The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Gifts through the UNK Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
UNK AA has been working since 1906 to promote communication and interaction among more than 40,000 alumni, students, faculty, administrators and friends of the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Gifts through the N Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
Husker athletic programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are a source of pride for alumni and Nebraskans throughout the state and around the world.
NAA is a nonprofit organization that connects alumni with Dear Old Nebraska U, and with each other, for the betterment of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
University of Nebraska Medical Center
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Gifts through the Innovation Funds let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
The mission of the UNMC Alumni Relations Office is to serve and engage with learners and graduates through effective communications, the formation of meaningful relationships, and opportunities to invest in the advancement of the university through gifts of time, talent, and treasure.
University of Nebraska at Omaha
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Gifts through the UNO Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
Our athletes are competing at the Division I level in collegiate sports, not only enhance the visibility of UNO, but also to provide great benefits to all of Omaha.
Nebraska Medicine and its research and education partner, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, share the same mission: to lead the world in transforming lives to create a healthy future for all individuals and communities through premier educational programs, innovative research and extraordinary patient care.
The mission of the Buffett Early Childhood Institute at the University of Nebraska is to transform the lives of young children by improving their learning and development.
Every day, nearly a billion people in the world do not have enough safe and nutritious food to lead healthy and active lives. Many of them also lack access to enough clean water to meet their needs. By 2050, our global food demand will double to meet the needs of nearly 10 billion people, making water and food security one of the most urgent global challenges of our time.
Your giving to this area enables the president’s office to quickly direct resources to various university projects and areas across the system as needs arise.
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Gifts through the UNK Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Gifts through the N Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Gifts through the Innovation Funds let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Gifts through the UNO Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Gifts through the UNK Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
UNK AA has been working since 1906 to promote communication and interaction among more than 40,000 alumni, students, faculty, administrators and friends of the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Gifts through the N Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
Husker athletic programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are a source of pride for alumni and Nebraskans throughout the state and around the world.
NAA is a nonprofit organization that connects alumni with Dear Old Nebraska U, and with each other, for the betterment of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
University of Nebraska Medical Center
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Gifts through the Innovation Funds let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
The mission of the UNMC Alumni Relations Office is to serve and engage with learners and graduates through effective communications, the formation of meaningful relationships, and opportunities to invest in the advancement of the university through gifts of time, talent, and treasure.
University of Nebraska at Omaha
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Gifts through the UNO Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
Our athletes are competing at the Division I level in collegiate sports, not only enhance the visibility of UNO, but also to provide great benefits to all of Omaha.
Nebraska Medicine and its research and education partner, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, share the same mission: to lead the world in transforming lives to create a healthy future for all individuals and communities through premier educational programs, innovative research and extraordinary patient care.
The mission of the Buffett Early Childhood Institute at the University of Nebraska is to transform the lives of young children by improving their learning and development.
Every day, nearly a billion people in the world do not have enough safe and nutritious food to lead healthy and active lives. Many of them also lack access to enough clean water to meet their needs. By 2050, our global food demand will double to meet the needs of nearly 10 billion people, making water and food security one of the most urgent global challenges of our time.
Your giving to this area enables the president’s office to quickly direct resources to various university projects and areas across the system as needs arise.
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Gifts through the UNK Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Gifts through the N Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Gifts through the Innovation Funds let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
The greatest needs of the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Gifts through the UNO Fund let you make a bigger difference on campus, your college and students.
For University of Nebraska at Omaha student Johnnah Bailey, an internship with a local nonprofit allowed her to put into practice what she’s learning in the classroom. She developed leadership skills, such as how to effectively conduct a meeting, as she gained on-the-job experience in marketing and social media.
Bailey’s internship with The Wellbeing Partners, a nonprofit focused on community wellness, was arranged through the Student Service and Leadership Collaborative at UNO. The program seeks to develop students into servant leaders through paid internships at local nonprofit organizations and local and national leadership experiences.
“The internship program taught me valuable lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life,” said Bailey, a senior majoring in business administration.
The Student Service and Leadership Collaborative is one of the many UNO causes that donors can support during the 2024 Wear Black, Give Back, a 24-hour day of giving to begin at noon on Oct. 8 and conclude at noon on Oct. 9.
Johnnah Bailey
UNO’s fifth annual giving day will bring together Maverick supporters to provide needed resources for student scholarships, UNO’s colleges and programs, Omaha Athletics, UNO Jazz, the Maverick Food Pantry and other priorities. More than 60 student organizations and clubs are registered to participate in Wear Black, Give Back.
“Wear Black, Give Back is a powerful reminder of how Mavericks support one another,” said UNO Chancellor Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA. “It’s not always the size of the contribution that matters — it’s the collective impact of each gift, no matter how small, that truly makes a difference. Every dollar fuels opportunities that help students grow into leaders who will shape the future of our Omaha community.”
This year’s goal is to receive 5,000 gifts of $5 or more. Any donor who gives $75 or more will receive a bonus UNO knit hat.
Alumni and donors have pledged more than $500,000 in challenge and matching funds to encourage others to give during the event. These gifts will only be unlocked if certain giving goals are achieved. The largest challenge will support student leadership and professional development opportunities provided through the Student Service and Leadership Collaborative. If 50 donors give $5 or more, John and Dianne Scott of Valley, Nebraska, have pledged to make a $100,000 gift.
Events will be held on campus to celebrate the 2024 Wear Black, Give Back.
The Wear Black, Give Back festival will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 8 around the Henningson Memorial Campanile with food, desserts, games and entertainment. Numerous student organizations that receive support through Wear Black, Give Back will have tables at the event.
A livestream will begin at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 8 in the UNO TV studio featuring UNO broadcasting students. The livestream can be viewed on the Wear Black, Give Back website. Mav Radio and KVNO will also provide updates throughout the giving day.
In 2023, Wear Black, Give Back received a record-setting 4,967 gifts totaling $761,285 for causes and programs across UNO.
Learn more about Wear Black, Give Back and track the event’s progress at givingday.unomaha.edu.
About the University of Nebraska Foundation
The University of Nebraska Foundation grows relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. During the most recent fiscal year, a record $388.8 million in new funds were committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, 57,603 donors supported the University of Nebraska. Alumni engagement and fundraising are efficient, with the University of Nebraska receiving more than $7 in gifts for every $1 spent. Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is its current campaign with a goal to raise $3 billion from 150,000 unique benefactors to support the University of Nebraska. More information is at OnlyinNebraska.org.
The University of Nebraska at Kearney will host its fourth annual giving day, One Day for UNK, Nov. 13-14, 2024.
The event, in its fourth year, provides an opportunity for Lopers to contribute to the university’s continued success and growth.
“More than just a fundraising event, One Day for UNK is a celebration of our community. It demonstrates the incredible impact we can achieve when we unite in support of UNK,” said UNK Interim Chancellor Charles Bicak.
One Day for UNK will leverage social media and other online platforms to drive philanthropic support across all areas of the university. Donations can be made at givingday.unk.edu, where participants can choose from a variety of options to support the university and track the event’s progress.
The event will run from noon Nov. 13 to noon Nov. 14, Central Standard Time.
Last year’s One Day for UNK raised more than $240,000, benefiting scholarships, academic programs, Loper athletics, student organizations and other initiatives that enhance educational opportunities at UNK. Since its inception in 2021, the event has garnered more than $750,000 in contributions.
Gifts to One Day for UNK can be made beginning Oct. 14. Participants are encouraged to use the hashtag #OneDayforUNK on social media to share why the university is important to them.
The University of Nebraska Foundation Trustees have elected Susan K. Wilkinson of Lincoln and Douglas B. Waggoner of Palm Beach, Florida, to serve on the foundation’s Board of Directors. The new board members were announced during the foundation’s Sept. 25 annual meeting of trustees.
“I am incredibly grateful to our newest members and all who serve on the foundation’s Board of Directors,” said Brian F. Hastings, president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation. “These are unpaid volunteer roles, and they have a fiduciary responsibility associated with overseeing the business and property of the University of Nebraska Foundation, including an endowment of over $2 billion. As community and business leaders, Susan Wilkinson and Douglas Waggoner will bring unique skills and experiences to the University of Nebraska Foundation.”
Wilkinson is president and chief operating officer of Ameritas. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in accounting from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business. She has been a trustee since 2015 and has served on the foundation’s Finance Committee since 2021. Prior to her current service on the foundation’s Finance Committee, she served six years (2015-2021) on the foundation’s Audit Committee. She’s also a previous member of the UNL School of Accountancy Advisory Board and a previous member of the UNL College of Business Dean’s Advisory Board.
Waggoner served as managing director of BlackRock and founded Castle International Asset Management, among other positions during his career. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the UNL College of Business. Waggoner has been a trustee since 2019 and has served on the foundation’s Investment Committee since 2020. He also serves on the UNL College of Business Finance Advisory Board, and Douglas and his wife, Karin, serve on the College of Business Campaign Committee for Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future. The couple also provided philanthropic funding to establish the Investors With Purpose program in the College of Business, a wealth management course that brings together high-achieving students with global investment professionals for a unique learning experience.
Board members Julie Jacobson of North Platte, Nebraska, and William Lester of Lincoln were reelected to second terms.
The new and re-elected board members will serve three-year terms.
The board meets three times a year to oversee the foundation’s business affairs. Here’s a link to the entire list of volunteers who serve on the Board of Directors or one of its committees.
About the University of Nebraska Foundation
The University of Nebraska Foundation grows relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. During the most recent fiscal year, a record $388.8 million in new funds were committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, 57,603 donors supported the University of Nebraska. Alumni engagement and fundraising are efficient, with the University of Nebraska receiving more than $7 in gifts for every $1 spent. Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is its current campaign with a goal to raise $3 billion from 150,000 unique benefactors to support the University of Nebraska. More information is at OnlyinNebraska.org.
The University of Nebraska Foundation announced the election of 46 new trustees during the foundation’s Sept. 25 annual meeting of trustees.
Through the dedicated efforts and generosity of its trustees, the foundation is committed to providing a measure of excellence at the University of Nebraska not possible with public funding alone. Trustees live across the United States and represent a wide array of disciplines. They offer invaluable leadership, professional skills, networking abilities and personal philanthropic support that contribute to the foundation’s mission.
“I’m pleased to welcome the newest University of Nebraska Foundation trustees,” said Brian F. Hastings, president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation. “Trustees founded the University of Nebraska Foundation in 1936 and have continued to provide leadership and advocacy for the University of Nebraska over the last 88 years. Their philanthropic leadership is central to the success of Nebraska’s only public university.”
The newly elected trustees are:
Thomas W. and Ann M. Berger, Omaha, Nebraska
Linda J. Bors, Omaha, Nebraska
Miriam Brooks, Winnabow, North Carolina
Terry A. and Brenda Christensen, Minden, Nebraska
Edmond G. and Jan M. Connolly, Bellevue, Nebraska
Rosalyn R. Cotton, Omaha, Nebraska
John D. and Susie C. Dunn, Omaha, Nebraska
Roy J. and Nita B. Fiala, Katy, Texas
Erleen K. Hatfield, New York, New York
Robert P. and Donna J. Houston, Omaha, Nebraska
Greg and Fiona Hyslop, Issaquah, Washington
Dean G. and Maria C. Jacobsen, Omaha, Nebraska
Daniel F. and Michelle S. Koraleski, Omaha, Nebraska
John A. Kreuscher and Kristi Kammerer Kreuscher, Gothenburg, Nebraska
Carole J. Langan, Omaha, Nebraska
John R. Lohrberg and Amy L. Peck, Waterloo, Nebraska
Jose C. and Jane D. Machado, Omaha, Nebraska
Matthew R. and Teri L. Mercer, Elkhorn, Nebraska
Neal and Marsha Morien, Queen Creek, Arizona
Jeffery T. and Sarah Peetz, Lincoln, Nebraska
Robert A. and Margene R. Phares, North Platte, Nebraska
Jerome D. and Jana L Prince, Parker, Texas
Kenton L. and Lynnda Shaffer, Kearney, Nebraska
Mike and Marilyn Sitorius, Omaha, Nebraska
John W. Webster, Omaha, Nebraska
Thaddeus D. Woods and Deanna M. Armstrong, Omaha, Nebraska
About the University of Nebraska Foundation
The University of Nebraska Foundation grows relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. During the most recent fiscal year, a record $388.8 million in new funds were committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, 57,603 donors supported the University of Nebraska. Alumni engagement and fundraising are efficient, with the University of Nebraska receiving more than $7 in gifts for every $1 spent. Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is its current campaign with a goal to raise $3 billion from 150,000 unique benefactors to support the University of Nebraska. More information is at OnlyinNebraska.org.
Future physicians will train at the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex
KEARNEY — Nebraska native William Northwall, MD, has created a full cost-of-attendance scholarship for a Nebraska student who studies medicine at the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
Dr. Northwall, a former Kearney radiologist, pledged the gift through the University of Nebraska Foundation. The William H. Northwall, MD, Scholarship will be awarded to a deserving student from greater Nebraska. The scholarship will cover the student’s full cost of medical school attendance at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. The current cost is approximately $65,000 a year, including tuition, books, fees and living expenses.
He said he established the scholarship because he believes the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex is important to rural Nebraska’s future.
“I believe in the future of the Kearney medical community and its tradition of excellence, and this scholarship is me paying it forward,” said Dr. Northwall, a 1967 graduate of the UNMC College of Medicine and a University of Nebraska Foundation Trustee.
He and his wife, Ethel Merrigan, live in St. Petersburg, Florida.
The Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex addresses a critical need for additional health care professionals in rural communities by allowing more students to study and train in central Nebraska. Through a UNK-UNMC partnership, UNMC will, for the first time, educate physicians, pharmacists and public health professionals in rural Nebraska as well as expand the current nursing and allied health professions programs offered on the UNK campus.
The first medical school students will begin classes on the UNK campus in fall 2026 after the completion of a second building in the Rural Health Education Complex. Dr. Northwall’s scholarship will be awarded to a student in the inaugural medical school class in Kearney.
“On behalf of the UNMC College of Medicine, I extend my sincere gratitude to Dr. Northwall for his remarkable generosity in establishing the first full cost-of-attendance scholarship for a student attending our new medical campus in Kearney, Nebraska,” said Bradley Britigan, MD, dean of the College of Medicine. “This pioneering gift sets a transformative precedent, ensuring that a future physician can pursue their education without financial barriers. Dr. Northwall’s commitment not only honors our students but also strengthens the future of health care in our state. We are deeply thankful for his visionary support.”
Dr. Northwall said he hopes the scholarship will assist future physicians while also inspiring other donors to support a new generation of 21st-century health care professionals. He said many students graduate deeply in debt, and he wants the profession to continue to attract the best and the brightest. The average medical school student graduates from UNMC with $185,000-$200,000 in debt.
“We need both more and better doctors going forward,” he said. “The feeling from helping people who are in medical need is a wonderful reward.”
Dr. Northwall practiced radiology from 1972 to 1998 at CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney. He remains devoted to UNMC and its mission and previously made a gift to create the William H. Northwall, MD, Plaza, which serves as the entryway to the Wigton Heritage Center on the UNMC campus in Omaha.
Dr. Northwall’s scholarship gift was made as part of Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future. The campaign is a historic effort to engage 150,000 benefactors to give $3 billion to support University of Nebraska students, faculty, academic and clinical programs and research to address the needs of the state. Scholarships are a top priority of the campaign.
About the University of Nebraska Foundation
The University of Nebraska Foundation grows relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. During the most recent fiscal year, a record $388.8 million in new funds were committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, 57,603 donors supported the University of Nebraska. Alumni engagement and fundraising are efficient, with the University of Nebraska receiving more than $7 in gifts for every $1 spent. Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is its current campaign with a goal to raise $3 billion from 150,000 unique benefactors to support the University of Nebraska. More information is at OnlyinNebraska.org.
Director of Athletics calls gift ‘game-changing to our program and university’
Maverick Hockey fans David and Jane Offutt of Omaha have committed $1 million to invest in the Omaha Hockey program as the team continues to elevate its play on the ice.
The couple made the commitment through the University of Nebraska Foundation in support of the UNO Hockey Excellence Fund, which provides financial support for program priorities such as travel, personnel, recruiting, facilities and equipment, student-athlete scholarships and other holistic support, including dedicated mental health and nutrition personnel.
David and Jane Offutt, who built successful careers in accounting while living in the state of Washington, decided to invest in the Maverick Hockey program to give back to David’s hometown of Omaha.
“UNO is a great asset to the city of Omaha, and the hockey team is a wonderful way to display the university’s value,” David Offutt said. “More than anything, we hope others will decide to join in and invest in Maverick Hockey.”
David Offutt is a sixth-generation Omahan. Offutt Air Force Base is named in honor of David’s great-uncle, 1st Lt. Jarvis Offutt, who was Omaha’s first World War I air casualty. Jarvis Offutt, a U.S. Army Air Service pilot, was killed in 1918 while flying with the Royal Air Force in France.
“The support from Dave and Jane is game-changing to our program and university,” Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Adrian Dowell said. “It’s been a pleasure getting to know the Offutts over this past year, and we are very fortunate to have their support of Maverick student-athletes. To align our hockey program with a family that has historic roots in the city of Omaha only further amplifies the connection to our greater community. We cannot say thank you enough to the Offutts for their generous investment and belief in the momentum of our organization.”
David and Jane Offutt were introduced to Omaha Hockey in 2017 while visiting their son, John, in Omaha. John, then a graduate student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, took his parents to a Maverick Hockey game. The Offutts, who moved back to Omaha two years ago, have long followed the sport of hockey and became instant fans of the Omaha squad. The couple even gave up their Seattle Kraken hockey season tickets and are now Maverick season ticket holders.
“We loved not only the rivalry and college atmosphere but also the amazing spirit and support of the UNO students and fans in Omaha,” David Offutt said. “And having been to a handful of college hockey arenas around the U.S., we were so impressed with Baxter Arena. It’s truly a first-rate arena!”
The Omaha Mavericks finished the 2023-24 season with a record of 23-13-4. The team secured the program’s second-winningest season in school history, along with its fifth NCAA tournament berth and first-ever National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) Frozen Faceoff appearance. The Mavericks will begin the 2024-25 season with a home exhibition game against the Wisconsin Badgers Oct. 5.
“Our program is grateful to the Offutts for their significant contribution,” Omaha Hockey head coach Mike Gabinet said. “While the investment in our young men is certainly inspiring, we have also come to know Dave and Jane through their presence in Baxter Arena and on the road this past season. It was special to see them in Colorado Springs for the NCHC first-round series with Colorado College as they were able to be a part of that history-making moment for our program.”
For information about the Hockey Excellence Circle, email [email protected] or call 402-502-4911.
The couple’s gift was made as part of Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future. The campaign is a historic effort to engage 150,000 benefactors to give $3 billion to support University of Nebraska students, faculty, academic and clinical programs and research to address the needs of the state.
About the University of Nebraska at Omaha
The University of Nebraska at Omaha is a premier metropolitan university that offers a broad range of academic programs and is dedicated to providing innovative and learning-centric initiatives. With a strong commitment to digital education and student success, UNO continues to lead the way in creating impactful educational experiences.
About the University of Nebraska Foundation
The University of Nebraska Foundation grows relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. During the most recent fiscal year, a record $388.8 million in new funds was committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, 57,603 donors supported the University of Nebraska. Alumni engagement and fundraising are efficient, with the University of Nebraska receiving more than $7 in gifts for every $1 spent. Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is its current campaign with a goal to raise $3 billion from 150,000 unique benefactors to support the University of Nebraska. More information is at OnlyinNebraska.org.
Mark your calendars now for Wear Black, Give Back, Oct. 8-9, 2024, the 24-hour day of giving to support the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
The fifth annual giving day will bring together the UNO community and its supporters to reach a target of 5,000 gifts for scholarships, UNO’s colleges and programs, student groups and activities, and more. Colleges and causes at UNO will also have their own goals and challenges that donors can help complete, unlocking additional matching dollars.
Wear Black, Give Back will begin at noon Oct. 8 and conclude at noon Oct. 9. Maverick supporters can make a gift of $5 or more, and any donor who gives $75 or more will receive a bonus UNO knit hat. Gifts may be made online in advance of the day at givingday.unomaha.edu beginning Sept. 9.
On Oct. 8, Maverick supporters across the country are invited to wear their UNO apparel with pride and share on social media why they give back, with the hashtag #WearBlackGiveBack.
In 2023, Wear Black, Give Back received a record-setting 4,967 gifts totaling $761,285 for causes and programs across UNO.
The University of Nebraska Foundation grows relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. During the most recent fiscal year, a record $388.8 million in new funds was committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, 57,603 donors supported the University of Nebraska. Alumni engagement and fundraising are efficient, with the University of Nebraska receiving more than $7 in gifts for every $1 spent. Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is its current campaign with a goal to raise $3 billion from 150,000 unique benefactors to support the University of Nebraska. More information is at OnlyinNebraska.org.
$388.8 million in new funds committed to support all campuses of the university system in FY24
The University of Nebraska Foundation today announced $388.8 million in new funds committed in fiscal year 2024 — the most ever — to support the University of Nebraska. In addition, 57,603 donors made a gift to advance the University of Nebraska during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.
Gifts supported student access and success to grow Nebraska’s workforce; faculty, academic and clinical excellence to strengthen the educational experience; and transformational research and innovation to solve the state’s biggest challenges.
Donors supported all campuses: the University of Nebraska at Kearney, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, University of Nebraska Medical Center and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine, University of Nebraska at Omaha and Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis. Gifts came from alumni, friends of the university, foundations and corporations.
“All of us at the University of Nebraska are deeply grateful to our visionary philanthropic partners whose generosity extends the reach and impact of our university so much further than what would otherwise be possible,” said Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., president of the University of Nebraska. “The support of our alumni and friends, together with the partnership of all Nebraskans, has put the University of Nebraska on an extraordinary trajectory. I am gratified that our vision for affordable, accessible, outstanding education that transforms lives here and around the world is resonating, and I can’t wait to see what we will achieve together in the years to come.”
Numerous university priorities benefited from philanthropic support. The Scott Scholars Program, designed for high-achieving STEM students, received a $23 million gift commitment from the Suzanne & Walter Scott Foundation to sustain and grow the program at UNO and support its expansion to UNMC. Kiewit Hall opened in January at UNL to increase the pipeline of engineers in Nebraska. The $115 million center of engineering education was entirely funded by private support, including a $25 million naming gift from Kiewit Corp.
A groundbreaking was held at UNK for a second, $95 million building in the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex, a UNK-UNMC partnership to address a critical shortage of health care providers in rural areas. The William and Ruth Scott Family Foundation is the lead donor to the project.
During the fiscal year, donors created 138 permanently endowed funds, leaving a lasting legacy of support for the University of Nebraska.
“Our University of Nebraska Foundation team is profoundly grateful to the 57,603 donors who supported the University of Nebraska,” said Brian F. Hastings, president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation. “They are giving every student a chance to succeed, building Nebraska’s workforce and supporting research that changes lives and saves lives.”
Other highlights from the 2024 fiscal year include:
Because of private support, a University Libraries initiative to provide free course materials and e-books will expand to serve more students.
An anonymous donor made a $1.4 million gift to the Nebraska Equine Sports Complex, which will provide a space for students to board their horses, expand equine extension programming and provide other experiential learning for College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources students.
This fall, an expansion of UNL’s iconic Architecture Hall, HDR Pavilion, is opening.
University of Nebraska Medical Center/Nebraska Medicine
A significant philanthropic investment will support Alzheimer’s disease research and a clinical trial at Nebraska Medicine. The trial will enroll patients from across Nebraska with mild Alzheimer’s disease for a new FDA-approved therapy.
A gift will support the Community Wellness Collaborative, a space created through a Nebraska Medicine-UNMC partnership to connect individuals and groups in North Omaha with health and wellness resources and information about health care careers.
A gift from a living trust will support UNMC research to further the understanding and treatment of retinitis pigmentosa, a rare genetic eye disease.
A gift commitment from an anonymous donor will support the Mary Eliza Mahoney Nursing Mentoring Program, which provides mentoring and academic support to first-generation students in the College of Nursing.
University of Nebraska at Omaha
A computer lab in the Peter Kiewit Institute building was refurbished to create the FNBO Code Studio as a modern professional technology space. The gift also established a scholarship fund for College of Information Science & Technology students.
UNO achieved its highest donor count ever, with 8,400 individual donors.
The Holland Foundation invested in UNO students through a gift to the Richard Holland Endowed Scholarship Fund, the largest scholarship fund in the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media. The scholarship supports first-generation students and those with financial need.
A scholarship was created for the captain of the Maverick Hockey program, the first position-specific scholarship for any sport within Omaha Athletics.
UNK supporters Keith and Eileen Carpenter donated their rare 1948 Tucker sedan to support UNK scholarships. The sale of the vehicle will fund approximately 43 scholarships annually.
Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA)
Donors made gifts to support a planned $12 million project to create the Student Success and Activity Center, part of an effort to modernize facilities and boost enrollment at NCTA in Curtis, Nebraska. Fundraising is ongoing.
The record-setting giving occurred as part of Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future. The multiyear campaign seeks to engage 150,000 benefactors to give $3 billion to support the University of Nebraska. As of June 30, $2.35 billion has been raised from 141,677 unique donors toward the campaign goals.
Fundraising results are reported in accordance with the Council for Advancement and Support of Education’s Global Reporting Standards, which governs reporting for educational philanthropy at schools, colleges and universities across the globe.
About the University of Nebraska Foundation
The University of Nebraska Foundation grows relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. During the most recent fiscal year, a record $388.8 million in new funds was committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, 57,603 donors supported the University of Nebraska. Alumni engagement and fundraising are efficient, with the University of Nebraska receiving more than $7 in gifts for every $1 spent. Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is its current campaign with a goal to raise $3 billion from 150,000 unique benefactors to support the University of Nebraska. More information is at OnlyinNebraska.org.
By UNMC Department of Strategic Communications
Steven Lisco, MD, chief academic officer for Nebraska Medicine and senior associate dean for clinical affairs at the UNMC College of Medicine, has made a gift commitment through the University of Nebraska Foundation to establish a professorship in the UNMC Department of Anesthesiology.
The Steven J. Lisco, MD, Distinguished Professor in Anesthesiology professorship will honor a deserving faculty member who demonstrates the traits of passion for mission, leadership and scholarship that made Dr. Lisco successful. The endowed professorship will help support the department’s global health initiatives.
The creation of this professorship marks a milestone in Dr. Lisco’s longstanding commitment to global health and will replace an earlier fund he established that also focused on global health.
“Named endowments allow you to give a gift that will be forever impactful to the mission of the department,” Dr. Lisco said. “It’s a really nice way for me to give back to the department that gave me the opportunity to lead them for nearly 12 years.”
The UNMC Department of Anesthesiology, which Dr. Lisco chaired from 2012 to 2023, has a rich history of involvement in global health initiatives. Those efforts date back to mission trips to Rwanda beginning in 2015 to provide medical care for pediatric patients with facial anomalies and adults with thyroid goiters. These efforts, led by faculty and residents, were paused during the COVID-19 pandemic but have remained a cornerstone of the department’s mission with trips to Zambia in 2023 and 2024.
“Global health is an essential aspect of what the department does. It aligns with UNMC’s mission statement and appeals to the giving nature of physicians,” Dr. Lisco said. “It’s also a crucial element for recruiting high-quality residents and faculty who are passionate about making a global impact.”
Dr. Lisco reflected on his decision to create the professorship, saying, “For many, participating in global health missions is a life-changing experience. It enhances problem-solving skills and offers a profound perspective on health care practiced outside of the United States. Establishing this endowment is my way of ensuring that these opportunities continue for future generations.”
Dr. Lisco’s contributions extend beyond financial support. His leadership in the department and his role in establishing the global health program have had a lasting impact. As the department continues to build on this foundation, the professorship is a testament to his dedication and vision.
“Few departments have been able to accomplish in a short period of time what the department has accomplished under Steve’s leadership,” said Mohanad Shukry, MD, PhD, interim chair of the department. “Many of our faculty and trainees owe their tremendous success to Dr. Lisco’s leadership, mentorship and sponsorship, including myself.”
“It’s going to make me very proud to have this legacy. It’s a big thank you to the University of Nebraska, the department and all my colleagues,” Dr. Lisco said. “It will be a legacy that continues to support the mission of global health.”
For those interested in contributing to the fund, donations may be made online through the University of Nebraska Foundation. The collective support of donors will ensure the department of anesthesiology’s global health outreach efforts remain robust and impactful for years to come.
Dr. Lisco’s gift supports Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future. The campaign is a historic effort to encourage 150,000 benefactors to give $3 billion to support University of Nebraska students, faculty, academic and clinical programs and research to address the needs of the state.
About Steven J. Lisco, MD
Dr. Lisco serves as the chief academic officer for Nebraska Medicine and the senior associate dean for clinical affairs at the UNMC College of Medicine. His leadership and commitment to global health have significantly shaped the mission and vision of the department of anesthesiology.
Dr. Lisco’s oversight of anesthesiology led to innumerable departmental successes that put the department on the national map. During his 11-plus years as chair, the department more than doubled in size, added five ACGME fellowships and three non-ACGME fellowships and grew to be ranked in the top 28 anesthesiology departments nationally for National Institutes of Health research funding. The department proved to be crucial to the perioperative growth at Nebraska Medicine and UNMC through participation in every aspect of intraoperative complex patient care, as well as in critical care and pain medicine.
Art enthusiast Michael B. Jones, M.D., has pledged $1 million to establish the Michael Bruce Jones, M.D., Chair in the School of the Arts at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Pending approval of the University of Nebraska, Amy Millicent Morris, Director of the School of the Arts and Professor of Art History, will be named the inaugural recipient.
“Art defines what it means to be human in many ways,” Dr. Jones said. “Humanities bring joy to life. Art is just one of those, but one that I find most enriching and exciting. I think that art is a way of defining our humanity.”
Dr. Jones pledged the gift through the University of Nebraska Foundation. The chair will support a salary stipend; funds may also be used to support scholarly research and creative activities.
Amy Morris received a Master of Arts in art history from Kent State University before earning a doctorate at Indiana University, specializing in Northern Renaissance art. She began teaching at UNO in 2012 before becoming Director of the School of the Arts in 2022.
“The generosity of Dr. Jones’ gift cannot and should not be understated,” said Michael L. Hilt, dean of the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media. “Our ability to attract and keep quality faculty is a driving point for student recruitment, especially in the arts. I want to personally thank Dr. Jones for a gift that will brighten the future of our arts programs along with current and future arts students.”
For the past four decades, Dr. Jones has served as a gastroenterologist in Omaha. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Southern Methodist University in 1972 and earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 1975. Dr. Jones helped to establish Midwest Gastrointestinal Associates PC in 2005.
He is also an avid art enthusiast. His parents were friends with the late Omaha-based artist Bill Hammon, which led Dr. Jones to donate hundreds of pieces of Hammon’s art owned by a relative to UNO. Through conversations with Morris about how UNO could best utilize the Hammon collection, Dr. Jones decided to invest in the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media by creating the endowed chair in the School of the Arts.
Endowed chairs represent a permanent investment in the university and assist in recruiting and retaining top faculty. The endowed art chair will help to ensure the future vibrancy of UNO’s art history program.
“The future of the arts in Nebraska and across the region depends on the success of our students,” Morris said. “By elevating the profile of art and art history and providing students with innovative concentrations and opportunities to exhibit, intern, study abroad and engage with the regional art community, they will have the necessary tools and skills to pursue a career in the arts.”
Dr. Jones said he enjoys visiting art museums and galleries. He also attends UNO student shows because he likes to support up-and-coming artists.
“I’m very privileged to be able to make a donation, and I hope that other like-minded people come together to strengthen the humanities at UNO since this is our city’s university,” he said. “Amy Millicent Morris gives our students the opportunity to really have a wonderful exposure to art history. As I’ve continued to learn and study, art brings more joy to my life than any other academic pursuit.”
The gift supports Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future. The campaign is a historic effort to encourage 150,000 benefactors to give $3 billion to support University of Nebraska students, faculty, academic and clinical programs and research to address the needs of the state.
About the University of Nebraska Foundation
The University of Nebraska Foundation grows relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. During the 2023 fiscal year, 58,072 donors supported the University of Nebraska, and a record $354.5 million in new funds was committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. The foundation raises more than $7 for every $1 spent. Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is its current campaign with a goal to raise $3 billion from 150,000 unique benefactors to support the University of Nebraska. More information is at OnlyinNebraska.org.
