Omaha philanthropists commit $19 million to UNO and $6 million to Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture
Omaha philanthropists Barbara and Wally Weitz have made a $25 million gift commitment to invest in strategic priorities and leadership at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and redevelop a historic building at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) in Curtis, Nebraska, to support student growth and success.
The Weitzes have pledged $19 million to UNO and $6 million to NCTA through the University of Nebraska Foundation.
The Weitzes’ gift was made as part of Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future. The campaign is a historic effort to encourage at least 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.
At UNO, the couple’s gift will create the Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund and establish the Barbara and Wally Weitz Endowed Chair in Higher Education Leadership.
“It is thrilling to be a part of a place that is doing the kind of things that are happening at UNO,” Barbara Weitz said. “This institution, and the University of Nebraska as a whole, are incredibly valuable because of the education they provide and for their importance to the economy of the state. We must have well-educated citizens for Nebraska.”
UNO Chancellor Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, said she is humbled by the gift.
“On behalf of UNO, thank you for making this smart investment in our university,” she said. “This sends a signal to our faculty and staff that you believe in the work they do, as well as UNO’s strategic focus on improving the economic and social mobility of our students. This gift is significant, and it means a great deal to our campus.”
Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund
The Weitzes designated $14 million of their gift to create the Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund, to be awarded to strategic UNO priorities that may benefit from new investment. The fund’s purpose is to elevate particularly good programs to nationally recognized ones while addressing critical areas of need in Omaha and the state of Nebraska.
“UNO will have discretion in how to use these funds. We have trust in the people doing the work to come up with the best ideas for our students and the community,” Wally Weitz said.
From 2024 through 2029, the UNO chancellor will annually ask for proposals. An evaluation committee, made up of senior faculty, will then review the proposals based on criteria that include how well a proposal addresses a campus priority, the nature of the need being addressed and the likelihood of success.
“Truly, this gift is an investment not only in UNO, but also in the entire Omaha community and the state of Nebraska,” Chancellor Li said. “The Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund will support our faculty to dream big and realize opportunities to make the future of Nebraska’s teaching, working and learning a reality. All projects supported through this funding will be selected with an eye toward how they strengthen our community as a whole.”
Barbara and Wally Weitz Endowed Chair in Higher Education Leadership
The Barbara and Wally Weitz Endowed Chair in Higher Education Leadership, supported by a $5 million gift, is the first endowed chair in higher education leadership to be attached to a chancellor’s position in the University of Nebraska System.
The endowed chair, to be awarded to the UNO chancellor, will aid in the recruitment and retention of top leadership at the university.
The gift will be invested permanently in the endowment and provide an estimated $200,000 in annual distributions to support the UNO chancellor and her/his strategic priorities.
“We are living in a time of immense change and opportunity, requiring skilled, strategic leadership from people who not only deeply understand the issues, but can set a bold vision for the future and inspire others to come along,” University of Nebraska System President Ted Carter said. “The Barbara and Wally Weitz Endowed Chair in Higher Education Leadership will help to ensure UNO always has strong leadership to move the university and the Omaha community forward.”
Student Success and Activity Center
At NCTA, the couple’s gift will support a $12 million project to create the Student Success and Activity Center on campus. The Weitzes’ challenge gift will be matched by $6 million in other private funding, with work to begin after fundraising is complete. Donations may be made online.
“It took visionaries to create this rural arm of the University of Nebraska over a century ago, and now the Weitzes are the visionaries who are helping to lead us into the future,” said NCTA Dean Larry Gossen, Ph.D. “We are truly overjoyed to receive a gift of this magnitude to allow our campus to evolve with a new Student Success and Activity Center. It will be an awe-inspiring gathering place to be proud of — for students to study together, have social events, and, most importantly, an accessible dining hall. It will draw in students living off-campus and generate the energy and excitement our students need to feel a sense of belonging.”
The gift to renovate and expand “The Barn,” originally built in 1917, will be the single largest monetary donation ever received by NCTA.
“This campus in Curtis charmed me after my first visit to attend graduation. It is a seemingly small but remarkably important part of our commitment to bring resources, faculty and students to improving our agricultural knowledge and workforce in Nebraska,” Barbara Weitz said. “NCTA is a too well-kept secret south of North Platte.”
The gift was inspired by a desire to promote workforce development in the agriculture sector and improve educational opportunities in rural Nebraska.
“At NCTA, we are teaching agriculture ‘in the field’ at the collegiate level, with the latest technology and practices in our academic programs,” Dean Gossen said. “These include agronomy, animal science, ag education, equine industry management, ag mechanics, irrigation technology, agribusiness and veterinary technology. Improvements to campus facilities are included in NCTA’s master plan and are central to our enrollment goals to grow from under 300 to 500 students in the next 10 years.”
About Barbara and Wally Weitz
Barbara Weitz is a member of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, and Barbara and Wally Weitz are chairs of the UNO campaign committee for the Only in Nebraska campaign. The Weitz Family Foundation, established by the couple, was the lead donor to the UNO Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center, which was dedicated in 2014.
Barbara Weitz is also a retired faculty member of UNO’s Grace Abbott School of Social Work. Wally Weitz is the founder and co-chairman of the Omaha investment firm Weitz Investment Management.
“Barbara and Wally have given generously of their time and resources as volunteer leaders of the Only in Nebraska campaign — both as members of our campaign executive committee and as campaign chairs for UNO. Additionally, Barb previously served as a member of the foundation board, in addition to her current role as an elected regent,” said Brian F. Hastings, president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation. “Their leadership and generosity demonstrate the lasting impact the Only in Nebraska campaign will have across 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 most recent fiscal year, a record 60,571 donors gave $300.6 million to the foundation to aid UNK, UNO, UNL, UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine, and NCTA. 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.
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.
About the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture
Part of the University of Nebraska system, the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture is a two-year institution with a statewide mission of preparing students for successful careers in agriculture, veterinary technology and related industries. NCTA is known for its affordable tuition, high job-placement rate for its graduates and the success of student teams in competitive activities, including crops judging, ranch horse events, livestock judging, shotgun sports, stock dog trials and intercollegiate rodeo. The college is consistently ranked as one of the best two-year schools in the nation.
By Connie White
Tom Thompson spent the morning of June 2 organizing kitchen supplies and cleaning the indoor splash pad at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Munroe-Meyer Institute (MMI).
For him, the University of Nebraska Foundation’s Day of Service is personal.
His daughter, Marissa, 18, received speech and occupational therapy at MMI early in her life and attends Camp Munroe at MMI, which provides advocacy and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This spring, Marissa, who has Down Syndrome, graduated from Westside High School and will continue to visit MMI as part of the Transition program through her high school that will enhance her semi-independent life skills and further develop her job skills through pre-vocational services.
“I love being over here at MMI,” said Thompson, senior director of development for UNMC. “I have a daughter who has benefitted from all the work that they do. If there is even one thing I can do to help the staff who are so focused on the kids and the people they’re helping every day, I’m happy to do it.”
On June 2, foundation employees celebrated the organization’s 87th birthday by planting flowers and pulling weeds, organizing the shelves at student food pantries and writing letters of support to first-generation students, as well as other activities. As part of Day of Service, employees assisted 20 university affiliates and organizations with projects at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Kearney and UNMC.
The University of Nebraska Foundation was established June 3, 1936, as a private, nonprofit organization to serve the university system. The annual service day, in its eighth year, was created to celebrate and commemorate the foundation’s founding.
Before foundation employees fanned out across the campuses, Brian F. Hastings, president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation, expressed his gratitude during a morning staff meeting held via Zoom.
“Thanks for what you do each and every day for the University of Nebraska,” Hastings said. “Whether you’ve participated in Day of Service before, or you’re a newer employee doing this for the first time, it’s great to have you.”
Kristen Rock, director of donor experience and recognition, spent her morning making candygrams for high school students participating in summer camps as part of UNL’s Nebraska College Preparatory Academy (NCPA). She and other volunteers attached KitKats, Starbursts and packages of gum to posters with messages such as “You Are Awesome!” and “You Are a Super Star!!!”
NCPA is a college access program that prepares first-generation students from income-eligible families for college and their future careers. NCPA’s college scholars receive full financial assistance to pay the cost of college, including tuition, books, room and board, and fees.
“I love helping this incredible program through our Day of Service. I’m so happy to welcome these summer students to campus with these candygrams. It’s an opportunity to give back and be creative,” Rock said.
Jasmine Alexander, assistant director of development for UNMC, volunteered in the Maverick Food Pantry on the UNO campus.
She and other employees unloaded food and stocked the shelves of the pantry, which serves the UNO, UNMC and College of St. Mary communities.
“The community service project gave me the opportunity to see the work we do at the foundation come to life,” Alexander said. “It motivated me to want to do more for the Maverick Food Pantry and encourage others to know how significant their contributions to this program can be for years to come.”
What Others Are Saying
Karey Koehn, director of internal communications and Day of Service coordinator
“This is one day that our employees complete volunteer projects on all University of Nebraska campuses, and it’s a chance to connect firsthand with our organizational mission to enable the university to change lives and save lives. Foundation employees have a passion for serving University of Nebraska students and programs, and our annual Day of Service is a terrific opportunity to make a real difference on the UNO, UNMC, UNL and UNK campuses.”
Rich Brodersen, director of development for UNK
“My favorite aspect of Day of Service is the opportunity to work with our team outside of the office in a positive and uplifting way. It’s a fulfilling way of giving back to our community and university.”
Ed Rider, director of communications
Rider cleaned the toddlers’ playground and splashpad equipment at MMI. His family has personal ties to the institute because both his children were volunteers at MMI, and son Nate works there while studying special education at UNO. Rider said he likes connecting with organizations that the foundation serves during Day of Service.
“We get to go out and interact with the people that we’re helping to raise funds for all year long.”
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 60,571 donors gave $300.6 million to the foundation to aid UNK, UNO, UNL, UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine, and NCTA. 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.
The Center for Advocacy, Response & Education (CARE) is a lifeline for University of Nebraska‒Lincoln students, faculty and staff who have experienced trauma. This year’s Give to Lincoln Day on Wednesday, May 24 provides an opportunity to support UNL CARE, which offers no-cost therapy to survivors of sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking or sexual harassment.
UNL CARE provides safe, confidential, survivor-centered support; UNL community members seeking assistance are paired with an advocate to help them navigate campus and community resources. Recently, UNL CARE expanded its services by providing a trauma-informed, graduate-level therapist. Utilizing evidence-based interventions such as cognitive processing therapy (CPT) and prolonged exposure (PE), the therapist treats individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other trauma-related symptoms.
There is currently a waiting list of people seeking zero-cost clinical services, and UNL CARE plans to add a second therapist this summer. Gifts to help expand the program may be made online anytime between now and May 24, here.
Give to Lincoln Day is coordinated by the Lincoln Community Foundation in partnership with local nonprofits, including the University of Nebraska Foundation. This annual giving opportunity encourages people to contribute to Lincoln and Lancaster County nonprofit organizations and helps local nonprofits tell their stories and educate the community about their positive impact.
Every contribution made during the event also increases UNL CARE’s opportunity to receive a portion of $500,000 in matching funds made available by the event’s sponsors and benefactors.
More information is at givetolincoln.com.
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 60,571 donors gave $300.6 million to the foundation to aid UNK, UNO, UNL, UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine, and NCTA. 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.
Plainview, Nebraska, native Bill Johnson has been selected as senior vice president of development at the University of Nebraska Foundation, where he will lead private fundraising efforts for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Johnson, who has an extensive background in higher education fundraising leadership, will work in partnership with the chancellor and other university leaders, Husker Athletics, the Nebraska Alumni Association and the foundation’s UNL development team to advance the fundraising goals of the state’s flagship university.
He is currently vice president of university advancement at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in education administration/athletic administration from UNL while playing basketball under Coach Danny Nee. He then worked as an assistant basketball coach and director of basketball operations for the Huskers for four years.
“The University of Nebraska took a kid from the reservation in northeast Nebraska, welcomed him as a student athlete and eventually an employee early in my professional life,” said Johnson, a member of the Santee Sioux Tribe. “To have the opportunity to return home and assist the foundation in leading a successful, impactful campaign is a great honor to uplift a community and state that still mean the world to me.”
Last fall, the University of Nebraska Foundation launched a historic campaign to encourage at least 150,000 benefactors to give $3 billion to support all campuses of the University of Nebraska, which includes UNL, the University of Nebraska at Kearney, the University of Nebraska Medical Center and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine, the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis.
Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future has three priorities: to create additional scholarships and invest in programs and modern facilities that offer hands-on learning opportunities for students; to support the university’s faculty, clinical and academic programs; and to grow the University of Nebraska as a hub of research and innovation.
“I’ve known Bill for a number of years,” said Brian F. Hastings, president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation. “He is a respected leader in our profession and has served in leadership roles at multiple universities, including his leadership of two university foundations. Bill’s fundraising experience, leadership and coaching experience, and great appreciation for the state of Nebraska will make a tremendous difference in furthering UNL’s success.”
An interview committee appointed by Chancellor Ronnie Green assisted with the search. Committee members were: Katherine Ankerson, executive vice chancellor; Michael Zeleny, vice chancellor for business and finance; Tiffany Heng-Moss, dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; Richard Moberly, dean of the College of Law; and Lance Pérez, dean of the College of Engineering.
“I am extremely pleased to welcome Bill Johnson back to his alma mater,” Green said. “As a former Husker athlete and a graduate of our university, Bill knows firsthand the profound impact that a University of Nebraska education can have on a student’s future. Bill’s deep love for Nebraska will make him an excellent partner as we work together to meet the needs of our students, our university and state.”
Johnson succeeds Joe Selig, who retired from the foundation last year after serving the University of Nebraska in various capacities for 46 years.
“We are excited for Bill, with his three decades of university leadership and fundraising experience, to take on this leadership role and be an extraordinary coach, mentor and partner, advancing our collective efforts on behalf of the University of Nebraska,” said Lori Byrne, executive vice president of advancement and campaign director at the University of Nebraska Foundation.
In his current role at the University of Nevada, Reno, Johnson oversees fundraising, alumni engagement, advancement services, donor relations and other functions. He also serves as executive director of the University of Nevada, Reno Foundation. Last year, Johnson served as interim athletic director while the university conducted a national search to fill the vacancy.
Previously, he served as vice president of university advancement at California State University, East Bay, and in other advancement roles at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, and the University of San Francisco, where he also was an assistant men’s basketball coach. Johnson was an administrative fellow in the Harvard University Native American Program. Earlier in his career, he raised athletic funds for Georgetown University; Columbia University, where he was an assistant men’s basketball coach; and Casper College in Casper, Wyoming, where he was also head men’s basketball coach.
Johnson’s first day at the foundation will be June 5.
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 60,571 donors gave $300.6 million to the foundation to aid UNK, UNO, UNL, UNMC and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine, and NCTA. The foundation raises more than $7 for every $1 it spends. 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.
Today, University of Nebraska System President Ted Carter, joined by the chancellors of the four University of Nebraska campuses, announced the public launch of Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future. The campaign is a historic effort to encourage at least 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 Nebraska’s only public university, we have a special opportunity and responsibility to meet the needs of students, our state and the workforce,” Carter said. “The University of Nebraska is one of the state’s most powerful drivers of economic growth and quality of life. With this campaign, we can extend our impact even further — today, tomorrow and for generations to come.
“Our university is extraordinarily fortunate to be generously supported by alumni, friends and all Nebraskans. This campaign is an investment in students and in our future. We are excited to build that future together — as only Nebraskans can.”
While the campaign has three priorities, the top priority is students. The campaign will create additional scholarships to help make education affordable, attract more students and keep them in Nebraska. It also will invest in programs such as learning communities which help retain students, provide mentorship and guidance and ensure their timely degree completion.
The three campaign priorities are:
Relentless focus on student access and success ($1.6 billion) – The campaign goal is to create scholarships for every college within the university system to expand access and help the university compete for top talent. The campaign also will raise support for first-generation students, community college transfer students and for areas of critical need, such as in health care, engineering, information technology and teacher education; funds to create or expand programs that help retain students, such as learning communities; and funds for modern facilities that offer students contemporary, hands-on learning opportunities.
Enhancing faculty, academic and clinical excellence ($750 million) – The campaign seeks funds for endowed chairs and professorships to recruit and retain faculty who are a source of intellectual capital for the state as well as the inspiration and teachers of the next generation of students. It will seek support for faculty programs, many of which spin off innovations for commercialization and create new business startups.
Transformational research and innovation ($650 million) – The campaign seeks funds to support research and innovation that bring solutions and discoveries to the state and improve outcomes for Nebraskans. This includes health issues where Nebraskans have higher incident rates than the national average; support for agriculture; and support for areas where there is existing university expertise, such as in business, entrepreneurship, food and water security, STEM and early childhood education.
Carter said that while the campaign goal is $3 billion, many gifts are pledged over a number of years or are planned gifts coming to the university later. The private funds that are raised in the campaign can complement but not replace state funds for basic operations. More than 99% of all gifts to the University of Nebraska Foundation are restricted by donors to a specific use.
The campaign will support all campuses of the university, which include the University of Nebraska at Kearney, the University of Nebraska‒Lincoln, the University of Nebraska Medical Center and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine, the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis.
University of Nebraska Foundation President and CEO Brian Hastings said a major factor in the campaign’s success is its volunteers.
“More than 300 volunteers are investing their time and talent to ensure that the Only in Nebraska campaign, the largest in the university’s history, succeeds,” Hastings said. “We are grateful for their leadership and support and have no doubt this campaign will be successful thanks to their efforts.”
Barbara Weitz, a university regent and member of the campaign’s executive committee, said the Only in Nebraska campaign provides more opportunities to talk about the University of Nebraska and all it does for people and the state.
“There’s nothing more exciting than being part of something that’s bigger than yourself — something that will go on to be a legacy for our grandchildren, our great-grandchildren and many generations to come,” Weitz said. “When you invest in the University of Nebraska, you’re investing in the future. We have the opportunity to make that investment now through the Only in Nebraska campaign.”
More than half the campaign goal — $1.6 billion — has already been given or pledged toward the campaign from more than 112,000 benefactors. The campaign began in a quiet phase in 2018 and was made public today.
Examples of campaign priorities for each campus include:
University of Nebraska at Kearney – Scholarships and other student support; endowed faculty professorships and chairs; creation of the UNK-UNMC Rural Health Education Building and programs to grow the health care workforce, especially in rural areas of the state; redevelopment of the Calvin T. Ryan Library to include a modern student learning commons to provide a variety of student success programs; and the Loper Sports Performance Network to provide a student-athlete experience that touches all aspects of an individual’s well-being, including physical, mental and academic.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln – Scholarships and other student support; endowed faculty professorships and chairs; investments in the College of Engineering to address the state’s severe shortage of engineers and computer scientists by completing Kiewit Hall and creating a dedicated home for the School of Computing; creation of a world-class arts educational experience by expanding the Lied Center for Performing Arts to include a new studio theater, enhanced guest entrance and renovated guest facilities; support for athletic facilities and student-athlete support through the GO BIG Training and Student Support Facility, which includes a new locker room, strength complex, athletic medicine area, equipment room, meeting spaces, academic and life skills center and more for all student-athletes.
University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska Medicine – Scholarships and other student support; endowed faculty professorships and chairs; creation of Centers of Excellence to build on strengths in cancer, immunotherapies, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, women’s health research, behavioral health, chronic care management, health equity and other areas; Project NExT (Nebraska Transformation Project) to educate the next generation of Nebraska’s health care workforce and those responding to infectious diseases while advancing research and providing patients with the best quality care possible; a Health Science Education Expansion Facility to serve as the new home for the College of Allied Health Professions as well as to provide additional educational and teaching laboratory space for other expanding health science education programs including those in the College of Public Health, College of Nursing and College of Dentistry.
University of Nebraska at Omaha – Scholarships and other student support; endowed faculty professorships and chairs; a new space in Omaha’s Aksarben Village called UNO=ECO, an integrated learning center where education, community and business can come together; expansion and renovation of facilities to support STEM education, such as renovation of Allwine Hall and expansion of the Peter Kiewit Institute; creation of Samuel Bak Museum: The Learning Center to allow UNO to house works by renowned artist and Holocaust survivor Samuel Bak while serving as home to events and engagement opportunities on issues of genocide, human rights, the Holocaust and artistic expression.
Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture – Scholarships and other student support and the Student Activity and Success Center to bring together advising services, career counseling, dining, clubs and extracurricular activities.
More information about Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University’s Future is at OnlyinNebraska.org.
“We want to be a part of the continued success of the University of Nebraska at Kearney. A philanthropic gift to the university makes all the difference in the world and is the only way that the really cutting-edge things happen. The university is educating our future leaders of the state, of the nation, of the world, so we need to have innovative education to prepare them for the jobs and careers that will be available in the future.”
–Carey and Brian Hamilton, UNK Campaign Chairs
“The University of Nebraska is doing a great job of finding ways to deliver education in the most cost-effective and efficient way and making sure that educational opportunity is affordable. The university is also the driver of workforce development in many ways, and as our state grows and as diverse employment opportunities expand, the university is the place that’s going to develop the needed skill sets.” –Holly and Tonn Ostergard, UNL Campaign Chairs
“Philanthropy is an essential element in helping the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska Medicine fulfill their roles and missions. It’s just so exciting seeing new programs developed, novel research conducted, outstanding education delivered, recruitment of outstanding faculty and, of course, extraordinary medical care provided. If you think about the purpose of a university, its key goals are to help people maximize their human potential through education and to serve as the catalyst that drives innovation in our state.” –Karen and Jim Linder, UNMC and Nebraska Medicine Campaign Chairs
“The University of Nebraska at Omaha is the kind of campus where you really do feel it’s a community and that we all pay attention to one another. It’s a place that has so much possibility, and when you invest in higher education you’re investing in the future. You’re saying you believe this state is going to be amazing, and I want to be a part of that, I want to invest in it, I want to help it happen. It’s genuinely thinking about it as an investment in the education of generations to come.” –Barbara and Wally Weitz, UNO Campaign Chairs
“UNK is a national model of excellence in accessible, quality undergraduate education. With the phenomenal support from our communities and our private partners, we can do even more for our students and our communities, address our workforce challenges and build the future Nebraska needs right now. Working together, I know we can.” –Doug Kristensen, J.D., Chancellor, University of Nebraska at Kearney
“The choices we make today — like those made by our predecessors in the previous 15 decades — will impact generations to come. Our vision is to be a transformative, world-leading, 21st-century mission-integrated, land-grant university without walls. Just as we stand on the shoulders of those who came before, they will stand on ours. It is an awesome responsibility and opportunity.” –Ronnie D. Green, Ph.D., Chancellor, University of Nebraska–Lincoln
“At UNMC and Nebraska Medicine, we have the enormous responsibility to educate the next generation of health care professionals and medical scientists and the monumental privilege to provide lifesaving research and to provide care and caring for Nebraskans as well as those living around the world. We can start today to build the future our world needs right now. It’s possible, and it’s all happening right here.” –Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., Executive Vice President and Provost, University of Nebraska System, and Chancellor, University of Nebraska Medical Center
“At UNO, the most important goal is to empower our students through higher education and improve their social and economic mobility. If we can move students up one or even two tiers, then we lift not only our students but their families and, by extension, our community and our state.” –Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, Chancellor, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Contact: Robb Crouch, Senior Director of Public Relations, 402-458-1142
A lot of good can happen in 24 hours.
In a true reflection of Husker spirit, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Glow Big Red campaign (which ran from noon Feb. 16 to noon Feb. 17) collected 4,935 gifts totaling $598,575. Both totals are records as Husker faithful representing every U.S. state and six nations gave to Dear Old Nebraska U.
The fourth annual crowdfunding event focused on a wide range of opportunities to “Glow All In” in support of students through scholarships and programs. There were ways to support students in each college as well as to support the university’s many organizations and affiliates.
Student Kabin Thomas said a college scholarship and graduate fellowship he received from the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts enabled him to continue his music performance studies. The student aid is made possible by Glow Big Red and other support throughout the year.
“It means everything to me — the fact that I can go back to school and not panic about bills,” Thomas said. “Without the scholarships, I wouldn’t be here right now.”
More than 100 campus-based student organizations and groups participated, the most ever during Glow Big Red.
Nebraska alumna Courtney Van Hoosen Makhmudzoda, who received a bachelor’s degree from the College of Business and a master’s degree from the College of Journalism and Mass Communications, made contributions to campus organizations that she cares about and that impacted her during her studies.
“I’m proud to Glow Big Red for areas at UNL that made a difference in my life and are carrying out missions I believe in,” said Van Hoosen Makhmudzoda, who serves as assistant director for the Office of Global Partnerships and Initiatives at UNL.
Gifts during the event were made at glowbigred.unl.edu where full results are available.
The event has garnered momentum and more philanthropic help for the university each year. Last year nearly 4,000 gifts were received with $436,000 in total support.
Largely driven by social media, supporters used #GlowBigRed to share their personal stories and why the university matters to them.
Glow Big Red started in 2019 in recognition of the university’s 150th anniversary and continues as an annual campus tradition.
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln invites its supporters to Glow All In during Glow Big Red — 24 Hours of Husker Giving on Feb. 16–17, 2022.
Glow Big Red is UNL’s annual giving event during which students, alumni, faculty, staff and the Husker community at large come together to raise needed support for scholarships, colleges and programs, student groups and activities, inclusion, wellness and other important causes.
The day starts at noon on Wednesday, Feb. 16 and lasts until noon on Thursday, Feb. 17. This year’s goal is 4,500 gifts to make a meaningful impact in the lives of thousands of Husker students.
Information about Glow Big Red, including a kickoff video, options for giving and tracking the event’s progress can be found at glowbigred.unl.edu.
Give, Glow and Share to get involved
Here are the top three ways everyone can get involved:
—GIVE: Find your favorite area to support and give. Those who contribute $60 or more will receive a Husker fleece blanket as a thank-you. (Blankets will be sent three to five weeks after the event.)
—GLOW: Make your room, home or business glow to let your Husker pride shine!
—SHARE: Use the hashtag #GlowBigRed to show your support on social media and follow this link to share your Glow Big Red story.
You can get a jumpstart on this involvement, including making your gift as early as Jan. 17, a month before Glow Big Red.
Last year was a Glowing success
Now an honored Husker tradition, this is the fourth year for Glow Big Red. Last year’s Glow Big Red encouraged the Husker community to come together and contribute more than $436,000 from close to 4,000 gifts. Gifts came from every U.S. state and nine other countries.
Glow Big Red started in 2019 in recognition of the university’s 150th anniversary.
Glow All In on social media
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Private donors with a desire to invest in the student learning experience have made it possible for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to move forward with a $22.5 million renovation and redevelopment of the C.Y. Thompson Library on East Campus.
Gifts to the University of Nebraska Foundation for this privately funded project include a leadership contribution from UNL alumni and philanthropists Ruth and Bill Scott of Omaha. Their gift was provided as a challenge to encourage others to contribute and to offer the option for someone to name the new student learning commons.
The Dinsdale family of Nebraska, in response to the Scotts’ lead challenge gift, made a major gift commitment to the project. The gift was made by Sid Dinsdale, Chris Dinsdale and Jane Dinsdale Rogers in honor of their father, Roy G. Dinsdale; and by Lynn Dinsdale Marchese and Tom Dinsdale in honor of their father, the late John “Jack” A. Dinsdale.
The new learning space will be named the Dinsdale Family Learning Commons in honor of the Dinsdale brothers, pending approval by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.
Roy Dinsdale graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1948. Jack Dinsdale, who died in 2010, also attended the university, but his studies were interrupted by World War II and U.S. Army service from 1942 to 1946. As brothers and business partners, Roy and Jack Dinsdale grew the family agriculture and banking businesses into what is today Pinnacle Bancorp Inc., the holding company which includes Pinnacle Bank.
“Students are at the core of what we do, so we are especially grateful for the generosity of Ruth and Bill Scott and the Dinsdale family for recognizing and embracing the vision of a new student learning commons on our East Campus,” said UNL Chancellor Ronnie Green. “This reimagined space designed for 20th-century studying and learning will benefit thousands of students, and we foresee a busy and active area full of engaged students.”
Ruth and Bill Scott said they are pleased to help make attending UNL an even richer experience for students.
“We hope that this will be a place where students want to congregate to spend time together and that it will be a hub that encourages students, teachers and the broader community to explore, create, collaborate and have some fun,” Ruth Scott said. “We are delighted the Dinsdale family also understands the importance of this student initiative, and we certainly hope others choose to help now as well.”
About the Dinsdale family’s support for the project, Sid Dinsdale said, “With our family roots in agriculture, we think providing resources to upgrade the East Campus makes sense. We consider this a gift that will benefit our entire state, and it is a privilege to partner with the Scott family on this project.”
Few updates have been made to the C.Y. Thompson Library since it opened in 1966, but the way students study and learn has changed significantly. Increasingly, students are interactive learners who depend on having technology available at all times, communicate via social media and study collaboratively.
Construction will launch in August with completion in time for the 2021 spring semester. Renovation and redevelopment of the library will include the new student learning commons to incorporate academics, research and community into one central hub of resources there. Many fundamental concepts of the learning commons will be borrowed from the privately funded Adele Coryell Hall Learning Commons located on UNL’s City Campus at Love Library which opened in 2016 and is used by thousands of students each week for studying, peer collaboration and access to learning resources.
The Dinsdale Family Learning Commons will reflect students’ increasing use of online and digital information and research and will enhance interdisciplinary connections through spaces where students can gather to study and collaborate. Plans call for a technologically rich space that will facilitate both individual and group study with virtual access to thousands of e-books, e-journals and academic articles.
The printed word, however, will not go away. A power library will house a 25,000-volume collection of the most recent, unique and active parts of the print collection. Faculty and staff also will benefit from cutting-edge technologies and instruction resources.
The library division within the facility will continue to be named the C.Y. Thompson Library.
Additionally, the redeveloped space will provide a central location for the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program, the East Campus Visitors Center and the Student Testing Center.
The University of Nebraska Foundation is seeking additional contributions for the project.
About the lead donors
Ruth and Bill Scott
Bill and Ruth Scott
Ruth and Bill Scott are deeply rooted and invested in the community where they have lived most of their lives and the state they call home.
Over the years, the Scott family has made extraordinary and transformational private investments in the University of Nebraska. Examples of their philanthropy are found on each of the four main campuses of the University of Nebraska statewide system, and they have been instrumental leaders in making the University of Nebraska Medical Center a world-class academic health science center.
In 2009 the University of Nebraska Board of Regents presented Ruth and Bill Scott with its most prestigious award, the Regents Medal, for their extraordinary contributions to the university’s academic programs, scholarships and facilities.
Bill Scott is a 1953 graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business. The Ashland, Nebraska, native joined Buffett Partnership in 1959 and Berkshire Hathaway in 1970 where he remained until the early 1990s.
Ruth Scott, also a native of Ashland, earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1951. She went on to teach school and later founded the Omaha Bridge Studio where she teaches “the game everyone should play.”
Jack and Roy Dinsdale
Roy Dinsdale (left) and Jack Dinsdale
Brothers John A. “Jack” and Roy G. Dinsdale were business partners for 63 years with primary interests in banking and agriculture. They were born in Palmer, Nebraska, to George and Rena Dinsdale and graduated from Palmer High School.
Jack Dinsdale attended the University of Nebraska for business administration when his college career was interrupted by World War II. He entered the U.S. Army in 1942 and was discharged in 1946. While in the Army, he met Gretchen Poggemeyer in Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas, and they married and raised two children in Nebraska: Tom and Lynn. Jack Dinsdale died in 2010 at age 92.
Roy Dinsdale met Gloria Stephens, who grew up in McCook and Grand Island, while they were studying at the University of Nebraska, where Roy studied business administration, graduating in 1948, and Gloria studied education, graduating in 1949. They married after graduating and raised three children: Sid, Chris and Jane.
In 1948, Roy and Jack Dinsdale joined their father, George Dinsdale, and their uncle, Tom Dinsdale, in helping lead the family’s businesses, which were founded in the late 1800s. Roy and Jack started expanding their banking business from State Bank in Palmer by purchasing the National Bank of Neligh in 1958. This was the forerunner of Pinnacle Bancorp, Inc., the holding company which includes Pinnacle Bank in Nebraska. Using a community bank model still in use today, Pinnacle Bank has 67 locations across the state.
The entire Dinsdale family and their primary business, Pinnacle Bank, are known for their generous contributions of time and philanthropic support to the University of Nebraska and various other organizations and community endeavors.
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. Among U.S. public universities, total annual gifts in support of the University of Nebraska and its affiliates rank in the top 15, and its $1.7 billion total endowment is in the top 25. Donors restrict 99 percent of all gifts and assets to a specific use by the university. The foundation was named to America’s Favorite Charities in 2018 by the Chronicle of Philanthropy. More information is at nufoundation.org.
Those inspired to support the University of Nebraska–Lincoln during the communitywide Give to Lincoln Day on May 30 are encouraged to contribute to the the Huskers Helping Huskers Pantry+.
One in three students at Nebraska worries about not having enough food to eat. Gifts will benefit the Huskers Helping Huskers Pantry+ and support its work in providing free food and hygiene supplies to students in need throughout the year.
Huskers Pantry has helped more than 800 students since it opened in 2017 with more than 5,500 people visiting the pantry. During the last semester alone, an average of more than 92 students visited Huskers Pantry each week.
Gifts can be made on May 30 or any time before then.
Huskers Helping Huskers Pantry+ is partnering with the University of Nebraska Foundation to promote the support on May 30 for university community members who are in need.
Give to Lincoln Day is an annual 24-hour event that encourages people to contribute to Lincoln and Lancaster County nonprofit organizations on May 30, 2019. Give to Lincoln Day at givetolincoln.com is coordinated by the Lincoln Community Foundation in partnership with local nonprofit organizations.
Every donation makes a bigger impact on Give to Lincoln Day, because nonprofits also get a proportional share of a $450,000 match fund made possible by LCF and generous sponsors.
ABOUT THIS PHOTO: Casey Seger, museum registrar (left), Fred Hoppe, museum benefactor; Erin Jones Graf, museum artists-in-residence; Julie Hoppe, museum benefactor; and Ashley Hussman, museum administrator and curator, celebrate “Among the Purple Lupine,” a painting by Jones Graf that joined the museum’s collection. The Hoppes’ provided a donation that enabled the museum to develop a permanent space for its Elizabeth Rubendall Artist-in-Residence program. Jones Graff is the first visiting artists to use the new space designed as an art studio and public education lab.
The Great Plains Art Museum at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln held a grand opening for the new Elizabeth Rubendall Artist-in-Residence Studio and Education Lab on April 5, 2019.
Fred and Julie Hoppe of Lincoln provided a gift to the University of Nebraska Foundation which made the development of the studio and public education lab possible. The space is named in honor of Fred Hoppe’s aunt, Elizabeth Rubendall, and is located on the lower level of the museum.
Since its inception in 2006, the Elizabeth Rubendall Foundation has funded the artist-in-residence program, which allows museum visitors and school groups to see an artist in action. The program brings an artist to Lincoln each year to create a piece of artwork at the museum that will become part of its permanent collection.
Erin Jones Graf, a fine art oil and pastel painter from Bozeman, Montana, is the 2019 Elizabeth Rubendall Artist-in-Residence and is the inaugural artist-in-residence for the opening of the new studio and education lab.
“I was beyond surprised at the enormity and functionality of the space when I walked in,” said Jones Graf, whose work largely depicts the landscapes in which she grew up surrounded by where she lives currently. “The opportunities of what can happen in the studio are vast.”
Over the past two weeks, museum visitors including community members, students and faculty had the opportunity to experience Jones Graf’s exhibition “Montana: Prairies to Peaks.” They also had the opportunity to talk to her about her work and see her new painting titled “Among the Purple Lupine” which is the newest addition to the permanent collection of the Great Plains Art Museum.
“Julie and I are proud to have donated the Rubendall Artist-in-Residence Studio and Education Lab which will give the Great Plains Art Museum dedicated space for educational activities,” Fred Hoppe said. “The purpose of an artist-in-residence is to share talent, technique and inspiration. It is hoped that this new space will make interactivity between artist and onlooker simple, direct and comfortable; thus, enhancing the experience.”
Ashley Hussman, Great Plains Art Museum administrator and curator, said the new space will positively impact the community.
“This new studio not only provides a beautiful and functional space for our annual artist-in-residence, but it also allows the museum to expand its educational programming and collaborations with campus and the local community,” Hussman said. “We are so thankful for the Hoppes’ generosity and their continued support of the museum.”
The Great Plains Art Museum, 1155 Q St., is open to the public 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and admission is free. For information call 402-472-6220.
This article was written by Jessica Moore, public relations intern at the University of Nebraska, who studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism and Mass Communications.
