first time I came on campus – I had Ronnie Higdon come with me – we actually broke down. I’m kind of doing that now.”

Younger UNO alumni may not be aware that the school’s super-successful wrestling program was eliminated on March 12, 2011.

For reclassification from Division II to Division I and to pave the way for the Mavericks to

join The Summit League beginning in July of that same year, UNO discontinued the football and wrestling programs to cut costs and to align with the sports sponsored by The Summit League. They also needed to have equal sports and scholarships for males and females to abide by Title IX and receive federal funding.

The news broke shortly after Denney’s team captured its seventh and final Division II national title the same day.

More than 12 years later, the plan to reunite Maverick wrestlers came to fruition. And to cap off the day, Denney’s 2011 national champions were saluted between periods of UNO’s hockey game against Niagara.

Higdon, who wrestled for Denney and then served 19 years as his top assistant, was beaming with pride as he surveyed the crowd inside Sapp Fieldhouse. He credited current Athletic Director Adrian Dowell and former A.D. Bob Danenhauer with hatching the idea of a wrestling reunion.

“They reached out to us, but it took some convincing,” Higdon says. “It took five or six meetings. The trust was gone.”

Denney admits to some hesitation “at first.”

“I wanted to know that it was sincere,” he says. “Adrian was sincere, and the chancellor

(Joanne Li) seems to be sincere. They’ve opened their arms to us.”

With the success of UNO wrestling came trophies (25 from NCAA appearances alone) and plaques that have been kept out of sight since the sport was disbanded. Denney rented a storage unit for all the memorabilia, and he and wife Bonnie pulled much of it out for display that Saturday.

Danenhauer, who played football and wrestled at UNO (but not for Denney), was the athletic director for 11 years and witnessed the dynasty that was Maverick wrestling.

“I knew coach even before then when he was the head coach at (Omaha) Bryan High while I was wrestling for Westside,” Danenhauer recalls. “Coach Denney has always been a stand-up guy and coached from his heart. He did a great job of recruiting, and he always did a great job of promoting wrestling here. Sometimes wrestling got the short end of the deal.”

Before he took his turn at the podium for the program – which included the introduction of the wrestling alumni – Dowell appeared happy, and relieved, at the end result.

“This is really cool to see,” he said. “It’s great to see so many people come back. I hope this is just a start.”

ATHLETICS

ng nites

The 2011 NCAA Division II National Championship wrestling team was celebrated on the ice at the Omaha Hockey game following the reunion at Sapp Fieldhouse.

by John Fey

IT’S ABOUT FAMILY, AND IT’S ABOUT PEOPLE, COACH DENNEY AND HIS STAFF. THIS IS NEEDED TO BRING US TOGETHER AND SHARE GOOD TIMES AND RECONNECT WITH EACH OTHER. The introduction of wrestlers included those from all eras, although the majority represented those under Denney’s tutelage.

That included three-time all-American Mark Manning (1983-85), who was about to embark on his 23rd season as Nebraska’s head wrestling coach.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but it’s really past due,” Manning said when asked about the turnout that day “It’s about family, and it’s about people, coach Denney and his staff.

This is needed to bring us together and share good times and reconnect with each other.”

Manning says he learned a lot about coaching from Denney – and not just wrestling.

“He instilled in me a lot of great coaching principles and how to treat people and how to coach different personalities,” he says.

“You’re not always going to treat people the same. It’s about treating people fairly. Coach Denney was a great mentor.”

Manning recalls another lesson he gleaned while wrestling under Denney, one he took with him to Lincoln.

“I coach to prepare young men for life,” he says. “Do we win wrestling matches?

Sure. Are we going to lose them? Sure. But preparing people for life is what coach Denney did a great job of.”

Before the program began, Denney couldn’t have been more pleased with the turnout.

“My heart is feeling good,” he said. “Just look at the people here.”

Coach Mike Denney helped bring more than 200 UNO wrestlers back to campus after 12 years.

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22

ATHLETICS

The Voice of Maverick Hockey For more than three decades, the booming voice of Terry Leahy has been heard in six states on weekdays by AM listeners of Omaha’s KFAB. On weekends, UNO hockey fans have been entertained and enlightened by the first – and only – radio color analyst of Maverick games. He hit a milestone with his 1,000th call early into the 202324 season as UNO opened its 27th year of Division I hockey.

Leahy, 64, is the epitome of an Omaha native. He grew up east of the UNO campus, graduated from Creighton Prep High School and earned his degree from Creighton University. He even eventually married a classmate from Holy Cross Catholic Elementary School.

(Sadly, Sheila Leahy died of cancer in 2015.)

He got his start in radio while at Creighton, working part-time for WOW (now KOMJ). While growing up, Leahy was one of many young fans of the Omaha Knights, who played at the venerable AkSar-Ben Coliseum.

“That was hockey central for the kids from that 1960s and ’70s generation,” he said. “About that time, youth hockey was getting started by Motto McLean (who played for the Knights). But the Omaha Knights established that fan base, starting as early as 1959.”

By the time discussions began about UNO starting a Division I hockey program in 1995, Leahy was embarking on his second decade as the morning news announcer at KFAB. As fate would have it, Omaha’s top-rated AM station was awarded the broadcast rights for Maverick hockey when the puck dropped for the first time on Oct. 17, 1997, at the Civic Auditorium.

“KFAB had lost the rights to Nebraska football for the first time,” Leahy recalls. “This UNO thing exploded, and KFAB jumped on that to get the rights. Management said to me, ‘We know you know hockey. You’re on the broadcast.’ I was just in the right place at the right time.”

Leahy credits Kent Pavelka (who took over Husker football play-byplay duties in 1984) and Gary Sadlemyer for supporting him as the

Maverick color analyst. He also credits – to this day – the help he received from then-sports information director Gary Anderson.

Hired as Leahy’s first on-air partner was Greg Harrington, who commuted from his home in St. Paul, Minn., for each home weekend series. The two hit it off immediately and drew high praise from UNO fans.

“Greg had an excellent broadcasting background in college and high school hockey,” Leahy said. “Mike Kemp (UNO’s first coach) knew Greg and gave him a high recommendation. It worked out pretty well.”

In a cost-cutting move, UNO opted not to bring back Harrington ahead of the 2009-10 season. Leahy said he understood but felt bad about losing not just a colleague but a good friend. The two still stay in touch.

“Terry Leahy is the best radio broadcast partner I ever had,” Harrington said. “He knows hockey as well as anyone, and he was always well-prepared.”

Kemp, who remains at UNO as executive associate athletic director, still marvels at Leahy’s longevity and talent.

“Terry has served as the true connection between the fan base and the program since its inception,” Kemp said. “Whether it is a former player, a former player’s parents or a current fan, UNO hockey supporters connect Terry’s distinguishable voice with all things Maverick hockey.”

Leahy’s colleagues from KFAB are happy to have him on the weekday news team. Sadlemyer said he adds to the station’s credibility with his newscasts.

“As a lifelong Omahan, he has tremendous reference points for the geography and history behind news stories and can bring that knowledge to bear in newscasts,” Sadlemyer said. “Add to that his tenure at the station and a terrific delivery, Terry is a great asset.”

– John Fey

ATHLETICS

A VERY MAVERICK MARRIAGE Although they started dating their senior year at Westside High School, for alums Jon Brooks (’96) and Bridget (Weide) Brooks (’96), the University of Nebraska at Omaha has been a central component of their relationship.

Both received full tuition Regent’s Scholarships to UNO and decided to study journalism, taking all their classes together. The day after their graduation, UNO announced it was starting a hockey program. Bridget stood in line on the first day and put down a deposit for season tickets. They attended the first Mavericks Hockey home game on Oct. 17, 1997.

The two were engaged in 1998, and married on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2004, the weekend of a home hockey series versus Western Michigan. “We did our church rehearsal mid-afternoon on Friday, had our rehearsal dinner at Mama’s Pizza and then went to the game at the then Qwest Center,” says Bridget.

After their wedding the next day, they held a late afternoon reception and left by 6 p.m. to attend the second night of the series. They were welcomed onto the ice for an intermission contest, and they sported matching UNO jerseys with “Bride” and “Groom” on the back.

The following weekend, they honeymooned in East Lansing, Michigan, where they watched the hockey team split a series against Michigan State. They hosted the first of eight bus trips for hockey fans in February 2005, organized under their fan website, MavPuck.com.

Their love for Omaha Hockey continues. The pair have never missed a home game, “over 500 consecutive home games,” Bridget notes, “And more than 100 road games, a handful of conference playoff games, several NCAA regionals and one amazing trip to the Frozen Four.”

For these two, it seems that UNO, hockey and their relationship have always aligned.

PHOTOS ▸ courtesy of Jon and Bridget Brooks

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THE ENDURING IM THE OMAHA 54

by Elle Nina Love

MPACT OF

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It has been 54 years since the Omaha 54 changed the course of history and paved the way for the creation of the UNO Black Studies Department. To anticipate the future of the interdisciplinary study of the history, culture and politics of Black Americans at UNO, one must understand the significance of the historical event that initiated its establishment.

Between 1965 and 1972, college and university students across the nation were organizing and advocating for Black Studies courses and more inclusive and relevant education. They desired the knowledge and skills to be change agents in their communities and society at large.

At UNO, the student group Black Liberators for Action on Campus (BLAC), protested discrimination.

On November 10, 1969, 54 Black students, including some members of BLAC, performed a sit-in protest in then-president Kirk Naylor’s office to demand equal and inclusive treatment and proper investment toward the education of Black History. The students’ arrests sparked community attention that held the university accountable until the inception of the Black Studies department in 1971.

These students are honored today as the “Omaha 54.”

One of them was an influential beauty queen who is now a published author, teacher and advocate for children, family and parental rights. Catherine Pope, Ed.D., Miss Omaha 1969, attended UNO to study Speech Pathology/ Audiology. As a college student, she often faced adversity in a field that is predominantly white.

“I did struggle at times doubting my skills and abilities because I had nowhere to go for help. I had no small groups or professors that would help me feel reassured and help me with problems I had in certain subject areas, so I felt kind of alone.” Pope said.

Pope said at the time she was one of the three Black students to graduate in Speech and Language Pathology.

“I think that’s a lesson for any student from any culture.

If they come from a rural area to a city or if they’re from another religion, they find themselves in a situation where they feel a little different or they don’t quite fit in, they need to seek a community and it doesn’t have to be on campus or centered around classwork but they can help them push through.”

26 THE OMAHA 54 PALMER ANDERSON WILBUR BAILEY WILLIAM BATTS MICHAEL BLACKSON MICHAEL BROWN BARBARA BROWN GERI BROWN PRESTON BUSH WANDA BURTON JOHNNY BUTLER MARVIN DAILEY RON ESTES JESSE EVERETT HOWARD FARRELL HAIDEE FOUST WARREN GREEN AARON HALL CLARENCE HALL MARYL HARRIS KAREN HAYES THOMAS HENDRICK ROBERT HONORE TERESE HUDGINS RONALD JACKSON CAREY JOHNSON JOSEPH JOHNSON JESSE KENDLE RICHARD LEE VINCENT MALLORY MICHAEL MARONEY JAMES MASSEY LABETA MCCLOUD HARRY MCGUIRE SIMON MOSLEY CATHERINE POPE JOHNNIE POULE, JR. DOUGLAS POWELL CARL ROBINSON TERRY ROSE JENNIFER SCOTT CARL SULLIVAN WILLIAM TEABOUT HOWARD TUCKER PAUL TUCKER RODGER ULMAR WILLIAM WALKER VICKY WEBB MARLA WEST GRANT WEST CONSTANCE WHITE GARY WILLIAMS LAVELL WILLIAMS, SR. THOMAS WRIGHT DANIEL YANCY

Cathy Pope participated in the sit-in with 53 fellow UNO students in 1969, left, and spoke at the UNO Black Studies 50th anniversary celebration in 2021.

Pope said her participation in advocacy and involvement in the sit-in protest was inspired by her mother, who was also a civil rights advocate.

54 BLACK STUDENTS WANTED COURSES ABOUT AFRICAN AMERICAN AND AFRICAN HISTORY TAUGHT BY BLACK PEOPLE. THE MICROCOSM OF BLACK AMERICA BEING A CONSTANT FIGHT IS THE COST TO BUILD THE DEPARTMENT.

“She taught me to see past the ‘glitz and glamor’ and focus on the needs of the voiceless and to see past yourself. I knew that if I had problems fitting in, other students were experiencing the same thing,” Pope said. “At the time, most African American students at all levels of education were voiceless.

I also knew that when the marches stopped and the voices quieted down, there had to be governing rules, laws and legislation to take place, so that’s what I always pushed for.”

Pope said she participated in various state and national governing committees seeking change after graduating from UNO. She was the first African American to be Miss Omaha in 1969. This gave her a vital platform to serve her community.

Despite public pressure of potentially losing her scholarships and the privileges of being Miss Omaha, she persisted in representing and addressing the struggles of others.

“I’ve always felt like when you’re given the opportunity, you use the platform for good. Not separate who I am but become more of who I am

and speak out,” Pope said. “When I decided to work with the Omaha 54 and become a part of that, I felt like it was essential for me to use my voice in that way.”

Prior to the sit-in, BLAC and another student group, the Afro-American Council for Action, had been advocating for the addition of a Black Studies course at UNO. Their demands were escalated after a failed dance that BLAC organized and held on campus. Since Black student organizations weren’t recognized as official groups at the time by the university, the dance lacked a sound system, resulting in a musicless event and they also had to pay for their own security for the dance.

Michael Moroney was co-chair of the Afro-American Council for Action and one of the Omaha 54.

At UNO’s 50th Anniversary of the Black Studies Department event in 2021, he said the students agreed to “not protest a dance, but let us protest inequality, racism and the lack of Black recognition on campus.”

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The Department of Black Studies celebrated its 50th anniversary and honored the Omaha 54 at the University of Nebraska at Omaha on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.

The arrests of the Omaha 54 students including Pope and Moroney also inspired community involvement from then Nebraska State Senator Ernie Chambers, the Omaha NAACP and the Urban League of Nebraska. UNO Black Studies Department Chair, and UNO Black Studies graduate, Cynthia Robinson, Ph.D. said the sacrifices and activism of the 54 Black students, and subsequent support from the Omaha Black community, shaped the development of the department and the continuously evolving curriculum.

“54 Black students wanted courses about African American and African history taught by Black people. The microcosm of Black America being a constant fight is the cost to build the department,” Robinson said. “The community that bailed out and supported the students after they were arrested are the same community in Omaha that supported the Black Studies Department and held them accountable.”

Robinson said with leadership from Chancellor Joanne Li, Ph.D. and Vice Chancellor Adrian Dowell, she is optimistic that the Black Studies Department will

receive campus support in addition to the ongoing community support.

“When you have leadership that doesn’t support the department, it’s a fight, if you have a dean that supports the department, it’s less of a fight. So if you have the Chancellor and Vice Chancellor that supports the Department of Black Studies, it means we have leadership that supports the department,” Robinson said. “In a way, it’s still a fight but it’s easier.”

Robinson helped commemorate the Omaha 54 at UNO’s 50th Anniversary of the Black Studies Department in 2021. The event celebrated and recognized the sacrifice the students made to bring community attention to campus issues that Black students faced historically.

Pope was one of the students honored at the event. There, she connected with her fellow students about her accomplishments including publishing her memoir, “In Search of the Crown: Memoir of a Black beauty queen during the Civil Rights Movement” and working with the United States Army and Navy on workplace and sexual assault protections for women. She is an advocate

for improving education and received the Phi Gamma Sigma award in 2009 for her contributions to the community.

Pope said the evolution of the Black Studies Department is constant and she is eager to continue to help future generations learn about the significant history and the pioneers behind the movement.

“Across our country, we need to strive to tell our stories,” said Pope. “And to keep those stories alive into perpetuity as we continue to build upon our history.”

EXPLORE THE UNO LIBRARY UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES Historical records from the Department of Black Studies

Historical records on the Omaha 54

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photographs of UNO architectural icons UNO is deeply rooted in tradition, drawing strength and character from its long and storied history. However, it also embraces advancement, ensuring that it remains adaptable and responsive to the changing needs of its students and society. A visual journey of then and now photos of some of UNO’s most iconic architecture showcases the transformative spirit that has defined its progress over the years. Serving as the fabric of UNO’s campus, the evolution of each of these university landmarks is a testament to the institution’s commitment to advancing excellence and innovation.

Special thanks to Restoration Exchange Omaha (now Preserve Omaha) for providing historical information and the “Now” images of Allwine Hall, Milo Bail Student Center, Arts & Sciences and Henningson Memorial Campanile by Nathan King.

ARTS & SCIENCES

THEN NOW

Perhaps UNO’s most well-known building, Arts & Sciences Hall (ASH) was the first classroom building built on campus.

Completed in 1938, it was originally known as the Science Hall. Until further buildings were constructed, it was home to all classrooms and offices, student publication offices, the library, the bookstore, a cafeteria and an auditorium. It was the first school building in the state of Nebraska to have air conditioning. Still in use today, the building features Georgian-style architecture, prominent pillars and a distinctive cupola.

THEN NOW

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LEE AND HELENE SAPP FIELDHOUSE The university constructed the fieldhouse in 1948-50 as its venue for all indoor sports. It originally included a dirt floor, a portable basketball court and indoor track. During the first major renovation, completed in 1971, the university added offices for the physical education and athletic departments in a 9,200-square-foot expansion on the north side of the structure. The project also included the installation of a pro-turf court and track and power-operated bleachers. A second major addition in 1997-98 included the characteristic rotunda at the building’s western entrance, new athletic facilities included weight and wrestling rooms, a new academic resource room for student athletes and a new hall of fame room. Today, the facility holds 3,500 seats and serves as the practice facility for women’s track and field and the hosting venue for women’s volleyball.

MILO BAIL STUDENT CENTER

THEN NOW

The Milo Bail Student Center (MBSC) was built in 1957 as the Omaha University Student Center and renamed in 1964 in honor of former university president Milo Bail. In 1970, a three-story addition expanded the building. A second addition was added in 1996 which included construction of a new west entrance, third floor conference room, three new lounges, a food court and a bookstore. New carpet and furniture were placed, and the bathrooms were remodeled in 2008.

The Milo Bail Student Center remains the hub of student life at UNO. A food court, Durango’s Grill, Maverick Den serving Starbucks coffee, the UNO Bookstore, offices and many other student support services are located at MBSC.

ALLWINE HALL

THEN NOW

Completed in 1970, the university named the building after Arthur A. Allwine, a retired real estate investor who in 1959 donated to the university a 160-acre farm near Bennington. Upon completion, the biology department occupied the first and second stories and parts of third while the chemistry department occupied the other remaining portions of the third story and the entirety of the fourth. In the 19992000 renovation, the biology and psychology departments expanded throughout the building. The project included improvements to fire alarm and energy management systems, computer and communication distribution, laboratory venting equipment, classroom updates and improved laboratory animal care facilities. Today, Allwine Hall (AH) is also home to the Healthcare Careers Resource Center.

30 COLLEGE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS & COMMUNITY SERVICE

THEN NOW

THEN NOW

The College of Public Affairs & Community Service (CPACS) building was originally built for Applied Arts and Engineering.

The eastern segment of the building for Applied Arts was completed in 1959. In the mid to late 1960s, the building became known as the Engineering Building and in 1972, the Engineering facilities were finished. The building originally functioned as classrooms, lecture halls and several specialty labs. The College of Public Affairs & Community Service was created in 1973 to ensure the university was responsive to the critical social needs of our community and state. After the Engineering department relocated to Scott Campus in 2006, the university refurbished the building to house the CPACS with a substantial addition, including a new central entry.

DR. C.C. AND MABEL L. CRISS LIBRARY In 1976, a new University Library was built. The primary (second) story housed reference materials while the third story held “main stacks and reading areas” and the first story held microfilms and documents.

In 2004, it was renamed after Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss, leading figures in the early development of Mutual of Omaha as well as founders of the Criss Foundation. In 2006, the university began construction of a three-story northern addition named in honor of Dr. Guinter Kahn, an alumnus of Omaha University and the inventor of Rogaine. The Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library serves as the primary source of academic information for the university and strives to create physical and virtual environments that foster the university’s goals for teaching, learning and research.

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HEALTH & KINESIOLOGY

THEN NOW

The Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER) building first opened its doors in 1980.

It included an Olympic-size swimming pool, racquetball and handball courts, an elevated jogging area, a dance studio, staff offices, 11 laboratories and five classrooms. In 2008-10, the university undertook an expansion. The new space allowed for more cardio and weightlifting equipment as well as a juice bar, a hot tub and an expansion of the jogging track. Student health services, previously located in the Milo Bail Student Center, relocated to the HPER Building. A 150,000 square foot renovation and addition was complete in 2010. The school, and subsequently the building, was renamed in 2017 to Health and Kinesiology (H&K). Today, the H&K building houses the School of Health and Kinesiology, the Wellness Center, Counseling Center, Health Services, Campus Recreation and the MavREC Café.

UNO broke ground for the Henningson Memorial Campanile’s foundation in May of 1988, and it was completed in 1989 thanks to a donation from Margre Henningson-Durham, who with her husband Charles W. Durham were significant donors to the Durham Science Center. The campanile’s construction is in memory of Margre’s parents, Henning and Rose Henningson, and sister, Helen Henningson-Grimes. Standing 168 feet in height, the tower contains 47 bells cast at the Paccard Bell Foundry in Annecy, France. Each contains an inscription from members of the Henningson family.

In 2009, the university renovated the plaza surrounding the tower.

The Henningson Memorial Campanile stands at the center of the UNO campus and has become a central icon of the university.

THEN NOW

HENNINGSON MEMORIAL CAMPANILE

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passion to

PROFESSION

by Melodae Horst

UNO alumni are a unique and resilient breed, embodying what is known as the “Maverick Spirit.” This relentless pursuit of excellence and a determination to overcome all obstacles has propelled many UNO alumni to achieve remarkable success in their respective fields. From Broadway stages to combat zones, from the world of jazz to the fashion industry, these alumni have not only achieved personal success but have also found ways to give back to their communities and inspire the next generation. Driven by their unwavering commitment to turn their passions into professions, they exemplify what it means to be a Maverick. Here, they share what “Going the Distance” means to them.

Jazz is an Inspiration for Karrin Allyson

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N Karrin Allyson is a jazz vocalist and a five-time Grammy Awards nominee. Growing up in Omaha, she studied classical piano, sang in church, was involved with musical theatre and then began songwriting.

The alumna graduated from UNO in 1986, majoring in classical piano and minoring in French. She was a lead singer for an allfemale rock band, Tomboy, but developed a keen interest in jazz.

Fifteen albums later, in 2022, she was awarded an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree from UNO.

when I started, or Joni Mitchell or Carly Simon, because I like to write, too.”

Allyson said her start in classical music gave her a good basis for continuing in the jazz world.

“One thing I love about it is, of course, the improvisational aspect of it,” the jazz singer said.

She said improvisation really spoke to her because “I love to make up my own stuff.”

She credits the support of her parents, UNO professors and the curriculum for being “a partner” in encouraging work ethic as she left Omaha to grow her career.

Allyson proposes that jazz is an art form, but it is “also a science.”

Jazz also involves humor and “goofiness.”

“Well, life is an inspiration,” Allyson said. “I have lists everywhere.”

Allyson, who has just released two new singles, said passion is something that also resonates with her.

Before there were cell phones, she jotted ideas down on napkins or bring her notebook to clubs, “while I’m listening, it’s inspiring.”

“There is nothing like attending a live concert,” she said. “You know, we all want to emulate our heroes to begin with, and that’s where we start. I wanted to sing like Dinah Washington or Nancy Wilson

“If we don’t keep our sense of humor, it’s going to be rough go,” she said.

“First of all, you do have to have a passion for your art itself and that is paramount,” she said. “The music has to come first. You have to be in love with it. And, you know, I feel I have a passion for being true to it. And you need perseverance.”

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Mitchell Hockenbury Goes with Grit Going the distance for Mitchell C. Hockenbury, meant “grit,” he said.

Hockenbury, has numerous financial certifications under his belt and owns his own business. He graduated from UNO in 2002 with a degree in business and finance. In September, he gave a presentation at UNO to students and alumni regarding financial planning. He shared some of his own stories about his challenging early life. He was the first in his family to go to college and earn a degree.

However, that isn’t where the real story begins. His idea of going the distance with “grit” didn’t come with a financial spreadsheet.

Hockenbury is a career military man serving two tours, first enlisting in the Marine Corps and being commissioned in the Army as an infantry officer, then as a commander for his second tour. He led the last fighting force out of Iraq in December of 2011 and was awarded numerous medals.

Hockenbury wrote a book about his unique experiences. “Tactical Influence” chronicles his unique approach to solving the insurgency problem with words rather than force during his combat tours as an infantry platoon leader during the surge of Iraq. He said he’s changed some of the way the military operates because of his groundbreaking methods.

“I say grit because it took grit to get to do what I thought was right and was kind of counter to what the Army taught,” Hockenbury said, “and you’re doing it in front of a bunch of alpha males, right? And it’s like junkyard dogs and they like the action. They don’t like to talk.

Believe me, we got plenty of action. But I did it. I went with what I thought would work.”

Using words instead of weapons, he countered the insurgency in four months, and it was “nothing short of phenomenal.”

He said it took grit to get through his last four years in the military but serving military personnel on the side with his financial business during that time is what he became passionate about.

“Helping others” including hundreds of soldiers and families has “changed my life for the better,” Hockenbury said.

Today, Hockenbury’s business, 1440 Financial Partners, operates in Omaha and Kansas City on foundational principles of a conservative approach and of building strong relationships in business and life.

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PHOTO ▸ Deen Van Meer

Q. Smith Finds Her Way Broadway star, Q. Smith, immediately recalls the line from the song “Go the Distance,” from the Disney movie “Hercules.”

Singing lyrics from the song, she said, “I will find my way. I can go the distance. I’ll be there someday.”

“I think that is what it is. Whatever it is. Finding your way in art, navigating through time and space, or moving to a different city,” Smith said on a Zoom call from her home in Manhattan, New York.

However, going the distance doesn’t always mean success.

“It can mean just going as far as you can for whatever you want out of life,” Smith said.

Smith, born in Omaha as Quiana, attended UNO in 1995 and 1996, majoring in theatre, before going on to Ithaca College in New York.

She later obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theatre. Of her many credits, she has performed on Broadway, on television and toured internationally.

Smith was in the first revival of “Les Misérables” off Broadway and performed in that production in Omaha, which she said was very rewarding to her because when she also first saw the musical in 11th grade it gave her “chills.”

“I said, ‘this is what I want to do for the rest of my life,” and then it turned out to be my Broadway debut,” Smith recalled. “It was very powerful for me seeing that dream realized. It makes you feel more confident in seeing what else you can do.”

Success for Q. has also come in other ways, such as her marriage to fellow performer, Lawrence Stallings, and being mom to Caleb, 3.

She said she started singing early at the Salem Baptist Church in Omaha in the children’s choir and performing in plays that her mother and grandmother would write. Her parents, Liana Smith, a Christian playwright and drama director and father Rudolph “Rudy” Smith, renowned photojournalist and UNO alumnus were her foundation. She was grateful to get a full-ride scholarship to UNO for academics. After finishing her degree in musical theatre at Ithaca College she moved to New York City and began, “living the dream,” she said.

Smith credits the church and her parents for the support she had along the way. “As many times as I called, they never, never said come home,” Smith said. “I knew in my heart I didn’t want to. And I am so grateful they didn’t give me that cushion to fall on.”

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Jared Hall Practices Tenacity Jared Hall graduated from the UNO in the multidisciplinary studies area in 2020. This gave him a solid footing as a fashion designer and founder of 3am Luxury. Even though he was discovered online and now participates in international fashion shows, he said he is just getting started.

that he could do something different with his life.

After leaving college the first time, and spending two years in California, Hall came back to Omaha. He had to let go of friends and situations to pave the way to actualize his goals to get back into college and to create a business.

“My goal is to become an overall global iconic brand,” he said.

“In just being a young black male society says one thing and you fight against society because you say that’s not who I am,” Hall said.

About going the distance, he said is, “Having tenacity to face adversity and new challenges and the will to win.”

The former athlete related it to playing a team sport.

“I’m the one that is here to take the throne. I am here to hold it,” he said. “But at the same time when you are part of a team you also have the ability to inspire others.”

Hall’s road meant sacrifices and big dreams that “molded” him and encouraged him to show others

Hall received support from his parents, four sisters and five brothers. He and his twin brother, Jaron Hall, share a competitive spirit and push each other to achieve their dreams.

So far, Hall has overcome many obstacles including getting articles of incorporation, naming, logo and trademarking approval. It took nine years and a lot of rejections he said. Most of the work he did himself because he wanted to understand the process.

Giving Back

Not Done Yet

A common thread among these alumni is the desire to give back to others.

Sometimes going the distance doesn’t have a destination, the dreams just keep getting bigger.

In July, Smith and her husband taught a musical theatre interpretation workshop for participants in the Summer Musical Theatre Academy.

Smith said she will continue her concert work, educational endeavors and voice-over career but also wants to open a bed and breakfast in Hawaii and become a published author

“I tell my students, ‘I won’t be around in a hundred years, but you will, and I want to tell you everything I know so you can develop,’” Smith said.

Hockenbury said in the next five to ten years, “I do know that I will be helping people. It is little nuggets that come along. The reason I’m here is passing off [knowledge] and empowering.”

Allyson has worked on numerous projects with UNO. In November, Allyson and her partner, Bill McLaughlin, performed at UNO’s Strauss Performing Arts Center.

Hall, too, gives back to UNO by speaking to business classes.

Additionally, he wants to be able to contribute to the local economy someday, build partnerships and offer jobs to those who also desire to work in the fashion industry.

“You know I have a lot of dreams and I love to tell my students that dreams do come true,” she said.

“They really do. So, once you hit that dream or goal, then set another one.”

Hall said he’s 50% of the way there.

“I must have an impact on the world. That’s what my overall mission is to impact the world and for others to know my life and to share the example of my experience.”

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UNO ALUMNI PUBLICATIONS:

PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

by Hugh Reilly

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For 82 years, the University of Nebraska at Omaha Alumni Association, has gone the distance to keep its alumni informed.

“I always thought of UNO as a microcosm of the larger world,” said former editor Mary Kenny. “There was always someone or something exciting to write about, whether the story reflected social and cultural trends, diverse viewpoints, artistic expression, political discourse, scientific innovation or the latest technology or research. I still view UNO the same way, all these years later.”

Omaha University published its first alumni newsletter, the Alumni Gateway in 1941, the same year the United States entered World War II. It was patterned after the University’s long-standing student newspaper, The Gateway. The monthly publication included notes from alumni, news on campus construction and updates on Omaha University’s athletic teams. It also had quaint features like “Caught

by Cupid,” a list of alumni engagement announcements.

In 1950, the alumni magazine was renamed Injun*, after the

University’s sports nickname, the Omaha Indians. It was a quarterly newsletter often featuring artwork or photography on the cover.

The title didn’t last long. In March of 1953, the alumni publication changed its name to the Alumni Newsletter. Published bimonthly, it remained in that format until 1971.

In July of 1968, Omaha University became part of the University of Nebraska system and was renamed the University of Nebraska at Omaha. In 1971, the students voted to retire the anachronistic team name, Indians, and replaced it with Mavericks. Terry Humphrey became editor of UNO Alumni News in 1973 and launched the publication into a magazine format.

Humphrey said one of the early untold stories involved UNO’s new mascot, Victor E. Maverick. Inspired by live mascots like Ralphie from Colorado and Bevo from Texas, UNO wanted to parade their

I ALWAYS THOUGHT OF UNO AS A MICROCOSM OF THE LARGER WORLD. THERE WAS ALWAYS SOMEONE OR SOMETHING EXCITING TO WRITE ABOUT...

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ALUMNI GATEWAY Monthly

INJUN Quarterly

ALUMNI NEWSLETTER Bimonthly

*Municipal University of Omaha/University of Nebraska at Omaha sports team name of “Indians” was abolished in May 1971, along with associated mascots, nicknames and other references to Native American imagery or terms (such as the yearbook name “Tomahawk”). UNO would be briefly without a mascot, until “Mavericks” was selected in October 1971.

The university now recognizes that the mascot and associated depictions is offensive. When the university first selected this mascot in 1939, school mascots based on Native American stereotypes were common. Many artifacts, publications, names, and other material from university history from the period 1939 through 1971 depict Native American caricatures, and it is difficult to present materials from this era without showing or acknowledging this mascot. We accept this as a part of our history, as we accept that the 1971 mascot change represented a positive step for the university.

40 new mascot at the beginning of football games. Unfortunately, the animal proved difficult to handle so UNO recruited an “expert” to help them. Humprey said “Uncle Vinny” recruited a couple of beefy assistants to throw ropes around the mascot in the barn to try and calm him down. Furious, Victor E. Maverick charged the trio.

“Fortunately,” said Humphrey, “the steer ran out of rope before Uncle Vinny ran out of barn.” That ended the live mascot experiment.

The magazine featured stories relevant to alumni.

Humphrey broke the magazine into sections: Arts, Focus, Profile and Campus Capsules. He had plenty to write about. The 1970s were an exciting time at UNO. The campus was rapidly expanding with construction completed on Allwine Hall, Kayser Hall, Strauss Performing Arts Center, Roskens Hall and the new Library.

The 1980s saw the addition of the Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER, now Health & Kinesiology (H&K) building, the Thompson Alumni Center and Durham Hall. The magazine had stories on all the new construction.

There were guest editorials and even an occasional point/ counterpoint. The summer 1977 issue featured a debate on the

question “Is TV Dulling Our Children’s Minds?” Professor Richard Lane from the English department opined that too much TV decreased children’s interest in reading and affected their learning. Professor Warren Francke from the Department of Communication defended TV, if consumed in moderation. He believed it kept children entertained and informed. However, he did recommend that parents supervise their children’s TV viewing.

Jim Leslie, UNO’s Alumni Director from 1973-2006, said one of his principal jobs was overseeing the editors of the alumni magazine. “I never got in their way,” said Leslie. “We’d confer and talk about story ideas and what we needed to include in the publication, but the final decision was up to the editor.”

“One of our primary goals was to talk about how successful our alumni have been,” said Leslie. “UNO has not always been given recognition for the excellence of its alumni. At one point, UNO was second only to West Point in the number of its alumni who had reached the rank of General. Our alumni include governors, U.S. senators, prominent businessmen and women, leading educators and famous members of the arts. We’ve told their stories in the pages of our magazine.”

Finding interesting alumni stories may have been the easiest part of the editor’s job. Former editor Kenny stated, “When I was editor, it was a one-person shop, so juggling the many moving pieces of publication production was a challenge.” The duties included everything from creating the story budget, writing the stories, and designing the publication to managing the photography and overseeing the mailing. Kenny added, “eventually we were able to hire freelancers, which was a great help.”

Former editor Anthony Flott agrees there was never a shortage of story ideas. “There were always eager freelancers and a steady supply of home-grown talent from the School of Communication. Everyone had story ideas.”

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UNO: THE QUARTERLY OF THE UNO ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Quarterly

UNO ALUMNI NEWS Quarterly

UNO TODAY Quarterly

41 university continues to produce research and teaching that is relevant to our alumni.”

Through the years the publication evolved from a basic newsletter, sponsored and written by the alumni association, to a full color magazine funded by both the alumni association and the University of Nebraska Foundation. No longer a one-person shop, both the alumni association and the Foundation provide staffing support and story ideas. UNO Magazine has become the University’s flagship publication.

Flott remembers so many stories. Stories about former faculty members like Senior Vice Chancellor B.J. Reed and famous alumni like General Johnny Wilson. Wilson came up from poverty to become only the third Black 4-star general. His degree from UNO’s bootstrap program made a difference. “I can still see in my

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Public Affairs & Community Service

30 Years of Engaging, Creating, Serving

By Nick Schinker hey are non-profit executives, police chiefs, airport executives, human and social service professionals, and officials of city, county and state government.

They are community-minded. They are dedicated. They are successful.

They are graduates of UNO’s College of Public Affairs and Community Service (CPACS).

As the college this year celebrates its 30th anniversary, its alumni perhaps are the best reminder of the college’s statewide teaching, research and outreach mission and its rich history of “Engaging Citizens, Creating Solutions and Serving the Community.”

The college’s establishment stems in part from the social and racial turbulence of the 1960s—a time that triggered riots and protests from the streets of North Omaha to Memorial Park and UNO’s front door.

Nebraskans responded in one way by assembling the blue-ribbon Regents’ Commission on the Urban University of the ’70s.

The commission in 1970 recommended that UNO “play a major role in identifying community problems and contributing to their solutions.” Its 140 members that fall issued a 32-page report listing 20 recommendations that would assist UNO in becoming “even more a quality urban university.”

Recommendation No. 2 was for “a massive expansion

T

in the role of the university in the community through the establishment of an Institute for Public and Community Affairs.”

“The college started as an agent of change,” says CPACS Dean B.J. Reed.

Now it has evolved into a vital component of the University of Nebraska system. “Through the years,” Reed adds, “it has added a tremendous amount of academic quality. Our faculty and staff have received almost 30 per-

CPACS programs at a glance

N

Ine academic and outreach programs constitute the College of Public Affairs and Community Service. They include:

Hubert Locke, CPACS dean from 1972 to 1975.

Aviation Institute

Continuing Studies

Criminal Justice

Gerontology

Goodrich Program

Public Administration

Social Work

Brennan Institute

Public Affairs

• The Aviation Institute.

Part of the School of Public Administration, it ranks among the top aviation programs in the nation. Its faculty members administer the NASA Nebraska Space Grant Consortium, which provides student fellowships, research support and curriculum assistance to K-12 and higher education throughout the state. Each year, more than 50 million people via network news broadcasts view the institute’s research on the national Airline Quality Rating.

• The Division of Continuing Studies. Source for the bachelor of general studies degree, the division joined CPACS in 2003.

The BGS is one of the nation’s oldest baccalaureate degree programs designed especially for adults, and the only one of its kind in the NU system.

More than 22,000 UNO alumni have BGS degrees.

• The Department of Criminal Justice. Peers continually rank it among the finest such programs in the United States. It boasts a national reputation for the quality of its faculty research endeavors into policing practices, sentencing decisions and criminal justice trends.

• The Department of Gerontology. Also among the most influential departments of its kind in the country, it offers undergraduate and graduate certificate programs and a master’s degree in social gerontology. The department also houses the Program for Women and Successful Aging.

• The Goodrich Scholarship Program. Established in 1972, it offers full scholarships to economically disadvantaged students of diverse backgrounds, providing them the structure and curriculum necessary to develop successful writing and studying skills. It is a recipient of the university-wide departmental teaching award, the Hesburgh Certificate of Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching, and the Noel Levitz Student Retention Award.

• The School of Public Administration. Ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top 30 public management programs in the nation. It and the Department of Criminal Justice offer the only two freestanding doctoral programs at UNO.

• The School of Social Work. Also ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best graduate programs of its kind. It leads the university in service-learning opportunities through which students put into practice theories learned in the classroom.

• The William Brennan Institute for Labor Studies.

The institute works statewide to foster creative and critical thinking among labor leaders and union members. In one year, the institute’s two staff members conducted 58 programs in seven Nebraska cities with more than 1,200 participants.

• The Center for Public Affairs Research. Along with the State Data Center it utilizes U.S. Census data to track trends, provide assistance to faculty research endeavors, and assist community agencies in programs, research and evaluation.

UNOALUM

12 • Fall 2004

buLLy on bgs

cent of all campus-wide teaching and research awards in “Our challenge is to continue to grow without substanthe past 10 years.” tive increases in state support,” Reed says. “I think we Today, CPACS (http://cpacs.unomaha.edu) boasts an have done a good job, but we need to do more.” enrollment of nearly 3,000 students with That means reaching beyond the colnine academic and outreach programs lege’s own graduates, many of whom have (see sidebar below). chosen public service rather than higher“The college started “Each of these units brings regional and paying careers. national reputations for excellence,” Reed as an agent of “We need to make our case to the numsays. “Criminal Justice, Social Work, and change. Through the ber of individuals who may not be graduPublic Administration are among the top ates of our college but who share the programs of their kind in the nation. vision and ideals of what our college repyears it has added a Public Administration, for example, ranks resents,” Reed adds. above such institutions as Yale, Princeton, tremendous amount The accomplishments of the past three the University of Texas, the University of of academic quality.” decades are part of the pitch.

California-Berkeley and Rutgers.”

Assistant Dean Sara Woods says the This despite funding that likely doesn’t diversity of the college’s faculty, its comapproach that of such big-name universiCPACS Dean B.J. Reed mitment to excellence in teaching and ties. Funding today is among the college’s research, and its outreach to the commumost critical issues. The rate of increase nity and the state are testament to the in state funding has slowed dramatically, foresight of that 140-member commission now amounting to only $7 million of an and the people who put the commission’s overall budget of nearly $10 million. This recommendation in place. has required CPACS to develop and “The college has done some really broaden external funding sources, from remarkable things in its first 30 years,” grants to donor support, and it is sucWoods says. “We have a statewide misceeding in many ways. Faculty and staff in sion that takes us from Omaha to the past year have generated nearly $3 Scottsbluff. With the proper and necessary million in external grants with another support, we hope to continue to be a benalmost $5 million in proposals currently efit to the entire state and improve the in development. quality of life for all its citizens.”

w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g

Dustin rief was halfway home when he decided to pursue a college degree at UNO.

Taking notice Though they attended UNO in different eras, Bartlett and Spencer give the institution top marks for its service to those who serve their countries.

That’s nothing new, but it’s good to hear, says Jennifer Carroll, director of UNO’s Military and Veterans University Services Office — MaV USO. “The university has always been military friendly,” she says.

The experts agree: • The Military Times in a study of 4,000 U.S. colleges and universities ranked UNO among the top six — three rungs ahead of the University of Kansas, eight ahead of Arizona State University and 28 ahead of the University of Alabama — in such categories as financial assistance, academic flexibility, campus culture and support services for military veterans.

striking a cord For now, the commemorative coin Dustin Rief received from MaV USO to mark his graduation in May rests in a jewelry box beside his watch. Someday, the Army veteran with 10 years, eight months service, plans to include the coin in a display with the others he received during his military career.

The red, white and blue cord he wore during graduation — also a gift from MaV USO — will be placed in a shadow box with his honor society cords.

Rief, who served in Iraq, says the mementos were a nice touch. “They were completely unexpected.”

In response, Jennifer Carroll, director of MaV USO, says: “It’s our way of saying thanks for their service — while following a military tradition.”

At left: They were outnumbered by their Air Force and Army counterparts, but these two Marine Bootstrappers were all smiles to be on campus in 1962. Center: Jack Treadwell (’63), one of at least three UNO graduates to have received the Congressional Medal of Honor. Right: Omaha U. students, including Angel Flight members, paraded their love for the military during a parade in downtown Omaha in 1952.

• U.S. News & World Report ranked UNO No. 5 for “Best Online Bachelor's Programs for Veterans.” The magazine wrote: “Like other students, veterans and active-duty service members gain most from distance education that is affordable, accessible and well-regarded.”

• G.I. Jobs magazine placed Omaha No. 4 on its list of “Top 50 Military Friendly Cities” for 2013 — right behind Houston and directly ahead of Dallas. The list measures the number of job openings at military-friendly employers, the number of military-friendly campuses and the number of registered veteran-owned businesses located within the region.

UNO is no newcomer to serving veterans. UNO has had an ROTC unit on campus for 62 years and was among a handful of institutions to participate in the military Bootstrap Program in 1951. The program was designed to encourage members of the military to “lift themselves by the bootstraps” by earning a

college degree. By 1968, UNO had the biggest and principal bootstrap program in the country. At least 12,000 military members received their degrees under the program. Dozens of them went on to become generals, including Johnnie Wilson, just the third black four-star general in U.S. Army history. Their ranks include four Medal of Honor recipients and one Olympian. Bootstrapper Hall in the Thompson Center was underwritten by them and named in their honor.

Spencer recalls hearing talk that his senior class at Omaha University had more bootstrappers than civilian students.

That’s no longer the case, but Carroll says the number of military service and veteran students attending UNO has seen steady growth since the Post-9/11 GI Bill was enacted in August 2009. Students take courses on campus, at Offutt Air Force Base or online. UNO also has a satellite office at Offutt.

UNO graduate Johnnie Wilson, the Carroll estimated that about 3,000 third black four-star general in U.S. veterans, active duty and reserves are Army history. enrolled at UNO. Since 2009, Carroll says, the university annually enrolls about 200 military services members and veterans, while losing up to 100 to graduation and attrition each year.

Because UNO is a full participant in the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs’ Yellow Ribbon Program, students using the Post-9/11 GI Bill have their tuition and fees covered at UNO — regardless of whether they are Nebraska residents.

By seeking a bachelor of general studies degree with a concentration in political science and government, rief, an army veteran, received credit for the military courses already completed.

“The general studies degree is UNO’s most militaryfriendly program,” says kimberly Miller, manager of UNO’s Division of Continuing studies at Offutt. The bachelor of general studies degree will accept up to 64 credit hours from a junior or community college, which includes the Community College of the air force and the Defense language Institute. The degree offers students opportunities to concentrate in areas of interest, she says.

basEd on basE UNO’s presence at Offutt air force Base is not by accident.

“Our goal is to eliminate any barriers in the way of military students wanting to achieve their education,” says kimberly Miller, manager of UNO’s Division of Continuing studies at Offutt.

Miller and her staff help active duty military students navigate the enrollment, registration and tuition assistance process — without having to leave base. she manages UNO’s office at Offutt, which dates to the creation of the Bootstrapper program in the early 1950s and can be found in the Base Education Office.

Their assistance begins with helping active personnel stationed at Offutt — no matter where they call home — qualify for in-state tuition.

Military students can take English and mathematics placement tests, have exams proctored and receive academic advising at the office. several courses are offered on base each semester.

“We want to make it easy for you to work hard at your studies.”

Fall 2004 • 13

Flott says funding was always his biggest challenge. “We started with 50,000 alumni on our list. Over the years that number grew to 120,000. We had to print and mail four issues a year and there was no subscription charge. We’ve had to switch to three issues a year to maintain costs.”

“Our No. 1 goal is to continue to offer free issues to every graduate.

We see it as a valuable connection to the university. We provide quality journalism; people want to read a quality product. The

mind the layouts from those great stories,” said Flott, “General Wilson in his crisp uniform and B.J. Reed in front of a red fence wearing a purple suit.”

Alumni Director Jim Leslie knew he had to get the UNO story out there and believed the magazine was the best way to do that. Flott agrees, “We’ve spent millions of dollars over 82 years getting this publication into the hands of our alumni because we know it’s often their No. 1 connection with the university.”

THE FUTURE OF UNO MAGAZINE What do you love and what would you change about UNO Magazine?

Tell us by completing a brief survey at unoalumni.org/magsurvey

by December 29.

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UNO ALUM Quarterly

UNO MAGAZINE 3x per year

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The 10 longest-serving UNO staff members and the 10 longest-serving faculty members from each college (70 employees) have a combined 2,378 years of unwavering commitment to UNO’s mission and community. They have witnessed the university’s growth and transformation over decades. To understand their experiences and perspectives, we asked them: “What has changed the most during your time at UNO?” and “What has stayed the same?” These seasoned individuals offer valuable insights into the university’s evolution and endurance.

Bing Chen, Ph.D.

Thomas B. Bragg, Ph.D.

Years of Service: 58

Years of Service: 49

Professor, Electrical & Computer Engineering (UNL)

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST? I came to the UNO College of Engineering in 1965. UNO now has developed programs of national note and created the well-known entities such as the Afghanistan Center and the Biomechanics Center. Dormitories and an Aksarben campus have completely altered UNO’s landscape and further expansion to Baxter Arena with new ball fields on the Center Street addition has made UNO unrecognizable. UNO today is a vibrant urban university with multiple graduate and research programs. It has grown up, but its past was born of conflict and mistrust and the loss of two of its leaders. I was a witness to the times of turmoil and peace and pray UNO’s future is one of dynamic renewal as a leading urban university in America’s heartland which leads to the realization of the Silicon Prairie, I envisioned some two decades ago.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? Over the decades I have resided in Omaha first as a UNO faculty member and now as faculty for UNL’s Electrical and Computer Engineering department I see UNO as a school that retains its strong education roots and connectedness to serving its urban community. Teaching has always been an attribute of OU and now UNO. I hope it will always remain so.

Even with an increasing emphasis on research and graduate programs I believe teaching all students and serving our community should be our primary goal.

Professor, Biology Director, Glacier Creek Preserve

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST? The educational and physical resources available to students, most notably, providing on-campus housing.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? The commitment of faculty to students.

Barbara Newell

Staff Secretary III, Counseling

Years of Service: 47

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST? Technology has changed the most during my time at UNO. I started at UNO using an electric typewriter, onionskin paper and carbon, stencil machine and ditto machine. My department taught a course on technology which included the ditto machine, film projector, opaque projector and a few others. Now we work on laptops! There were no parking garages, no campus housing and no South campus. Some classes met in Quonset huts.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? The ebb and flow of semesters, and the diversity of faculty, staff and students about campus.

43 Michael P. Peterson, Ph.D.

Wai-Ning Mei, Ph.D.

Years of Service: 41

Years of Service: 39

Professor, Geography/Geology

Professor, Physics

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST?

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST?

Fewer parking lots and more buildings. Also, smaller class sizes.

Research activities have increased in the past decades, and their quality is appreciated nationally and internationally.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? We still have a lot of parking, and a lot of students driving themselves to the university.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME?

Harmon D. Maher, Ph.D.

Michael Hilt, Ph.D.

Professor, Geography/Geology

Years of Service: 40

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST? So much has changed in the past 40 years it is hard to single out what has changed the most. It has been quite a ride. Quite striking is the physical infrastructure. When I first came, I was glad to have a job, but the Arts and Sciences Hall where I started out reminded me of a high school. No more. Now we have a north and south campus, and buildings dedicated to the sciences, fine arts and even to service learning, and it is hard to appreciate how much Arts and Sciences Hall has been improved. The other major change has been in student demographics. When I first started, I felt a bit awkward at times because there were a fair number of students older than I was. There were a lot of non-traditional learners returning to college. That is no longer the case for two reasons. Foremost is that I am 40 years older. In addition, our incoming student body is younger. We still have and treasure our nontraditional students, but it is also gratifying to serve those coming directly out of high school and wondering what to do with their lives and what are the options. Of course, the advent of dorms had a lot to do with bringing in those more traditional college students. The final important change that comes to mind is the addition of programs expanding the career possibilities that UNO can pursue. A new college of IS&T, neuroscience, biomechanics and the list goes on. I feel quite fortunate to have been working at UNO as all this has unfolded.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? A dedication to providing students with rich learning experiences, not only in the classroom but outside of the classroom has been a constant focus at the university in my time. This includes undergraduate research experiences, service learning experiences, internships, travel abroad and much more. The new infrastructure and programs allow for providing a greater range of those experiences, but from the start, I found a culture interested in innovating to enrich students’ lives. Also, when I arrived at UNO, many took pride in being at a non-traditional institute of higher learning, and I still think that is the case. Someone once asked a wellknown researcher at UNO upon his retirement why he had stayed given that he clearly could have left for another institute if he so desired. He responded that he liked being the underdog, and liked knowing that in working with urban, non-traditional, first-generation students, he had a larger chance of making a real difference. That resonated with me.

If you want, call it the Maverick Spirit, but for me, it has been here the whole time.

The quality and standard of teaching have stayed unchanged.

Dean, College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media Professor, Communication

Years of Service: 35

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST? The campus footprint has drastically changed in the 35+ years. When I came to Omaha, UNO was confined to Dodge Street.

Weber Fine Arts Building did not exist nor did the Campanile. Other buildings have undergone several renovations. Student Housing was not a part of UNO. And we did not have space to the south of Elmwood Park.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? The quality of our students. I remarked during my first semester how committed our students were to their education. That continues today.

Mavericks then and now are using a UNO education to prepare for the next steps in their careers.

Lisa Scherer, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Psychology

Years of Service: 35

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST DURING YOUR TIME AT UNO? I have marveled at the dramatic evolution of UNO given the addition of nationally recognized graduate programs, enhanced service learning and community engagement initiatives, increased education abroad opportunities and the elevation of UNO sports to Division I along with the construction of Baxter Arena, Scott Campus and additional dormitories. There is a greater diversity of students and a marked increase in student support services, extra-curricular activities and infrastructure and funding for student research.

Training and continuing education efforts for faculty and staff have increased with the creation of the UNO Digital Learning Team.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? UNO faculty and staff continue to demonstrate a high level of commitment to student success, often at considerable personal sacrifice. UNO students continue to be stretched due to managing academic and employment commitments, but I find that most are very resilient and persevering despite these challenges.

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Qiuming Zhu, Ph.D.

Professor, Computer Science

Years of Service: 33

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST? • Risen from a mainly teaching institution to a Research II University • Expanded from one campus to two campuses and founded the new college of Information Science and Technology • Constructed student dormitories on both campuses and the Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? • Dedication of faculty to student and education excellence • Critical contributions to the welfare and prosperity of the Omaha community and the state of Nebraska • Beautiful and spiritual campuses

Jeremy Harris Lipschultz, Ph.D.

Nikolaos Stergiou, Ph.D.

Assistant Dean and Director, Biomechanics Distinguished Community Research Chair and Professor, Biomechanics Director, Center for Research in Human Movement Variability (MOVCENTR)

Years of Service: 27

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST? Research is what has changed the most during my time at UNO. We now have a Research Building, a department where faculty dedicate their time to research, significant external funding from several federal sources and several research programs that are the best in the world.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? Some people, both internal and external, still view UNO as a small teaching university. They need to get over their misconceptions and understand that things have changed and keep changing. UNO is a significant metropolitan university, and our future is bright!

Peter Kiewit Distinguished Professor, Communication

William Austin, Ed.D.

Years of Service: 28

Years of Service: 26

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST?

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST?

Associate Professor, Teacher Education

The Dodge Street campus was about to grow in 1989 with the addition of the Weber Fine Arts and Durham Science buildings. The Pacific Street campus, Division 1 hockey, student housing and Baxter Arena all came after my arrival. Before online registration, students still were in long lines at Milo Bail Student Center to register for classes. I also remember there being a lot of smokers inside the buildings. The campus today is much larger and more complex than our community of creative students and professors at the end of the 20th Century.

From my viewpoint, the things that have changed the most here at UNO during my years center around the loss of the diversity within the faculty ranks with the focus being African American faculty, which as a result, contributed to lack of racial diversity within the student ranks, again with African American students. Also, the access and use of technology to some degree in all phases of the learning and teaching process. Both between the students and faculty and faculty to faculty.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME?

Again, from my corner of the world, the importance of connecting with students on a more personal level in order to contribute to the mission of higher education remains the same and is much needed. That mission is to advance humankind by always seeking the better version of self and how we interact with each other, treat each other, think of each other and assist each other. Regardless of race, creed, sexual orientation, gender or political association.

The unique UNO culture has been maintained because we remain a vital part of the Omaha community in every imaginable way. Community engagement is simply what we do. Our location in the heart of a growing city allows student internships to expand. The UNO School (then department) of Communication first created an internship program in 1990, and other programs followed our lead. We have important nonprofit and business partners helping students join the workforce. Most importantly, UNO students continue to be a special brand of scrappy Mavericks.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME?

Melissa Berke, Ph.D. Phani Tej Adidam, Ph.D. Professor and Chair Marketing and Entrepreneurship

Years of Service: 27

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST? Three things: expansion of campus footprint (Scott Campus); diffusion of technology to faculty and students; more diverse faculty.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? Focus on student centricity; supportive community; and collegiality.

Associate Dean, College of Communication, Fine Arts & Media

Years of Service: 25

WHAT HAS CHANGED THE MOST? The brand and profile of UNO have continually strengthened in my time here. The opening of University Village in 1999 was really the catalyst for helping UNO to evolve to where it is today.

WHAT HAS STAYED THE SAME? The Maverick spirit has always been a part of UNO. It is an atmosphere of collaboration, innovation and a commitment to being an integral part of the Omaha community.

ROBERT OTTEMANN, J.D. Associate Professor, Management ARTHUR DIAMOND, JR. Professor, Economics ZIAUL HUQ , PH.D. Professor, Management LYNN HARLAND, PH.D. Associate Dean, College of Business Administration WIKIL KWAK, PH.D. Professor, School of Accounting THOMAS MARTIN, PH.D. Professor, Management DAVID VOLKMAN, PH.D. Chairperson, Department of Finance Banking & Real Estate PHANI TEJ ADIDAM, PH.D. Chairperson, Marketing & Entrepreneurship CATHERINE CO, PH.D. Professor, Economics CHRISTOPHER DECKER, PH.D. Professor, Economics

50 37 37 34 34 34 34 27 23 22

COLLEGE OF COMMUNICATION, FINE ARTS AND MEDIA

CYNTHIA PHANEUF, PH.D. Professor, Theatre MICHAEL HILT, PH.D. Dean, College of Communication, Fine Arts & Media; Professor, Communications JEREMY HARRIS LIPSCHULTZ, PH.D. Professor, Communication DAVID HELM, M.F.A. Peter Kiewit Distinguished Professor, Art and Art History BARBARA SIMCOE, M.F.A. Professor, Art and Art History STEVEN WILLIAMS, M.F.A. Coordinator, Theatre MELISSA BERKE, PH.D. Associate Dean, College of Communication, Fine Arts & Media PETER MADSEN, D.M.A. Professor, Music THOMAS ROLAND, D.M.A. Professor, Music BARBARA PICKERING, PH.D. Professor, Communication

38 35 35 28 28 28 25 23 23 22

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, HEALTH AND HUMAN SCIENCES

RICHARD STACY, ED.D. Professor, School of Health and Kinesiology KATHLEEN DANIELSON, PH.D. Chairperson, Teacher Education NEALY GRANDGENETT, PH.D. Interim Dean, College of Education, Health & Human Sciences C. OSTLER, ED.D. Professor, Educational Leadership SHERYL MCGLAMERY, PH.D. Professor, Teacher Education JOHN NOBLE, PH.D. Associate Professor, School of Health and Kinesiology NIKOLAOS STERGIOU, PH.D. Assistant Dean and Director, Biomechanics; Professor, Biomechanics WILLIAM AUSTIN, ED.D. Associate Professor, Teacher Education MELISSA CAST-BREDE, PH.D. Associate Professor, Teacher Education KRISTINE DOHRMAN-SWAIN, PH.D. Associate Dean, College of Education, Health & Human Sciences

39 34 34 30 27 27 27 26 22 22

HASSAN FARHAT, PH.D. Professor, Computer Science HESHAM ALI, PH.D. Professor, Computer Science ZHENGXIN CHEN, PH.D. Professor, Computer Science QIUMING ZHU, PH.D. Professor, Computer Science M AZADMANESH, PH.D. Professor, Computer Science PAUL VAN VLIET, PH.D. Associate Professor, Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis PETER WOLCOTT, PH.D. Chairperson, Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis DEEPAK KHAZANCHI, PH.D. Professor, Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis VICTOR WINTER, PH.D. Professor, Computer Science SAJDA QURESHI, PH.D. Professor, Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis

40 35 35 33 29 29 28 23 22 21

BARBARA HEWINS-MARONEY, PH.D. Associate Professor, Goodrich Program CHRIS ESKRIDGE, PH.D. Professor, School of Criminology & Criminal Justice DENNIS HOFFMAN, PH.D. Professor, School of Criminology & Criminal Justice IMAFEDIA OKHAMAFE, PH.D. Professor, Goodrich Program HENRY D’SOUZA, PH.D. Professor, Social Work THERESA BARRON-MCKEAGNEY, PH.D. Professor, Social Work JOHN BARTLE, PH.D. Dean, College of Public Affairs and Community Service SCOTT TARRY, PH.D. Associate Dean, College of Public Affairs and Community Service COLLEEN KADLECK, PH.D. Associate Professor, School of Criminology & Criminal Justice JULIE MASTERS, PH.D. Professor, Gerontology

50 45 43 38 35 34 30 23 22 22

KAREN FULTON, M.B.A. Assistant Director for Academic and Student Affairs BARBARA NEWELL Staff Secretary III, Counseling DANIEL JARESKE Assistant Manager, General Accounting TAMMIE FRENCH Administrative Associate, Office of the University Registrar GINA HOTALING Administrative Tech I, Milo Bail Student Center Business Office FRANK VACEK Manager, Television SHERYL CROGHAN Associate Director, Office of Financial Support/Scholarship JANET MCLAUGHLIN Associate Registrar, Office of the University Registrar KATHY PFEIFFER Business Manager, Student Life & Wellbeing JOAN MCCULLOUGH Enrollment Specialist II, Office of the University Registrar

47 47 46 44 44 44 43 43 43 42

UNO STAFF

COLLEGE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

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YEARS OF SERVICE

COLLEGE OF INFORMATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

49 42 41 40 39 38 37 37 35 34

Thank You

THOMAS BRAGG, PH.D. Professor, Biology; Director, Glacier Creek Preserve JAMES HAGEN, PH.D. Professor, Chemistry MICHAEL PETERSON, PH.D. Professor, Geography/Geology HARMON MAHER, PH.D. Professor, Geography/Geology WAI-NING MEI, PH.D. Professor, Physics JANICE RECH, PH.D. Associate Professor, Mathematics STEVEN FROM, PH.D. Professor, Mathematics OWEN MORDAUNT, PH.D. Professor, English LISA SCHERER, PH.D. Associate Professor, Psychology JOSEPH BROWN, PH.D. Professor, Psychology

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CLASS NOTES

CLASS NOTES D. BROWN (BS; MS, 72 RICHARD 1975) was profiled in the August issue of New Horizons, the monthly newspaper of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, about his 52-year career in education.

He is in his 15th year as speech and debate coach at Creighton Preparatory School, is a 48-year writer for the Midlands Business Journal, and has been recognized by Metropolitan Community College for completing 60 quarters as an adjunct teacher. He spent 36 years as a teacher and coach at Millard South High School. rdanfordbrown@aol.com

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PAUL HAMMEL (BA), alongside Cate Folsom (1978), recently launched the news site Nebraska Examiner. The site, which includes journalist features by UNO alum Cindy Gonzalez, generated 3.5 million page views in its first year.

80 MARY KATHERINE HAMILTONSMITH (BA) has been named an Illinois Humanities “Road Scholar” for 2024, presenting the lecture “The Happy Invention: History and Significance of Picture Postcards.” Katherine is also a consulting associate with Brent Glass LLC, based in Washington D.C., that specializes in museums, public history and cultural diplomacy worldwide. khamiltonsmith@me.com

MARIE KALUZA 85 DINA KRUCKENBERG (BS) was named the 2023 Dick Chapin Radio Account Executive of the Year by the Nebraska Broadcasters Association at their annual state convention in August. dina.kaluza@summitmediacorp.com

88 JEAN SYNOWICKI (BS) was named the new principal of St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School in Salt Lake City, Utah. Synowicki has been in the educational field for 33 years, the last 20 at St. John the Baptist Middle School in Draper, Utah, after beginning her career teaching math at Millard South High School in Omaha, Nebraska.

94 MATT HOLLAND (BA; MA, 2000) recently released his second independently published book, “The Rarest Kind of Courage: The Extraordinary Life of Fr. John Markoe,” a biography of “one of the most complex (and complicated) Catholic priests to live and work and bear witness to the cause of social/racial justice in this country.”

Holland’s first book, “Ahead of Their Time: The Story of the Omaha DePorres Club,” details the littleknown history of a pioneering Civil Rights organization.

99 BILLY MCGUIGAN (BGS) was inducted into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame. McGuigan is a highly accomplished entertainer renowned for his internationally touring shows, including Rave On! The Buddy Holly Experience, Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experiences and Billy McGuigan’s Pop Rock Orchestra.

CLASS NOTES

PORSCHA 01 DR. JACKSON

MASSA 15 RYAN (BS) was named

OVERWAY 20 TIA (BS) has joined

(BS) was awarded the 2023 Government Advocate of the Year for Minorities in Construction by Houston Minority Business Development Agency during the 8th Annual Salute to Minorities in Construction luncheon.

assistant coach for the University of Denver’s hockey team.

“Ryan has fit into our Pioneer family since joining us as a volunteer assistant two years ago, and I’m thrilled to elevate him within our staff,” said DU head coach David Carle.

CHAD HAFERBIER (BS) was named vice president and division manager at Leidos.

The Department of the Air Force veteran is an experienced defense procurement professional, certified under the Department of Defense Acquisition Professional Development Program and American Society of Military Comptrollers.

16 HYUNJAE JEON (MA)

Poyner Spruill LLP, one of North Carolina’s largest law firms. Overway defends businesses, individuals and governmental agencies in federal and state courts in matters involving zoning and land use regulations, condemnations and disputes involving tort and contractual liability.

06 TINA BAKEHOUSE (MA) recently released her bestselling book, “Discovering Our Magnetic Speaking Within.” Bakehouse is a heart-centered, passionate communication consultant and coach, TEDx speaker and former Disney cast member. Bakehouse has been protecting audiences from boring speeches and anchoring speaker’s magnetic confidence for over 20 years.

was named assistant professor of kinesiology at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD. Jeon previously served as an assistant professor in the School of Health Sciences at the University of Evansville in Indiana. He has lectured nationally and internationally on athletic injuries and human movement rehabilitation.

JOSELYNE CHENANE 18 DR. NKOGO (PH.D.) has recently received a grant for conference participation from the Carnegie Corporation of New York and the Institute of International Education, Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Program. She was the recipient of the 2021 African Diaspora Carnegie Foundation Fellowship from the Carnegie Foundation.

78 Hugh Reilly BACHELOR OF SCIENCE 1978; MASTER OF ARTS 1997

was inducted into the Omaha Press Club Journalists of Excellence Hall of Fame on Sept. 9, 2023.

Reilly has worked for two newspapers, as a copywriter for two ad agencies, in cable television for six years and in PR and marketing for two international nonprofits. He began teaching at UNO in 1999. Professor Reilly was the director of UNO’s School of Communication from 2013 to 2021. He has written or co-written six books, had dozens of articles published in regional and national magazines and has written many journal articles and chapters for academic books.

Additionally, Reilly led annual tours to Ireland for more than 25 years.

SEND US A CL ASS NOTE

We want to celebrate your accomplishments in our digital and print communications. unoalumni.org/ unoclassnote

TELL US YOUR GOOD NEWS!

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48

CLASS NOTES

SHOW THE O, a program created by the UNO Alumni Association, provides graduates, students, faculty, staff and friends with “O” flags to display in photos where they live or travel. It is the chance for Mavericks everywhere to share their story and their UNO pride. “O” flags have flown in every state across the country, including the flag of alum Terry Forman (BS, 1979).

Forman has gone the distance to show his UNO pride by taking pictures with his “O” flag while traveling across all 50 states to play a round of golf in each. We invited Forman to share his experiences with us, and to learn more about his dedication in completing his extensive adventure.

SHOW THE O 79 Terry Forman BACHELOR OF SCIENCE While we were having a beer after a round of golf in The Ozarks in October 2017, Greg said “we should try and play golf in all fifty states.” I said, “Okay, I’m 64 and you’re 69. If we’re going to do it, we better get at it! It’s not like we have 30 years to pull it together!”

The golf was obviously great, but more than that, the other places we experienced and the people we met along the way were even better.

Interestingly, after six years and 50 states, not once did we meet anyone who has played golf in every state.

That surprised us, as we figured that somewhere along the way we would meet up with someone who had done it.

Apparently, it’s rarer than we thought.

Terry Forman Showing the O at the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club on Oahu.

and they would ask what our favorite states and courses were.

All the places we experienced along the way include Boston, Washington D.C., Waikiki, Gatlinburg, Daytona Beach, the Alligator Farm, the floating island green in Couer d’Alene, Niagara Falls, Death Valley, Denali National Park, the French Quarter, Mount Rushmore, Devils Tower, the Redneck Riviera, Daytona Beach, the Snake River Canyon, the Bonneville Salt Flats, the lighthouse in York Beach, a Suns vs. Celtics game and the Forman Golf Course in Forman, North Dakota (that really is a place).

Everyone we traveled with was great and amazingly enough, we didn’t have one round rained out! Not one. What Greg and I enjoyed about this experience was the opportunity to see the entire country and to meet a lot of terrific people while using golf as an excuse! We even traveled right through COVID-19, which was actually a great time to travel because no one else was. Planes were half empty, hotels were cheaper and people working at the various locations loved to see us!

Some trips we flew and rented cars, while others were road trips. We went from originally getting hotel rooms to going with Airbnb rentals due to the additional space they provided. In fact, the Airbnb in Rhode Island was a 45-foot cabin cruiser in Providence Harbor. We almost always mentioned what we were attempting to do to people we met along the way. Everyone loved to talk about it,

I would recommend that everyone do something like this. If not golf, I recommend figuring out what you like to do. It could be visiting different football, baseball, basketball or hockey venues. It could be playing tennis in every state. It could be hiking in every state.

Whatever you have a passion for, just do it.

You will learn a lot about the country, as well as learning about yourself and others. Also, don’t quit! Once you commit to doing it, do it!

CLASS NOTES

Terry Forman at Furnace Creek Golf Course in Death Valley, California, the lowest course in the world at 214 feet below sea level.

Oh yeah, favorite courses? Probably five, in no particular order: Couer d’Alene in Idaho; Wolf Creek in Mesquite, Nevada; Lake Presidential in Maryland; Eagle Vail in Colorado and Royal Hawaiian on Oahu.

Showing the O at Creekside Golf Course south of Huntington, West Virginia.

Request your flag, view the 500+ Show the O photos around the world and submit yours at showtheo.com.

Terry Forman (left) and Greg Ebsen at Lake Presidential Golf Course in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

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CLASS NOTES

IN MEMORIAM Deceased alumni reported to the UNO Alumni Association or University of Nebraska Foundation between July 4 and October 6, 2023. We extend our condolences to the family and friends of these graduates.

1950 1951 1954 1955 1956 1957 1959 1960 1961 1963 1965

1966

Donald M. Vervaecke Edward J. Klima Richard W. Kimball Robert T. Moscrey George M. Ludvik Mildred J. Boyd Ronald G. Mayne Eleanor J. Byrne Robert L. Elsasser Thomas H. Sires John C. Emery Roger A. Ackerman Judith C. Ryan Sidney E. Anderson Jerald M. Goldstrom Charles J. Novacek James J. Lindsay John F. Dixon Lois A. Buckingham

1968 1969 1970 1972

1973

1974 1975 1976

Rotella_UNO Alumni ad 10.24.2023.pdf

1

Ronald W. Ruff Carl R. Benedict John D. Romano James E. Garrett Klaus U. Schoenherr Steven R. Eggers Douglas D. Gunthert Glenn H. Koch Thomas W. Williams Cheryl M. Desterhouse Larry G. Harvill Michael B. Addison Elaine J. Lamberty Charles J. Skoumal John L. Tiedeman Roger K. LaPage Cynthia M. Barnhard Melvin W. Clark Patrick J. Stricklett

10/24/23

1977 1978 1979 1980 1981

1982

1983 1985 1987

Mary M. Griffin Frederick W. Schott Tom L. Moseley Joan D. Bockenstedt Diane M. Ehrhart Charles W. Langloss John F. Conry Lois J. Thompson David L. Kelly Joan C. Denton John V. Pawloski Lloyd P. Pendleton John P. Krejci William J. Proksel Shari L. Aldrich Mary A. Blair Eugene J. Liu Vernon J. Trapp

1988 1990 1991 1992 1994 1996 1997 1998 2008 2013

Ruth J. Rasmussen John P. Tourek Gail M. Grzywa Jeff T. Courtney Lisa Lindquist Nicole Plowman Kendall J. Kratky Douglas J. Barber Shelly E. Richards Edie M. Schleiger Mark J. Dahir Charles C. Nielson Andrea L. Johnson

1:18 PM

Over 100 Years of Baking Excellence Since 1921

1ST PLACE 18 STRAIGHT YEARS

"We Would Rather Be The Best Than Apologize For Anything Less."

Setting The Standard in Collision Repair

rotellasbakery.com / 402.592.6600

402.558.3500 Corner of 50th & S. Saddle Creek Omaha

402.502.5511 Southwest Corner of 120th & Maple Omaha

402.502.8757 Southwest Corner of 144th & Industrial Rd Omaha

402.933.9400 Corner of Washington & Lincoln Papillion

FUTURE ALUMS

WELCOME TO THE MAVERICK FAMILY Get your future Maverick an O BABY! shirt when you submit a birth announcement within your child’s first year at unoalumni.org/futuremav.

Scarlett Joy Andersen, daughter of ALISSA (ELLIS, 2013) and Chris Andersen of Omaha Samuel Barry, son of NATALIE (2022) and NOLAN BARRY (2022) of Plattsmouth, NE Genevieve Joyce Behrens, daughter of AMBER (JAZWICK, 2009) and MICHAEL BEHRENS (2003) of Madison, NE Cayden Clark, son of JOSLYNN (2018) and Brandon Clark of Norfolk, NE Max Douglas, daughter of HALEY (BARBER, 2017) and STEPHEN DOUGLAS (2017) of Omaha Mia Douglas, son of HALEY (BARBER, 2017) and STEPHEN DOUGLAS (2017) of Omaha Isabella Gunderson, daughter of MIKAYLA BROHMAN (2018) and CHRIS GUNDERSON (2017) of Omaha JJ Harper, son of KASEY (COOK, 2017) and Tyler Harper of El Reno, OK Melia Hernandez, daughter of MEGAN HOWARD (2023) and Hernan Hernandez of Omaha Maverick Ingram, son of JENNA (STOTZ, 2014, 2016) and THOMAS INGRAM (2015) of Omaha

Michael Klug, son of WILLIAM (2013) and Maureen Klug of Omaha Macey Milligan, daughter of Racheal Milligan and granddaughter of CATHY THORSEN (MCMAHON, 2008, 2018) of Omaha Greyson Minty, son of KELLY JEFFERSON MINTY (2017) and Joshua Minty of Omaha Creed Neneman, son of STACI (NAVIN, 2003) and Stephen Neneman of Omaha Nellie Jay Pochaon, daughter of Sara and Brady Pochaon of Ogallala, NE and granddaughter of Terry and JOHN MEIDLINGER (1977) of Omaha Nathaniel Price, son of MELISSA (ROBINSON, 2015, 2022) and RYAN PRICE (2022) of Omaha and grandson of SUSAN ROBINSON (1980) and DONALD PRICE (1995) Felicity Elizabeth Prothman, daughter of STEPHANIE (PITHART, 2006, 2008) and SCOTT PROTHMAN (2007) Mariah Sanford, daughter of JALISA SANFORD (TURNER, 2014) of Omaha Logan Seiler, son of MICHELLE (PAKES, 2011) and Lucas Seiler of Fresno, CA and grandson of Valerie and MARK (1984) PAKES Dexter Stuart, son of BRADLEY COLLETT (2023) of Omaha

Maverick Ingram, son of JENNA (STOTZ, 2014, 2016) and THOMAS INGRAM (2015)

Since 1991, the UNO Alumni Association has given more than 2,000 free shirts and bibs to the children and grandchildren of UNO graduates.

HIRING FULL-TIME LEAD TEACHERS, FULL-TIME ASSISTANT LEAD TEACHERS and PART-TIME TEACHER ASSISTANTS

For more information call the UNO Child Care Center at 402.554.3398

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SIGHTS & SOUNDS

A LOOK AT HAPPENINGS ON AND OFF CAMPUS FUN, FREEBIES AND FIREWORKS UNO students, faculty and staff celebrate the start of a new academic year at Student Convocation. The UNO Cheer Team, Power 106.9 FM, free UNO swag and a fireworks show were a part of the annual event that kicks off Durango Days.

MARVEL AND MAVERICKS UNO students attend a free showing of “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” at Maverick Landing, courtesy of Maverick Productions.

HAPPY HUMP DAY To celebrate the first Wednesday of the semester, students take pictures and pet Maverick the Camel from Scatter Joy Acres.

SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A DURANGO With themes ranging from Back to the 90s to Space Jam, the annual party on the Pep Bowl is a Durango Days tradition since 2017. Students celebrate at GLO! with a live DJ, free neon glasses and lots of glow-inthe-dark paint!

DISCOVER WITH DURANGO Students explore downtown Omaha, the Gene Leahy Mall, Heartland of America Park, Lewis and Clark Landing and the new RiverFront with our favorite mascot.

The “Discover With Durango” series gives Mavericks the opportunity to travel with Durango to learn, explore and discover unique places throughout Omaha.

THE BIG 10 The Maverick Food Pantry celebrates 10 years of providing food, toiletries and personal hygiene products for UNO students, faculty and staff on campus with a birthday party on Milo Bail Plaza.

SIGHTS & SOUNDS

NEBRASKA LOVES VOLLEYBALL 500 UNO students were among the 92,003 fans watching the Omaha Mavericks take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers, setting the world record as the most attended women’s sporting event in history. Volleyball Day in Nebraska not only displayed the state’s love for volleyball, but showed the love that Nebraska has for its female athletes and their success.

WHAT WOULD YOU DO? Creator and host of “What Would You Do?” and ABC News veteran John Quiñones visits UNO to share his experiences as a journalist and educate students about what they should do if they ever find themselves in a situation where they either need to step up or step back.

“MANY OF MY OWN STUDENTS EXPRESSED THE DESIRE TO BE MORE AWARE AND WILLING TO STEP-UP WHEN THEY ENCOUNTER SOMEONE FACING INJUSTICE OR WHO SIMPLY NEEDS A HAND.” AMY RODIE, UNO JAMES R. SCHUMACHER CHAIR OF ETHICS

OUR OWN CENTRAL PERK A UNO student worker employs their barista skills behind the counter at Stedman’s Café, the coffee and sandwich shop located inside UNO’s College of Business Administration. Proceeds from the student-run café fund scholarships, grants and more.

¡UNA BUENAS TARDES! UNO honors the histories, culture and contributions of Spain, Mexico, the Carribean, and Central and South America natives during Hispanic Heritage Month at its annual Fiesta on the Plaza with traditional food, music and dancing.

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FOR FUN Test your brainpower with these puzzles created by UNO graduate Terry Stickels (’76) in his “BIG Brain Puzzle Book.” For more information on Stickels, or to order any of his books, visit terrystickels.com.

KNOWLEDGE We often see Latin phrases used in literature, newspapers, magazines, and even billboards. They’re fun to try and figure out. Phrases such as “carpe diem” - seize the day and “tempus fugit” - time flies, are used all the time. On the left are some Latin phrases that are still seen today.

Match them to their respective meaning in the right-hand column.

1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)

ipso facto anguis in herba alea iacta est cogito ergo sum ex nihilo nihil fit viam inveniam aut faciam

a) b) c) d) e) f)

I think, therefore I am I will find a way or make one The die has been cast By the fact itself Nothing comes from nothing snake in the grass

LOGIC Alison is a marathon runner who follows a rigorous workout routine. If she runs in the morning, she doesn’t run in the afternoon. If she ran in the afternoon, she did not run on that morning. In one stretch of time, she did not run on 10 mornings and 9 afternoons. There were 15 days where she did run. How many total days were involved in this particular training segment?

(Here are some tips that will help. There can be complete days when she did not run at all but any day counted as a running day was a day where she ran in either the morning or afternoon, but not both.)

MATHEMATICS Here’s a math challenge: Using any of the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and exponents, arrive at the number 33. You must do this by using the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4, and you must use them each one time only.

Then: What is the smallest number that cannot be created using these parameters?

ANSWERS KNOWLEDGE 1. D. By the fact itself 2. F. Snake in the grass 3. C. T he die has been cast 4. A. I think, therefore I am 5. E. N othing comes from nothing 6. B. I will find a way or make one

LOGIC 17 days. There were 19 half days where she did not run (10+9) and 15 half days where she did run.

Therefore, 19–15 = 4 half days or 2 full days where she did not run.

15+2=17 days.

MATHEMATICS Two solutions: 43 33 = 1 + and 33 = 1 + 4 x 23 2 34 is the smallest number that can’t be created.

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