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 Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture is devoted to a statewide mission of preparing students for successful careers in agriculture, veterinary technology and related industries. The college provides open access to innovative technical education resulting in associate degrees, certificates and other credentials.
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 Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture is devoted to a statewide mission of preparing students for successful careers in agriculture, veterinary technology and related industries. The college provides open access to innovative technical education resulting in associate degrees, certificates and other credentials.
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.
Abigail Lowe, Ph.D., M.A., associate professor in the Department of Health Promotion in the College of Public Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, has been selected as the inaugural recipient of a newly created professorship.
Dr. Lowe will hold the Drs. Virginia and John F. Aita Professorship Integrating the Humanities and Arts in Health Promotion. In addition to her UNMC position, she serves as an affiliate faculty member of medical humanities at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
“Dr. Lowe’s exceptional work in ethics, health policy and health security, in addition to her focus on ethical decision-making in public health emergencies, perfectly aligns with Drs. Virginia and John Aita’s vision for this professorship,” said College of Public Health Dean Ali S. Khan, M.D., MPH, MBA, who holds the Richard D. Holland Presidential Chair in Public Health. “I am thrilled to see Dr. Lowe recognized with this honor and look forward to witnessing the good work she will do in this role.”
Created through the generosity of Virginia Aita, Ph.D., and John F. Aita, M.D., of Omaha, the professorship will provide an annual stipend to support the recipient’s scholarly research and creative activities. It will eventually become an endowed chair in accordance with the donors’ wishes. The Aitas made the gift commitment through the University of Nebraska Foundation.
Dr. Virginia Aita is a 1995 alumna, earning her graduate degree at UNMC, and is an emerita faculty member of the UNMC College of Public Health. She practiced as a nurse for many years in the area of public health before earning her doctorate in health care humanities and ethics. Dr. John F. Aita is a 1968 alumnus of the UNMC College of Medicine and practiced neurology as a private practitioner from 1973 until 2017.
Throughout her career, Dr. Virginia Aita strived to incorporate the humanities and arts into her practice, teaching and research activities to promote the health of the patients and populations she served as well as her students. While at UNMC, she developed an Enhanced Medical Education Track for medical students interested in the humanities and arts as they relate to health care. Her arts-based research, titled “Portraits of Care,” involved the wider Omaha community in analyzing the importance of the personal connection between the patient and caregiver in health care.
Dr. John F. Aita was dedicated to the personal care and well-being of his patients and their families. He and Virginia often discussed over the dinner table the challenges they faced day to day while attempting to provide for the humanistic and compassionate care of patients.
“By creating this professorship, our intention is to promote health through the integration of the humanities and arts into health care practice, teaching and research activities,” the couple said. “We believe Dr. Lowe’s work aligns with the many humanistic and artistic aspects of care that support patient and population well-being.”
The 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 the University of Nebraska. A top campaign priority is to create endowed chairs and professorships to recruit and retain preeminent educators and researchers in every field. Dr. Virginia Aita is a member of the College of Public Health campaign committee for the Only in Nebraska 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 2025 fiscal year, a record $416.6 million was committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, a record 60,602 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 the 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.
Braidy Caroline Parrill has always had an interest in computers and technology, which led her to major in cybersecurity at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. But, like many students, she needed to figure out how to pay for higher education.
The scholarship, which provides assistance to students in the College of Information Science & Technology, is one of the many UNO causes donors can support during the 2025 Wear Black, Give Back. The 24-hour day of giving will begin at noon Oct. 8 and conclude at noon Oct. 9.
Parrill said she hopes to work in the private sector as a systems analyst or project manager after she graduates. She’s thankful to the donors who invested in her future.
“It’s hard to describe just how much of an impact a scholarship can make,” she said. “It takes such a weight off your back and shows how much the donors believe in you and that you can make a difference.”
UNO’s sixth annual giving day will bring together Maverick supporters to provide resources for student scholarships, UNO colleges and programs, Omaha Athletics, research and creative activities, and community service.
Numerous challenges and matches have been established to encourage others to give, with those gifts only unlocked if certain giving goals are achieved. For example, the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences has several challenges to support scholarships and the teacher education program. Two out of three educators in the Omaha metropolitan area hold a degree from UNO.
“Gifts made during Wear Black, Give Back aren’t just acts of generosity,” said UNO Chancellor Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA. “They’re investments in Nebraska’s future workforce. These scholarships open doors for talented students to thrive, contribute and lead. That’s how we change lives and build a stronger Nebraska.”
An economic impact study commissioned by the UNO Alumni Association found that UNO has more than 79,000 alumni living in the Omaha metro area, providing $2.4 billion in total economic impact in 2024.
The goal for this year’s Wear Black, Give Back is to receive 6,500 gifts from supporters. Any donor who gives $75 or more will receive a bonus UNO belt bag.
Another area donors can support is the Omaha Area Youth Orchestras, which joined the UNO School of Music in July 2024. Established in 1958, the organization provides instruction and performance opportunities for student musicians ages 8 to 18. Learn more about Wear Black, Give Back and areas to support at givingday.unomaha.edu.
In 2024, 6,242 gifts were made during Wear Black, Give Back to raise a record-setting $907,396.
Campus events
The following events will be held to celebrate the 2025 Wear Black, Give Back:
The Wear Black, Give Back festival, with food, games and entertainment, will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 8 around the UNO Henningson Memorial Campanile.
A livestream featuring UNO broadcasting students will begin at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 8 in the UNO TV studio. The livestream can be viewed on the Wear Black, Give Back website. Mav Radio and KVNO will also provide updates throughout the giving day.
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 2025 fiscal year, a record $416.6 million was committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, a record 60,602 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.
About the University of Nebraska at Omaha
Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.
The Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center has a goal to create an endowed chair with a special legacy: the Kenneth Cowan, MD, PhD, Distinguished Chair in Breast Cancer Clinical Research.
By Jeff Robb | UNMC Strategic Communications
The late Ken Cowan, MD, PhD, left an indelible mark on cancer care and research in Nebraska.
As a clinician and oncologist, Dr. Cowan made his cancer care personal. He was known for sharing his cell number with his patients with an open invitation to call, even as he led the Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases and the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center.
For more than two decades, as director of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center — a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center at UNMC — he elevated cancer research in the state to its prominent place today at the forefront in the fight against the disease.
Now, following Dr. Cowan’s death last year, the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center sees a new way to help extend his legacy — through the Kenneth Cowan, MD, PhD, Distinguished Chair in Breast Cancer Clinical Research at UNMC.
The University of Nebraska Foundation is in the final stages of fundraising toward a $1 million goal to endow the Dr. Cowan Distinguished Chair.
Joann Sweasy, PhD, who succeeded Dr. Cowan as director of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, said she sees a real opportunity for the cancer center to recruit a national leader in breast cancer research — who is strong in clinical research — to the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center.
Dr. Cowan is irreplaceable, Dr. Sweasy said. But given the burden of breast cancer on Nebraska and the cancer center’s responsibilities as an NCI-designated center, Dr. Sweasy said her goal is to hire a leader in breast cancer research to lead the charge against the disease.
“It’s very important for us to build on Dr. Cowan’s legacy of being an exceptional breast cancer physician-researcher,” said Dr. Sweasy, who also is the Robert F. and Myrna L. Krohn Chair in Cancer Research.
Tom Thompson, senior director of development for the NU Foundation, said that while the fundraising is nearing its goal, support for the Dr. Cowan Distinguished Chair is a wonderful reflection of his impact in the community and across the state.
“This is a fitting tribute to Dr. Cowan, on a personal level, for his impact on what he’s done for our cancer center and our campus,” Thompson said. “It is also, as Dr. Sweasy has articulated, a critical component to help in our future breast cancer clinical program and our future breast cancer research efforts.”
The future leader recruited to the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Thompson said, will carry the name of someone with a tremendous legacy.
“It makes Dr. Cowan a part of our future,” Thompson said.
Breast cancer among females represents the leading incidence of cancer in Nebraska — and ranks as the second-leading cause of death from cancer, behind only lung cancer.
Dr. Sweasy said the incidence of breast cancer in Nebraska remains very high — and many women still die from metastatic breast cancer.
Breast cancer treatment has seen major advances, with significant progress through next-generation therapies called antibody drug conjugates, such as Kadcyla and Enhertu.
Those are good treatments, Dr. Sweasy said, that are enabling women to live longer. Even so, she said, “there’s a need here to develop better treatments for metastatic breast cancer.”
Dr. Sweasy sees the opportunity to develop new therapeutics at the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center — through its own research, aided by local clinical trials, under the leadership of the Dr. Cowan Distinguished Chair.
Dr. Sweasy offered high acclaim for the cancer center’s team: Great basic research capabilities and a great clinical team with caring physicians.
What she envisions is a stronger bridge between those strong capacities — a leader who will invent new therapeutics to bring into the clinic to help people with breast cancer, while also building the pipeline of translational research and mentoring junior faculty.
“We have basic scientists who have identified brand new targets that are potentially paradigm-shifting,” Dr. Sweasy said, citing the breadth of research underway at the cancer center.
“We can do it here. We can absolutely do it here.”
Dr. Sweasy said she agreed that the Dr. Cowan Distinguished Chair is the best way to honor his legacy.
“He would love it, because he was very dedicated to his patients and very dedicated to improving therapies for breast cancer.”
Said Thompson, “It’s a great honor.”
Dr. Cowan Distinguished Chair
The University of Nebraska Foundation, in cooperation with the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, is asking for donors to help create an endowed fund to support the Kenneth Cowan, MD, PhD, Distinguished Chair in Breast Cancer Clinical Research at UNMC.
To contact Tom Thompson, senior director of development for the foundation, email [email protected] or call 402-502-4116.
60,602 donors, the most ever, made a gift during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025
The University of Nebraska Foundation today announced record-setting private support for the University of Nebraska, with $416.6 million in new funds committed in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This is the first time that fundraising has exceeded $400 million in a single year.
In addition, 60,602 donors gave a gift to support the University of Nebraska, the best year ever for the number of individual supporters.
“The generosity we’ve seen this year is a powerful reflection of the deep pride and commitment that Nebraskans, our alumni and friends around the world feel for the University of Nebraska,” said University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “Even more so today, our donors believe in our mission, and I’m extraordinarily grateful for their investment in recruiting and retaining excellent faculty, advancing transformative research, providing scholarships that open the door to a University of Nebraska education, and so much more.”
Gifts were made to support 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.
Almost all gifts received, 99%, were restricted to a specific university purpose. That means private support cannot be used to make up for losses in federal or state funding. Gifts were directed according to the donors’ designations, providing significant support for student scholarships, academic and athletic programs, faculty, research and capital projects.
To help make a University of Nebraska education accessible and affordable for all students, 123 endowed student support funds were created across the NU system during the fiscal year. In addition, 14 endowed professorships and chairs were created to recruit and retain excellent faculty and researchers. Endowed funds provide a perpetual source of support for the university because the principal is invested, with annual earnings used to fund the designated purpose.
“We are thankful to each and every donor for their generosity,” said Brian F. Hastings, president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation. “While philanthropy cannot replace state and federal dollars, it plays a vital role in enhancing the university experience, driving innovation and shaping the future of the University of Nebraska. These investments will grow tomorrow’s workforce and fuel progress across our state. That’s the power of philanthropy — Only in Nebraska.”
Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future has fueled generous private support for the University of Nebraska. The multiyear campaign, which began in 2018, seeks to engage 150,000 benefactors to give $3 billion to support University of Nebraska students, faculty, academic programs and research to address the needs of the state. As of June 30, $2.7 billion has been raised. The campaign has achieved its donor goal, with 155,397 unique donors as of the end of the fiscal year.
Philanthropic highlights from the 2025 fiscal year include:
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
The Omaha-based Peter Kiewit Foundation pledged $6.6 million to support the Peter Kiewit Foundation Engineering Academy. The gift will provide full cost of attendance scholarships to up to 40 students in the academy’s 2025 cohort.
Carol Krutsinger of Norfolk, Nebraska, made a $4 million deferred pledge through her estate to support ag-related priorities at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture and the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at UNL.
The engineering and design firm Olsson pledged $1 million to create an endowed chair for the College of Engineering. Olsson is the first corporation to establish and fully fund a chair in the college.
UNL alumna Catherine “Kit” Schmoker made a leadership gift to support the Kit and Dick Schmoker Reading Center’s expansion of its services to communities, schools and children throughout Nebraska. The center provides future teachers with hands-on opportunities to work one-on-one with young readers.
University of Nebraska Medical Center/Nebraska Medicine
Multiple gifts were received to support Project Health, a $2.19 billion health care facility at UNMC and Nebraska Medicine. Project Health, the result of a public-private partnership, will serve as a clinical learning center to train the next generation of health care providers, conduct research and offer clinical trials. The facility will be built on the medical center’s main campus in Omaha.
Multiple gifts were made to support a $36 million project to bring a breakthrough proton therapy treatment to the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center. Proton therapy focuses an extremely targeted dose of radiation to treat tumors, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues and reducing side effects.
The Holland Foundation made a gift commitment to create a presidential chair in cardiovascular sciences at UNMC and to support the Healing Arts program at UNMC and Nebraska Medicine.
William Northwall, M.D., a former Kearney radiologist and UNMC alumnus, created a full cost-of-attendance medical school scholarship for a student from greater Nebraska who attends the UNMC College of Medicine on the UNK campus.
University of Nebraska at Omaha
UNO hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking for a $17.1 million addition to the Biomechanics Research Building. The project’s principal benefactors are Omaha philanthropist Ruth Scott and the William and Ruth Scott Family Foundation. The phase three expansion, which is entirely privately funded, will house the Center for Cardiovascular Research in Biomechanics.
The Lozier Foundation made a leadership gift to establish a distinguished chair of literacy at UNO. The investment will support UNO’s literacy education programs, including training for Nebraska teachers.
Two Omaha sisters, Karen C. Olson, M.D., and Nancy D. Olson, committed a combined $1.56 million to support Omaha Athletics.
UNK alumni Merle A. and Kay Horst made a $500,000 gift to create scholarships for undergraduate students from farming communities majoring in accounting or business administration at UNK.
Multiple gifts were received to increase the pipeline of UNK students hoping to practice health care in rural Nebraska. The Health Science Education Center II is scheduled to open early next year as part of the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex on the UNK campus. Because of this UNK-UNMC initiative, more students will be able to study and train in rural Nebraska for health care professions.
Multiple gifts were received to honor Nebraska’s one-room and rural school teachers as part of the One Room, One Teacher scholarship program. The program pays tribute to Nebraska educators while raising scholarship funds for UNK College of Education students.
A former chair of the UNK sociology department, the late Ruth Ann Pigott Janssen, Ph.D., left a nearly $2.25 million estate gift to support scholarships and other priorities in the sociology department as well as a future capital project at UNK.
Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA)
An anonymous donor made a nearly $1.2 million gift 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.
The University of Nebraska Foundation grows relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. During the 2025 fiscal year, a record $416.6 million was committed to aid UNK, UNL, UNO, NCTA and UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine. In addition, a record 60,602 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.
From UNMC Strategic Communications
To better align strategic initiatives that attract, develop, place and retain health professionals for Nebraska and beyond, a new office has been created at UNMC, Interim Chancellor H. Dele Davies, MD, announced today.
The new Office of Health Workforce Initiatives will align and integrate current workforce efforts and serve as a resource for external agencies and communities as they partner with UNMC to maintain and grow their health care workforce.
“While all of our colleges are involved in workforce development as a primary mission, many other academic areas support this central mission to ensure the next generation of health care professionals,” Dr. Davies said. “This new office will serve as the central coordinating unit for the various initiatives aimed at building a sustainable health care workforce for Nebraska and the region.
“This office aligns perfectly with several of the goals of our strategic plan, notably several initiatives within the pillars of extraordinary teaching and learning and extraordinary partnerships.”
University of Nebraska System President Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, expressed enthusiastic support for the office and its purpose.
“A robust health workforce is essential for the long-term viability and strength of Nebraska and its communities, Dr. Gold said. “I strongly support the creation of the Office of Health Workforce Initiatives at UNMC, and I’m excited to work collaboratively with Interim Chancellor Davies and other partners to ensure that we continue to grow the health workforce throughout the state.”
Dr. Davies also announced today that Kyle Meyer, PhD, dean of the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions, would lead the office, transitioning from his current role as interim assistant vice chancellor for healthcare workforce education and relations to associate vice chancellor for health workforce initiatives.
“With his knowledge of health workforce trends – in addition to his experience in bringing various constituents together into a singular focus – Dr. Meyer is perfect for this position,” Dr. Davies said.
Dr. Davies indicated that Dr. Meyer – who in his assistant vice chancellor role reported to Vice Chancellor for External Relations Chris Kratochvil, MD – would now report directly to Dr. Davies. In addition, Anne Bowen Fischer will become the director of strategic relations and senior associate to the chancellor. Bowen Fischer will take on additional duties related to external relations, as Dr. Kratochvil also serves as the vice president for external relations for the University of Nebraska System.
Dr. Davies noted that a recent philanthropic gift served as a catalyst for the creation of the Office of Health Workforce Initiatives.
Pending approval of the University of Nebraska, Dr. Meyer will be the inaugural recipient of the Armstrong Family Distinguished Chair of Rural Healthcare Workforce Strategy.
The Armstrong family of Minden, Nebraska, made a $1 million gift commitment through the University of Nebraska Foundation to create the new chair, which will support broad-based initiatives and programs to grow the rural health care workforce.
Rich Armstrong, former chairman of the Minden Exchange Bank & Trust Co., said the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex represents a vital step forward in addressing the severe shortage of health care professionals in rural Nebraska.
“My family has deep ties to rural Nebraska, so we understand the critical need for health care access in local communities,” he said. “This new chair represents our commitment to strengthening the health care workforce pipeline and supporting the long-term vitality of rural communities.”
The new chair was created 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 the University of Nebraska. A top campaign priority is to create new endowed chairs and professorships to recruit and retain preeminent educators and researchers in every field.
Dr. Meyer will continue to serve as dean of the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions until his successor is named.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to help develop this important office at UNMC,” Dr. Meyer said. “There are so many talented individuals involved in a host of vital health workforce development activities. Developing an infrastructure to support this work and creating more effective communication and networking methods can only serve to multiply the impact of our collective efforts.”
To ensure the uninterrupted operations of the college, Dr. Davies and Dr. Meyer announced that two allied health faculty will assume additional responsibilities. Tammy Webster, PhD, will become the executive associate dean of the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions until a permanent dean of the college is appointed. Similarly, Amber Donnelly, PhD, will add oversight of academic affairs in the college to her portfolio, becoming the associate dean for academic and student affairs.
In addition to being a lynchpin for convening and aligning health care workforce activities, the Office of Health Workforce Initiatives will maintain a focus on rural health initiatives, including the Kearney expansion. The office also will house the preceptor excellence and recognition program and the pathway programs such as RHOP, KHOP and UHOP.
Several other UNMC units with a workforce development function will be heavily involved with the new office while maintaining their reporting structure within their current offices and colleges. These include the AHEC and uBEATS programs; High School Alliance; the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska; the Health Professions Tracking Service and others.
Marley Doyle, MD, director of BHCEN, said that the new office will ensure that UNMC is both robust and efficient in its efforts to increase the health workforce across the state.
“UNMC has long been a leader in health workforce development, and the launch of this new office marks an important advancement,” Dr. Doyle said. “At BHECN, we see how thoughtful investments in workforce infrastructure can expand access to care across Nebraska. This initiative opens new doors for our students and trainees — future professionals who will benefit from enhanced support, coordination, and innovation. It reflects UNMC’s deep commitment to improving the lives of Nebraskans through education and service.”
Dr. Meyer noted that throughout Nebraska, there remains a dearth of health care professionals in specific fields. Sixty-six of Nebraska’s 93 counties are designated as medically underserved, and there is an uneven distribution of health professionals in Nebraska, with 83% residing in metro areas, while only 65% of Nebraska’s population does so. The result is that 35% of the state’s population relies on 17% of the total healthcare workforce for care.
Although many health professions are expected to see varying growth rates by 2030, need and demand also will be affected by an imminent retirement boom of health professionals over the next 5-10 years. This will coincide with an expected decline of 9% by 2030 in the number of primary care physicians.
The new office, Dr. Meyer said, will increase awareness about health profession careers; facilitate early preparation for admission to health profession education programs; connect UNMC programs and graduates to Nebraska communities; engage Nebraska health systems, communities, and alumni as essential partners in building and retaining a high-quality health care workforce; and measure and analyze outcomes associated with these initiatives.
“We continue to make good progress, but there’s much to be done,” Dr. Davies said. “It will take alignment amongst the UNMC programs and a full statewide network of partners. Together, we can ensure that wherever in Nebraska someone chooses to live, they will have access to high-quality health care relatively close to home.”
Omaha Athletics is proud to announce a new scholarship to support the Maverick Hockey program. Maureen “Mo” and Nick Borman of Omaha have made a gift commitment to establish the Borman Family Scholarship to be awarded to the team’s right defenseman.
“We support the Maverick Hockey program because it plays a vital role in building a strong, connected community,” said the couple, who are Omaha hockey season ticket members. “It offers athletes a chance to develop teamwork, discipline and leadership skills. The Omaha hockey program fills a niche within Omaha’s vibrant sports community that fosters local pride, brings families and neighbors together and creates a positive, inclusive environment for everyone involved.”
The couple pledged the gift through the University of Nebraska Foundation to fund a scholarship for the team’s right defenseman. The full scholarship will be awarded beginning in 2027, supporting a student-athlete throughout his college career. At the request of the donors, the total commitment amount will remain confidential.
“We are honored to have the Borman name tied to this position and our hockey program,” said Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Adrian Dowell. “This is just the latest example of their generosity, and we are grateful to Nick and Mo for the incredible impact they have made supporting Omaha Athletics.”
The Bormans grew up in North Dakota, where ice hockey is an important part of the culture. Nick Borman played hockey from an early age through high school, and the couple passed on a love of the game to their sons.
The Bormans have gotten to know current and former Omaha hockey players, coaches and others connected to the program.
“We are impressed that many of the former players have chosen to stay in Omaha and contribute to the community as coaches for local youth hockey programs and provide ongoing support to Maverick hockey,” the couple said. “They also contribute to the greater Omaha community as entrepreneurs, business leaders, fathers and husbands.”
This is the third position-specific scholarship to be created by donors for the Omaha Hockey program. The others are the Menke Family Captain’s Scholarship and the Yano and Cindy Mangiameli Goalie Scholarship. Scholarships assist Omaha hockey head coach Mike Gabinet in recruiting prospective student-athletes who excel on the ice and demonstrate excellent leadership qualities.
“It’s a true honor to have the Borman name connected to our hockey program,” Gabinet said. “Nick and Mo’s generosity and belief in what we’re doing mean the world to our staff and players. Their support makes a real impact and helps us continue to push toward excellence on and off the ice.”
The 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 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 2024 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.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln alumna Cindy McCaffrey and her husband, Mick, have made a $4 million gift to establish a permanent endowment to support student workers in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications.
Their gift to create the McCaffrey Student Success Fund is rooted in a shared belief in the power of education and the value of hard work. As students, both relied on campus jobs to pay their way. Cindy worked early mornings in the cafeteria, wrote for The Daily Nebraskan and interned at the Omaha World-Herald. Mick played basketball at Oklahoma State University on a scholarship and picked up odd jobs on campus.
“When I was a student at Nebraska, working on campus was essential in helping me afford my education,” Cindy said. “Student employment kept me grounded, connected, focused and gave me hands-on experience that directly shaped my career. Mick and I know how powerful that kind of support can be. We want today’s students to have those same chances: to learn by doing, earn a paycheck and understand that their contributions matter.”
Cindy, an Omaha native, graduated from Nebraska in 1980 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. After starting her career as a newspaper reporter, she moved into technology-focused communications roles at Apple, E*TRADE and 3DO. In 1999, she joined Google as one of its earliest employees and served as vice president of corporate marketing. She helped shape the company’s global brand and stepped down following its initial public offering in 2005.
Mick earned a degree in marketing from Oklahoma State in 1975. After holding sales positions in the Midwest, he shifted to technology roles in California. He worked in engineering and quality assurance for Yahoo and other emerging software companies. While Cindy focused on communications, Mick built his career on the technical side of Silicon Valley’s growing tech sector.
“It feels incredibly meaningful to come full circle,” Cindy said. “To go from being a student worker who needed that job to someone who can now help make those jobs possible. It’s a privilege to contribute to the success of both students and the college community as a whole.”
The McCaffreys, who live in Tiburon, California, made the gift through the University of Nebraska Foundation.
“The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is incredibly grateful to the McCaffreys for their investment in student success,” Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett said. “Their generosity will help to ensure that numerous students can focus more acutely on their UNL education and are best positioned to contribute immediately to communities across Nebraska and beyond following their graduation.”
Cindy said she chose to attend Nebraska because it had a strong journalism program and was affordable through student employment.
This is not the McCaffreys’ first investment in student success. In 2013, Cindy established the McCaffrey Emerging Media Scholarship to support students studying journalism and technology. The scholarship continues to support students with a secondary major or minor in a tech-related field.
The McCaffreys also made a $145,000 gift to support the college’s student positions during the 2024-25 academic year after learning the funding was in jeopardy. That one-time gift supported 66 student workers, helping them stay enrolled, pay rent and focus on their academic experience.
Over the following year, the college stayed in close contact with the McCaffreys, sharing stories about the students their gift had helped. After meeting with Shari Veil, Jane T. Olson Endowed Dean of Journalism and Mass Communications, in California this summer, Cindy and Mick committed to a $4 million gift to create a permanent endowment to fund the college’s student jobs in perpetuity.
‘“This is a gift that invests in people and potential,” Veil said. “Cindy and Mick are helping students stay in school, grow professionally and thrive as part of our community.”
The McCaffrey Student Success Fund will support roles that put students at the center of college life: mentoring first-year peers, leading campus tours, supporting classroom instruction, staffing the front desk and assisting with software and equipment in the design labs. These jobs offer purpose, structure and hands-on experience that shape how students show up in class and in their careers.
Cindy said she hopes the fund helps students prepare for life beyond graduation.
“We hope it will help students stay enrolled, reduce financial stress and allow them to focus more on learning and less on how they’ll pay next month’s bills,” she said. “But beyond that, it gives them purpose, and creates space for discovery, connection and growth. I know from experience that these jobs help build the confidence and professional skills that students will carry forward in their lives and careers.”
The McCaffreys’ gift supports Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future, a historic effort to engage 150,000 unique benefactors to raise $3 billion to support the University of Nebraska. The campaign’s top priority is student access and success to ensure a University of Nebraska education is affordable and achievable for every student.
“My part-time position as a peer mentor provided me not only with invaluable professional experience, but also with the financial means to support my college journey,” said Macy Neumeister, a student worker who graduated in 2023. “It eased the burden of tuition fees and living expenses, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress.”
For Cindy, giving back is personal.
“It’s our way of saying thank you,” she said. “Knowing that 66 students benefited last year alone is the best feeling in the world.”
The University of Nebraska Foundation has bestowed its inaugural award for lifetime achievement in philanthropy on Carl G. Mammel of Omaha, a prominent business leader and philanthropist.
The Ruth and Bill Scott Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Philanthropy was established by the University of Nebraska Foundation Board of Directors in November 2024 to recognize those whose legacy of philanthropic support has provided exceptional benefits in furthering the goals and mission of the University of Nebraska over a sustained period. Named for Ruth and Bill Scott, two of the university’s most transformational donors, the Scott Medal seeks to inspire a culture of charitable giving by recognizing outstanding philanthropists to the university.
“I’m honored to be the first recipient of the Ruth and Bill Scott Medal, especially given my long-standing relationship and admiration for Ruth and Bill,” Mammel said. “For decades, we’ve walked a shared path — driven by a belief that philanthropy is not just giving but investing in the potential of people, communities and our university system. Together, we’ve witnessed the power of generosity to shape a strong future for generations to come.”
As president of the Mammel Family Foundation and a University of Nebraska–Lincoln alumnus, Mammel’s generosity has deeply impacted the university across multiple campuses. His largest gift to the university system was the largest ever in the history of the University of Nebraska at Omaha and supported the construction of Mammel Hall, home of UNO’s College of Business Administration. Mammel made another gift a decade later to support a building addition to accommodate enrollment and faculty growth in the college.
His other major gifts include supporting the Mammel Business Scholarship Fund, which has funded 412 student awards since its founding in 2020, and the College of Public Affairs and Community Service building renovation at UNO; Project Health and the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska Medicine; and Husker Athletics and the Beta Theta Pi fraternity at UNL.
“Carl Mammel embodies the true spirit of philanthropy — not just in generosity, but in vision,” said University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “He has long understood that the most powerful investment we can make is in the next generation. Through his support for education and his commitment to keeping talent in our community, Carl is helping to build a stronger, more vibrant future for Nebraska and beyond. His legacy will not only be measured in the many gifts he has made, but in the lives he has empowered to learn, lead and give back in return.”
University of Nebraska Foundation President and CEO Brian F. Hastings said: “Carl Mammel has transformed the landscape of business education at UNO, through a combination of his significant philanthropy to fund the construction and later expansion of Mammel Hall, his support for scholarships that have benefited hundreds of students and his influence in creating a collaborative and engaging culture within the UNO College of Business Administration. Carl’s philanthropy has also benefited the other parts of UNO, UNMC and UNL. He has made an incredible difference across the University of Nebraska System, both through his impactful philanthropic investments and by sharing his time and wisdom with us as a volunteer leader.”
Mammel received the Scott Medal at a private event June 27. This is the second service award Mammel has received from the foundation. He was awarded the Perry W. Branch Award for Distinguished Volunteer Service in 2010. Mammel has been a trustee of the foundation since 2000 and served on its board of directors from 2003 to 2009. He is a former member of the foundation’s finance and investment committees, the UNO Campus Campaign Committee for the Campaign for Nebraska and the board of the Nebraska Alumni Association.
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 2024 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.
Gift from Merle A. and Kay Horst honors Horst brothers’ legacy
Alumni Merle A. and Kay (Puttergill) Horst left their family farms years ago to attend Kearney State College, now the University of Nebraska at Kearney, but their affinity for their alma mater and farming has never dwindled.
The Horsts, of Miromar Lakes, Florida, made a $500,000 gift to endow the Horst Brothers UNK Business Scholarship in the College of Business and Technology. The scholarship will help undergraduate students from Nebraska farming communities complete their education while easing their student debt. Three scholarships will be awarded annually to students ― a sophomore, a junior and a senior ― majoring in accounting or business administration. The generous gift was made through the University of Nebraska Foundation; Merle and Kay are both foundation trustees.
“We are deeply grateful to Merle and Kay Horst for their generosity,” said Brooke Envick, Ph.D., newly appointed dean of the College of Business and Technology. “The Horst Brothers UNK Business Scholarship creates meaningful opportunities for students from farming communities to succeed as leaders in business and accounting. This investment in our students’ futures reflects the values of hard work, character and education that define both the Horst family and our college.”
Merle, ’70, and his brothers, Bernie, ’72, and Ron, ’76, are all UNK graduates. They grew up and worked on their parents’ livestock and crop production farm in the southwest corner of Hamilton County, graduating from high school in Giltner, Nebraska. It was on the farm where the boys learned how to work, which carried forward into their lives and careers.
“My dad said we were the best hired men he ever had,” Merle said. “Our pay was great: corn for our 4-H livestock ― sheep, cattle and hogs. The four days at the county fair were essentially our only vacation from farming.”
The Horst brothers were encouraged to attend college by their parents, Merle E. and Imogene Horst. Their parents agreed to pay for the first year of college, but expenses beyond that first year were the responsibility of each boy. All three chose Kearney State because “that was all we could afford,” and majored in business administration, Merle said. Merle was a four-year letterwinner in track and field, specializing in the 400 intermediate hurdles and the 4×400 relay.
UNK was also where the brothers met their future wives, who were all from Nebraska farms and ranches and majored in education. Bernie’s wife, Margene (Kuhlmann) Horst, and Kay both graduated in 1971. Ron’s wife, Rita (Freese) Horst, earned her degree in 1975.
To be eligible for the Horst Brothers scholarship, students must have grown up in a farming household, be a sophomore or above working toward a degree in accounting or business administration and carry a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Students also must demonstrate a strong character and the ability to work hard. Scholarships may be renewed if the recipients remain in good academic standing and continue to meet the criteria.
“We believe in education and hard work,” Merle said. “Establishing the Horst Brothers UNK Business Scholarship is just our small way of paying it back while providing some encouragement to students from similar backgrounds to pursue an education and career in business.”
Merle and Kay Horst also previously created scholarships for UNK Athletics and the College of Arts and Sciences.
Their scholarship gifts support Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future. The campaign seeks to engage 150,000 benefactors to raise $3 billion to support the University of Nebraska. UNK’s goals are to engage 12,000 donors to raise $70 million. Support for students is the campaign’s top priority.
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 2024 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.
University of Nebraska Medical Center alumni Mark, M.D., and Catherine Houser, M.S.N., spent much of their health care careers caring for pediatric patients. Inspired by a desire to give back to UNMC, the couple decided to leave a legacy by investing in the care of children with kidney disease in their home state of Nebraska.
The Housers have made a multi-year commitment to create the Mark and Catherine Houser Professorship in Pediatric Nephrology at UNMC. The couple also made a deferred pledge to endow the position later through their estate.
“We feel a deep connection to UNMC,” Dr. Houser said. “Making this gift was important to us because Catherine and I are Nebraskans at heart. We lived here nearly all our lives.”
Dr. Houser was a physician in the UNMC Division of Pediatric Nephrology from 1983 to 1996, including serving as division chief, and played a key role in initiating and growing the division. He went on to work in the pharmaceutical industry for 20 years. Catherine Houser was a longtime pediatric cardiology nurse in Omaha.
“It’s incredible to see how far the program has come,” Dr. Houser said. “Anything that helps faculty ultimately leads to better care for children from the region with kidney disease. Professorships and chairs are essential to retaining and attracting faculty, especially when the university’s resources are limited.”
Pending approval of the University of Nebraska, Melissa Muff-Luett, M.D., will be the inaugural recipient of the Mark and Catherine Houser Professorship in Pediatric Nephrology. She is an associate professor and chief of the Division of Pediatric Nephrology, which provides comprehensive clinical training in kidney disease, hypertension, dialysis and transplant management for infants, children and adolescents.
“Thank you to the Houser family for their generous contribution to establish the Mark and Catherine Houser Professorship in Pediatric Nephrology,” Dr. Muff-Luett said. “On behalf of the Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Dialysis Division, I want to express my gratitude for their generosity. Their gift will be used to expand and improve nephrology, dialysis and kidney transplant care for the children of Nebraska and western Iowa with a focus on advancing the current research efforts of our division. Our team is dedicated to continuing Dr. Houser’s legacy of excellence in pediatric nephrology care.”
The recipient will receive an annual stipend to support scholarly research and creative activities within the division.
“On behalf of the Department of Pediatrics, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Houser family for their gift in establishing this new professorship,” said Kari A. Simonsen, M.D., M.B.A., Carol Remmer Angle, M.D., Presidential Chair of Pediatrics and chair of the Department of Pediatrics. “This professorship will support and enable our continued academic success in pediatric nephrology.”
The Housers hail from western Nebraska, with Mark growing up in Scottsbluff and North Platte and Catherine in Scottsbluff. Dr. Houser is a 1975 graduate of the UNMC College of Medicine. Catherine Houser received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1978 and a Master of Science in Nursing in 1993, both from UNMC. The couple now live in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
The Housers made the gift commitment through the University of Nebraska Foundation. They hope to inspire others to create endowed chairs and professorships to provide a perpetual source of support for the UNMC Department of Pediatrics.
The 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 the University of Nebraska. A top campaign priority is to create new endowed chairs and professorships to recruit and retain preeminent educators and researchers in every field.
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.
