U N I V E R S I T Y
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N E B R A S K A
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O M A H A
A L U M N I
A S S O C I A T I O N
www.unoalumni.org
Winter 2007
Jo h n C h r i s t e n s en i n s t a l le d as UNO’s 14th Chancellor
JOIN US at UNO Alumni Night on the Ice Saturday Jan. 12! Details Page 2
Rebel with a cause
Professor Bruce Johansen still speaking out
ALUMNI NIGHT ON THE ICE CHILL OUT!
at UNO’s 5th annual
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oin fellow grads for the 5th annual Alumni Night on the Ice Saturday, Jan. 12, and featuring:
Saturday Jan. 12, 2008 5:30 p.m. Pre-game buffet at the
• Pre-game buffet reception at the Qwest Convention Center.
Qwest Convention Center, Room 201-204 East side, 2nd Floor
• Hockey 101 with former Mavs David Brisson & Andrew Wong!
7:05 p.m.
• Door prizes, free Mav Tattoos and Mav beads! • Lower Bowl seating and recognition during the game.
UNO vs. Miami Qwest Center Omaha
• Coach Mike Kemp pep talk and hockey band Power Play.
• Designated seating for School of Communication alumni. All that for just $20 per adult, $15 per child age 2-10! (children under 2 free).
Per-person cost of $20 includes game ticket and pregame buffet (hamburger, chips, salad, cookies, tea & lemonade). Cash bar available. Hockey tickets distributed at reception. Tickets must be paid for at time of registration. Register by completing form below and returning with payment (check or credit card). For more info, call Sheila King at (402) 554-4802 or toll-free at UNO-MAV-ALUM (866-6282586). Email inquiries to sking@mail.unomaha.edu
Sign us up for UNO Alumni Night on the Ice Jan. 12!
Name
RETURN FORM BY JAN. 4, 2008: Mail with payment to: UNO Alumni Association, 6705 Dodge St., Omaha, NE 68182.
Phone
Address
Email Address
City
State
For event confirmation.
Zip
Reserve me tickets at $20 each (adults) and tickets at $15 each (kids 2-10). I have enclosed $ for the tickets (Make checks payable to UNO Alumni Association). Charge my credit card:
q Visa q MasterCard q Discover
Signature:
Card No. Names for Name Tags (please include children’s names and ages)
q I am a School of Communication
graduate and want to be seated with fellow Communication grads!
Exp. Date_________________
Contents
Winter 2007
College Pages PKI
26-27
Holland Computer “Built Smart.”
IS&T
28-31
IT Ph.D. program in full bloom.
CPACS
32-33
Program targets energy usage.
Education
34-35
One-Stop Shop for students.
CCFAM
36-37
Shakespeare is behind bars.
Arts & Sciences
On the cover: UNO Professor Bruce Johansen speaks out. Page 14. Photo by Bryce Bridges
38-41
New faculty introduced.
CBA
42
Ship named for alum Herb Sklenar. UNO A lum Magazine, Winter 2007 Editor: Anthony Flott
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Features Aging
10
UNO researchers tackle the advanced years from all angles.
Space cadet
13
UNO student Ross Bell lands a prestigious internship with NASA’s Langley Center.
Changing shape
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UNO’s HPER building gets approval for major changes and a new look.
Call for concern
20
A UNO researcher looks at the impact of cell phone use while driving.
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Brainstorming
22
UNO students thrive as interns with the Global Innovation and Strategy Center.
Association Departments
22
Alumni Association in Action
Contributors: Bryce Bridges, John Fey, Tim Fitzgerald, Warren Francke, Don Kohler, Tom McMahon, Eric Olson, Greg Paprocki, Fred Schweppe. Alumni Association Officers: Chairman of the Board, Deborah McLarney; Past Chairman, Michael Kudlacz; 1st Vice Chair, Rod Oberle; 2nd Vice Chair, Mark Grieb; Secretary, Patricia Lamberty; Treasurer, Dan Koraleski; Legal Counsel, Martha Ridgway Zajicek; Special appointments, Angelo Passarelli, Kevin Warneke, John Wilson; President & CEO, Lee Denker. Alumni Staff: Lee Denker, President & CEO; Sue Gerding, Diane Osborne, Kathy Johnson, Records/Alumni Cards; Sheila King, Activities Coordinator; Greg Trimm, Alumni Center Manager; Anthony Flott, Editor; Business Manager, Brian Schram, Loretta Wirth, Receptionist. The UNO Alum is published quarterly by the UNO Alumni Association, W.H. Thompson Alumni Center, UNO, Omaha, NE 68182-0010, (402) 554-2444, FAX (402) 554-3787 • web address: www.unoalumni.org • Member, Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) • Direct all inquiries to Editor, (402) 554-2989. Toll-free, UNO-MAV-ALUM • email: aflott@mail.unomaha.edu • Send all changes of address to attention of Records. Views expressed through various articles within the magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the University of Nebraska at Omaha or the UNO Alumni Association.
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New board elected at annual meeting; Details on UNO Alumni Night on the Ice; Young Alumni Group formed.
Class Notes
43
Moves, promotions, marriages and more. w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
Winter 2007 • 3
Letter from the Dear Alum:
Chancellor
I
can hardly believe how quickly the fall semester is progressing! In a few short weeks, another group of students will complete their academic requirements and join the ranks of UNO’s more than 80,000 alumni worldwide. It is a cycle repeated semester after semester, and yet, commencement is a milestone we look forward to celebrating as an institution. There is great satisfaction experienced by UNO faculty, staff and administrators as students achieve their personal and educational goals. And, of course, we are proud to play a role in their success stories. For the graduating class of December 2007, the UNO they leave is likely vastly different than the one they entered. In fact, during my recent Fall Convocation address, I used the term “work in progress” to describe the enormous infrastructure changes currently underway on a variety of significant construction projects — each designed to better serve our students, improve the quality of education, and extend our outreach to the metropolitan community. For example, the remodel/expansion of the former Engineering Building will provide a state-of-the-art home for the College of Public Affairs and Community Service. Since the very inception of the college, its faculty, staff and students have tolerated substandard facilities spread across campus. With this project, the College will reside under one roof, and I anticipate that the Collaborating Commons will create a new and innovative gathering place for the entire campus and its community partners. The Criss Library continues to upgrade its infrastructure with a new foundation, improved lighting, climate controls and technology. The library and its new addition remain a vital resource to our campus and community. The dramatic increase in attendance, from 2,000 to 6,000 daily visitors, is testimony to the quality of service and support provided by the faculty and staff of the Library. The Student Center, with its redesigned Food Court, has become a popular focal point on campus for students to study, meet, and relax. Catering to an active student lifestyle, the Student Center features menu items from full meals to “grab and go,” a fully wireless environment, as well as comfortable space for conversation, private and group study, and meetings. And, good progress is being made on the new 900-stall parking garage and student housing project, Maverick Village. When completed next August, this project will add approximately 400 beds, bringing our total to about 1,600 students living on campus. Furthermore, the parking garage on the west side of campus should help ease congestion, provide a better balance of parking on the Dodge Street campus, and contribute to improved intra-campus circulation. The Center Street Campus provides a much needed opportunity to improve our athletic and student recreational facilities. Possibilities for the former Chili Greens site include a home for several of our athletic teams, including softball, baseball, and soccer with a practice facility for hockey. Three multipurpose fields have been completed and the dome is being renovated to provide additional multipurpose space. And, of course, work continues on the Ak-Sar-Ben Village project, which brings a new dimension of services, entertainment and business/industry to our nearby Pacific Street Campus. Finally, we’ll begin renovating and expanding the Health, Physical Education and Recreation building for the first time in its nearly 30-year history. This three-phased project will significantly enhance campus life opportunities and student heath and wellness facilities and service, while at the same time more effectively supporting the academic mission of the School of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation. Increasingly, the quality of recreation and wellness facilities on campus is among the priorities listed by students as they make their college selection. Taken together, these projects will enable us to offer students improved services, a richer college experience, and an environment better suited to today’s multi-tasking learner. Yes, we’ve come a long way since the days when many of us attended and, as we enter a new century of service next year, we’ll continue building for the future. I hope you’ll accept my invitation to visit the “new and improved” UNO. No matter how much the campus might change, it’s still YOUR university.
Campus
SCENES Photos by Tim Fitz gerald
Installed The UNO campus came together in celebration on Oct. 9 to mark the installation of John Christensen as the university’s 14th chancellor — and the first to also be a graduate of the institution. See the story on the installation on Page 9.
From left, Kansas Chancellor Robert Until next time,
Hemenway, UNO Chancellor John Christensen and NU President James B. Milliken.
John Christensen, UNO Chancellor 4 • Winter 2007
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UNO faculty, staff and students filled Strauss Recital Hall for the installation ceremonies, which included community leaders and other university heads.
Chancellor Christensen and John Langan, his successor as UNO College of Education dean, share a moment during the post-Installation reception.
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Winter 2007 • 5
Alumni Association in Action
Association establishes new scholarships ime has done nothing to diminish the pride Duane Post feels when recalling the Daniel E. Jenkins Memorial Scholarship he received in 1953. “Fifty-four years later,” Post says, “that recognition is even more memorable. I am very proud that those who made the selection viewed my accomplishments so highly. Recognition is a great motivator. I’m certain it helped me establish high personal goals, which guided me in my business career.” Post received what is believed to be the first-ever scholarship awarded by the UNO Alumni Association. Established in 1953 to honor the university’s founding president, it has been issued every year since to assist with senior-year tuition for a student recognized for “high scholastic achievement and noteworthy service to the university.” “I am and will always be grateful to the alumni association for this honor,” says Post. As the list of Jenkins Scholarship recipients expanded through the years, so did the association’s slate of other scholarships. Beginning with the 2008-09 UNO school year that list will include the new UNO Alumni Association Scholarships — four $2,500/year scholarships awarded to graduating high school seniors who have demonstrated leadership and involvement during high school. The scholarships may be renewed for up to four years total. “The new program was instituted by our Involvement Committee as an effort to make our scholarship program
more meaningful for both students and the association,” says Alumni Association President Lee Denker. “We’re eager to help students during their studies, but we also want to increase the likelihood that recipients will become active and involved alumni.” To be considered for the new UNO Alumni Association Scholarships students must complete an online application, including an essay question, and meet the following criteria: • Graduating high school senior; • Minimum ACT composite score of 24; • Either rank in the top 25 percent of their class or have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. Students can apply beginning at the association’s scholarship page at www.unoalumni.org/scholarships. The new scholarships are non-endowed. The Association also provides non-endowed Regent Scholarships to UNO’s Student President ($2,400 per year) and Vice President ($1,200). The Association also maintains 125 endowed scholarship accounts with the University of Nebraska Foundation. Those endowments provide at least 250 scholarships annually. In 2006 $210,000 were disbursed in endowed scholarships, examples of which include the UNO Talent Scholarships the UNO Alumni Association helped institute in the 1980s. With the change to UNO Alumni Association Scholarships the association has discontinued its UNO Alumni Legacy Scholarships established in 2000.
he UNO Alumni Association confirmed members to its executive committee, elected new board members and issued Director Appreciation Awards to outgoing board members during the organization’s Board of Directors Annual Meeting Nov. 13. Rod Oberle will serve the association as 2008 Chairman of the Board. A Oberle 1967 university graduate, he is director of UNO’s human resources/payroll services.
McLarney (BS, 1975; Wells Fargo Bank N.A.); and, Lee Denker, President & CEO, UNO Alumni Association.
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A l u m n i N i g ht o n th e Ice s et fo r J a n. 1 2 oin fellow grads for the 5th annual Alumni Night on the Ice Saturday, Jan. 12, when UNO takes on Miami (Ohio) at Qwest Center Omaha. Event features include: • Pre-game buffet reception at Qwest Convention Center. • Door prizes, free Mav Tattoos and Mav beads! • Lower Bowl seating and recognition during the game. • Coach Mike Kemp pep talk and hockey band Power Play. • Designated seating for School of Communication alumni. All that for just $20 for adults, $15 per child age 210 (children under 2 free. Prices include include game ticket and pre-game buffet (hamburger, chips, salad, cookies, tea & lemonade. To attend, complete the registration form on Page 2 and submit by Jan. 4 with payment. For more information, call Sheila King at (402) 554-4802 or toll-free at UNO-MAV-ALUM (866628-2586).
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6 • Winter 2007
New board members elected at annual meeting
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2008 executive committee: Chairman, Rod Oberle (BSBA, 1967; UNO); First Vice Chair, Mark Grieb (BSBA, 1981; AAA Nebraska); Second Vice Chair, Kevin Munro (BS, 1986; U.S. Bank); Secretary, Patricia Lamberty (BS, 1976; State of NE, District Court Judge); Treasurer, Dan Koraleski (BSBA, 1986; KPMG LLP); Legal Advisor, Martha Zajicek (BSBA, 1980; Mutual of Omaha); Past Chairman, Deb
New board members New board members elected to three-year terms included: Garrett Anderson (MBA, 1996; president, Anderson Print Group); David Craft (BS, 1990; MBA, 1992; vice president, senior investment manager, Wells Fargo); Jill Goldstein (BSBA, 1991; partner, Kutak Rock); Bob Hearron (BS, 1971; senior vice president, Mutual of Omaha Bank); and, Laurie Ruge (MBA, 2001; senior manager, Deloitte). Existing board members elected to second threeyear terms were: Ray Barr (Assoc., BS, 1951; R.D. Barr Co.); Bob Danenhauer (BS, 1982; Omaha Public Schools); EvaJon Sperling (EMBA, 2000; U.S. Postal Service); Thomas Warren (MS, 1989; Omaha Police Dept.). Director Appreciation Awards Concluding their terms on the board were Michael Kudlacz, Angelo Passarelli (served 2002-2007) Patricia Taylor (2002-2007) Kevin Warneke (2000-2007) and John Wilson (1999-2007).
UNOALUM
News, Information & Activities
YAG members helped host an event for the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Council at the Thompson Center. YAG members included, from left, Angela Rushing, Chuck Monico, Garrett Anderson, Jayson Bisbee, Elizabeth Mulkerrin, Armando Salgado (behind table) and UNO Senior Associate Athletic Director Tom Frette.
Association forms Young Alumni group ike never before, UNO’s alumni body is skewing young. Based on records of the university’s 80,000 living graduates, an estimated 45 percent are 40 years of age or younger. That includes nearly a third of all graduates who are in their 30s. That’s where YARG comes in. Because of the large concentration of young graduates the UNO Alumni Association earlier this year formed the Young Alumni and Recent Graduates group for alumni under the age of 40. “If our Alumni Association is going to experience growth, we need to create opportunities for involvement for our younger alumni,” says the association’s President & CEO Lee Denker. “The one-size fits all Alumni Association doesn’t resonate with this generation. Research shows that if our university successfully connects with alumni shortly after they graduate, then we will have a better chance of continuing that relationship as they grow. “Hopefully, this will be our first of many groups established as a ‘front door’ to alumni involvement with UNO.” The group’s foundation was laid in May when nearly 40 young alumni leaders attended a dinner to discuss forming such a council. It has met every month since to develop the YARG vision, mission, goals and activities. The group’s vision is to be “An active group of UNO young alumni that attracts and retains members and has a high level of awareness within the UNO and Omaha communities.” Its mission is to
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create opportunities for young alumni to reconnect with UNO through the Alumni Association and to develop supportive alumni for life by encouraging young alumni involvement in programs and the UNO Annual Fund.” All of which is just what 1996 UNO graduate Garrett Anderson had been seeking. “I had been looking for a way to get reconnected with the university and couldn't seem to find the right opportunity to become involved again at UNO,” says Anderson, owner of Anderson Print Group. “The Young Alumni group
YARG events
Friday, Feb. 8 5:30 p.m.: Social gathering at The Old Mattress Factory Bar & Grill. 7 p.m.: UNO hockey vs. Ohio State. Friday, May 30 New Graduate networking and wel come reception. Wednesday, July 2 Shakespeare on the Green picnic. Saturday, Oct. 11 Centennial tailgate and football game. Friday, Dec. 12 Family night at the Henry Doorly Zoo.
provided me the perfect environment for contributing to my university through involvement in special events ranging from social events to important feedback sessions.” Anderson has expanded his UNO involvement beyond YARG, recently joining the association’s board of directors as a member. YARG already has hosted two events. In October the group helped host a quarterly gathering of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Council at the Thompson Alumni Center. More than 100 people attended the function, which focused on UNO sports. In November, a group of 50 young alumni gathered for its first social at the Fox and Hound. The group’s next social event is Feb. 8 at the newly opened Old Mattress Factory Matt Bar & Grill located on 13th and Cass Streets just west of Qwest Center Omaha. At 7 p.m. the group will head to the Qwest for UNO’s hockey game against Ohio State. The group will be seated together in the Qwest’s lower bowl. Other YARG events for 2008 are listed in the sidebar below. Graduate Ryan Nelson says such functions bear fruit beyond a fun night on the town. “The Young Alumni group is an opportunity for us to network as young professionals,” says Nelson, a broker associate with NAI NP Dodge Real Estate. “It has already been a source of new friendships and business opportunity for me.” Adds graduate Clint Rushing: “Members share a diverse group of interests and interact on both a professional and social level.” Members also are pointing their efforts beyond the university and association. “I think one major benefit of this group will be its impact on the public,” says UNO graduate Jim Kresnik. “Our growth potential is virtually unlimited and we have a fantastic opportunity to organize ourselves so that we can volunteer in the community while positively and admirably representing UNO.” Young alumni interested in joining YARG or in taking part in activities should email Alumni Association Director of Activities Sheila King at sking@mail.unomaha.edu Graduates who have assisted with YARG thus far: Shelley Albea, Garrett Anderson, Odomitchi Anikpo, Jayson Bisbee, David Brisson, Matthew Burke, Cory Butler, Crystalynn Garnatz, Jessica Gallant, Mike Hansen, Kate Hemminghaus, Jamie Herbert, Mohamed Khaled, Sheila King, Elizabeth Kraemer, James Kresnik, Chuck Monico, Elizabeth Mulkerrin, Ryan Nelson, Athena Ramos, Angela Rushing, Clint Rushing, Armando Salgado, Molly VanMoorleghem, Danielle VanNorman, Robert Wiebusch, Lamarr Womble, Brad Yoder.
Winter 2007 • 7
Alumni Association in Action
Association approves affiliate group
ROTC Alumni Chapter formed niversity of Nebraska at Omaha ROTC graduates are no strangers to service. Beginning in 2008, that service will extend to UNO as well as to country. To better serve UNO, its students and its alumni, ROTC graduates have formed the Detachment 470 Air Force ROTC Alumni Chapter as an affiliate group of the UNO Alumni Association. The association’s board of directors at its annual meeting in November approved a new policy regarding affiliate groups. The ROTC chapter becomes the first affiliate under that policy. Chapter membership also will include past coeds in Angel Flight, a support association of the OU Arnold Society, the officer’s club for the Air Force ROTC. UNO’s Air Force ROTC program was established in 1951. The alumni association currently has addressable records on nearly 600 ROTC graduates and more than 300 Angel Flight members. “I urge all ROTC grads and Angels out there who haven’t participated in alumni activities to get involved with our new group,” says Michael Kudlacz, the group’s inaugural president. “We’ve all spent a lot of time during our careers helping younger officers prepare to take our places. This ROTC alumni chapter will give you a similar
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opportunity to help young cadets prepare to become officers through scholarships, awards programs and various alumni activities.” Funds for the ROTC chapter will be generated through the association’s UNO Annual Fund. Donors to the UNO Annual Fund can designate 50 percent of their contribution to the ROTC chapter while still receiving full benefits accorded all UNO Annual Fund contributors. Designations will defray the ROTC chapter’s expenses and fund initial efforts likely including the establishment of scholarships for 470 cadets. The group also will host reunions and activities, including a three-day reunion during UNO’s centennial celebration kickoff in October 2008. Kudlacz, a 1971 UNO graduate, will serve a two-year term as the inaugural president of the ROTC chapter. Kudlacz served 31 years in the U.S. Air Force, including a stint as the 55th wing commander at Offutt Air Force Base. Other UNO graduate officers include Harold Sage (1954), vice president; Syntha Judd Essex (1953; 1973), secretary; and John Jeter (1954), treasurer. The chapter next meets Jan. 25, 3 p.m., in the Thompson Alumni Center. ROTC alumni can register with the 470 Detachment and find additional information on its chapter affiliate via a link on the association’s website: www.unoalumni.org/rotc
Centennial Celebrations
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he UNO Alumni Association is taking an active part in planning for the university’s upcoming centennial celebrations marking the institution’s 100 years. The association's foremost efforts include coordination of the university’s Centennial Homecoming Saturday, Oct. 11. The campus-wide event will be held in the university’s Pep Bowl. The association also is taking an active role in planning for the Centennial Gala Feb. 21, 2009. Details on these and other Centennial Celebration events will be publicized in the Alum maga zine in the coming months.
Service Awards issued he UNO Alumni Association issued its Outstanding Service Awards during the organization’s Board of Directors Annual Meeting Nov. 13. Outstanding Service Awards honor faculty, staff, alumni or friends who have shown continuous, outstanding service to the association and/or university. Ninety-nine OSAs have been issued since their institution in 1974. Receiving 2007 Outstanding Service Awards were Michael Kudlacz and Harold Sage. Kudlacz was chairman of the association’s Board of Directors in 2006. He was the 83rd graduate to lead the organization since its start in 1913. Most recently Kudlacz was
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instrumental in the formation of the Detachment 470 Air Force ROTC Alumni Chapter. See story Page 9. Kudlacz joined the association’s board of directors in 2004. A 1971 UNO graduate with a BS in criminal justice, he is federal security director of the Nebraska Transportation Security Administration. Sage assisted Kudlacz with the formation of the Detachment 470 Air Force ROTC Alumni Chapter. Since 2006 he had been representing ROTC alumni at UNO Alumni Association board of directors meetings. He will be the group’s inaugural vice president. Sage worked with the AFROTC
From left, 2007 Chairman of the Board Deb McLarney, Mike Kudlacz, Harold Sage and President Lee Denker. Detachment in 2001 to celebrate its 50th anniversary, bringing 100 graduates back to campus. He also has developed and helped maintain lists of the university’s
ROTC and Angel Flight graduates. Sage graduated from the University of Omaha in 1954 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He is retired.
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Photo by Tim Fitzgerald / University Relations
University News
Information & Activities
UNO Chancellor John Christensen is accompanied by Kansas University Chancellor during the proces s i o n p r e ce d i n g th e i n s ta l l a t i o n c e r em o n y O c t. 9 .
Formally recognized as university’s 14th head
Christensen installed as chancellor ohn E. Christensen was officially installed as UNO’s chancellor during a ceremony Oct. 9 in the Strauss Performing Arts Center. University of Nebraska President James B. Milliken presided over the event. "John Christensen is exactly the right leader for UNO,” Milliken said. “As the first Omahan and UNO graduate to serve as Chancellor, he brings a connection with and love for both community and campus. More importantly, he is focused on the future of this remarkable institution and will provide strong and able leadership."
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The installation of a chancellor is a longstanding tradition in the academic community and is rich with history and symbolism. The event was intended to bring together the academy and the public, creating an opportunity for reflection and celebration of the institution and of higher education. The theme for the event, “Living the Future; Understanding the Past,” was based on a quotation from Danish philosopher and theologian Soren Kierkegaard, who said, “Life can only be understood backwards, but it must be lived forwards.”
John Langan, dean of the UNO College of Education and chairman of the installation planning committee, said the theme was selected to celebrate Christensen’s Danish heritage and to focus attention on UNO’s past accomplishments and bright future. The institution soon will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its founding. “John Christensen knows both the university and the city of Omaha from a long-term relationship, and he cares deeply about both,” Langan said. “The University of Nebraska at Omaha has had a long-standing position captured in a short statement which says, 'UNO is a part of the community, not apart from the community.’ This tradition will become even more apparent under the leadership of John Christensen.” Robert Hemenway, chancellor of the University of Kansas, delivered feature remarks at the installation ceremony. Hemenway received his bachelor’s degree from UNO in 1963. Christensen received his Ph.D. from the University of Kansas in 1980. Others speaking at the event included Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey, NU Board of Regents Chairman Chuck Wilson, UNO Student Regent Alex Williams, UNO Professor Scott Tarry, staff member Jennifer Forbes-Baily and alumna Deb McLarney. The installation ceremony began with a procession of representatives from Nebraska’s public and private colleges and universities and faculty in academic regalia and will feature musical performances by UNO faculty and students. Christensen has spent his entire academic career at UNO, beginning in 1978 as a faculty member in the College of Education’s Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders. He served as chair of that department for 12 years. He went on to become dean of the College of Education and vice chancellor of academic and student affairs before being named interim chancellor in September 2006 and chancellor in April 2007 following a national search. Christensen received his bachelor’s degree in speech and communication from Dana College in Blair, Neb., his master’s degree in speech-language pathology from UNO and his doctorate in speech-language pathology from KU. He is the first UNO graduate to serve as its chancellor. Christensen has been active in Omaha community affairs as well as national professional organizations relating to his academic field. He and his wife, Jan, have three adult sons. The installation ceremony was followed by a reception at the Milo Bail Student Center. It also was available online as streaming video at www.unomaha.edu and was broadcast live by UNO-TV on the “The Knowledge Network,” Cox cable channel 17 and Qwest Choice channel 74.
Winter 2007 • 9
10 • Winter 2007
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AGING UNO researchers tackle advanced years from all angles By Tom McMahon • Photo illustration by Bryce Bridges
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t comes as no surprise to anyone who knows former UNO Gerontology Department Chairman
Jim Thorson that he would begin a research abstract on humor and aging with a somewhat risqué joke. Thorson simply repeated an 80-year-old woman’s favorite joke. Question: “How did Jackie Kennedy feel on her wedding night after marrying Aristotle Onassis?” Answer: “She felt old age creeping up on her.” Humor is just one area the Gerontology department is investigating in a surprisingly wide range of aging research being undertaken at UNO.
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And it’s not just gerontologists at UNO who are conducting the studies. This spring, the university’s Gerontology department and School of Social Work invited other departments to share their aging research at a campus-wide fair. “We invited people to the fair to find out what is going on and so students could see what is out there,” says Lyn Holley, assistant professor of gerontology and fair co-chair. Fellow chair Nancy Kelley-Gillespie, School of Social Work professor, says she hopes the broad spectrum of departments represented will encourage students from a number of professions to seek UNO’s gerontology specialization. “It makes sense to get a better understanding of older people,” Kelly-Gillespie says. “Every business has the opportunity to work with them.” Research presented by UNO faculty and students at the April UNO Aging Research Fair was wide-ranging. Among the topics: • “Mass Media, an Aging Population and Baby Boomers,” by School of Communication professors Michael Hilt and Jeremy Lipscultz; • “Issues of Caregiving for Older Adults,” by Gillespie; • “Fall Intervention” Reaching Seniors Together,” by Ph.D. candidate Shandalee Developer Ramet of the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation; • “Journal of Legal Economics,” edited by College of Business Administration Professor Michael O’Hara and addressing several issues affecting and aging population; and,
“Aging is a multidisciplinary issue,” says UNO Professor Lyn Holley. So UNO is expanding its efforts to make its aging research multidisciplinary as well.”
Winter 2007 • 11
• “Artists and Alzheimer’s Disease,” by Holley and Department of Gerontology Chairman Karl Kosloski.
Practical applications Every occupation can benefit from gerontology training and research, Holley says. She speaks of practical applications to aging research – architects who design and develop buildings for an aging population; business people marketing their products; real estate developers and agents selling to an older clientele; or counselors helping elderly clients through a myriad of losses. “If I were running a car dealership, I would send a salesman to get a gerontology certification, unless I already had an older salesman who had overcome his own ageism,” Holley says. She says that ageism presents itself in false beliefs, such as all older people are forgetful, hard of hearing or not interested in learning new things. Numbers are part of the reason UNO’s aging research is expanding, Holley says.
Boomer wave
Fair fare Several of Kosloski's research studies, along with those of other UNO faculty and students, were showcased at the fair. Presenters discussed a wide range of topics, such as ways to create opportunities for older people to be artistically creative; how to more effectively communicate with elderly minority populations about benefit programs; an educational design for younger students to project into the future and see their “aging self;” the relationship between leg cramping and falls; how Alzheimer’s patients can benefit from art-led activities; older people in the labor force; and strategies for increasing the number of paid caregivers. Kelly-Gillespie says the School of Social Work is offering its first gerontology course this fall, Advanced Social Work Practice with Older Adults. “We also have just completed a process whereby we infused aging content throughout the social work curriculum.” Holley says UNO alum J. Terrance Haney, (MA, social gerontology, 1998) is an informal advisor to the gerontology department. Haney, with his wife, Judy, created an endowed faculty position in 2001. Holley welcomes the involvement of other alumni. “We would love to have interested alumni assist in our research endeavors,” Holley says. She says alumni could assist with interviewing, library research and data management. Training for interviewers would be provided. Collaborating with others is a natural fit, Holley says. “Aging is a multidisciplinary issue,” she says. So UNO is expanding its efforts to make its aging research multidisciplinary as well. And sometimes having a laugh along the way.
Holley says there is less research money available, despite the increase in older people. “Jim Thorson jokes that back in the ’70s you could write a grant on a napkin and get funded, but now we write 50-page ones and get nothing.”
The first wave of Baby Boomers turns 65 in 2011. The U.S. Census Bureau projects the older population will grow from about 35 million in 2000 to 72 million by 2030, comprising 20 percent of the population. The growth is mirrored by increasing interest in academic study of the aging boomers. Kelley-Gillespie says a campus-wide Gerontology Interest Group comprised of professors, students and community professionals is planning to conduct a survey among university departments to see if faculty and students from different disciplines can come together to collaborate on aging research and projects. “We minimally know what others are doing, but there is no one place or one person who knows what everyone else is doing.” Another reason for inter-department collaboration is funding. Holley says there is less research money available, despite the increase in older people. “Jim Thorson jokes that back in the ’70s you could write a grant on a napkin and get funded, but now we write 50-page ones and get nothing.” Thorson chaired the Gerontology department for 28 years before stepping down July 1. Karl Kosloski currently heads the department, one of the few free-standing gerontology departments in the country. Thorson continues to oversee the Ph.D. program, pointing with pride to the 40 bound dissertations lining his bookcase shelf. “Research is vital to us,” he says. Thorson adds that it is a benefit for students to learn from the people actually doing the
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research. “It’s like getting a new heart from the guy who invented it.” The university twice has honored the department’s commitment to research excellence. Thorson and Kosloski each has been awarded the Award for Distinguished Research. “That’s pretty impressive for a department to have two of them,” Thorson says. Thorson’s 24-item Multidimensional Sense of Humor Scale has been used worldwide. “Our theory is that the grumps wash out – that having a sense of humor helps people cope.” Kosloski is a nationally known research-design consultant. “He is known for finding the proper design and statistical methods to use to get the results you need,” Thorson says.
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UNO student Ross Bell lands a prestigious NASA internship
Space cadet by Don Kohler Photo by Tim Fitzgerald / University Relations
rowing up in the backyard of the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Ross Bell was not unlike many other young boys who wondered what was going on inside the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s space exploration facility. “I was born in Houston, so I was exposed to NASA early on,” says Bell, a senior computer science major at UNO. “The only thing I remember from the Johnson Space Center was a large rocket on display. However, my passion for the field didn’t really begin until I started by funded research at UNO.” Today, Bell is getting a much closer look behind the doors at NASA. The Millard North High School graduate this fall became the first UNO student to earn a prestigious NASA Undergraduate Student Research Program (USRP) internship. Bell was one of six college students from a nationwide pool of applicants selected for the internship, focused on air traffic control. He will spend three
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months in Hampton, Va., at NASA’s Langley Research Center. “The fall research internship at NASA is extremely prestigious, and I'm very excited that a UNO senior has won this coveted award,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, associate professor of computer science at UNO. “This can open up tremendous opportunities for our undergraduate students at all levels, freshman through senior. Ross's performance in his ongoing work at NASA is, of course, extremely crucial in determining how our school fares in the competition in the future.” Bell says his internship has provided him with broader insight into the mission of NASA. “A common misconception is that NASA is a space-oriented organization,” he says. “By my highly educated guess, I would suppose that less than half of NASA deals with project environments outside of our own atmosphere. At least that is what it feels like here at Langley.” Bell says he keeps a frenetic pace at the Langley Research Center, assisting with operations in the Air Traffic Operations Laboratory, setting up and tearing down test environments and helping in the development of software tools that assist in the test projects. He indicates that his studies back home at UNO helped prepare him for the NASA experience. “UNO provides an effective mixture of both theory and application classes,” he says. “Because of my education at UNO, I’m able to produce real-world solutions, while still keeping the bigger picture in
“Because of my education at UNO, I’m able to produce realworld solutions, while still keeping the bigger picture in mind.” UNO student and NASA intern Ross Bell
mind.” Bell caught the eye of the internship selection committee with his NASA-supported research at UNO entitled “MASSES,” or, “Multiagent Swarmed Space Exploration System. The main focus of the project, according to the Web site of Dr. Dasgupta, is to build a hierarchically controlled swarm of mobile robots capable of exploring extra-terrestrial bodies. “The research I did at UNO was centered on applying swarm behavior to a group of robots,” Bell says. “There are a lot of emergent properties in a hive of ants or bees that make the hive extremely robust and able to complete tasks that a single ant or bee would have no chance of completing. An inviting characteristic of these systems is that often times, simple is more effective.” Bell says he is fascinated with each day of his research into artificial intelligence. “I’ve really grown attached to
autonomous systems, or anything that can run on its own without human intervention. I design a system to be able to solve a problem, and it does the actual work in the end. While we aren’t at the point of movies like ‘I, Robot.’ artificial intelligence researchers have still developed systems we never thought would have been possible.” Upon earning his bachelor’s degree in May, Bell hopes to continue his research while pursuing a Ph.D. in computer science. The focus of his studies will be artificial intelligence. “My experience at NASA has helped me learn and work more effectively in a research environment,” he says. “It has been very interesting to work in an organization with goals as lofty as NASA’s. One day I would like to work in an environment where my work would have an impact on the rest of the world, and NASA certainly has those opportunities.”
Winter 2007 • 13
Rebel with a cause
by Warren Francke
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Photos by Bryce Bridges
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An audience in Seattle heard a historian say, “The Nobel Peace Prize committee should take a look at Bruce Johansen’s accomplishments.” If the Swedes won’t, UNO will. That means looking beyond the shaggy professor pedaling his bicycle to campus before 5 a.m., early enough to read his email and write in quiet, then take a 7 a.m. swim in the HPER pool. It means looking past his wellpublicized stuttering and the abundance of gold jewelry he wears to distract from that vocal disorder, the shiny display he refers to as “my one bourgeois indulgence.” And it requires such suggestions of causation. Dr. Johansen, the most prolific writer in a Communication School rich in active scholars, began wearing jewelry to “confuse folks who thought I was mentally deficient” when they heard him speak. Stuttering, in a sense, causes those 18 gold rings, half dozen bracelets, three necklaces and a few earrings. But a longer trail of causes and effects leads to the roots of his productivity — two dozen books, chapters in more, 36 articles in scholarly journals, 55 book reviews, scores of articles in everything from The Nation to Omaha Magazine and Nuestro Mundo, not to mention five more books “on the griddle.” Numbers that grow almost daily. And why does this creative avalanche focus on Native Americans and global warming, on his fight to help minorities and to save the planet? Ask Roberto Maestas. He was there when his Seattle w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
organization, El Centro de la Raza, honored Bruce with its 35th anniversary theme: “What kind of world will we leave our children?” And he was there early and often enough in his friend’s life to feel he knows why the man’s name was mentioned there in the same sentence with a Nobel Prize.
the daily. Johansen apologized and responded with what Maestas calls “a very complete, classy, well done” treatment of Latino and Black history and issues. “When we met,” Maestas notes, “I could tell from his long hair, beard, earrings, dress that he was part of the ‘counterculture’ which was
A longer trail of causes and effects leads to the roots of his productivity — two
dozen books, chapters in more, 36 articles in scholarly journals, 55 book reviews, scores of articles in everything from The Nation to Omaha Magazine and Nuestro Mundo, not to mention five more books “on the griddle.” Their friendship began when both were students at the University of Washington, Roberto working on a graduate degree and Bruce the editor of the school’s daily newspaper. Maestas and others, “brown and black,” protested what they saw as a racist article in
by then questioning everything.” Later, they teamed to coauthor two of Johansen’s earliest books: “Wasi’chu: The Continuing Indian Wars” and “El Pueblo: The Gallegos Family’s American Story.” In between that pair, he published his doctoral disserta-
tion as “The Forgotten Founders: Benjamin Franklin, the Iroquois, and the Rationale for the American Revolution.” That first book found them at Wounded Knee, investigating the rape and murder of a teenage girl during the protest and siege. “Cornered in a remote area on the Pine Ridge” by what Maestas terms a “goon squad,” they were told, “’Would you like to leave South Dakota, or stay under it? Take your choice. If you choose to leave, that’s the road to Nebraska.’ And we left.” Such adventures en route to their two books were marked by hungry days followed by sleepless nights with ample time to talk. “We both believe his stuttering was caused by his father’s strictness and regimentation.” But that claim for causation didn’t end there: “And is a blessing in disguise.” Maestas, the founding director of El Centro de la Raza, Winter 2007 • 15
believes Bruce’s work ethic and prolific writing “are rooted in his childhood, and writing became his vehicle to overcome his stuttering.” On Guard That childhood moved with the duty stations of his father, Julian Johansen, a twostar Admiral in the Coast Guard. From Washington, D.C., to Puerto Rico and the Philippines, from San Diego to high school years near Seattle. “Dad? We had our differences all the way back to the ’60s, expressed at the time over hair length.” Not a lot of hair, he recalls, “but more than the Coast Guard allowed.” As captain of the port of San Diego during the Nixon presidency, Admiral Johansen had jurisdiction over the western White House. The President complimented his work and invited the
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Johansen family to visit Air Force One. “Dad said, ‘You can go if you cut your hair.’” In the case of Hair v. Nixon, hair won. In another standoff, the Admiral ordered him to engage in boxing, but Bruce
tal reporter at the Seattle Times. “They knew I could write and that’s what they were looking for.” His interest in Native Americans grew from his coverage of Indian fishing rights in the Northwest, and
“Dad said, ‘You can go if you cut your hair.’” In the case of Hair v. Nixon, hair won. In another standoff, the Admiral ordered him to engage in boxing, but Bruce didn’t want to hit people. Instead, he became a winning high school swimmer. didn’t want to hit people. Instead, he became a winning high school swimmer. Neither hair nor stuttering was an issue when he headed a staff of 60 at the U. of Washington daily newspaper or when he interned, then became the first environmen-
then he met an Iroquois from New York. “I was looking for a Ph.D. thesis on cross-cultural ideas, and he told me how their society worked.” Learning of the Iroquois influence on Ben Franklin’s ideas about government led to the dissertation and book
about “Forgotten Founders.” Dr. Johansen’s publications stack high with such works as a four-volume “Encyclopedia of American Indian History,” the “Encyclopedia of Native American Legal Tradition,” the “Encyclopedia of Native American Economic History” and many more. He’s now immersed in the likes of his recent three-volume “Global Warming in the 21st Century” and his upcoming, “The Praeger Handbook of Solutions to Global Warming.” While he also does original research, these titles reflect his role as both a synthesizer and popularizer of far-reaching subjects. His treatment of climate change is best understood by Dr. James Hansen, director of NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies, the climatologist famous for resisting White House efforts to censor
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his work. “Bruce is an unusual guy,” the Denison, Iowa, native, explains, “living in the conservative heartland, giving the people some news that they probably don’t want to hear. He works hard to get the global warming science right, and he does an exceptional job of writing in a language that the public can understand.” Hansen, who once worked for the Omaha World-Herald, provides peer review for Johansen, who in return offers criticism for first drafts sent by the climatologist. When the Wall Street Journal took an editorial swipe at Hansen, Johansen countered with a letter calling the exIowan, “a modern American hero, our Paul Revere of global warming.” Dr. Deborah SmithHowell, UNO dean for graduate studies, calls Bruce “a great example of a public intellectual … a truly fine scholar in the traditional academic sense, but also someone who takes scholarship and makes it accessible and meaningful to the larger public — nationally and internationally.” His public role ranges from those multi-volume encyclopedias to Public Pulse letters. When a writer claimed Gen. George Custer “had the greatest respect for the Indians he fought,” Johansen countered that Custer “was a megalomaniac and something of a racist, even for his time.” Formerly his department chair, Dr. Smith-Howell considers him “an incredible mentor to new scholars, both at UNO and throughout the United States — and probably beyond.” When Bruce arrived on
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the Omaha campus for a job interview in 1982, he’d made four earlier visits to other schools, always coming in second and given various reasons why he wasn’t hired. “They didn’t have the huevos to say it was my stuttering.” He was getting discouraged, and later told a Gateway reporter that he thought, “This is the last time. If I come in second again, I’ll go back to Seattle and collect unemployment.” Dr. Hugh Cowdin, then department chairman, recalls great pride in his colleagues when they voted unanimously 25 years ago to hire Johansen, despite competition from another well-quali-
ancient Scandia reminds of the Norwegian heritage from his father the Admiral and later a mayor, and his Uncle Eivind, a retired three-star Army general. Poland, where Bruce taught briefly, is represented by Jana Pawla II (Pope John Paul II); a plaque from Wales, where he spoke, shares space with a wooden emblem from Nicaragua, and a calendar from La Cabana restaurant in Seattle, the site of his first date with wife Pat Keiffer. Items as non-political as a prized autographed photo of baseball great Roberto Clemente mingle with the “Farms, Not Arms” poster of the Agrarian Alliance, one of Malcolm X
Dr. Deborah Smith-Howell, UNO dean for graduate studies calls Bruce, “a great example of a public intellectual … a truly fine scholar in the traditional academic sense, but also someone who takes scholarship and makes it accessible and meaningful to the larger public — nationally and internationally.” fied candidate. He would go on to win two endowed chairs, first one named for his late colleague and mentor, Robert Reilly, and now the Frederick Kayser chair, among other honors. Teaching such journalism courses as magazine article writing and editing, Bruce wins outstanding evaluations from his students. At times, he adopts the persona of “Jut Jaw” Johansen, a tough editor with props: a big cigar, an eyeshade and a printer’s apron from his days at the Seattle Times. His office walls in Arts and Sciences Hall reflect his global interests. A map of
and the blunt “Bush Lied and Our Soldiers Died.” It’s no surprise to see Pete Seeger’s “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” atop a stack of CDs, or to read the quote from Ben Franklin: “They that give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.” Outside the office door, propped against the hallway wall, his trusty 10-speed Bianchi bicycle waits for the ride back to his Dundee home. He once wrote in a newspaper column, “My bicoastal friends think I’m crazy” for cycling in Omaha weather. He confessed to riding in
temperatures “as low as eight below,” wearing Spandex under black leather, plus a ski cap and two pairs of gloves. “With our axle-eating roads, I’ve learned to ride with my eyes on the road and my crotch at least three inches above the seat.” Biking began “when I was fed up with waiting in line at Seattle gas stations during the fuel shortage.” It became necessary when he suffered two grand mal epileptic seizures, including one while driving on the Interstate. They haven’t been repeated for several years. At home, he helps wife Pat prepare dinner. She’s “a wonderful companion” who edits and discusses his writing, he says. No longer working as a counseling psychologist, she often cares for two granddaughters, the children of Shannon, her son from a previous relationship. They also share the house on Blondo with a cat and a golden retriever. Her husband reads after dinner and goes early to bed before rising again at 3 a.m. And so it goes, even on weekends, when colleagues who make rarer Saturday visits are no longer surprised to find him at his computer, keyboard clicking on one of his books in progress. Yes, Pat agrees with his friend Roberto, Bruce is “very disciplined and very driven.” Perhaps the authoritarian Admiral didn’t lose all those arguments with his son. The boy swam rather than box, and he didn’t join the military as his father had hoped. But he was inspired to fight other battles. As Maestas puts it, Johansen feels an “affinity to minority struggles since he is a minority himself.”
Winter 2007 • 17
Plans for the HPER makeover begin up front with additional parking spaces and a new entrance. Rendering courtesy RDG Planning & Design.
Legislature approves $38.6 million HPER project
Changing shape I
t took about 30 years for the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation’s building to go from concept to construction. It took nearly that long again for the facility to undergo its first major renovation. As was the case with construction, renovation will be worth the wait. Around August 2010 the HPER building that opened in 1980 will be sporting a new look. That day can’t come soon enough for the key people involved in gaining approval of the $38.6 million project. Dr. Dan Blanke, director of HPER, Joe Kaminski, director of campus recreation, Marcia Adler, coordinator of student 18 • Winter 2007
health services, and Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Wade Robinson spent countless hours spearheading the project that will add 75,066 gross square feet to the existing structure. The first phase of construction, an addition, is anticipated to start in July/August 2008 and should take 12 to 15 months to complete. A second phase of renovation should take nine to 12 months. “The original design did a good job for us,” says Blanke, who began his tenure at UNO in 1976. “We certainly feel like we’ve gotten all that we can out of this building. But the programming and the campus have grown over time,
b y J o h n Fe y and we basically have run out of space.” HPER’s roots date to a 1947 proposal — then a $21.5 million, two-phased project. The first phase was construction of the current fieldhouse. Phase two was to be the HPER building, but that was put on longtime hold; in its stead rose the infamous quonset huts. In the mid-1970s, another push was made for the HPER building. Funding bills, however, were vetoed by thenGovernor James Exon in 1975 and 1976. Finally, in 1977, Exon supported the 142,000-square-foot building with a price tag of $6.9 million. The final approved plan was $13 million less expensive and one-fourth the originally requested size. Over the past 27 years, modest improvements have been made to the facility, but Blanke says it was clear it was time for a major renovation. “We shopped (the idea) around a little bit to some of our bosses,” he says, UNOALUM
faculty senate and students, the wheels were set in motion for gaining the necessary approvals. The Board of Regents’ blessing came last June, and on Oct. 19 the executive committee of the legislature gave approval. The key, Blanke and Kaminski say, was securing the financing. Funding is coming out of student fees, which will increase by about $95 per semester. The increase will be implemented in phases over a three-year period, starting with the next fiscal year beginning July 1. “When you break it down,” Kaminski says, “they’re currently paying approximately $30 a semester to support campus recreation programs, so it’ll be about $125 a semester. You break that down over four or four-and-a-half months, that’s still less than what you would pay at a life fitness center.” Before sending the project out for design work, Kaminski studied other campus facilities around the country and attended symposiums on campus recreation facilities. The project design
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“and they thought it was something that was worth looking at more carefully.” Student services agreed to fund a study that was completed last year. Robinson, who became involved with the project from the beginning, says feedback from students was encouraging. “The student survey results indicated they definitely needed more space, better space, a better facility,” says Robinson, who last spring helped pitch the concept in presentations to the faculty senate and to students. “They had very good questions.” Lucas Seiler, incoming student president/regent, says students generally favored HPER renovation. “I personally think that a new and improved facility will attract a larger number of students and faculty,” he says. “I think by improving the HPER facility, UNO will not only attract more students looking to study a HPER major, but also general students who are very health-conscious.” With the positive response from the
What you’ll find he idea to renovate the HPER building began two years ago with discussions among campus recreation staffers. When the renovation is completed, users will find: • More space for weightlifting and fitness activities; • Two large multipurpose rooms;
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• A spinning room; • Improvements to the three existing gymnasiums; • An 11,000-square-foot multi-activity court; • Improvements to the jogging/ walking track; • A juice bar/café; and, • A comprehensive student health center. • And, perhaps best of all, the addition of about 100 parking spaces.
incorporates some amenities found on other major college campuses. “A number of institutions are recognizing that the students who are coming out of high school have the expectation of being able to exercise in an open, friendly, inviting atmosphere and be able to not only use it for fitness purposes but use it for a gathering place,” Kaminski says. Included in the project is a move of student health services to the refurbished building. That brings a smile to Adler’s face. “In the big picture, I think we’re the biggest winner of the whole idea,” says Adler, who arrived at UNO when student housing began eight years ago. The student health area will grow from 1,200 square feet to around 4,000. Adler says one difference maker will be an X-ray machine for the new facility. Currently, those needing X-ray services must find transportation off campus to hospitals or doctors offices. Students and faculty/staff aren’t the only ones who will benefit from the facility upgrade. Kaminski anticipates an increase in use by UNO alumni. “I would see that it would be pretty attractive to our alums,” he says. “Since students are footing the bill for this, we have to be very vigilant to be very sure there’s enough space for our students and that we didn’t sell too many passes.” Currently, alumni passes are capped at 200. Kaminski says all policies and procedures, including those affecting alumni, will be reviewed. One thing is certain, he says: Fees for all users will increase. “The alums will pay more than they do currently,” Kaminski says, “and faculty and staff will pay more than they do currently.” The finished product should leave everyone pleased, Robinson says. “The change we want to make is that we’ll have a state-of-the-art look and feel,” he says. “We have students now who go to off-campus facilities. They won’t have to do that anymore.” And few will be as happy as Robinson and his colleagues to see that day arrive. Winter 2007 • 19
Photos by Tim Fitzgerald/University Relations
UNO Professor Joseph Brown: “People don’t realize the demand placed on their brain when they talk on a cell phone while driving.”
Call for concern D by Fred Schweppe
Your phone is your lifeline. It’s your friends, your photos, your 411. And regardless of how much you’re tied to your device or how blazing fast you can text, you should be aware that the next ringtone you hear could be your last. 20 • Winter 2007
rink and drive and you can get ticketed, fined and jailed. Dial and drive and you get legal immunity, even though studies indicate that the level of impairment caused by the two acts may be the same. “All of us have seen it,” says retired Omaha Police Officer John Barone. “You notice the car in front of you swerving in and out of the lane. You figure it’s a drunken driver, but then you notice
it’s just someone yakking away on a cell phone.” For drivers in Nebraska and most other states, no law prohibits cell phone use while driving. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association Web site, just five states (California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and Washington) and the District of Columbia have enacted jurisdictionwide laws prohibiting driving while talking on handheld UNOALUM
cell phones. Many other states ban cell phone use in specific situations. No state completely bans all types of cell phone use — handheld and hands-free — while driving. In May 2007 Washington became the first state to ban driving while texting. New Jersey followed suit in November and a few other states are considering similar measures. In Nebraska a new law becomes effective Jan. 1, 2008, prohibiting anyone driving by permit (school, learner’s, provisional) while using any type of digital communication device. Other states have similar laws for novice drivers. Distractions Why all the worry? Distractions are dangerous, whatever they are. Officer Barone has seen plenty of them while on the side of the road working radar. “Women putting on their makeup … People reading a magazine … Changing clothes … I’ve even seen a guy driving along that had a TV going,” says Barone. But how distracting are cell phones? What Barone claims from experience — that using a cell phone while driving increases the likelihood of an accident — has been evidenced in research, most notably in a study conducted in 2006 by psychologists at the University of Utah. The Utah study presents a strong case that motorists who use a cell phone while driving, even in hands-free mode, are as impaired as drivers who have a bloodalcohol content of .08, the established minimum level for drunken driving in most U.S. states. w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
“Absolutely we can say that cell phone usage has been a contributing factor in the number of crashes statewide.” Fred Zwonechek, Nebraska Highway Safety Admin. Each of the 40 participants in the Utah study operated a driving simulator. First they “drove” it undistracted, then holding a cell phone and conversing, then conversing using a hands-free unit, and, finally, after consuming enough alcohol to reach the .08 level. Test scores revealed that impairment was substantial for drivers in each of the distracted situations. Perhaps more surprising, the level of impairment varied little regardless of the distraction — hand-held conversation, hands-free conversation or intoxication. Professor Brown’s Message In the 2006 summer session of the Nebraska legislature, lawmakers considered bills restricting cell phone use while driving. Joseph Brown, UNO professor of cognitive
psychology, was called upon to provide expert testimony. Recipient of a 2006 UNO Alumni Outstanding Teacher Award, Brown jumped at the chance to speak on a topic he considers very important. “First of all, I’m on the roads, too,” Brown says. “People don’t realize the demand placed on their brain when they talk on a cell phone while driving.” The UNO professor describes the human brain as having a limited amount of available attention. Carrying on a conversation with someone who isn’t present requires a great deal of that attention. When conversing face-toface, a person’s brain picks up subtle conversation clues, such as voice inflection and body movement. During phone conversations, the brain is taxed with searching
for this missing information. In this distracted state, less attention is available for anticipating traffic hazards and reacting to them. The key, according to Brown, is to lower demand on your brain by limiting the number and complexity of activities. His advice: If you must talk, pull over to do it. Nebraska’s Legislature, though, did not pass any restrictions on cell phone use — much to Brown’s chagrin. Nebraska Highway Safety Administrator Fred Zwonechek indicates that statistics regarding the number of accidents caused by cell phone use are inexact. Though attempts are made to record whenever cell phones are to blame, instances are under-reported, largely based on witnesses or on admission from someone involved in the accident. Yet he’s firm in saying, “Absolutely, we can say that cell phone usage has been a contributing factor in the number of crashes statewide.”
Making the call for safety Turn it on, turn it off The best advice of all. Let turning on your car be your reminder to turn off your phone. It’s how you roll, baby! Record a greeting that tells callers you can’t talk because you’re driving. Activate it each time you get in your vehicle. The si lent treatment: dri ver’s version If you insist on phoning from behind the wheel, at least break off the conversation when you encounter road hazards. The si lent treatment: passenger’s version If you’re with a driver talking on a cell, don’t make matters worse by talking, too. K ic k t h e h a b i t If you’re “addicted” to phoning, make your car an exception. Use the radio or CDs to help you “kick the habit.” (Not too loud — you don’t want to exchange one bad habit for another.)
S o u n d s o f s il e n c e Have you tried silence lately? You might find that peace and quiet is just what you’ve been missing. Your car can be a great place to find it. L e t th e m g o If you call someone who tells you he or she is driving, ask to be called back. P u l l i t o ve r On those occasions when you must use your phone, pull over to a safe spot then talk or text. P h o n in e s s i s u n b e c o m i n g If you’re riding with a “phoney” driver, suggest that he or she postpone the call until you’ve arrived. L et’s talk Spread the word that cell phones and driving don’t mix. Armed with such information, find someone you care about and share it with them.
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BRAINstorming UNO student interns innovatively tackle issues of space debris, border tunnels and other head-scratching problems for the Global Innovation and Strategy Center on Aksarben campus
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nterns working at the Global Innovation and Strategy Center on the UNO campus clearly are more than errand boys and girls. “We aren’t here just to make the coffee,” says Erica Tesla. A senior physics major from Omaha, Tesla and her cohorts are working on finding real solutions to real problems facing military, public and private interests. Such is the overall mission of the GISC, which opened on UNO’s Aksarben campus in September 2006 and operates under the umbrella of the U.S. Strategic Command. The GISC is a shining example of the military’s partnership with business and academic communities in the wake of 9/11. That awful day in U.S. history made it abundantly clear that terrorists are interested in destroying more than military targets. They are targeting the American way of life. “We’re all interconnected now,” GISC Director Kevin Williams says. The GISC was set into motion by former StratCom commander Gen. James E. Cartwright, who said the military must reach outside its shell to come up with the best solutions to problems facing America on any number of fronts. In the past year, the best and brightest minds from the private and public sectors have come to the GISC to work with military personnel on dozens of issues such as crisis management, methods for tracking an influenza pandemic, and combating petroleum piracy. UNO students have a seat at the table, too. This fall, two groups of interns met 12 to 20 hours a week in a nondescript, windowless room to tackle assignments of major import. One group worked to find unconventional ways to detect tunnels, especially under U.S. borders. The other sought solutions to debris floating around in space.
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“It’s a way for us to apply our knowledge in a very broad, interesting field that we wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to,” says Lance Allen, an architectural engineering graduate student from Pender, Neb., who’s on the tunnel detection team. “Plus, we’re helping out the greater good.” The interns research their subjects only through material available to the public — they are not allowed access to classified information — then spend hours brainstorming. At the end of their internships, the groups present reports outlining possible solutions. The customer — whatever group assigned the task — can make use of all, part or none of the interns’ recommendations. “The idea is to bring in college students, give them a question to answer and let them go at it,” Williams says. John Hudson, who coordinates the GISC intern program, says the “The idea is to students take a fresh look at each bring in college problem. Youth, he adds, is an students, give advantage. Too often, older problemsolvers are unable to break away them a question from prevailing wisdom. The interns to answer and let thrive on questioning long-held them go at it.” notions. “We want young, unfettered GISC Director minds,” Hudson says. Kevin Williams So how do tunnel detection and space debris cross the broad spectrum of military and non-military entities? Most people probably think of tunnels and envision illegal immigrants parading through from Mexico to the United States. There is some of that, to be sure. But law enforcement can benefit from tunnel detection technology to stem the flow of illegal drugs into the country. Carried a step further, consider that those tunnels used by drug runners could be seized by terrorists to gain entry into the United States. “At what point does a terrorist come along with a lot of money in exchange for using the tunnels?” Allen says. “These UNOALUM
Photos by Tim Fitzgerald/University Relations
From left, UNO interns at the Global Innovation and Strategy Center: Matt Birrell, Noelle Obermeyer, Lance Allen, John Miller, Stephanie Silva and Joshua Koch.
drug cartels don’t have a lot of concern about national security, so it could easily happen.” There are well-established scientific ways of penetrating the surface to find tunnels, but the challenge doesn’t end there. The interns are studying how sewer systems can serve as tunnels, studying one in Arizona that runs between Mexico and Nogales, Ariz. The interns are looking for concrete ways to find these tunnels using science and technology, but they also explore strategies for gathering intelligence on where tunnels are located. “The end result, we hope, is to recommend border-wise scanning detection,” Allen says. “As soon as a tunnel is discovered, stop it before it is completed.” The space debris question was posed by the U.S. Space Command and has practical applications for both the military and private enterprise. Intern Jared Brower, a senior from Grand Island who’s majoring in computer science at the Peter Kiewit Institute, says space debris has been an issue since the Soviet Union launched the Sputnik satellite program in the late 1950s. Now there are an estimated 10,000 pieces of debris larger than 10 centimeters floating around in space, not to mention millions of other smaller pieces. The problem comes when debris hits a satellite, damaging it or knocking it off course. Satellites are critical for surveillance and, hence, national security. But corporate America also relies on satellites for data transmission and communications. Brower says his group has come up with some “farfetched” solutions. One involves using a ground-based laser to destroy debris. The cost would be prohibitive, however, and w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
the laser might not be powerful enough to eradicate large pieces of debris. Another possibility, Brower says, is building a vehicle to go up and collect the debris. An offshoot of that idea is that the vehicle could also be used to repair damaged satellites, says John Miller, a junior from North Platte who majors in computer engineering at PKI. About 30 juniors, seniors and graduate students in a wide array of majors applied for the internships, Hudson says. A dozen candidates were selected by faculty, who are asked to recommend only the highest-achieving students. One previous project dealt with communication systems in Africa. Williams says the intern program plays a major role at the GISC, which has a staff of 36. Williams likes to call the facility a “solution incubator,” a place where people of varying backgrounds come together for a single purpose. No more than 120 days is spent on most assignments, and all problems can be linked to StratCom’s diverse global mission. The fact that the GISC is affiliated with UNO is pure happenstance. StratCom headquarters are located next to Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, and UNO was the nearest major university. Had the GISC gone to another command, “They would have gone to the university du jour,” says Elizabeth DurhamRuiz, chief of the GISC’s Partnership Group. “The University of Nebraska system has been very helpful to us in many of the things we’re doing,” Durham-Ruiz adds. “At the end of the day, we reach out to the brightest minds of a particular topic. It may or may not be the University of Nebraska, but you have to start somewhere. UNO is a great partner for us.” Winter 2007 • 23
Shuttling around a campus on the move M
oving through campus aboard one of its many shuttles drives home an unmistakable fact: this is a campus on the move. I took passage on the shuttles in early November hoping for a different perspective of the campus, its people and its places. On a brisk Thursday morning I walked from the Thompson Center to the stop in front of the Durham Science Center and climbed aboard Shuttle #208, a big Ford loaded with a full tank of gas, 156,000 miles and 21 seats. Though it was already 7:40 a.m. the sun only then was beginning to emerge, a consequence of the shift to new Daylight Savings hours this year. Its rays began illuminating treetops still turning red, orange, yellow and other hues of autumn’s varied palette. At Shuttle #208’s wheel was Drew, who looked as young as the students he would be transporting all day. Decked out in jeans and leather jacket, he greeted riders with a radio tuned to alternative music station 89.7 the River. On air was “Spicoli’s Morning Fiasco” show. I sat at the front, three students behind, me as Drew pulled away from Durham and onto his route.
24 • Winter 2007
By Anthony Flott, editor Art by Greg Paprocki
Before us was a four-mile circuit with stops at the Milo Bail Student Center, Kayser Hall, through Elmwood Park to five stops at the Aksarben Campus, back through Elmwood to the Fieldhouse, in front of Annex 26, then back to Durham. Drew completes about 20 of these round trips in a day, each one taking roughly 20 minutes and beginning at 6:30 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. Other drivers take a second route that shuttles students to and from Crossroads Mall. By 8 a.m., campus parking spots already were at a premium. UNO’s parking crunch is a longtime campus challenge, and one of the reasons why shuttles were instituted. Space is even more precious this semester with various construction projects taking up UNO parking stalls. The squeeze is eased with off-campus parking at Crossroads Mall and at the Center Street campus where students, faculty and staff can park for free.
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Shuttles, then, are crucial. And there’s plenty to see when gong for a ride. Construction is seemingly everywhere at UNO. A shuttle tour shows off the north and south changes to the face of the former Engineering Building, opening next fall as the new home of the College of Public Affairs and Community Service. Directly across from the Annex 26 stop there rises new residence halls, the 400-bed Maverick Village, and a second, fivelevel parking garage that will offer nearly 900 stalls. The Criss Library’s recently completed and stunning new façade, meanwhile, offers passing Dodge St. motorists and shuttle riders a peek inside the university. At the Center Street campus at Aksarben, work progresses on the forthcoming Aksarben Village, a mix of university, business and residential properties that promises to change the face and function of midtown Omaha. There was an even greater sense of energy on campus this particular morning. Throughout campus parking signs alluded to that night’s football showdown with South Dakota, UNO’s last-ever home game in the North Central Conference (the Mavs won in a rout). A large crowd was expected and the game was broadcast on TV — one reason for portable lights and trailers taking up even more parking spaces in and around the HPER building. The game drew a plug from The River’s Spicoli on Shuttle #208’s radio, but he played to a mostly empty bus. “They’ll start loading up here pretty quick,” Drew said around 8 a.m. An hour later his seats still were relatively bare. “I’m starting to wonder if people are playing hooky for the game tonight,” he said. Eventually, he gets a standing-room only crowd. A few other observations from aboard UNO’s shuttles. • Shuttle waits are minimal – around a minute at most, it seems. Some students climb aboard for quick rides, getting on at Durham, for instance, for a lift to the Student Center only a few blocks away. • There’s minimal chatter on the shuttles and conversations are few. One of the few overheard included a group discussing String Theory and the universe. I don’t recall such heady talk during my days on campus more than two decades ago. Mostly the only sounds aboard UNO’s shuttles come from whatever might be playing on the drivers’ radios — alternative fare for Drew, pop hits on another and rock oldies on a third. • Anything goes when it comes to style. Whereas past generations of students were more easily identified by a dominant style (think bell-bottoms), today’s students wear anything and everything. Jeans remain the clothing of choice, but sweats are popular, too, as are baseball caps. Yet one student climbed
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aboard in a suit; another got on decked in 1980s hip-hop attire with red and white baggy sweats, matching jacket and a hat cocked sideways. • I see more UNO/Maverick gear than ever before, a sign of increasing student pride. • That this is the wired age was underscored most emphatically by one student who boasted to friends about his affinity for ’90s gadgets, “or anything else that’s completely archaic. I actually have a Sony Discman from 1994 that I still use,” he said. Guys were more likely to get on wearing a pair of headphones while more women were chatting away on cells. Conversations included an update for mom, laundry to be done and emails to be sent, and part-time jobs at Yonkers and Old Navy. At one point, three coeds took seats to each other and almost simultaneously pulled out their cells for quick calls, then switched to rapid-fire texting. • Two coeds climbed aboard at different times with blanket and pillow, apparently headed from one campus to the other after a night with friends. Residence halls have completely transformed the campus. • I never knew UNO’s students were so polite. OK, that might not exactly be the kind of stuff that gets a campus into U.S. News and World Report’s top university rankings (and there’s certainly plenty at UNO to have it considered as one of the Midwest’s top metropolitan universities). Yet after spending half a day riding through campus, the fact that most impressed me was just how downright sincere and courteous are its students. Hundreds of times a day, student after student offers a “Thank you” for UNO’s shuttle drivers in appreciation for their short jaunts around and between campuses. One student even gave a “Domo arigato” — Japanese for “Thank you very much” and courtesy the Styx song “Mr. Roboto.” Again, not an earth-shattering revelation, but nice to know. There’s plenty more to see from a shuttle seat drive around UNO, and not all of it is university related. The route to the Aksarben campus goes over the bumpy road of Elmwood Park and past its trails dotted with bikers, joggers and walkers and past its frost-covered golf course. By mid-morning the hackers were swinging away. Other off-campus sights include Memorial Park’s spacious and tree-covered grounds, the former Chili Green Dome (now owned by UNO), St. Margaret Mary church, the College of St. Mary and First Data Resources. By noon, I’d seen enough, getting off at the Durham stop to head back to the office. Only later did I realize I forgot to say thanks.
Winter 2007 • 25
Peter Kiewit Institute
Collaboration covers all the bases during construction of Holland Computer Center
Built Smart he Holland Computer Center at
TThe Peter Kiewit Institute (PKI) is
impressive and unique both in computing power and how the facility itself has been built. In keeping with the Institute’s philosophy of “the building is designed as a laboratory,” the Holland Computing Center has windows allowing observation of the supercomputer without entering the facility. Just as important are the behindthe-scenes components that are essential to ensuring the system remains operational. The generators, chillers, dry fluid coolers and pumping systems are elements that enable the center’s new supercomputer to meet the mission-critical expectations of researchers and private corporations. As the information technology team at PKI developed the supercomputer requirements, the DLR Group engineering team led by Mechanical Engineer Todd Mack and Electrical Engineer Jeff Sobczyk worked to develop the massive infrastructure for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and electrical needs the supercomputer would impose on the facility. Because the PKI building was designed as an educational facility and not a data center, the infrastructure required significant re-engineering to address the supercomputer’s heat loads and electrical reliability requirements. The project incorporated American Power Conversion’s (APC) in-row water-based cooling units. The APC “system” is modular, which allows additional cooling units to be added as the room load increases. 26 • Winter 2007
With the in-row cooling system design, the cooling units are placed adjacent to the heat source(s) within the IT racking system. The in-row design provides the ability to have hot aisle containment, reducing the chance of the hot and cold air streams mixing. The hot aisle containment system also allows the cooling system’s output to be matched to the heat load. The enclosure has ceiling tiles that seal in the hot air and prevent it from mixing with air in the rest of the room. Rather than constant-speed fans, a system of sensors monitors temperatures and ramps the cooling unit fan speeds up or down, and opens two-
way chilled water valves as needed. The concept is to reduce operating costs while improving cooling effectiveness. Heat rejection for the data center is accomplished through two redundant air-cooled chillers and a single, dual-coiled dry fluid cooler. The glycol-chilled water system is served by a redundant variable speed pumping system that responds to the opening and closing of the two-way glycolchilled valves at the APC cooling units. The piping and valving arrangement is designed to serve the APC cooling units from overhead, eliminating the need for a raised floor system and associated ramping. The redundant overhead piping arrangement allows the IT racking system to be easily reconfigured without having to take down the chilled water system. As the electrical load for the supercomputer grew, the need for back-up power grew. The design team recognized that not only did
DLR’s design included windows for unfettered observations of the Holland Computing Center.
UNOALUM
the supercomputer require back-up power in case utility power failed, but the cooling systems also needed back-up power. To respond, the DLR Group engineering team designed an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) system and generators to back-up the supercomputer, the chillers and other cooling system equipment. As the architects and engineers of the original building and for the computing center, DLR Group has stayed involved with the mission and vision of PKI’s programs and contributed to their success. DLR Group sees PKI as a valuable resource for new design engineering talent, as several current and former PKI students work at the firm. Projects at PKI, including the Holland Computing Center, keep the building state-of-the-art and give students, faculty and alumni a sense of pride in not only what the computing center is but also how thoughtfully it was designed and built. w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
Holland Center impresses Google visitor G
oogle Vice President and “Chief I n t er n et E va ng e l i st ” Vi n t on G . Ce r f s a ys h e w a s i m p r e s s e d d u r i n g h is to u r o f t h e H o l l a n d C o m p u te r C e n t e r w h i l e i t w a s s t i l l u n d e r c o n s tr u c ti o n d u r i n g th e fa l l . “ P l a i n l y, there is an atmosphere of c u r i o s it y a n d c a p a b i l i t y t h a t i s b e i n g n u r t u r e d , to s a y n o t h i n g o f t h e a p p a r e n t l y fe a r l e s s u pg r a d i ng of t h e f a c i l i t y wh i l e i t i s i n us e ,” C er f s ay s. “To see stacks of comput i ng b l ad es an d co m p ut er di s pl a ys a l on g t he c o r r i d o r s g o i n g i n t o p l a c e w h i l e th e f a c i l it y w a s b e i n g u s e d re m i n d e d m e o f t h e j o k e a bo u t ch a n gi n g t he e ng i n es w hi l e t h e p l a ne i s i n f l ig ht . ” C e r f ’s v i s i t w a s s p o n s o r e d b y th e G a ll u p O r ga n i z a t i o n . W h i l e a t P KI , h e g a v e t w o s ep a r a t e p r es e n t at i o n s a t t e n de d by a t o t a l o f a p p r o x i m a t e l y 1 2 0 s tu d e n ts , f a c u lt y a n d o t h er i n t e r es t e d pe r s o ns . H e a l s o r ec e i v e d a n e x te n s i v e t o u r o f t h e I n s t i tu t e , in c l u d i n g a b e h i n d - t h e - s c e n e s lo o k a t th e n e w Holland Computing Center. He says the Holland Computing Center’s s u p e r c o m p u t e r a f fo r d s t h e “ h o r s e p o w e r and opportunity to explore some ver y diffe r e n t k i n d s o f d i s tr ib u t e d c o m p u ti n g a n d
o p e ra t i n g s y s t e m s . “ E x p l o r i n g s o f t w a r e m o b i l i t y w it h i n t h e s y s te m c o u l d l e a d t o s o m e n e w i d e a s in c o m p u t i n g r e s il i e n c e . E x p l o r i n g p r o c e s s r e si l i en c e a nd p er s i s t e n c e a c r o ss o p er a t i n g s y s t e m r e - b o o t s i s a n o t h e r a r e a o f i n te r e s t . C o m p u ti n g p a r a d ig m s th a t c a n e x p a n d o r s h r i n k c o m p u t i n g p o w e r a p p l ie d to a c l a s s o f p ro b l e m s c a n a l s o b e a p p r o a c h e d u s i n g this facilit y. “ O f c o u r s e , s o m e o f t h e h a r d p r o b le m s i n s i m u l a t i on , s u c h a s g l o b a l w a r m i n g , w e a t h e r s i m ul at i o n a nd p r ot e i n f o l d i ng , c a n b e n e fit fr o m th is k in d o f c o m p u t in g power, as can the 3D ‘CAVE-li ke’ present at io n o f c o m p le x o b j e c t s a n d s y s te m s .” C e r f s a y s th e c o m p u t in g c e n t e r c o u ld h a v e a n o ta b l e i m p a c t o n s tu d y p r o j e c t s th a t e x a m i n e t h e u s e o f c o m p u t i n g a n d n e t w o r k i n g i n b u s i n es s , e d uc a t i o n , r e se a r c h , go ve r nm e nt an d t he p ub l i c. H e c o m p l im e n ts P K I a n d th e w o r k b e i n g do n e h er e . “ Pl a i nl y, Omaha has a lot to be p r o u d o f i n h i g h - te c h a r e a s , a n d I h o p e t h a t t h e p r e s e n c e o f P K I w i ll s t im u l a t e o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r n e w c o r p o r a t e d e v e l o p m e n t s in t he a re a. ”
Winter 2007 • 27
College of
Photo by Tim Fitzgerald/University Relations
Information Science and Technology
Seated, from left, Dr. Zand (at computer) and Cobra Rahmani. Standing: Xiao Dan Yu, Alvin Tarrell, Travis Good and Aaron Read.
Information Technology Ph.D. program attracts students from top universities in the world
Doctored Up he five received their undergraduate and graduate
Tdegrees from some of the top universities in the world:
Harvard, MIT, Beijing Institute of Technology in China, Brigham Young University, Amirkabir Polytechnic University in Tehran, Iran. They could have picked just about anywhere to study for their doctorate degrees. They chose the College of Information Science & Technology at UNO and the Ph.D. in IT (Information Technology) program, an innovative and increasingly well-recognized doctorate program that offers unique flexibility of study under the umbrella known as IT. “We emphasize that this is not a CS (computer science) program, and it’s not an MIS (management information systems) program,” says Professor Mansour Zand, the director of the Ph.D. in IT program. “It’s an IT program. You need to have a more holistic perspective.” 28 • Winter 2007
The Ph.D. in IT program began in the fall of 2003 with 10 students. It since has grown to a total of 26 students, including the five who began this fall. The students come from 10 different countries. Ten are women. Producers, not consumers As soon as they arrive, Zand says, “We try our best to open their eyes wide. We tell them that up to this moment, they were consumers of knowledge. Now, they are going to be producers of knowledge. We tell them they’ve got to move beyond reading the book and start writing the paper.” The students listen. “These 26 people have produced more than 150 papers that have been printed in publications and journals and presented at conferences,” Zand says, “which is very impressive.” Four students have graduated from the program. They are working as a faculty member at a university in China, as a private corporation research scientist and in bioinformatics research at UCLA. Another is conducting post-doctoral work at Ohio State. The five new students say a variety of factors attracted them. Xiao-Dan Yu came to UNO from Beijing after researching the program on the Internet. Aaron Read, a graduate of BYU, says he wanted to explore the opportunities presented by the UNO Institute for Collaboration Science. UNOALUM
Travis Good, a graduate of the School of Government at Harvard, says he heard from others how “well-connected” the college and the Peter Kiewit Institute (PKI) are to business and industry. “I also was intrigued by the interdisciplinary approach of the program,” Good says.
of the largest first-tier conferences in computer science. The symposium typically attracts students from top universities, including MIT, Carnegie Mellon and Stanford. Azamat’s presentation earned him the “most promising student” introduction to the leading researchers at OOPSLA. He since has been invited to interview at various universities, including MIT. Faculty access, excellence William Sousan is another UNO graduate who finds He is especially appreciative of the one-on-one contact the program to be a convenient way to work on his he receives from his professors and advisors at the coldegree part-time while holding a full-time job and being lege. “There is a focus on developing the individual stuclose to his wife and children. “Thankfully, I have a very dent here,” he says. “I’m not just a face in the crowd, I’m supportive family. My computer is in the basement, and valued as a collaborator. And I think the breadth and the kids will say, ‘Dad’s going to be in his cave all weekquality of instruction is well end.’” beyond what you’d receive in a John Murphy traveled to Omaha standard Ph.D. in CS program.” with his wife, who serves in the Alvin Tarrell spent 20 years in military. “I wanted to work on my the U.S. Navy, finishing his Ph.D. and was actually applying career at Offutt Air Force Base. at UNL when I saw an ad for an He received two master’s degrees open house at PKI in the newspafrom MIT and currently is a per. I visited, met with the profes” Department of Defense contracsors and found out the program is tor at Offutt. Mansour Zand, Ph.D. a perfect marriage of CS and At MIT, “I had a hard time getIS&T Ph.D. in IT Program Director MIS.” ting access to instructors,” he Murphy says he has not been says. “The instructors here, I’d describe as more down-todisappointed. “The quality of the professors is absolutely earth. They’re not standing up on a pedestal talking down superb. It’s a real honor to be working with them.” to you. They talk with you.” Satish Srinivasan is a graduate of the Indian Institute of Read says he believes he has more research opportuniTechnology in Kharagpur. “I’ve seen a lot of positive ties at UNO than he might in other Ph.D. programs. “The changes since I joined the program. We have good stuprofessors here have greater access to organizations and dents, good graduates, great faculty and facilities and businesses.” good research opportunities. I don’t know what else we Cobra Rahmani, who received her undergraduate and could wish for.” graduate degrees in Tehran, says she appreciates the local Alumni support sought culture. “Omaha is a smaller city than I am accustomed One thing Professor Zand says he hopes for is increased to but it has great resources.” support from alumni, such as the establishment of fellowYu says she appreciates the inclusion of many fields of ships or scholarships, as well as increased financial supstudy, which range from data mining and warehousing to port from the local business community. bioinformatics, networking and software engineering and “They have been very generous to the undergraduate information assurance. “I like the program because I am programs, but we need more finances to support the exposed to different subjects,” she says. “Whether it’s CS teaching assistant (TA) and graduate assistant (GA) posior MIS, I can choose the classes I like … and find what I tions here,” he says. “We currently have 16 Ph.D. stuam interested in here.” Other students in the Ph.D. program echo a satisfaction dents supported as either TAs or GAs, the majority by facwith the quality of instruction and the range of opportuni- ulty grants.” He says expanded partnerships with businesses are ties. Azamat Mametjanov obtained his master’s at UNO win-win situations. “They could come to us with a comand stayed on for the doctorate in IT. “I really enjoy the collaboration with the professors here, and how the Ph.D. plex business problem that could become a research project for our students, who might provide a comprehensive program offered the opportunity for the continuation of solution at a fraction of the cost of hiring an outside conmy work.” sultant,” Zand says. “We want to open the door to this Recently, Azamat participated in the doctoral sympokind of relationship as often as we can.” sium at the Object-Oriented Programming, Systems, For more information, visit the program’s Web site at Languages and Applications conference (OOPSLA’07) www.ist.unomaha.edu/index.php?p=phd where he received best paper accolades. OOPSLA is one
“They were consumers of knowledge. Now, they are going to be producers of knowledge.
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Winter 2007 • 29
College of
Photo by Tim Fitzgerald/University Relations
Information Science and Technology
Finding the work in IT at Union Pacific challenging and rewarding are, from left, former intern Luke Christiansen, Chief Technology Officer Lynn Andrews and current intern Keith McDermott.
Part of PKI Career Resource Center’s intern program
UP interns put on fast track s a sophomore studying computer
Ascience and computer engineer-
ing at the Peter Kiewit Institute, Luke Christiansen was considering Omaha’s premier employers when he took a look at the Union Pacific Corporation. “My first thought was, ‘Railroad technology? What?’” Then he took a closer look. “The more I checked into it, the more I saw that interested me,” Christiansen recalls. “I found out that the Information Technologies division is really very sophisticated.” So he applied for an internship. “On the way home from the interview, they called and said, ‘When can you start?’ It was just a natural fit.” He worked as a year-round intern, part-time during school and full-time in the summer months. The 23-yearold from Blair, Neb. graduated last spring. “I was given many opportuni30 • Winter 2007
ties throughout my two-year period as an intern,” he says. Today, Christiansen is a project engineer at Union Pacific (UP). As part of the Client Services group, he helps manage and lead IT projects that include the migration of more than 18,000 devices and 2,000-plus software applications to Windows Vista. “The fact that I could step into a company like Union Pacific and get a project like this right off the bat – I love it.” Christiansen says he had the chance to attend the university of his choice. He chose the unique combination afforded by the Peter Kiewit Institute (PKI), which combines UNO’s College of Information Science & Technology with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s School of Engineering. While at PKI, he was named a Scott Scholar, students who benefit directly from the
scholarship funding provided by the Suzanne and Walter Scott Foundation. “Had PKI not existed,” he says, looking backward, “I would not be working at UP today.” Career Resource Center offerings In addition to the on-site recruiting done by Union Pacific and other corporations, the Career Resource Center at PKI makes internship and full-time job offerings available to PKI students. As of this fall, a total of 1,225 job opportunities had been passed through the center, according to Coordinator Doug Bahle. That compares to 1,136 in all of 2006 and 476 in 2005. The opportunities come from 878 business partners – nearly nine times the approximately 100 business partners the resource center had in 2001. PKI students interested UNOALUM
attitude is a huge plus when it comes to teamwork. We want to improve things for the company, and you do that by motivating other people to Partners help you.” From the Gallup Organization and He also looks for a particular interthe U.S. Strategic Command est in working at Union Pacific. (USSTRATCOM) at Offutt Air Force “If they’re not interested in UP or Base to Mutual of Omaha and Union the type of work we do, we’re going Pacific Corporation, each year a wide to have a hard time,” he says. “We’re range of IT internship and employnot just here to pay students to come ment opportunities become available to work. We want them to help us get in the Omaha metropolitan area. work done, and we want our internAccording to Union Pacific Chief ships to be a recruiting tool. Technology Officer Lynn Andrews, “If you look at the people we hire, between 20 and 30 interns are selectprobably 80 percent have done some ed to work in the IT division annualkind of interning here.” ly. The company recruits from the top He also examines an applicant’s schools in the nation, Andrews says, resume and academic skills, and interns from the two colthe courses taken and the leges at PKI “are as good as “We can get any number of resulting grades. He places any we see.” emphasis on career goals and They fall within one of people who can come in here and communication skills. three groups: traditional “We can get any number of interns who work during the just do the work. people who can come in summer only; engineering here and just do the work,” interns, students who work at he says. “What we need are the company for about eight people who can think, who months, taking a semester off can plan and who can come from their studies to do so; up with new ideas.” and year-round interns, those McDermott says good comwho work anywhere between Lynn Andrews munication skills are impor10 and 25 hours per week UP Chief Technology Officer tant well beyond the internduring the school year and ship interview. “When you’re up to 40 hours a week during equipment for each car, rather than working with so many people across the summer. wait for a report from a radio-fredifferent areas of the company to No matter the type of internship, “with the majority of the students, we quency identification (RFID) tag read- coordinate a project, you don’t want er or a defect detector along the rail to wind up wasting one moment on hand them the same kind of work as car’s route. something you shouldn’t have.” our regular employees,” Andrews McDermott will be part of a team Ultimately, internships allow both says. “They don’t work on ‘science students and Union Pacific an opporfair’ projects just to see if they can do analyzing data gathered during the Motes’ testing. In addition to engitunity to check each other. “The ‘try the work. before you buy’ method works not “At times, I get comments from our neering the Motes, the project involves determining the technical only for us but also for the students,” full-time employees that the interns feasibility, such as how the equipAndrews says. are working on more challenging ment will be powered, and whether it It worked for Luke Christiansen. projects than they are.” will be cost effective when applied to His current duties include supervising Fresh ideas more than a million rail cars. the work of some interns and interIn many cases, Andrews says, the “I really enjoy the combination of viewing potential Union Pacific IT interns bring fresh ideas and add transportation and IT,” he says. interns. immediate value to a project. “It’s “I feel very fortunate to have gone surprising what capabilities the stuEnthusiasm need apply from being an intern to being hired dents have. They learn quickly and Andrews says enthusiasm is one and now helping manage the can become useful in a very short factor he looks for when considering interns,” he says. “It’s been fun and period of time.” internship applicants. “A ‘can-do’ challenging.” in pursuing an IT internship with UP should contact Bahle.
Keith McDermott graduated from Creighton Prep in Omaha in 2005 and started studying computer science and engineering at PKI that fall. The following spring, he was selected as a year-round intern at UP McDermott says he’s been involved in many challenging projects. One involves engineering remote electronic devices called “Motes.” Seen as a possible way to monitor rail cars in the future, Motes combine a variety of sensors and detectors that are in various places along the rail lines and put the technology directly on the rail car. The Motes could provide the car’s location as well as detect problems such as defective
What we need are people who can think, who can plan and who can come up with new ideas.”
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Winter 2007 • 31
College of
Photo by Tim Fitzgerald/University Relations
Public Affairs & Community Service
Lawse conducts an energy rating of a home in the Morton Meadows area of midtown Omaha.
ESP Program targets energy usage
Making new habits ne way to break old habits is to
Omake new ones. That’s the idea
behind the Energy Savings Potential (ESP) Program, a collaborative effort between UNO and the Omaha Public Power District (OPPD). From discussions that began in 2005, the ESP Program was formally inaugurated at the start of UNO’s fall semester of 2006 and recently report32 • Winter 2007
ed the results of its first year. “We’ve seen an incredibly quick response to our request for research proposals, as well as many opportunities for additional research,” says B.J. Reed, dean of the College of Public Affairs and Community Service, which is administering the program on behalf of UNO and OPPD.
The program is designed to be a campus-wide initiative exploring how the demand for energy by individuals and small businesses may be substantially reduced by finding ways to motivate individuals and businesses to apply existing technologies for energy conservation. Some of the benefits of a successful ESP Program: • Residential and business consumers save money, including those whose energy costs consume the major portion of their monthly earnings; and, • Energy producers can do more with current levels of energy production, lessening or eliminating the need to build costly new energy-generating facilities. Highlights of the first year of the five-year program include the submission of nearly a dozen research projects, the near-completion of two accepted projects and the successful launch of a third. The Energy Forum Program Assessment project has yielded a comprehensive report of what impacts forum attendees the most and what they found most useful in the energy kits they received, information that will help energy forum planners better target future audiences. The project was conducted by the Center for Public Affairs Research and the Center for Organizational Research and Evaluation (CORE). Jerome Deichert, director of the Center for Public Affairs Research, says the final report on the Energy Forum Program Assessment is a useful tool in determining what motivates individuals to change their behavior and adopt energy saving products and habits. “For example, when introduced to compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, people really did use them,” Deichert says. “When one was included in the energy kit that the forum attendees received, our followup surveys indicated the use of CFLs was a major, positive result. People UNOALUM
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in community and regional planning at the University of NebraskaLincoln, is the energy outreach associate with the Neighborhood Center for Greater Omaha (NCGO), which is serving as a partner in the project. Lawse is the project’s technical expert on energy conservation methods and technology. Other project personnel include NCGO Executive Director Ron Abdouch, NCGO Assistant Director Crystal Rhodes, and Loren Ditsch, a grad student in urban studies at UNO. The ESP Program is proving its value in several ways. “We have seen many examples of untapped research that are gaining momentum and could soon become projects within the program,” Reed says. “And we
continue to encourage the formal proposal of projects that will help us attain the program goals.” Adrian Minks, vice president of essential services at OPPD, says the energy provider, which is funding the program at up to $500,000 a year for five years, is pleased by the quality of the research conducted to date. “We feel the program will be extremely beneficial in helping OPPD and other energy companies identify what motivates people to change their behavior and begin to implement more energy-saving measures,” she says. “We have already received several ideas and practices that will be useful.” Additional information on the ESP Program can be found online at www.unomaha.edu/energyprogram/.
Photo by Tim Fitzgerald/University Relations
considered them the most useful item they received, and their behavior changed in that they started purchasing them.” The project assessed the impact of energy forums conducted throughout the state by the Nebraska Energy Assistance Network, a statewide coalition of utilities, governmental agencies, regulators and community leaders. The Financial and Tax Incentives for Energy Conservation project is expected to yield a unique database of energy incentive programs and an analysis of their success. Led by Associate Professor Kenneth A. Kriz, program director in the School of Public Administration, the project is to accomplish five tasks: • Document existing incentives; • Analyze the success of incentives; • Document the economics of incentives and conservation; • Analyze the psychology of incentives and conservation; and, • Generate recommendations for future financial and tax incentives. Kriz says once a database is assembled and the information is examined, “we hope to generate a list of what incentives have worked, and why.” The Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: A NeighborhoodBased Approach to Improving Aging Housing Stock in Omaha project has begun conducting energy ratings of dozens of homes in the Morton Meadows neighborhood of midtown Omaha, laying the groundwork for a study that may lead to the implementation of energy-efficient practices in older homes on a city-wide basis. The research team, led by Robert Blair, an associate professor at the School of Public Administration, intends to teach Omaha neighborhood associations how conducting comprehensive energy ratings will help them develop plans to improve the efficiency of older homes. Daniel Lawse, a graduate student
Workers in late November install windows on the south side of the former Engineering Building -new home to CPACS when it opens in August 2008.
CPACS home continues extreme makeover T
h e “ e x t r e m e m a k e o v e r ” t h a t i s c h a n g i n g t h e f o r m e r E n g i n e e r i n g B u i l d in g i n t o th e n e w h o m e o f t h e C o l l e g e o f P u b l i c A ff a i r s a n d C o m m u n i ty S e r v i c e i s p r o g r e s s i n g o n s c h e d u l e . W h il e s o m e w o r k is v i s i b l e f r o m th e o u t s i d e o f t h e b u i l d in g a s a d d i t i o n s a r e t a k i n g s h a p e o n t h e n o r t h a n d s o u t h s id e s , th e m a j o r i t y o f t h e c h a n g e s a r e u n d e r w a y i n s i d e . “ W h a t y o u s e e f r o m th e o u t s i d e i s j u s t a s m a l l p o r t i o n o f t h e o v e r a l l p r o j e c t , ’ s a y s B r a d Govig, vice president and senior project manager at W. Boyd Jones Construction Co. O ut s i d e , t he a dd i t i o n s a r e be i n g e n c l os e d . N e w w i n do w s y s t e m s ar e b ei n g i ns t a l l e d a n d t h e r o of s w i l l b e ad d e d n e xt . I n s id e , lo n g h a l l w a y s a n d r o w s o f a n o n y m o u s c la s s r o o m a n d o f f ic e d o o r s a r e b e i n g r e p la c e d w i t h o p e n a r e a s , s e m i n a r a n d m e e ti n g r o o m s , m u lt i - u s e c l a s s r o o m s a n d o ff i c e s w h e r e t h e e m p h as i s i s o n sp a c e s e pa r a t e d b y l i t t l e m or e t h an l i g ht a n d g l a ss . “ M u c h o f t h e s o u th w in g w a l l s a r e i n a n d w e ’ r e p u t t in g t h e c e i li n g s i n o n b o t h t h e fi r s t a n d s e c o n d l e v e l s , ” G o v i g s a y s . “ T h e n o r t h c o r r i d o r r o o m s a re b e i n g d r y w a l l e d a n d s o o n w e ’ l l b e paint ing.” H D R , I n c . p r o v i d e d th e a r c h i t e c t u r a l d e s i g n . C o m p l e t i o n i s p l a n n e d fo r A u g u s t 2 0 0 8 . “ I t ’s going to be a ver y nice facil ity,” Govi g sa ys. “Uni que a rchi tec tur all y, yet f un ct i ona l. ”
Winter 2007 • 33
College of
Photo by Tim Fitzgerald/University Relations
Education
ill I graduate? Will I find a job? For a generation of students now, those questions and others have been answered in the College of Education’s “One Stop Shop” of the Student Services Office in both Kayser Hall and the HPER Building.
W
Student Services a ‘One Stop Shop’ At the Office of Student Services, College of Education students receive help making progress toward graduation and a career. “My counselor has been very helpful in selecting classes that will prepare me to be an elementary teacher,” says Bethany Dillman, a junior college transfer who now is a senior. “I know I can also get help with certification and job seeking or I can go online to access Blackboard, where there is a lot of information.” The concept of having one location where students can receive answers to a variety of questions and needs came to fruition in 1986 when the Office of Student Services first opened. John Langan, now COE dean, then was in charge of the college’s student services. Becky Schnabel, present coordinator of Student Services, was a member of his staff. It’s become one of the college’s most successful endeavors — in each of the last two years more than 3,500 individual student appointments have been scheduled. Prior to the development of the “one-stop shop” it was left to faculty members to work with students on such matters. Having one location for a student to go now makes assistance available at almost anytime. Services include help with recruitment, advisement, field experiences, certification and graduation. In addition, students receive information and support in career planning and job seeking. Students also receive information about available scholarships and receive assistance applying for those scholarships. In addition to the focus on helping students, advisers also work closely with department chairs in the development of class schedules. Advisers provide valuable information on the number of students who will need cer34 • Winter 2007
The Office of Student Services organized the college’s Teacher Preparation Orientation in October. Participants included, from left, Jose Orlando Rivera (Omaha), Chair of Teacher Education Lana Danielson, Michael Burns (sophomore, Omaha) and Stephanie Cramer (junior, Holdrege, Neb.).
tain course work and other pertinent information. Personnel in the “One Stop Shop” can be reached by calling the Office of Student Services in the College of Education at (402) 554-2717, or students with issues relating to programs in HPER (other than teaching) can call Katie Sup Rezac at (402) 554-3245. Following is a look at the various services offered by the offices. Recruitment Alan Black, Brooke Wiseman Dowse and Katie Sup Rezac are the staff members most likely to have contact with prospective students. The trio is present at various high school and college career fairs and at Maverick Mondays when prospective students are welcomed to campus to learn about available programs throughout the university. Specific recruitment events conducted so far include an open house at UNO Homecoming in September a multicultural open house in October, and Maverick Mondays in November and December. Additional Maverick Mondays are scheduled for Feb. 18 and April 7. An orientation is held for students to inform them about entrance requirements. Students also learn about the college’s conceptual framework and are informed of the field experience requirements. They are advised of the need to: obtain a minimum score on the PPST (Pre-Professional Skills Test); have a satisfactory grade-point average; have taken the necessary general education courses; provide letters of recommendation; and, submit an essay on why they wish to become a teacher. Essays are evaluated by faculty members using a scoring rubric. Students then are advised if they are accepted into the program or whether their acceptance is deferred until they satisfactorily meet the expectations for admittance. UNOALUM
Advisement Peggy Price, Marilyn Curran, Black and Sup Rezac all serve as student academic advisers and meet on a regular basis each semester with all students to assist with program planning, troubleshooting class schedules, wait list monitoring, articulation issues, long-term plan development, transcript evaluation, and occasional academic or social needs. Black, Price and Curran work with stuSup Rezac dents preparing to be teachers or entering the area of library science. Sup Rezac works with all undergraduate students in HPER majoring in community health, exercise science, athletic training and recreation. Field experiences Dr. Connie Schaffer is coordinator of Field Experience/Student Teaching for all students planning to become teachers. These experiences begin with observations that might be carried out electronically via a Live Link connection to Western Hills and Oak Valley Elementary Schools. Students also will have several observations scheduled at local schools. Intermediate field experiences follow the initial observations. These experiences include 40 hours of work experience in an academic year — 20 hours spent in a general education classroom, 20 hours in a special education setting. All of the intermediate experiences take place within an Omaha Public Schools building to ensure that students receive opportunities to work with a diverse student population. Advanced field experiences are developed to meet individual student needs and majors. Students will have one or more of these customized opportunities to work directly with students. The experiences are in a variety of school locations throughout the metropolitan area. The culminating experience for an aspiring educator is student teaching. Students who meet the requirements to student teach must complete an application that includes a resume, transcript and application form. The student meets with an adviser to have a final program check, then an interview with Schaffer. Twenty-five to 30 supervisors are required to work with the 300 to 350 undergraduate student teachers and
another 50 to 60 students with degrees who wish to student teach for certification or advanced education purposes. As a culminating student teacher requirement, students must give a 10-minute presentation on how they teach a lesson, how they assess student learning, and how the information affected their instruction. Presentations are made before a panel of two evaluators — faculty members or adjunct faculty members who have attended a training session for evaluators. There are more than 1,600 student field experience/student teaching placements in the area of teacher education each year. Practicum and internship experiences for nonteaching majors in HPER are arranged by faculty members who teach in those areas. Certification Approximately 750 students annually are assisted in the certificate process. This includes first-time teacher certification applicants, individuals renewing previous certificates and those adding additional endorsements to their current credential. The certification office in the College of Education serves as a liaison to the Nebraska Department of Education, is responsible for maintaining endorsement programs, serves as the recommending official for all students completing graduate and undergraduate programs for teacher certification, and is a resource relative to the policies and procedures of the Department of Education at the college level. Students who successfully complete the requirements for teacher certification are assisted in receiving that certification.
Recruitment Advisement
Field Experiences Certification
Career assistance Wiseman Dowse assists prospective teachers developing job-seeking skills and provides them with career information. Faculty members also integrate such information into their course instruction. Students are trained in resume and interview preparation. Mock interview experiences are provided in cooperation with the Educational Administration and Supervision Department and with graduate students enrolled in classes focusing on personnel administration. Students obtain assistance in job searches through attendance at job fairs, from information provided about available jobs on the Internet, and via personal and electronic communications. A job fair is held on campus and students are referred to larger fairs on other nearby campuses.
Career Assistance
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Winter 2007 • 35
College of
Courtesy Philomath Films
Communication, Fine Arts and Media
Beginning scene of Sammie practicing his lines from the award-winning documentary film “Shakespeare Behind Bars.”
Lock down with the Bard merging from a research triangle of UNO Theatre EProfessor Cindy Melby Phaneuf, UNO English
Professor Robert Darcy and Creighton University English Professor Brooke Stafford was the Nebraska Shakespeare Behind Bars Workshops in October. About 250 students, faculty members and individuals from Nebraska’s correctional institutions attended the three screenings of the award-winning documentary “Shakespeare Behind Bars.” The film follows the work of Curt Tofteland, artistic director of the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival and the founding artistic director of the Shakespeare Behind Bars program at the Luther Luckett Correctional Complex in La Grange, Ky. The SBB program is the only North American Shakespeare Company contained within the walls of a medium security adult male prison. The program is designed to allow the adult prison population an opportunity to examine relevant personal and social issues within the structure of an aesthetic experience. The approach encourages the development of the interpersonal life skills that will contribute to the inmate’s successful reintegration into society. Screenings were held on the campuses of UNO, 36 • Winter 2007
Metropolitan Community College and Creighton University. Following each screening Tofteland conducted a talkback session with a question-and-answer period. One of the goals of the workshops was to start a dialogue about the feasibility and benefits to starting an equivalent program in Nebraska.
The initial group of well-wishers, at UNO’s reception in the Weber Fine Arts building, encouraging all to get involved.
UNOALUM
Grad still setting high standards By Melissa Meyer, UNO Student
S
e tt i n g h i g h e x p e c ta t io n s f o r h e r s e lf w a s s o m e t h i n g K e ls e y A r c h e r s a id s h e p i c k e d u p as a yo un g gi r l . G r o w in g u p i n O m a ha , Ar c he r wa s d r i v e n t o a c c o m p li s h a n d ex c e e d h e r g o al s . O n e o f h e r b i gge st ac co m pl i sh m e n ts w a s g r a d u a t i n g fr o m U N O in M a y 2 0 0 4 w it h a b a c h e l or ’s degree in public relations and adver t isi ng. Today, Archer uses UNO grad Kelsey Archer. m a n y o f t h e s k i l ls s h e l e a r ne d at U N O i n h er j o b a s th e a s s i s t a n t d ir e c to r o f m a r k e ti n g a n d p u b l i c r e l a t i on s a t C l a r k s o n Co l l e ge i n O m ah a . “ I u se a l ot f r o m c ol l eg e . Al l o f m y pu b l i c r e l a t i o n s, ad v e r t i si n g a n d m ar ke t i n g c l as s e s
t a u gh t m e a l o t , ” s h e s a y s . “ T h e y t a ug h t m e a b o u t d i r e c t ma i l a n d o r g a n i z a t i o n . ” Archer most credits two people for influenci ng h e r wh i l e a t UN O . “Ka re n Weber asks a lot of her students a n d s h e m a k e s y o u w ri t e a l o t , b u t s h e p re pa r e d m e f o r a f t er g r a du a t i o n, ” A r ch e r sa y s . “ S h e w a s a r o l e mo d e l . S h e i s t h e l e a d e r o f P R S S A a n d s h e h e l p e d m e d e v e l o p in to w h o I am,” sa id Arc her. While attending UNO Archer took part in m any act iv it ie s, sev era l i n lea der shi p r ol es. She was president of UNO’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and presid e n t o f t h e O r d e r o f O m e g a . A r c h e r a l s o t o o k part in the university’s Ad Club, Real Estate C l u b a n d t h e S o c i e t y o f P r o fe s s i o n a l J o u r n a li s ts a n d w a s a m e m b e r o f C h i O m e g a sorority. Ar ch e r cr e di t s h er ex pe r i en ce s w i t h t h es e o r g a n i z a t io n s w it h h e l p i n g h e r b e c o m e w h o s h e is t o d a y i n t h e b u s i n e s s w o r l d . “ I l e ar n e d a l ot f r o m m y e x pe r i e n c e s a t U N O . I l i k e d h o w a l l o f t h e o rg a n i z a t i o n s w e r e
a l l p r of e s s i o n al a n d or g a n i z e d. M y t i m e w i t h PRSSA taught me how important networking i s . T h e B a t e m a n c o m p e t i t i o n h e l pe d m e b u i l d ski ll s a nd ex peri enc e t eam w ork .” I f A r c h e r c o u ld g i v e a d v i c e t o u n d e r c la s s m e n l o o k in g t o w a l k in h e r s h o e s s h e w o u l d t el l t he m ho w i m p or t an t i t i s t o be i nv ol v ed w hil e at U N O . “ B ei ng i n v o l v ed i n t h e pr o f e s s i o na l o r g a n i z a ti o n s is a g o o d w a y to n e tw o r k . I t i s a ls o a great opportunity to build your career, ” s h e sa ys. A r c h e r e n j o y e d h e r t im e a t U N O s o m u c h s h e d e c i d e d t o fu r t h e r h e r e d u c a t i o n t h e r e a s well. She is working toward her master’s d e g r e e a n d i s w ri t i n g h e r t h e s i s . A r c h e r a l s o h a s m a n y m o re c a re e r f u t u re g o a l s f o r h e r s e l f . “I want to build my career. I want to work m o r e in m a r k e ti n g a n d I w a n t to tr y d if f e r e n t t h i n g s . I w a n t t o b u i l d m y fo u n d a t io n s , ” s h e sa ys. S h e a l s o w a n t s t o e n c o u r a g e o th e r s to g e t t h e i r e d u c a ti o n a t U N O . “ I e n j o y e d t h e p r o g ra m a t U N O . T h e r e a t a lo t o f v e r y t a l e n t e d p e o p l e a t U N O . I w o u l d e n c o u r a g e a n y o n e t o g e t t h e i r e d u c a t io n the r e .”
College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media Calendar of Events — December 2007 through May 2008 Art & Art Histor y
Fe b. 29 Opening Reception for Printed in Omaha
Art shows held in UNO Art Gallery, 1st Floor, Weber Fine Arts Building. Opening receptions begin at 6:30 p.m.
A p ri l 1 1 – M a y 2 Spring 2008 BFA Thesis Exhibition
Nov. 30 – Jan. 18 Brett Reif – In Digestion Nov. 30 Opening Reception for Brett Reif Ja n . 25 – Fe b . 1 6 UNO Art Student Exhibition with Hexagon Installation Program Ja n . 2 5 Opening Reception for UNO Art Student Exhibition F e b . 2 9 – A p ri l 5 Printed in Omaha: A Retrospective Exhibition of the UNO Print Workshop
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A p r il 1 1 Opening Reception for BFA Thesis Exhibition
Co m m u n ica t io n A p r il 2 4 High School Journalism Conference, Milo Bail Student Center, 12 – 3 p.m. May 1 Communication Week: Alumni Panel, Milo Bail Dodge Room, 1 – 4 p.m. May 2 Communication Week: Award Luncheon, Thompson Alumni Center, Bootstrapper Hall 11:30 – 1:30 p.m.
M as te r s & Mu s ic S er i es A Series Blending Artistic Imagery and Musical Composition. Sunday evenings at 5 p.m. in the UNO Art Gallery, 1st Floor, Weber Fine Arts Building. Reception with artists follow lecture/performances. Contact Shari Hofschire, 554-2402, for tickets. F eb 10 Masters and Music: EVOLUTION OF A PRODUCTION. Catherine Ferguson, Sculptor, Set & Costume Designer, Opera Omaha, 2008 “Aida”, and Teresa Dody, Soprano. 5 pm UNO Art Gallery March 30 Masters and Music:GOOD IMPRESSIONS. Gary Day, printmaker, and Dr. Peter Madsen & the UNO LowDown Brass Ensemble. 5 pm UNO Art Gallery
Music Music performances held in Strauss Performing Arts Center Recital Hall unless otherwise noted. Call 5542335 for Ecoutez! and Resonate tickets. Dec 16 Messiah Concert Choir Concert, 3:00 & 7:30 pm Ja n . 2 5 Resonate Series: Stephen Bouma, piano, 7:30 pm Ja n . 2 7 Ecoutez! Series: Herndon Spillman, organ, 3:00 pm March 30 April Fool’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble Concert, 3:00 pm
Th e a t r e Performances begin 7:30 p.m. in UNO Theatre, Weber Fine Arts Building, unless otherwise noted. Call UNO Theatre Box
Office for tickets, 5542335. Januar y 20-26 UNO/Iowa Western host Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival Februar y 28 & M a rc h 1 , 5 - 8 NU Ways/NU Works Festival A p ri l 1 7 - 1 9 , 2 3 -2 6 The Birds, World Premier Musical, based on the play by Aristophanes
Writer’s Workshop Readings start at 7:30 p.m. in the UNO Art Gallery, 1st Floor, Weber Fine Arts Building. Februar y The CROP celebrates National Poetry Month; various events around campus and Omaha.
Winter 2007 • 37
College of
Arts & Sciences
College welcomes nine new faculty
he College of Arts and Sciences is
Tproud to introduce the latest additions to its faculty.
Bl ack S tu di es Cher Love McAllister, Sekhmet Ra Em Kht Maat, joined the Black Studies faculty after receiving her Ph.D. in African American Studies from Temple University. Her dissertation is titled “Remembering ASAR: Haile Selassie I within Rastafarl Thought.” Her areas of special interest are Indigenous African cosmology, religious thought, and philosophies of existence, broadly conceived to Cher Love McAllister include African Diasporan contemporary cultural epistemologies, philosophical perspectives and religious thought. “Next spring she will be teaching African Philosophy, which explores ancient, traditional and contemporary 38 • Winter 2007
philosophical/theological concepts and doctrines of Africans through an investigation of their cosmological, metaphysical, ontological and ethical world view,” says interim department chair, Peggy Jones. “We are enjoying her intellectual energy and vibrant personality!”
role the mind plays in determining certain normative phenomena, and the inability of physical properties to play that role.” William Melanson received his Ph.D. in philosophy from Ohio State University in 2006. He specializes in Epistemology and Philosophy of Mathematics. His dissertation is titled, “Justified Existential Belief: An Investigation of the William Melanson Justifiability of Believing in the Existence of Abstract Mathematical Objects.” Before coming to UNO, Melanson was a visiting assistant professor at the University of Puget Sound.
P h i lo s o p h y The Philosophy Program welcomed two new faculty members this year. Paul Audi comes to UNO after earning his Ph.D. in philosophy from Princeton University. His teaching experience includes an Paul Audi instructorship at Colgate University. His areas of specialization are Metaphysics and Philosophy of Mind. According to Audi, his dissertation “Beyond Causal Theories of Mind and Nature” is an argument that “appeals to the special
Rel i g i o us S t u d i es The Religious Studies program also has two new faculty members starting this fall. Bridget Blomfield joined the Religious Studies faculty having earned her Ph.D. in Women’s Studies in Religion from Claremont University, Bridget Blomfield Claremont, Calif. Her dissertation is titled “The Language of Tears: An Ethnographic Study of Shi’a UNOALUM
Foreign Language s
A
ccording to Foreign Languages Department Chair, Dr. Carolyn Gascoigne, “ P r o f e s s o r s C l a u d i a G a r c i a a n d A n i t a S a a l f e l d a r e w o n d e rf u l a d d i t i o n s t o t h e de par t ment . ” G ar c i a ' s e x p e r t i s e i n L a t i n A m er i ca n l i t e r a t u r e a n d c u l t u r e a l r e a d y i s i m p a c t i n g s t u d e n t s a n d c o m m u n it y m e m b e r s , a n d S a a lf e l d ' s e x p e r ti s e i n S p a n i s h p h o n e t ic s a nd ph o n ol o g y w i l l f i l l a n i m p or t a n t c u r r i cu l a r n e e d. G a r c i a e a r ne d he r Ph . D . i n S pa n i s h f r o m t h e U ni v e r si t y o f F l o r i d a. H er d i ss e r t a t i o n “ N a r r a t i v a g u a t e m a l t ec a c o n t e m p or a n e a y c a m p o i n t e l e c t ua l t r a ns n a c i o n a l ” r e f l e ct s h e r r e s e a r c h i n t e r e s t s i n L a t i n A m e r i c a n L i t e r a t u r e . S a a l f e l d is w o r k i n g o n c o m p l e t i n g h e r P h . D . i n H i s p a n i c L i n g u i s ti c s a t t h e U n i v e r s i t y o f I l l i n o i s a t U r ba n a - Ch a m p a i g n . H e r di ss e r t a t i o n i s e nt i t l ed “ T he L 2 a c q u i s it i o n o f e l e m e n t s o f S p a n is h p r o s o d y b y E n g li s h L 1 a d u l t s : s t r e s s a n d s y l l ab if i ca t io n st u di es . ”
Muslim Women's Ashura Rituals.” According to Blomfield, her dissertation examines Shi’a Muslim women’s religious rituals, especially the azadari (sorrow) ritual, that commemorates the martyrdom of the member and relatives of the ahl albayt, the holy family of the Prophet Muhammad. Practiced annually during the month of Muharram for the past 1,450 years, this ritual is still practiced in Shi’a communities around the world. An ethnographic study, it describes how these Shi’a Muslim women interpret the concept of feminism, and how their religious role models and ritual participation instill a personal identity and religious authority. Blomfield also has been named to the university’s Women's Studies faculty. Brady DeSanti received his BA in Religious Studies from UNO in 2002 and is working toward his Ph.D. at the University of Kansas with a major in U.S. Brady DeSanti History and minor fields of Indigenous Peoples and Religious Studies. w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
Claudia Garcia
His dissertation explores early American anthropology and American Indian agency in dialogues between themselves and scholars, focusing on anthropologist John Swanton and his work with Native peoples.
M at hem at ic s “Robert Todd joined the Mathematics Department in Fall 2007 to replace Dr. Scott Downing who retired in Spring 2007,” says Mathematics Department Chair Dr. Jack Heidel. He adds, “Like Scott, Robert's spe- Robert Todd cialty is topology, an abstract form of geometry.” Todd earned his Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of Iowa. The title of his thesis is “Khovanov Homology: Calculation and Applications.” “So far UNO has been a great place,” says Todd. “This campus offers a lot of opportunities. I hope that I can offer just as many opportunities to people here at UNO.”
\Anita Saalfeld.
Ch em i str y Haizhen (Andy) Zhong joins the Chemistry faculty with an impressive publication and research record. He has two patents (with J.P. Bowen) for Angiogenesis Inhibitors, drugs that block the development of new blood vessels that would feed cancerous tumors. An Angiogenesis Inhibitor could stop tumors from growing and spreading to other parts of the body. Zhong is published in such professional journals as the Journal of Chemical Theory and Computation and Journal of Molecular Graphics and Modeling. He earned Haizhen (Andy) Zhong his Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry in 2001 from the College of Pharmacy at the University of Georgia, Athens. Before coming to UNO, he was a research scientist in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and Instructor in Computational Chemistry. He also was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Michigan (2001-03) and a Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Georgia (2004). Winter 2007 • 39
College of
Arts & Sciences
Wheeler service marks full and long life
Photo by Tim Fitzgerald/University Relations
Bail Student Center at UNO. Colleagues and students gathered to remember Wheeler, who passed away Aug. 25 at the age of 85. “I used to periodically stop by his apartment in the evening on the way home and we enjoyed the most wide-ranging, interesting thoughtful conversations, of the kind I seldom had with anyone else, says Dr. Mark Rousseau, former department chair for Sociology. “I will miss him and our great conversations.” Wheeler was hired by UNO in 1967 to serve as department chair of Sociology and coordinator for the Urban Studies Center. Between the time he earned his Ph.D. from Missouri University, Columbia, in 1959 and his appointment at UNO, he held a variety of positions at a number of colleges. From 1965 to 1967 he was professor of Sociology and director, Urban and Community Studies at Rice University. From 1963 to 1965, he was professor of Sociology and chair, Division of Social Sciences at Tarkio College. From 1960 to 1963, he was a research associate for the Committee on Human Development, University of Chicago, and director, Kansas City Study of Adult Life. He held teaching appointments over the years at Park College, Parkville, Mo.; University Kansas, Lawrence; Kansas State Teacher's College, Emporia; Bethany College, Lindsborg, Kansas; South Dakota State College, Brookings; Christian College, Columbia; University of Missouri, Columbia; and Eastern New
40 • Winter 2007
Mexico University, Portales. His eight published books include “Social Stratification in a Plains Community: Lebanon, Missouri, 1949,” and “An Analysis of Social Change in a Swedish Immigrant Community: The Case of Lindsborg, Kansas, 1985.” Wheeler went on partial retirement in 1989 and was awarded emeritus status in 1993. Rousseau remarks that Wheeler, “much enjoyed working with students, and still as emeritus professor mentored undergraduate students.” Rousseau added that Wheeler's retirement also included much time traveling in Europe, “particularly Sweden, where he had done doctoral work and spoke the language.” Criss Library Archives
ayne Wheeler, professor emeritus of Sociology, was
Whonored at a memorial service Sept. 27 at the Milo
Aphrodite sculpture finds home at college S
er en e a nd m a je st ic , A p h r o d i te s t a n d s a m o n g t h e tr e e s a n d g a r d e n s s u r r o u n d in g h e r n e w h o m e , A r t s and Sci ences H all . Th e s cul pt ur e w as don at ed th r o u g h t h e U n iv e r s it y o f N e b r a s k a F o u n d a t io n b y M a r t h a P a g e , 2 0 0 3 g ra d u a t e o f t h e C o l le g e o f A r t s a n d Sciences. A p h r o d i t e , c i rc a 1 8 8 0 , i s a z i n c s c u lp t u r e b y r e n o w n e d A m e r i c a n ir o n w o r k s c o m p a ny J.W. Fiske of New York. S h e o r i g i n a l l y t r a ve l e d t o O m ah a t o r e si d e i n t h e g ar dens at Martha Page’s home. W h e n P a g e r e c e nt l y d e ci d e d t o do w n si z e t o a s m al l e r
h o m e, s he o f f er e d t he a n t iq u e s c u l p t u r e t o U N O . “ I’ l l mi ss he r, but she’s in a pl ace w her e m y hea rt is ,” Page said in an inter vi ew w i th th e U N O G a t e w a y s tu dent newspaper. “ I va lu e my p r o f e s s o r s a n d I lo v e t h e u n i v e rs i t y ; s h e ' s i n a g r e a t spot.” I n a d d i ti o n t o th e b e a u t i f u l l andscape, Aphr odite i s w ell a c c o m m o d a t e d b y th e g r a n d n e o - cl a s s i c al a r c hi t ec t u r e o f A r t s a nd S ci en c e s H a l l . T he four-stor y white columns and p o r t i co , i n de s i g n a n d s c a l e , p r o v i d e a fi tti n g b a c k d r o p f o r t he godde ss o f l ove and beauty.
Ar t s a n d S ci e nc e s H al l al so i s hom e t o t he f or ei gn la n g u a g e s fa c u lt y fr o m w h o m Page earned her degree in French. Pa g e ’s donation of the s c u l p tu r e is n o t h e r f ir s t g i ft to the university. With an e n d o w m e n t fr o m P a g e t h e Fo r e i g n L a n g ua g e s D e p a r tm e n t i n 2 0 0 5 e s t a b l i s h e d t h e Ma r t h a C . P a g e Study Abroad Tra ve l Fun d. The Fund, establ ished th r o u g h th e U n iv e r s ity o f Ne b r a s k a F ou n d a t i o n , en do w s a n a nn ua l s ch ol a r s h i p f o r a s tu d e n t t r a v e l in g t o F r an c e a n d pa r t i ci p at i n g i n a n a c c r e d i te d s t u d y p r o g r a m .
UNOALUM
Criss Library Archives
Former philosophy professor spent 30 years at UNO
Duane Willard: A life examined he unexamined life,” said Socrates, “is not worth liv-
“Ting.” When L. Duane Willard, professor emeritus of
Philosophy, passed away this October, he knew well the value of an examined life. During his 30 years at UNO, Willard's teaching, research, and community service all demonstrated a willingness to ask the right questions and face the honest answers. Willard taught Introduction to Philosophy, Logic, Introduction to Ethics, History of Ancient Philosophy, Philosophy of Religion, Business Ethics, Contemporary Ethical Theories, and Environmental Ethics. Former colleague and department chair Dr. William Blizek recalls, “Duane was for many years one of UNO's favorite teachers. Duane genuinely liked his students and he worked hard to make each student successful. Duane’s love of philosophy was infectious and he passed the excitement of philosophy on to his students.” tor to the larger Omaha and Nebraska communities. He His writings explored questions of value and ethics in was a panelist for “Functions of a Free Press” and “Do areas as diverse as the environment, animal rights and Newsmedia Tell the Truth” for the Nebraska Committee medicine. He was published in the Journal of Value for the Humanities. Inquiry; Philosophy Research Archives; Bicentennial He was a featured speaker for the Nebraska Committee Symposium of Philosophy: Contributed Papers, Dialogue, Business and Professional Ethics; Journal of Medicine and for the Humanities, Omaha Optimist Club and Kiwanis Club. He was a panelist for The Riverfront Forum in 1975. Philosophy; Environmental Ethics; Westminster Institute He was producer of the TV Classroom, Review; Profits and Professions; “Philosophy at Work” for KMTV and Philosophy and Public Affairs; and, KYNE-TV in 1974 and a speaker on Dialogue: Canadian Philosophical “Rights in the ’80s -- Religious Rights” Review. for the TV Classroom in 1982. He served Willard’s service to the UNO comon an advisory committee on drug munity included time on the UNO dependency for Omaha Awareness in Animal Welfare Committee, the Action in 1974. Educational Policy and Honors Willard earned AB degrees from Program Committees, the Dean's Tennessee Temple College in Voice and Advisory Committee, UNO Faculty Baylor University in Philosophy. He Senate, UNO Adjudicatory Committee received his master’s in divinity in 1961 and the Academic Vice-Chancellor's from Midwestern Baptist Theological Task Force on University Requirements. Seminary and an MS (ABD) in philosoHe also served as chair of the phy in 1964 from the University of Department of Philosophy and Religion Wisconsin-Madison. and President of the UNO Chapter of After his retirement in 1993, Willard the American Association of University F o rm er D u an e W i l l a rd moved to Branson, Mo. He passed away Professors. Coll eague Dr. W ill i a m B l i z ek after a long illness on Oct. 11, 2007. Willard also was an active contribu-
“Duane was for many years one of UNO’s favorite teachers. Duane genuinely liked his students and he worked hard to make each student successful.”
w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
Winter 2007 • 41
College of
Business Administration
UNO alum Herb Sklenar and wife, Ellie, in front of the newly christened cargo ship, the H.A. Sklenar.
The good ship Sklenar t’s not every day that a native
INebraskan has a cargo ship named
after him. Yet that’s exactly what happened to UNO alumnus Herb Sklenar. On Oct. 5 the Vulcan Materials Co. christened the H.A. Sklenar in honor
of the company’s former CEO. Vulcan’s enormous ships carry crushed limestone for road beds from a Yucatan, Mexico, quarry that produces 12 million tons per year to ports in Tampa, Fla., and Mobile, Ala. The largest of Vulcan’s ships, the
810-foot, $60 million H.A. Sklenar can carry 68,000 tons per load in its 2.6 million cubic feet of cargo space. A built-in conveyor belt efficiently offloads the aggregate at port. Vulcan Materials Co., located in Birmingham, Ala., is a member of the S&P 500 and is the nation’s foremost producer of construction aggregates. Sklenar graduated with honors in 1952 from the business program at what was then Omaha University after growing-up on a 32-acre farm outside Omaha. He went on to earn an MBA from Harvard University. Vulcan recruited Sklenar as vice president of finance in 1972. He rose quickly through the company ranks, becoming president in 1983, CEO in 1986, chairman in 1992 and chairman emeritus upon retirement in 1997. Named in June 2007 as the third recipient of the Birmingham Business Journal’s “Best-in-Business Lifetime Achievement Award,” Sklenar finds ways to extend opportunities to others. He and his wife, Ellie, were the first to provide full-ride scholarships to students enrolled in UNO’s College of Business Administration. Congratulations, Herb!
So what is a real MBA? • UNO’s MBA degree requires you to individually conduct and docu m e n t a n in - d e p t h a n a l y s i s o f a b u s i n e s s o f y o u r c h o i c e . S e v e r a l o f t h es e c a se s h a ve w o n n a t i on a l c o m p et i t i o ns an d / or be e n p ub l i s he d . It’s no wonder UNO MBAs are tops in strategy. • UNO’s MBA degree provides the opportunity for a year-long c o u r s e i n In v e s t m e n t P o r tf o l io A n a ly s i s t h a t i n v o l v e s h a n d s - o n m a n agement of a $2 million fixed-income fund. The UNO MBA t eam q u a l i f i e d t o c o m p e t e i n t e r n a ti o n a l l y a t R I S E ( R e d e f in i n g I n v e s t m e n t Strategy Education), where UNO’s MBA team placed FIRST in Spring 20 07. • UNO’s MBA degree enables you to study with faculty who were previously in business or government, who now ser ve on boards of directors of corporations and not-for-profits, AND who earned doctora t e s i n b u s i n e ss . • UNO’s MBA degree prepares you to make challenging business d e c i s i o n s . G r a d u a t in g U N O M B A s tu d e n t s ’ o v e r a l l s c o r e s a r e c o n s i s t e n tl y i n t h e t o p 5 p e r c e n t n a ti o n a ll y o n a c o m p r e h e n s i v e e x a m fr o m ETS* on strategy, finance, account ing, marketing and management. [*Educational Testing Ser vice, publisher of the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) and TOEFL.]
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• UNO’s MBA degree is accredited by AACSB-International, the m o s t r i g o r o u s g r a d u a t e b u s i n e s s p r o g r a m a c c r e d i ta t i o n — th e g o l d s t a n d a r d . I t m e a n s y o u r d e g r e e w il l b e a c c e p t e d a n d r e s p e c t e d b y e v e r y f i r m a n d o r g a ni z a t i o n , w o r l dw i d e . • UNO’s MBA program provides access to area business and community leaders through CBA’s Ron and Shirley Burns’ MBA L e ad e r sh i p S p ea k er S er i e s , a n d t o o t h er u p- a nd - c om i ng l ea d er s ( y o u r s t u d e n t c o l l e a g u e s ) , f a c u lt y a n d c o l l e g e d e a n s d u r i n g M B A Ass ociati on activ itie s.
UNOALUM
Class Notes SUBMIT A CLASS NOTE ON THE WEB: www.unoalumni.org/magazine/submit_class_notes 1938 Da le Wolf, BA, lives in Omaha and writes: “I’m considering going for a Guinness world record: most rocks per minute in a rocking chair. Just kidding … the old rocker hasn’t snared me yet, but it is trying.” 1944 Vernon G. Bugh, BA, lives at a retirement village in Duarte, Calif. Bugh retired in 1992 after working for 20 years as a psychiatrist in private practice and as an assistant clinical professor at UCLA. He had spent the previous 18 years as a psychiatrist-medical director at three California hospitals. Bugh also practiced psychiatry in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. He began his medical career in 1946 after graduating from the University of Nebraska College of Medicine. 1952 Herb Sklenar, BS, during a christening ceremony in Mobile, Ala., Oct. 5. had a nearly three-football-field-long freighter named after him. Sklenar was CEO for Vulcan Materials Co. until retiring in 1997. See story Page 42. 1959 John Wiren, BGS, in October was inducted into the Omaha South High School South High Greats. Wiren earned nine letters in football, basketball, baseball and track before graduating from South in 1948. He was on the football, wrestling and track teams at OU. He later was a pilot with the U.S. Navy and with the U.S. Marine Corp Reserves then became a commercial airline pilot. He lives in Mt. Home, Ark., and is airport commissioner there. He also is president for the Air America Association. In 2006 w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
he authored “Flight of the Erawan,” a fictionalized autobiography covering six years of his flying experience with Air America Airlines in Vietnam, Thailand and Laos. 1965 Richard G. Smith, BS, lives in Buffalo Grove, Ill., and writes, “What a great feature to have the Gateway archive now online! As the editor-in-chief of the fall 1964 issues, it was wonderful to page back and pull up some old memories.” He notes that he and his wife, JoAnn (Bishop, 1965) met in the Gateway office and married shortly after graduation. “We have two grown children that have ‘flown the nest.’ I'm still in the field of journalism as the owner of a video production business that produces material for most of the broadcast and cable TV news operations. JoAnn is a certified water aerobics instructor and coach at a local Curves workout facility.” Send him email at tviguana@Comcast.net 1966 Tommy D. Butler, BGE, lives in Wetumpka, Ala., and notes that he retired from the U.S. Air Force as a Lt. Col. in 1980 then flew for airlines until he was 60. “Taught ROTC for Air Force until this school year. Fly safe to all military grads and stay in touch.” Send him email at pilottombutler@yahoo.com John L. Bozak, BSBA, lives in Omaha and is a retired orthopedic salesman. He was one of the first 49 salesmen to introduce “Total Knees” in the United States. “I was specialty distributor for Howmedica in Nebraska and Iowa for 21 years,” he
writes. “Retired in 1992. I have a home in Omaha, but I’m a Florida resident, living in Lighthouse Point, Fla., for 13 years. Passion is breeding and racing thoroughbreds and golfing. Was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon and played baseball for UNO in ’62 and ’63.” Ward Schumaker, BFA, recently made news in connection with an article appearing in The New Republic. The publication had tapped Schumaker to illustrate Harvard psychologist Steven Pinker’s article on the meaning, history and power of curse words. Schumaker sent six “very pretty and slightly baroque drawings” incorporating words used by Pinker in his article. The piece ran, but without Schumaker’s work. “Even though the accompanying article employs the same words, set in red type!” Schumaker notes via email. “An interesting article, however, whether or not you agree with Professor Pinker.” Schumaker has remained engaged on other fronts, too. He recently began working more in France again. “They're keeping me busy: calligraphy for Le Figaro, book covers for Payot-Rivages and a catalogue for Hermès.” In New York he’s been working on a Broadway poster. “Though they hire more than one person, then choose only one design — after many, many revisions,” he notes. “It's heartbreaking work and you often end up with nothing to show for your work but money.” In January and February he is having a small show of paintings and hand-made books at San Francisco’s Meridian Gallery. On top of all that Schumaker recently became a grandfather and has been used for babysitting.
WINTER 2007
“That's the best work of all,” he says. 1969 W i l l i a m D. C e e l y, BGS, lives in Derwood, Md. He retired from Lockheed Martin after a career of 42 years in data processing that started in the U.S. Air Force at Offutt AFB. He joined IBM after graduation from UNO in 1969. He married Sandra Crewdson of Omaha. They have two sons and two granddaughters. Send him email at ceelys2@comcast.net James F. Bard Jr. , BGS, lives in Westminster, Md., and writes that, “I am now in my fifth year as secretary, 91st Strategic Reconnaissance Wing Association. In September 2007 I chaired a reunion for the 91st Bomb Group (WWII), the 91st SRS (Korea), the 91st SRW (Cold War), and the 91st Space Wing (active) at Minot, N.D. Minot Air Force Base dedicated a room full of plaques, photos, etc. to us; it is a permanent display.” Send him email at JimBardJr@comcast.net 1971 Jim Sweeney, BS, has retired after a 21-year career with Bell South (now AT&T), major accounts division, in Atlanta. He previously was a teacher for three years in New Jersey and for seven years in Elkhorn, Neb., where he was the head high school wrestling coach and was named “Outstanding Educator” in 1978. “I really enjoy traveling, especially to the Great National Parks of the USA,” he writes. He and his wife, Gayle, live in Dunwoody, Ga., just outside Atlanta. Send him email at sweeno@bellsouth.net
Winter 2007 • 43
Class Notes
1972 Ruth Henrichs, BS, is president and chief executive officer of Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska. She also has an MSW from UNO, earned in 1976.
1975 James H. Graham, BGS, lives in Myrtle Beach, S.C., and writes, “I ventured forth in the Army. I retired and then ventured into writing.” Send him email at: ljamesgraham2@sc.rr.com 1976 Robert Zagozda, BS, was named chief operating officer of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. “Bob's experience managing operational activities for both public and private organizations over the past 30 years will serve the department well,” Gov. Dave Heineman said in a release. “His business background will provide additional insight during the department’s restructuring process.” Zagozda will be responsible for seven areas, including financial services, information systems and technology, legal services, human resources and staff development, communications and legislative services, support services, and regulatory analysis and integration. Zagozda had been the administrator for Miller Orthopaedic Affiliates since 2001. He has held similar positions with the Nebraska Medical Center, Fraser Stryker Law Firm, First National Bank of Omaha and Arthur Anderson & Company. 1977 Martin W. Totzke, BS, lives in Appleton, Wis. He received an education doctorate in organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University. “I continue to be employed at Fox Valley Technical College in
44 • Winter 2007
Appleton as a criminal justice faculty member,” he writes. Send him email at mtotzke@new.rr.com
Publishing (Thames and Hudson). She was in Omaha Nov. 24 for a book signing at the Bookworm Store.
1979 Jack Philli ps, BA, recently completed the rigorous requirements of the American Society of Consulting Arborists’ Registered Consulting Arborist (RCA) designation. Phillips, who lives in Omaha, is the only registered consulting arborist working between Chicago and San Francisco. There are fewer than 250 in the nation. In a release Phillips said, “My teacher and the father of modern arboriculture, Alex Shigo, was fond of saying: ‘Trees saw us coming, and trees will see us going.’ Trees have made human life on earth possible and our future and quality of life depends on them. Preserving trees is my profession and my passion.” Registered Consulting Arborists are called upon for expert testimony, damage assessment and appraisal, municipal and landscape planning and development, tree preservation, hazard assessment and other situations requiring expert knowledge and experience in the arboricultural industry.
1981 Thomas G. Foster, BS, lives in League City, Texas, and is a senior technical writer with CapRock Communications, which he joined this year at the company’s worldwide headquarters in Houston. Foster writes and researches internal and external documentation that is associated with satellite telecommunication projects. He also develops and writes proposals specifically for government and non-government entities. In 2004 Foster had the biggest proposal win of his career when his Stewart & Stevenson and Daimler-Chrysler client proposal won a $2.8 billion government contract for the remilitarization of Iraq. Foster notes via email that in 2005 he and his wife, Laurel, had to evacuate their Galveston home due to Hurricane Rita. “In the ensuing gridlock, it took the family 11 hours to travel 70 miles along with 3.5 million other Houston area residents.” Send him email at foster_tg@yahoo.com
V irgi n ia R. Hain, BFA, in September hosted a Three Generation Art Show at the Main Street Gallery in Plattsmouth, Neb., with her daughter Alesa Hain Hime and granddaughter Mickaela Hime. Virginia lives in Bellevue and is active in the arts community. Her daughter also attended UNO. Contact Virginia at gingerhain@aol.com 1980 Margaret Krug, BFA, recently published a reference book, “An Artist’s Handbook: Materials and Techniques,” with King
1984 Richard Evans, BSBA, lives in Lincoln, Neb., and has assumed command of the Nebraska Air National Guard’s 900-member 155th Air Refueling Wing based there. The Wing operates nine KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft supporting worldwide force extension, contingency and humanitarian missions. A colonel, Evans previously commanded the Guard’s 170th Group based at Offutt AFB.
Future Alums
Sons & Daughters of UNO Alumni Elizabeth Wilson and Grace Rose Wilson, twin daughters of Erika (Carlson, ’02) and Brian (’01) Wilson of Omaha
Submit a Future Alum on the Web: Provide a birth
announcement (within 1 year of birth) and we’ll send a T-shirt and certificate, plus publish the good news in an ensuing issue of the UNO Alum. Do so online at www.unoalumni.org/magazine. Mail announcements to: Future Alums, UNO Alumni Association, 60th & Dodge, Omaha, NE 68182. FAX info to: (402) 554-3787. Include address, baby’s name, date of birth, parents’ or grandparents’ names and graduation year(s).
Experience of Disability through Literature and the Fine Arts. Her essay, “My Life in a ‘Nut’ Shell” was selected from among more than 300 submissions considered. In a release she says, “My experiences with bi-polar disorder have completely altered the course of my life and have enriched me immeasurably. Much of my writing and artwork is centered around these experiences.” Bockes writes poetry and fiction and also is an artist working in ink and pencil. She won first place and third place at the Lincoln Art Show in Great Falls, Mont., and has had three nominations for the Pushcart Prize. Kaleidoscope Magazine is published by the United Disability Services in Akron, Ohio.
1985 Zan Bockes, BA, was published in Kaleidoscope: Exploring the
UNOALUM
W I N T E R 1989 Steve Casto, BSBA, is president and CEO of Strategic Wealth Solutions in Omaha. He recently was featured in the “Business Minute” column of the Midlands Business Journal. He recently published a book, “Is Your Retirement Heading in the Right Direction?”
Fernandina Beach, Fla. “My certification as an Anti-Money Laundering Specialist helps me with my responsibilities in directing the bank holding company and both banks’ compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act and the USA Patriot Act Anti-money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing program requirements and investigations. My wife and I have just celebrated our 32nd wedding anniversary and are looking forward to many more years together enjoying the new adventures that life brings our way.” Send him email at randkschwerdtfeger@gmail.com
1991 James Bur zinski, BS, lives in Joliet, Ill. A former quarterback for the Mavericks, he is an Army veteran who is married and has three children. For the past 15 years he has been employed as a correctional lieutenant with the Illinois Department of Corrections at Stateville Correctional Center. Send him email at jards@uti.com
1992 S hirley Near y, BFA, lives in Omaha. In September 2006 she opened Cupcake Island.
R i c h a r d L e e S c h w e r dt f e ge r , BGS, lives in Fernandina Beach, Fla., and recently became assistant vice president/bank secrecy act officer for Coastal Banking Company, which owns Lowcountry National Bank in Beaufort, S.C., and First National Bank of Nassau County,
1993 Joh n L. Wil liams, MBA, was named vice president for planning and business development at Children’s Hospital. He is responsible for providing strategic planning leadership, identifying new business opportunities and operational goal setting in
Class Notes
support of the strategic plan. Prior to joining Children’s, Williams served as director of strategic planning and business development at The Nebraska Medical Center. In that role he had responsibility for directing, developing and implementing the strategic plan and was involved in business development, program evaluation and market research activities. 1995 Jim M. Carrol l, BGS, lives in Omaha and is executive director of VSS Catholic Communications, Inc. Its radio station, Spirit 88.9 FM - KVSS in Omaha, has made applications with the FCC to broaden its reach throughout Nebraska. Applications were filed for a 100,000-watt signal covering the Kearney, Hastings and Grand Island area with 8,000-watt signals in Columbus and Hartington. KVSS already has translator stations in Schuyler and Norfolk. Jim and his wife, fellow UNO graduate Karol (Krawczyk, 1983) have five children and reside in Omaha Their oldest daughter is a
2 0 0 7
freshman at UNO. Send him email at jimc@kvss.com 2000 Joseph D. Secord, BGS, lives in Papillion, Neb., and in August joined Morgan Stanley’s Global Wealth Management Group office in Omaha after successfully completing the firm’s rigorous investment studies program in New York. He is active in the community and the Masons Lodge. He and his wife, Jean Ann, have two daughters. Send him email at joseph.secord@ morganstanley.com 2001 John Hubert, MS, received the Outstanding Secondary Adviser award presented by the Health Occupations Students of America. He was an anatomy teacher at Papillion-La Vista High School in Nebraska and recently was promoted to assistant principal there. Carol A . Jones C leaver, BA, lives in Kansas City, where she moved to after graduating from Creighton University School of
Submit your class note over the web at www.unoalumni.org
What have you been doing since graduating from UNO? Your fellow alumni would like to know! Give us an update by filling out the form below. We’ll publish the news in a future issue of the UNO Alum and on our website. Send the news to Class Notes Editor, UNO Alum, 67th & Dodge, Omaha, NE 68182-0010, or Fax to (402) 554-3787.
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Winter 2007 • 45
Class Notes Law in May 2006. She is a business litigation and employment law attorney with Seigfreid Bingham Levy Selzer & Gee. She has bar admissions in Kansas and Missouri state and district courts and with the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. She is treasurer of the Hispanic Bar Association of Greater Kansas City and is a member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Kansas City, the American Bar Association, the Lawyers
Association of Kansas City and the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association. She also is a fulltime instructor, paralegal practice, for Metropolitan Community College, Penn Valley, in Kansas City. Send her email at Carol.Cleaver@mcckc.edu
2003 Harold Scott, MS, lives in Madison, Neb., and is the new middle school/high school principal and activities director for
In Memoriam 1935 1936 1937 1941 1942 1943 1946 1947 1949 1951 1952 1953
1954 1955 1956 1958
1959
1960
1961
1962
Ethel J. Scanlan Harris James C. Burroughs Bernice E. Anderson Edamay E. McCulley Exner Arthur C. Jetter Craig G. Willy Doris D. Haiston Hoffman Dorothy Devereux Dustin Genevieve M. Carlson Oldham Anthony S. Macchietto Sam S. Cohen Paul G. Gustavson Milo A. Karnik Robert E. Heins Eugene M. Smith DeLyle R. Youngman Jr. Ralph Pettit Roland G. "Ron" Fox Irma L. Doerr Gibson Robert L. Erickson Joseph D. Hornsby Patrick J. Ryan Rodney J. Stone Kenneth L. Brown Gerald E. McGee John B. Howard Ralph Paul Leinhaas Viola M. Wise Chatfield Edward H. Durst Edward H. Hoagland John R. Hruska Marvin L. Lenon Marilyn L. Miller Philip J. Allen Jr. Thomas E. Shaw David H. Weddington Victoria Corey Edward J. Mihalko Maxine E. Schmidt Rife William C. Superak Nathaniel T. Henley Kenneth W. Koch Dick M. Campbell
46 • Winter 2007
1962 Donald K. Goss Carl W. Kappel James C. Sample John R. Vice Lynn L. Jefferies 1963 Ericca E. Thompson John W. Thompson Louis A. Gazzaniga James C. Hilbert Harry G. Holeman Clarence E. Maw Marion F. Oberding Clyde B. Sikes Jr. Michael A. Smith Robert A. Stuempfle Robert C. Stullich William A. Sypniewski Donald R. Thompson Hubert "Max" Voight John D. White 1964 Clare D. Bedsaul Frank C. Czerny David Clark Joseph A. Dyer Raymon A. Florom Charles T. Foster Lewis H. Goad Robert E. Graham Robert D. Hoffman Edward K. Johnson Richard P. Johnson Robert B. Johnson Robert R. Long Bernard L. Peterson George Piotrowski Donald W. Poorman Larry D. Shoe Marjorie Cochran Woodward Frederick R. Koepke 1965 Nicholas H. Suta Raymond G. Branine James V. Gagne Robert E. Sheridan
Madison Public Schools. Send him email at hscott@esu8.org 2006 Abby Wilson, BSCJ, was promoted to assistant director of tennis and head women's coach at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She previously was assistant coach to the men’s and women’s programs. A native of Lincoln, Neb., Wilson while at UNO won five individual conference titles and helped the 1965 Jack Parker H. William Galloway Laurence B. Compton Henry P. Leighton Jr. 1966 Leona M. Johnson Brewer Douglass F. Hall James B. Johnson Willis D. Philip Glenn R. Alexander Leon J. Hausman Dana B. Dillon 1967 John D. Farrell Freddy B. Parish Robert S. Stickney William S. Williams Raymond W. Vanhook 1968 Otis E. La Grone Hallene O. Huddlestun Raymond N. Born Denton a. Johnson William W. Taylor Charlotte E. Wetzel 1969 George H. Pfeuffer Jr. Rony J. Sewell Herbert W. Uhland Oraville A. Day 1970 Jerald W. "Jerry" Flood Fern J. Tlustos Hlavac Jarugula S. Rao Milton C. Stahmer Steven B. Kriz Edmond O. Lynam Robert W. Buck 1971 Mary J. Laakman James H. Beaty Gerald L. Petersen James C. Burroughs Jon R. Dominick Arlen L. Green Charles Raymond Herzberg Jr. Leonard E. Schweikert Michael J. Sheehan Frank J. Uhlenbrock 1972 Curtis L. Morgan Jr. John W. Riha Jerry J. Kincl Edwin H. Garrison
Mavericks to two team conference titles. She helped lead her team to NCAA regional competition all four years of her career and helped UNO advance to the NCAA Sweet Sixteen in 2005. Wilson finished her career first in winning percentage with a .651 mark, tied for first in career doubles wins with 52, and was second in singles wins with 41.
1972 David L. Lindsey 1973 Joseph F. Davies Jerry C. Campbell Roger J. Shartzer Joann L. Reid Deems Bruce C. Denman Frank Mann Juanita J. Clough Dolharyk Wilson 1974 Donald C. Ethen Naomi C. Gilpin Thomas L. Lundquist 1975 Creighton W. "Bill" Bicket Jeff Ross Warren F. Schlesiger Herbert J. Westenhaver Jr. William H. Devorss 1976 Terry W. Adams 1977 Wilhelmina R. Denney Thomas M. Mason Owen H. "Sully" Sullivan William C. Superak Fred J. Bracy 1978 Emily J. Buchanan James A. Dillabough 1979 Carol Garnett Copple Thomas J. Folger Jay J. Parsow 1980 Daniel L. Dwyer Kendall K. Bennett 1981 Kevin V. Welsh 1982 Janet "Jan" Halbur Robbins 1983 Karen J. Resh 1984 Mary J. Crye Richard Thomas 1986 Michael L. Archibald Timothy L. Jones 1988 Jeanne M. Willoughby (Sutherland) 1989 Cheryl A. Kincade 1990 Joyce E. Rapp North Iris S. Saperstein Souba Pamela E. Storme-Coleman 1991 Stella L. Bukontis James 1994 Joy A. Blanchard Donna P. Dantzler Miner
UNOALUM
UNO Century Club he UNO Century Club was inaugurated in 1973 with 44 charter members contributing to the UNO Annual Fund. Today, the Century Club features thousands of members each year. Membership consists of individuals who support their alma mater with gifts of $100 or more. Gifts support various alumni association programs and services that make for a stronger, more vibrant university. With their UNRESTRICTED gift, Century Club donors receive one of five personalized mementos (pictured at right), special recognition in an annual report and invitations to select events throughout the year.
T
Thanks to these upgraded Century Club donors!
Thomas & Ruth Marie Jamieson Christine M. Jeffrey Roland A. Mariucci Thomas R. Peterson Anthony E. & Julie A. Sgroi Patrick Wheeler
(Aug. 1 to Dec. 31) To Diamond ($1,000 or more) Fred & Mary Jo Petersen Richard W. & Colleen M. Ramm
Welcome to these first-time Century Club donors!
To Gold ($500 or more)
(Aug. 1 to Dec. 31)
Deborah Ekeler Judy L. Seeman
To Gold ($500 or more) Bill B. Beavers Anthony Mazzarelli Jr.
To Silver ($250 or more) Ronald G. & Karen K. Burmood John H. & Mary M. Dickerson Todd & Cathy Engle Tim Fitzgerald Maj. (Ret) Carl W. Gaborik Lyn M. Holley
To Silver ($250 or more) Tom Frette David S. Miller Christine & Robert Willice
Bronze ($100 or more) Frederick L. Abbott Chris W. Albers William P. Austin Geri Backora Gloria A. Barton Bruce J. Bugbee Michael T. Burton Karol & Jim Carroll Gerald L. Chamberlen Paul A. Cordell Patrick T. Costello William L. Dortch Michael & Bethany Douglas Mona Eigbrett Stephen P. Elms Eldean L. Erickson Nick & Lindsey Fohr Paul A. Fox Dale Garman Susan K. Gerding John G. & Mary T. Goble Richard Gregory Joseph A. Guglielmo Martin D. Haykin Mark S. Heng Willie L. Hinton Jr. Stacy P. Hughes
2007 UNO Annual Fund Donation Form
I will 1Give- YES! to the UNO
2- Tax-deductible gift information (select one)
q
Check enclosed for $
$50 or more
q
PLEDGE: Bill me for $
$100 or more
q I authorize the UNO Alumni Association to collect
Annual Fund!
q Change Maker q Bronze Century q Silver Century
q Golden Century $500 or more
Tom Riedl Tricia K. Riggins John Rinker Sharon M. Samek Paul W. Sather Lawrence A. & Nancy L. Sekyra Parker L. Shipley Thomas B. Smith Oliver K. Soward Ron & Kristy Stave Jayne & Michael Sturek James A. Suss Edward A. Svajgl Deb Swanson Angela K. Thompson Harold W. Timm Jr. Mark A. Tincher Patricia A. & John W. True Frederick L. Tyler Jon R. Van Wagenen James G. White Michael E. Wielunski Mary E. Williamson Cmsgt. (Ret) LaVerne Wingate John K. Wotherspoon Richard L. Zpevak
The UNO Annual Fund: Serving UNO since 1953
3 - Complete Name and Address Name__________________________________________________________________ As you wish it to appear in the Annual Report
in
. month
my gift of $
q
$250 or more
. Payable to UNO Annual Fund.
Robin J. Jenson June Jenson Perry C. Johnson James R. Larsen Stanley & Margaret Macaitis Todd G. Madsen Timothy M. Mahoney Betty J. McCart Rusty McKune Stephen G. Meacham Douglas E. Merz Arthur R. Milow Jr. James C. & Donna B. Moore Rodney A. Mullen Richard E. O'Brien Pedro Okoruwa David E. Pavel Lyle D. & Danielle D. Pedersen D. Bradford & Irene Pence Laura E. Peter Warren W. Prynor Brig. Gen. (Ret) Walter B. Ratliff Wilbur Reid Ling Ren, Ph.D. Terry L. Rhedin Susan E. Riccio
Visa
through my:
q
MasterCard
q
City/State/Zip____________________________________________________________
Discover Expiration Date:____/_____ Phone__________________________________________________________________
Card No.:
q Diamond Century
Address________________________________________________________________
-
-
-
E-mail:
$1,000 or more
q Platinum Century $2,500 or more
q Other
$___________
_______________________________________________________________________ Signature
Thank you for being a Change Maker and supporting UNO! Remember, yo ur gift is t ax-ded uctible.
w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
May we post your name in our website’s email directory (email addresses not shown)?
q Yes q No
Winter 2007 • 47
Be a Change Maker . . . then be a Winner! Contribute $50 or more to the 2007 UNO Annual Fund and become eligible for these random prize drawings*. Grand Prize Drawing $1,000 gift certificate to Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts
7 First Prize Drawings Omaha Steaks Gift Packages, each with an average retail value of $268
Contribute with the form on Page 47 or give online at w w w. u n o a l u m n i . o r g
2007 UNO Annual Fund |
Be a Change Maker
Contribute at www.unoalumni.org
*Contribute an unrestricted donation of $50 or more and qualify for each random drawing, conducted in early 2008 after all 2007 contributions are recorded.
University of Nebraska at Omaha Alumni Association 6705 Dodge St. Omaha, NE 68182-0010
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