��Ƶ News

��Ƶ Exhibits Major Works by Texas Modernist Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle

Eric Wendt — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 15:10:56 +0000

��Ƶ Exhibits Major Works by Texas Modernist Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle

One of ��Ƶ’s most celebrated alumni artists is featured this fall in a major exhibition at Elder Gallery in ��Ƶ’s Rogers Center for Fine Arts.

“Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle: Space Movements” opens September 5 and runs through December 14.

Toni LaSelle grew up in Beatrice, Neb., graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan in 1923, then earned a Master of Arts in art history from the University of Chicago in 1926. She traveled and studied in Europe before WWII, starting lifelong friendships and collaborations with the likes of abstract expressionist Hans Hofmann and Bauhaus artist László Moholy-Nagy.

LaSelle developed her own unique style of geometric abstraction in the 1950s, characterized by bold color and enthusiastic paint application. By the 1960s, she increasingly worked on paper in series featuring oil pastel, watercolor and ink.

The prolific painter and dedicated art professor taught in Texas into the 1970s and was broadly exhibited in her lifetime. Since her death at 100 in 2002, her work has continued to garner respect and attention.

Her first solo exhibition at ��Ƶ was in 1967. She said then, “If students ask about the nature of my paintings, I say: ‘Do not look for things, take a journey on the shapes. Keep moving with your eyes—these are not designs—stay in action. Go with the directions of the color planes.’”

This exhibition is made possible by the Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle Foundation, Inman Gallery, Leah Bennett and Marlene Marker.

Elder Gallery is in the Vance D. Rogers Center for Fine Arts at 50th and Huntington on the campus of ��Ƶ. The gallery is free and open to the public. Elder Gallery’s hours are 1-4 p.m., Friday through Sunday, and by appointment.

Eric Wendt Fri, 08/29/2025 - 10:10am

��Ƶ faculty and staff honored with service awards

Erin Wirth — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:48:09 +0000

��Ƶ faculty and staff honored with service awards

At the annual Nebraska Wesleyan All-University Meeting on August 18, faculty and staff were honored for their years of service to the university.

These individuals were celebrated for their unwavering dedication, their leadership, and the important role they play in making Nebraska Wesleyan a truly exceptional university.

40 Years of Service
Kathy Benischek, Staff Assistant, Music Department

35 Years of Service
Jo Ann Fuess, Professor, Spanish and German

Lisa Lockman, Professor, Art

30 Years of Service
Tim Noonan, Maintenance Technician

Becky Voight, Associate Professor, Nursing

25 Years of Service
Lisa Borchardt, Professor, Social Work

Diane Hawkins, Assistant Controller

Tim Holtzen, Campus Network Administrator

Jeff Isaacson, Professor, Biology

Karla Jensen, Professor, Communication

Kristie Pfabe, Professor, Mathematics and Computer Science

20 Years of Service

Kevin Bower, Professor, History

Ben Dahl, Assistant Controller

Yoko Iwasaki-Zink, International Student Advisor

Eric Wendt, Marketing Managing Editor

15 Years of Service

Kara Cavel, Associate Professor, Social Work

Nathaniel Cunningham, Professor, Physics

Adrianne Prokupek-Pickett, Professor, Biology

Steve Wills, Professor, History

10 Years of Service

Barbara Drewes, Custodian

Mary Hickman, Associate Professor, English

Shannon Vandewege, Assistant Registrar

5 Years of Service

Zach Baumann, Associate Professor, Political Science

Peggy Behrens, Assistant Professor, Nursing

Jaime Cano, Assistant Professor, Spanish

Kate Demoret, Gifts and Grants Coordinator

Katya Eriksen, Data Entry Specialist

Matt Flores, Assistant Professor, Elementary Education

Chad Geiger, Payroll and Staff Accountant

Beki Maahs, Staff Assistant, Education Department

Ann Matthews, Assistant Professor, Social Work

Brent McKain, Assistant Professor, Mathematics

Kerri Olson, Assistant Director, Financial Aid

Ryan Rieker, Assistant Coach, Swimming

Erin Wirth Tue, 08/19/2025 - 8:48am

First ��Ƶ TEDx part of annual Visions & Ventures Symposium

Erin Wirth — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 13:31:47 +0000

First ��Ƶ TEDx part of annual Visions & Ventures Symposium

��Ƶ will host the Vision & Ventures Symposium: "Igniting Innovation" on September 24 at O’Donnell Auditorium. This annual, student-driven event brings together the university and the broader community to focus on a significant national issue.

The event will kick off with the Senator Carl T. Curtis, ’28, and Mildred M. Curtis Lecture on Public Leadership. The speaker, Dr. Beth Simone Noveck, is a professor at Northeastern University who leads InnovateUS, which trains public servants in AI, digital and innovation skills, and the AI for Impact Coop Program, where students build AI solutions for social good.

Following the lecture, attendees can visit the Innovation Expo, where departments across campus will host hands-on activities and demonstrations showcasing innovation by faculty and students. The expo will be followed by a panel of local innovators sharing their biggest flops and failures in a session titled “Oops! A Celebration of Glorious Failures.”

The final event of the day will be ��Ƶ's first-ever TEDx event. Themed “A Community of eXcellence,” the gathering will bring together visionary speakers and community members to explore how “true excellence is achieved through collective effort, shared values and a commitment to lifting one another high.”

Five thought-provoking speakers, whose ideas challenge conventional thinking, will invite the audience to explore how we can, together, create lasting change and build a brighter future.

Art Wilson
Drawing on lived experience from homelessness, addiction and incarceration to earning an MBA and leading nonprofits and businesses, Wilson explores how communities thrive at the delicate balance between order and disorder, and how people shaped by instability help maintain that balance.

Ben Pankonin
As the founder and CEO of Social Assurance and Class Intercom, Pankonin helps financial institutions and schools engage authentically and communicate with trust in a digital world. His daughter, Aurora, inspires his vision for building a more connected future.

Dr. Laura Young
A strategic communication expert and professor, Dr. Young challenges the outdated notion of balance, offering a bold framework for integrating work and life with purpose. Audiences will leave with practical tools for setting boundaries and aligning priorities.

Greg Harris
Co-founder and former CEO of Quantum Workplace, Harris calls on leaders to focus on the true superpower of leadership — honing in on SIGNAL rather than sentiment. He will explore how to rebuild trust, performance and progress by pairing empathy with clarity and direction.

Joshua Berry
Author and global leadership consultant, Berry works with leaders to unlock team-driven results, where decisions are shared, ownership is deep and outcomes endure. He helps leaders trade the addiction to being right for systems that foster participation, experimentation and aligned autonomy.

Everyone is welcome to participate in this day of bold ideas, shared purpose and the kind of connections that make true excellence possible.

More information on the Vision & Ventures Symposium.

Purchase your ��Ƶ TEDx tickets.

Erin Wirth Fri, 08/15/2025 - 8:31am

��Ƶ and UNMC launch accelerated pathway to Master of Public Health

Erin Wirth — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 20:14:18 +0000

��Ƶ and UNMC launch accelerated pathway to Master of Public Health

��Ƶ and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) College of Public Health have partnered to launch a new accelerated program that allows students to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in public health in just five years.

The new 3+2 Undergraduate-to-Master of Public Health (U2MPH) program is designed to streamline the path into public health careers, helping students reduce their overall tuition burden while entering the workforce sooner with advanced qualifications.

“By combining ��Ƶ’s interdisciplinary academic experience with UNMC’s expertise in public health, we are preparing future leaders to address complex health challenges with both compassion and skill,” said ��Ƶ President Darrin Good. “As demand in this field continues to grow, this partnership positions both institutions to meet that need and make a meaningful impact on our local communities and across the world.”

Undergraduate students majoring in public health at ��Ƶ may apply to the U2MPH program after completing at least 81 undergraduate credit hours and earning a minimum GPA of 3.3. Once admitted, students take up to 18 credit hours of graduate-level MPH coursework online during their senior year. These credits apply to both their bachelor’s degree at ��Ƶ and the 42-credit MPH at UNMC.

“Through the U2MPH program, ��Ƶ students will be empowered to build meaningful careers in public health,” said Lacey Batt-Peters, assistant professor of health and human performance at ��Ƶ. “They will gain the skills to lead interdisciplinary teams, advance health equity and develop evidence-based solutions to complex challenges.”

The program offers students a choice of seven high-demand MPH concentrations:

Biostatistics
Emergency preparedness
Epidemiology
Environmental and occupational health
Health promotion
Maternal and child health
Public health administration and policy

“Due to their interdisciplinary skills, U2MPH graduates will be equipped to work in various public health disciplines,” Batt-Peters said.

MPH graduates are in demand across sectors:

Environmental and occupational health
Global health and humanitarian efforts
Government (CDC, local/state health departments)
Hospitals and healthcare systems
Nonprofits and advocacy organizations
Research and data analysis

An MPH is also a strong foundation for advanced study in medical, dental, law or PhD programs.

Learn more about the U2MPH program.

Erin Wirth Fri, 08/08/2025 - 3:14pm

“Punk Rock Romeo and Juliet” shreds with P-Wolf-heavy cast and crew

Erin Wirth — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 18:41:47 +0000

“Punk Rock Romeo and Juliet” shreds with P-Wolf-heavy cast and crew

With its latest production, Lincoln’s Flatwater Shakespeare Company puts an unexpected spin on one of the most popular plays ever written.

“Shakespeare gets a mohawk in this raw and rebellious take on Romeo and Juliet,” the company’s website states. The production sets the action “in a gritty, guitar-fueled world where love and rage collide.”

The play, staged at The Stables at Wyuka Cemetery, runs through Aug. 17. Assistant Professor of Theatre Ryan Kathman directs a cast and crew brimming with Nebraska Wesleyan alumni, students and faculty.

Kathman said the cast of 17 features seven punked-out P-Wolves:

Faculty: Scott Shomaker, instructor of theatre, as Mercutio
Current students: Ben Arenz (Benvolio), Hannah Whitson (Abram) and Weston Jinks (Paris and Sampson)
Alumni: Will Phillips (Montague and the apothecary), Steavie Hergenrader-Reed (Lady Capulet) and Michael Pritchett-Madden (Tybalt)

The Nebraska Wesleyan connections run just as strong behind the scenes. In addition to Kathman as director, the crew includes:

Carter Fangmeyer, administrative assistant, as assistant director
Lily Larsen as assistant stage manager
Jake Myers as stage manager
Charlie Anderson as makeup and hair designer
Cartney McGuigan as intimacy coordinator
Elizabeth Ennis as costume designer

Theatergoers can expect star-crossed lovers as well as “live punk rock played by actors along with exciting switchblade battles and duels,” Kathman said. “It’s a great example of local professional theatre that our students, alumni and faculty are creating together during their summer breaks.”

Erin Wirth Fri, 08/08/2025 - 1:41pm

Cheever joins ��Ƶ as Director of Bands

Erin Wirth — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 19:15:52 +0000

Cheever joins ��Ƶ as Director of Bands

��Ƶ is proud to welcome Prof. Zach Cheever as the new director of bands. Cheever brings a dynamic blend of artistry, conducting experience and a strong passion for student mentorship to ��Ƶ’s music program.

Originally from Ypsilanti, Michigan, Cheever’s journey into music education began early in life.

“I grew up in bands and always felt a desire to have music be a part of my career,” he said.

After changing majors several times, he found his home in the music department at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tenn., where his musical ability and self-confidence blossomed.

“I was able to develop many skills and grow as a musician in ways I never dreamed,” Cheever said. “Trevecca made me who I am, and I am grateful for the faculty who believed in me, including Drs. David Diehl, Eric Wilson and Matthew Murdock.”

After receiving his Bachelor of Arts in music theory and composition, Cheever knew he wanted to teach but didn’t yet have a clear direction. He decided to pursue graduate studies, earning a Master of Music in instrumental conducting from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tenn., and a Doctor of Musical Arts in wind conducting and literature from the University of Colorado–Boulder.

“During graduate school, I studied with notable conducting mentors Drs. Greg Wolynec and Don McKinney,” he said. “They gave me opportunities that shaped me as a teacher and professional. That’s when I knew I wanted to be that same kind of mentor for students in higher education.”

Cheever’s previous teaching roles at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Austin Peay State University gave him valuable experience mentoring students.

“College is a special time for young adults where they develop their sense of self,” he said. “I enjoy my role in that journey, helping students navigate their exploration of music and life.”

Cheever chose ��Ƶ because it reminds him of his undergraduate institution, both in its model of holistic education and in the collaborative spirit of the faculty.

“The ��Ƶ music faculty deeply care about students and genuinely enjoy working with each other,” he said. “Additionally, it was clear they recognized my commitment to student mentorship and to fostering new levels of artistry and music-making. Based on our conversations and time together, I knew this was going to be a great fit.”

Cheever said he looks forward to becoming part of the Lincoln and ��Ƶ communities and to teaching new courses in conducting and music education.

“Everyone has been so genuinely welcoming and kind. It's clear that the university’s core values are a guiding force for us,” he said. “You can see it in the way students talk about their experiences and in how faculty and staff engage with students.”

Erin Wirth Fri, 08/01/2025 - 2:15pm

Fuess receives White Award for Internationalization

Stephanie Mackeprang — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 19:08:11 +0000

Fuess receives White Award for Internationalization

This year’s White Award for Internationalization went to a particularly polyglot professor. Prof. Jo Ann Fuess chairs ��Ƶ's Department of Modern Languages and teaches German courses at all levels, including German literature, culture, media and film.

She also teaches intermediate Spanish and coordinates Nebraska Wesleyan’s International Film Series.

Fuess helps Nebraska Wesleyan students reap lasting gains from their trips abroad through her one credit hour course, “MLANG 3030: Processing the International Experience.”

The White Award for Internationalization is named after the late President John White and his wife, Marty White, for their commitment to global study and service to ��Ƶ. John White was ��Ƶ’s 14th president, serving from 1977 to 1997—a period of impressive growth in both student enrollment and international study.

Stephanie Mackeprang Tue, 07/22/2025 - 2:08pm

Wilson named Advisor of the Year

Stephanie Mackeprang — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 18:34:17 +0000

Wilson named Advisor of the Year

When a Nebraska Wesleyan student fell sick and was hospitalized during fall finals, the impact on her semester could have been tremendous. But Associate Professor of Health and Human Performance Samantha Wilson, her academic advisor, stepped in to minimize the damage. “She helped me communicate with professors. She guided me through the steps in getting my finals done, or taking an incomplete so I could finish them another time.”

While that support made a great difference for this student, so did Wilson’s high expectations. “She has challenged me to work on my confidence in classes and in myself,” the nominator said. “She has given me countless opportunities to learn and grow in the short time I have been at ��Ƶ.”

A second nominator echoed that sentiment, saying, “Having her as my advisor and professor, I was able to push myself and become a better student, person and young professional.”

A third said, “It is clear that she expects a high standard of work from her students, simply because she wants great achievements and success for them.”

This student continued, “She has led me to pass my board of certification exam for athletic training through her intensive, hands-on guidance, [and helped me build a] network to create connections for my future.”

A fourth credited Wilson for their college choice. “When I spoke with Prof. Wilson, I not only knew that I would be getting an amazing education at ��Ƶ, but I would also be at a school that valued me as a student and a person.”

Stephanie Mackeprang Thu, 07/17/2025 - 1:34pm

Decker named CSC Second Team Academic All-American

Stephanie Mackeprang — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 21:21:32 +0000

Decker named CSC Second Team Academic All-American

Nebraska Wesleyan graduate student Avery Decker has been named to the 2024–25 Academic All-America® Women's Track & Field/Cross Country Second Team, as selected by College Sports Communicators (CSC), the organization announced Tuesday.

This marks Decker's first career CSC Academic All-America® selection. She becomes the 128th ��Ƶ student-athlete to earn the honor and the third this academic year, joining Zach Weis (men's soccer) and Lyndsey Roth (softball). It is the 194th Academic All-America® award in school history.

Decker, a Fremont, Nebraska native, recently completed her MBA with a 4.00 GPA.

She won the 2025 NCAA Division III national title in the javelin with a mark of 48.70 meters (159'9"), setting a new school record in the process.

A five-time American Rivers Conference All-Academic honoree and four time All-American, Decker closed her career as one of the top scholar-athletes in program history.

Nebraska Wesleyan ranks 13th among all institutions nationally and sixth in NCAA Division III in total Academic All-America® selections.

The 2024–25 NCAA Division III Academic All-America® Women's Track & Field/Cross Country Team includes 46 recipients and recognizes the nation's top student-athletes for their combined performances in athletic competition and in the classroom.

The CSC Academic All-America® program recognizes honorees in four divisions — NCAA Division I, NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, and NAIA.

The Division III Academic All-America® program is being financially supported by the NCAA Division III national governance structure to assist CSC with handling the awards fulfillment aspects for the 2024-25 Division III Academic All-America® program.

Stephanie Mackeprang Tue, 07/15/2025 - 4:21pm

Barta becomes ��Ƶ’s ninth Freeman-ASIA Scholar

Stephanie Mackeprang — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:33:55 +0000

Barta becomes ��Ƶ’s ninth Freeman-ASIA Scholar

A ��Ƶ senior with a rare combination of interests and skills has secured an opportunity nearly as rare.

Katie Barta, a chemistry major with minors in art and math from Fort Calhoun, Neb., has been awarded the prestigious Freeman Award for Study in Asia (Freeman-ASIA). The award program, sponsored by the Honolulu-based Freeman Foundation, aims to strengthen bonds between the United States and East Asia.

Barta will use the scholarship to help fund her fall 2025 ISEP Exchange semester at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea.

Her career goals involve blending chemistry with aesthetics, said Sarah Barr, ��Ƶ’s director of global engagement. “She’s a future chemical engineer with plans to work in the cosmetic industry.” Barr supported Barta throughout the scholarship application process.

Barta’s Freeman-ASIA Award marks Nebraska Wesleyan’s second in as many years. Cece Nguyen also studied in South Korea on a Freeman-ASIA scholarship last fall. Barta becomes ��Ƶ’s ninth Freeman recipient since the award’s inception in 2001.

Previous ��Ƶ Freeman-ASIA scholars have studied in China, Japan, Taiwan and Thailand.

Stephanie Mackeprang Tue, 07/15/2025 - 10:33am

Wortmann earns ��Ƶ's top teaching award

Stephanie Mackeprang — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 18:48:13 +0000

Wortmann earns ��Ƶ's top teaching award

The Prouty, Nebraska Wesleyan’s top teaching award, went to Prof. Susan Wortmann in her 15th year at ��Ƶ, and her 25th in the classroom. Her strengths as a professor shined in students’ nomination letters and course evaluations.

“I have grown so much as a scholar, and I owe a lot of that growth to [Wortmann] pushing me to be better every week in how I approached this research, the depth of my analysis, and my writing,” said one student.

Wortmann’s emphasis on portfolio development impressed another student. “I appreciate that we spent almost every single week, every assignment, every class focused on creating this portfolio. I like that it is very personal, and individual to each of us, and is useful for people whether they want to get a job, another internship, or apply for grad school.”

A third called her classroom “a healthy environment where I felt safe to make mistakes or express who I really am.”

“I was honored to be nominated for the Prouty,” Wortmann said. She described her goals as a professor. “I aspire to have students who want to come to class prepared and engaged, and to genuinely interest them in sociology.”

Stephanie Mackeprang Fri, 07/11/2025 - 1:48pm

Three ��Ƶ student-athletes earn NCAA postgraduate scholarships

Stephanie Mackeprang — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 21:24:34 +0000

Three ��Ƶ student-athletes earn NCAA postgraduate scholarships

��Ƶ student-athletes Ella Ford, Avery Decker and Morgan Conner have each been awarded NCAA Postgraduate Scholarships, an honor given to top student-athletes to support their graduate studies. Recipients are selected for making a meaningful impact both on and off the field, excelling in athletics, academics, leadership and service.

The addition of these three honorees brings ��Ƶ’s all-time total of NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship recipients to 71 (including 56 since 2001), surpassing the University of Nebraska’s total of 54 and securing third place all-time among all NCAA institutions. Prairie Wolves now rank third nationally in all NCAA divisions for total recipients.

Ella Ford – Women’s Tennis

A three-year team captain, Ford played a pivotal role in shaping the women’s tennis program while compiling a 40–64 career record in singles and doubles competition. A four-time letterwinner and three-time American Rivers Conference All-Academic selection, she graduated with a 4.0 GPA as a double major in biology and psychology. Ford will attend medical school at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

“Receiving this scholarship reflects the support I've received from my professors, coaches and faculty at ��Ƶ,” Ford said. “Their encouragement has opened many doors for me, and this scholarship plays a significant role in helping me take the next step.”

Avery Decker – Women’s Track and Field

Decker captured the NCAA Division III national title in the javelin with a throw of 159 feet, 9 inches. A four-time All-American in the event, she completed her Master of Business Administration with a 4.0 GPA while continuing to compete. Decker will attend medical school at A.T. Still University in Kirksville, Missouri.

“This is a great honor and a true testament to the ways ��Ƶ has helped me grow as a student, athlete and leader,” said Decker. “This scholarship and my experiences as an NCAA Division III student-athlete will undoubtedly help me succeed in medical school.”

Morgan Conner – Men’s Track and Field

Conner earned All-American honors in the 4x400-meter relay in 2023 and appears five times in ��Ƶ’s outdoor track and field records. While competing, the exercise science major maintained a 3.6 GPA and completed an internship at a local chiropractic clinic. He will pursue a chiropractic degree at Cleveland University in Kansas City.

“I am thankful beyond words to receive this incredible honor as I begin the next chapter of my education,” said Conner. “I’ve been blessed with amazing professors, coaches and teammates at ��Ƶ. This award reflects their belief in me.”

Ford, Decker and Conner join a distinguished group of ��Ƶ NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship recipients who have gone on to successful careers in medicine, law, education and business.

Stephanie Mackeprang Thu, 07/10/2025 - 4:24pm

New ��Ƶ partnership creates accelerated path to a law degree

Stephanie Mackeprang — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 16:36:06 +0000

New ��Ƶ partnership creates accelerated path to a law degree

��Ƶ students now have a faster, more affordable path to a law degree thanks to a new partnership with the University of Nebraska College of Law (Nebraska Law).

The two institutions formalized a 3+3 dual degree agreement on June 25. Through the program, ��Ƶ students can apply to law school during their junior year. Qualified students who meet Nebraska Law’s admission criteria will receive guaranteed acceptance and can begin law school in what would traditionally be their senior year.

This accelerated pathway enables students to earn both their bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor in just six years instead of seven, helping to reduce their debt burden.

“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to academic excellence and public service,” said ��Ƶ President Darrin Good. “��Ƶ has a long and proud history of graduates who continue their education at Nebraska Law and go on to become distinguished leaders in the legal field. This partnership strengthens that pathway, making it even more accessible and appealing for our students as they pursue their passions and strive to make a meaningful impact in their communities.”

Nebraska Law leaders are eager to welcome more ��Ƶ students through this new pathway.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to attract more ��Ƶ students to Nebraska Law,” said Richard Moberly, dean of the University of Nebraska College of Law. “We know from experience that ��Ƶ students make outstanding law students and attorneys. They are smart, ethical, grounded and hard-working, which are qualities that lead to success in law school and beyond.”

The collaboration comes at a critical time for Nebraska, which faces a shortage of rural attorneys. Only 7% of the state’s actively licensed lawyers practice in rural areas. The gap is especially concerning in juvenile court cases, where nearly 60% of abuse and neglect petitions originate from communities outside Lincoln and Omaha.

This new 3+3 pathway aims to help meet the urgent need for lawyers in underserved communities across Nebraska.

“Through this collaboration, we will develop leaders who are equipped to serve Nebraska communities and address critical legal needs across the state.” said Zachary Baumann, associate professor of political science at ��Ƶ. “Our students will benefit from Nebraska Law’s outstanding academic programs, hands-on clinics and professional opportunities.”

Stephanie Mackeprang Mon, 07/07/2025 - 11:36am

��Ƶ students named to spring semester academic honors list

Stephanie Mackeprang — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 18:36:47 +0000

��Ƶ students named to spring semester academic honors list

��Ƶ has announced its 2025 spring semester academic honors list recognizing undergraduate students with superior academic performance.

Students earning at least a 3.75 semester grade point average while completing a full-time course load of as least 12 credit hours of graded work are eligible for consideration.

The following students were recognized with this honor for the spring semester:

2025 Undergraduate Academic Honors List (PDF)

Stephanie Mackeprang Fri, 06/13/2025 - 1:36pm

Khalil presented Faculty Scholarship Presentation Award

Stephanie Mackeprang — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 19:44:15 +0000

Khalil presented Faculty Scholarship Presentation Award

��Ƶ’s Forum Committee presented its Faculty Scholarship Presentation Award this spring to a professor studying international democratic backsliding.

“I’m a sociologist of law, and my research explores how the law is used and abused for antidemocratic purposes here and around the world,” said Assistant Professor of Sociology and Criminology Heba Khalil.

Her spring presentation, “Even Dictators Have Laws: Legalism as a Tool of Power Capture,” examined recent examples from around the world, using case studies from South Korea, Hungary, Poland, Brazil, Russia, Venezuela, Turkey, the U.S., and Egypt.

“Receiving the faculty scholarship award and presenting my comparative research to the campus community in this critical historical moment is a privilege,” Khalil said.

Stephanie Mackeprang Mon, 06/02/2025 - 2:44pm

Record seven ��Ƶ students earn prestigious Gilman Scholarships

Stephanie Mackeprang — Fri, 09 May 2025 19:58:47 +0000

Record seven ��Ƶ students earn prestigious Gilman Scholarships

��Ƶ students earned a record seven Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships this year. Sponsored by the U.S. State Department, this competitive, merit-based scholarship program supports study abroad opportunities for students. These international experiences develop key skills that advance U.S. security and economic prosperity.

Nebraska Wesleyan students have earned a total of 71 Gilman Scholarships since 2001.

The diversity reflected in this year’s awardees—where they come from, what they’re studying now, and where they’re headed in the future—captures the range and strength of a Nebraska Wesleyan education, said Sarah Barr, ��Ƶ’s director of global engagement.

Barr described artists, scientists, healers and helpers, traveling across the Americas, Asia and Europe. They’re using their Nebraska Wesleyan experiences to unlock opportunities around the world and find success in leading purpose-driven lives.

Isaac Alexander

biology major
destination: Nishinomiya, Japan
Alexander’s Gilman will support his spring 2026 semester of study at ��Ƶ’s Japanese sister school, Kwansei Gakuin University.
“I plan to learn more about the Japanese language, hoping to become more proficient while learning about the culture,” Alexander said.

Emily Carlson

biology major, Spanish minor
destination: San Jose, Costa Rica
Carlson is using her Gilman to help fund an ISEP Direct exchange to Costa Rica this summer. She’s studying medical Spanish and taking part in a hospital shadowing program.

Kevin Figueroa Amaro

psychology major, Spanish and theatre minor
destination: Plymouth, U.K.
Figueroa Amaro will use his Gilman to study this fall semester at Nebraska Wesleyan’s sister school, the University of Plymouth.
“I’ve been heavily interested in going to graduate school in counseling, clinical or cultural psychology,” he said. “I’ve been exposing myself to research at UNL and ��Ƶ, and I would like to further explore my interests at UP.”

Moo Htee Paw

political science major, French and criminal justice minor
destination: Nishinomiya, Japan
Htee Paw’s Gilman Scholarship will support study at Nebraska Wesleyan’s sister school in Japan, Kwansei Gakuin University for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Adalynn O’Connor

Spanish major, studio art and art history minor
destination: Buenos Aires, Argentina
O’Connor’s Gilman is helping to fund her participation in CEA CAPA’s Intensive Spanish Language Program this summer.

Lina Renteria

social work major, Spanish minor
destination: Salamanca, Spain
Renteria is using her Gilman to study with Assistant Professor of Modern Languages Manuela Borzone this summer at Salamanca’s Collegio Delibes.

Isa Rivera

musical theatre major
destination: Plymouth, U.K.
Rivera’s Gilman will help her attend ��Ƶ’s U.K. sister school, the University of Plymouth, during the 2025-2026 academic year. She will study acting, dance and theatre history at UP.
“As someone who’s never traveled outside the U.S. before, I’m grateful and honored to have this opportunity,” Rivera said. “��Ƶ’s Global Engagement Office has supported me every step of the way. [Sarah Barr’s] passion and guidance were evident to me from my first visit to her office my first semester.”

Stephanie Mackeprang Fri, 05/09/2025 - 2:58pm

��Ƶ sends three to Japan on JET scholarships

Stephanie Mackeprang — Fri, 09 May 2025 19:04:16 +0000

��Ƶ sends three to Japan on JET scholarships

The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET) is the only initiative of its kind managed by the Japanese government. The competitive award program funds American scholars who represent the U.S. as language teachers and cultural ambassadors in Japanese schools.

��Ƶ has a strong history of supporting students as they successfully pursue JET scholarships. That track record continues in 2025 with three new scholarship winners: Bailey Klanderud, Mason Philbrick and David Spencer.

Spencer is a 2024 international studies graduate who has studied Japanese since his first year of high school. He credited Professor Emerita of Japanese Yuko Yamada for strengthening his oral comprehension and fluency at ��Ƶ. He spent his junior year further sharpening those skills at ��Ƶ’s sister school, Kwansei Gakuin University, in Nishinomiya, Japan.

“When I finished my degree, I knew I wanted to get back to Japan as soon as possible,” Spencer said. “With fantastic help from Prof. Steven Wills—a JET alumnus himself—I was lucky to be selected for early departure.”

He credited his KGU and JET experiences for deepening his fluency. “There’s nothing better for language learning than immersion,” Spencer said. “Being forced to use the target language in settings where no one understands English really helps.”

Stephanie Mackeprang Fri, 05/09/2025 - 2:04pm

Giving Day results in record-breaking donations

Stephanie Mackeprang — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 16:07:04 +0000

Giving Day results in record-breaking donations

Thanks to many of you, Giving Day 2025 was a huge success, raising a record-breaking $329,350 from 597 donors in 24 hours. ��Ƶ’s ninth annual Giving Day ran from noon to noon on April 2 and 3. Gifts made after the official end of Giving Day are still counted towards the total, building on the success celebrated by the campus community.

Gifts raised go to the Archway Fund, supporting generations of students and keeping the ��Ƶ experience affordable. The Archway Fund is essential to ��Ƶ, impacting every corner of ��Ƶ and allowing the university to thrive.

Over half of Giving Day gifts came from generous alumni, and 34 states and three countries were represented. A special thank you goes to our corporate sponsors including Assurity, Ameritas, The Austin Company, Duncan Aviation, DuTeau Chevrolet * Subaru, Farmers Mutual of Nebraska, Pinnacle Bank, and Union Bank and Trust, and 402 Creamery, which treated student donors to ice cream.

If you missed Giving Day, there’s still time to make a gift to the Archway Fund. Simply click on Give Now on our website to invest in the future of Nebraska Wesleyan.

Stephanie Mackeprang Fri, 04/25/2025 - 11:07am

��Ƶ students shine in annual pitch contest

Stephanie Mackeprang — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 14:25:03 +0000

��Ƶ students shine in annual pitch contest

��Ƶ’s future innovators and business leaders stepped into the spotlight during the ��Ƶ Pitch Contest on April 8.

The event brought together aspiring entrepreneurs to present their business concepts to a panel of local business leaders. The top proposal earned $1,500 in seed funding and a one-hour consultation with the law firm Baird Holm.

Pitches focused on concepts ranging from sustainable fashion and plus-size dancewear to support services for student startups and individuals experiencing housing insecurity.

First place went to Bailey Klanderud and Landon Tjaden for their proposal, The Village Collective—a marketing and operations company that hosts pop-up markets on university campuses featuring goods made by students and community members. Gracey Smith earned second place, and the team of Harry McDonald and Nellie Kranau finished third.

Beyond cash prizes, participants gained valuable hands-on experience in business planning, public speaking and problem-solving—skills that prepare ��Ƶ students in all fields for success beyond the classroom.

The ��Ƶ Pitch Contest was hosted by the university’s Philip S. Mullin Innovation & Entrepreneurship Program as part of its commitment to experiential learning and real-world readiness.

Stephanie Mackeprang Wed, 04/23/2025 - 9:25am

Fast-acting employees presented with the Golden Service Award

Stephanie Mackeprang — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:28:39 +0000

Fast-acting employees presented with the Golden Service Award

��Ƶ presented the Golden Service Award to facilities and custodial services employees at the April staff meeting for their prompt response to a major water leak in Acklie Hall.

Staff honored include Eric Pronske, Brad Wendelin, Bruce Thummel, Herb Young, Michael McRoberts, Kathy Minicz, Mike Fenster, Dora Thompson, Pete Fackler, Eric Hoffman, Roxanne Styskal, Trent Baker, and Michael Ehrenberg.

The incident occurred on February 21 when a heating system malfunction caused a pipe to freeze and burst, flooding the building’s northwest vestibule and biology suite. Facilities staff acted quickly to identify the issue and clean up the affected areas.

The following day, a fire sprinkler pipe connected to the system also burst, resulting in more extensive water and oil damage to the first floor and basement. Custodial and facilities services staff again responded to the call.

Provost Graciela Caneiro-Livingston, who nominated the group, praised their commitment to ��Ƶ’s core values of Excellence, Community, and Stewardship. “Their swift response prevented great damage to Acklie,” she said, highlighting the collaboration across Physical Plant, Custodial Services, and campus security.

The Golden Service Award recognizes ��Ƶ employees who go above and beyond to support the university's mission.

Stephanie Mackeprang Tue, 04/22/2025 - 10:28am

P-Wolves mean business at FBLA competition

Stephanie Mackeprang — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 20:58:13 +0000

P-Wolves mean business at FBLA competition

��Ƶ’s chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) made an impressive showing at its Nebraska Leadership Conference in March.

Student coordinator Sydney Youngclaus reacted to her classmates’ performance. “WOW,” Youngclaus said. “P-Wolves represented this weekend!”

��Ƶ’s Associate Professor of Business, Ray Romero, was likewise impressed. “To me, this tells a lot about the caliber of students we attract to ��Ƶ and to our department.” Their experiences at ��Ƶ position them to thrive at FBLA Collegiate, Romero said.

2025 FBLA Collegiate State Leadership Conference Awards

Business Ethics, 1st place: Eva Fahrnbruch and Kennedy Hurt

Business Ethics, 4th place: Colton Schwien and Sydney Younclaus

Business Presentation, 2nd place: Morgan Stokebrand and Steven Thomas

Business Presentation, 4th place: Luke White

Emerging Business Issues, 2nd place: Chance Hergott and Bailey Klanderud

Entrepreneurship Pitch, 3rd place: Ella Mahaffy and Gracey Smith

Entrepreneurship Pitch, 4th place: Luke White

Entrepreneurship Test, 1st place: Luke White

Foundations of Accounting, 2nd place: Eva Fahrnbruch

Foundations of Communication, 4th place: Sydney Youngclaus

Foundations of Marketing, 3rd place: Tavian Willsea

Future Business Executive, 2nd place: Luke White

Hospitality Management Case, 2nd place: Kennedy Hurt and Gracey Smith

Impromptu Speaking, 1st place: Bailey Klanderud

Impromptu Speaking, 3rd place: Ella Mahaffy

Job Interview, 1st place: Chance Hergott

Job Interview, 5th place: Madison Mlady

Management Case, 4th place: Eva Fahrnbruch and Kennedy Hurt

Marketing, Sales and Communication Case, 4th place: Ella Mahaffy, Madison Mlady and Sydney Youngclaus

Parliamentary Procedure, 1st place: Tavian Willsea

Project Management, 5th place: Madalyn Schoffstall

Public Speaking, 2nd place: Bailey Klanderud

Retail Management, 5th place: Tavian Willsea

Supply Chain Management, 4th place: Ella Clark

Technology and Computer Science Case, 4th place: Eva Fahrnbruch and Kennedy Hurt

Stephanie Mackeprang Thu, 04/03/2025 - 3:58pm

Ochsner honored with 20-year service award from NeASFAA

Stephanie Mackeprang — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 21:38:18 +0000

Ochsner honored with 20-year service award from NeASFAA

Congratulations to Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management Tom Ochsner, recipient of the Bob Minturn Special Recognition Award from NeASFAA (Nebraska Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators). The award honors his 20 years of service and leadership in the financial aid field.

Assistant Director of Financial Aid Kerri Olson says that Ochsner possesses a vast knowledge of federal aid and FSA regulations and regularly receives requests for guidance from financial aid directors from other institutions. Besides his humble and giving nature, Olson says she most admires Ochsner for his integrity. “He plays by the book and manages to find the best outcome possible for both the student and university. I feel so blessed and proud to call him my boss and colleague.”

Tom has been active in both the NeASFAA state organization as well as the regional association, RMASFAA (Rocky Mountain Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators). He has served on several boards, in numerous capacities (three-year term, President-Elect, President, Past President) and also two-year terms representing the sector made up of private colleges in Nebraska. He's also represented NeASFAA and/or the organization's private sector testifying at the legislature on education bills.

Stephanie Mackeprang Tue, 04/01/2025 - 4:38pm

��Ƶ students dive into meteorology with mobile radar storm tracking

Kellan Heavican — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:46:32 +0000

��Ƶ students dive into meteorology with mobile radar storm tracking

��Ƶ (��Ƶ) students are experiencing meteorological science up close learning about weather patterns, storm tracking, and the science behind forecasting.

"Most of us interact with radar and weather forecasts on our phone, computer, or in the newspaper," Nathaniel Cunningham, professor of physics, said. "But there's a lot more to how the science of meteorology got to this point.”

Students in his Intro to Meteorological class recently viewed a mobile radar truck, the “RaXPol” system, on campus and tracked severe thunderstorms across the Great Plains.

“This technology helps fill in the gaps between what we see on weather maps and the fine details that drive our weather predictions,” Cunningham said.

The mobile radar allowed meteorology students to observe storms up close, giving them a more detailed understanding of the atmospheric phenomena that traditional weather radar stations can't capture.

Cunningham said the hands-on learning provides invaluable insights. "We want students to see how the science works on a small scale and how we can make better predictions about things like tornadoes or severe storms.”

He also took a group of ��Ƶ students, including those from non-science majors, to track thunderstorms in the field. "It's important for students to see the scientific method in action," he said. "We observed meteorology students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) as they conducted mini research projects, and our students gained insight into how professionals apply what they've learned to real-world scenarios."

Alex Pierce (’27), an accounting major from Brainard, Nebraska, grew up around the unpredictable weather of rural Nebraska. "I’ve always been interested in storms and weather, and this class is giving me a deeper understanding of the science behind it," he said. "I’m looking forward to learning more about how the mobile radar works and understanding the details that go into storm tracking."

Pierce and his classmates also contributed to the experience by gathering data, which they will later present to their peers. "We’ll be doing a five-minute presentation back to the class, and I’m excited to share what I learned with others, including my siblings who are teachers," he said. "It’s a fun way to make science more accessible and exciting."

This collaboration between ��Ƶ and UNL provides students with a chance to engage with scientific concepts and gain real-world experience.

Kellan Heavican Fri, 03/28/2025 - 8:46am

Husband, wife faculty bring piano mastery to ��Ƶ

Kellan Heavican — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 13:53:24 +0000

Husband, wife faculty bring piano mastery to ��Ƶ

At ��Ƶ, two pianists are making a big impact, both in the classroom and on stage. Feifei Jiang and her husband Peter, piano faculty members at the University, are not just colleagues but also an inspiring musical duo, blending their shared love for music and education.

Feifei, who joined ��Ƶ in 2013 after completing her doctorate at UNL, first came to the university through an invitation to play opera. Peter joined her a few years later after earning his doctorate. Together, they’ve been nurturing the next generation of musicians ever since.

"Teaching as a husband and wife is wonderful," Feifei says. "We share the same passion for music, though we each bring unique approaches to teaching. My students are mainly piano majors, while Peter focuses on piano minors and others interested in learning. We coordinate our teaching to ensure that students, whether they’re pursuing music degrees or just love the piano, get the most out of their lessons."

The couple’s journey to the piano began long before Nebraska Wesleyan. Both Feifei and Peter grew up in China where they started playing piano at the age of five. "We met as classmates in college, and spent countless hours practicing," Feifei says. "Our friends joked that we were like 'devils' for practicing so much, but it only made us closer."

Their bond grew stronger when Feifei arrived in the U.S. in 2006 to pursue her studies, and Peter followed two years later. "We kept in touch while I was here," she says, "and I encouraged him to study in the States too. We both completed our master’s and doctorate degrees here."

While their paths to the piano may have started in childhood, it’s clear that their passion for the instrument continues to shape their careers. Feifei has received numerous accolades. Peter, who shares her love for teaching, emphasizes the universal power of music: "Music connects people. It’s a universal language, whether on stage or in the classroom."

The couple’s students aren’t just learning how to play the piano—they’re gaining confidence, developing stage presence, and building the skills they need to succeed in life. Feifei adds, "Piano teaches more than just music. It helps kids develop both sides of their brain, and it gives them the confidence to perform, whether on stage or in front of an audience."

For Feifei and Peter, the joy of teaching is matched only by the joy of seeing their students excel. "Some of my students have even made it to top universities like Yale." Feifei says. "It’s incredibly rewarding to see them succeed."

With their combined expertise, passion, and love for music, Feifei and Peter Jiang continue to inspire their students and colleagues alike at ��Ƶ, proving that the power of music truly is a shared journey.

Kellan Heavican Wed, 03/26/2025 - 8:53am

��Ƶ launches Esports and Gaming Administration minor

Kellan Heavican — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 12:56:42 +0000

��Ƶ launches Esports and Gaming Administration minor

��Ƶ is launching a cutting-edge Esports and Gaming Administration minor, giving students the chance to level up their academic journey while learning about the booming world of esports.

��Ƶ is combining the passion for gaming with solid academic foundations, equipping students with critical skills for a career in esports management. Students will be able to turn their passion into career-ready skills.

We’re not just talking about playing the game; we’re teaching students how to manage tournaments, handle event planning, and integrate marketing strategies—all skills that are highly transferable to various careers, said Professor of Sport Management Gina Chambers.

The minor is designed to complement different areas of study like chemistry, business, theater, and sports management to expand their skill set. Whether you want to go into med school or the gaming industry, you can take this minor to supplement your major, said Chambers.

The new minor will provide students with essential competencies in event planning, marketing, leadership, and game management—skills that can be applied both within the esports field and across other industries.

Students will learn about sales and distribution of the gaming industry, principles of game design, analyze games as tech products, art and cultural forces and develop skills to bring new games to market.

We want to capture the interest of students from all disciplines. This minor gives them a chance to discover a new area of interest while developing practical, transferable skills, Chambers says.

Students can begin enrolling in the minor Fall of 2025. For more information about the Esports and Gaming Administration minor, visit the ��Ƶ website.

Kellan Heavican Tue, 03/25/2025 - 7:56am

������Ƶ News

������Ƶ Exhibits Major Works by Texas Modernist Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle

������Ƶ faculty and staff honored with service awards

First ������Ƶ TEDx part of annual Visions & Ventures Symposium

������Ƶ and UNMC launch accelerated pathway to Master of Public Health

“Punk Rock Romeo and Juliet” shreds with P-Wolf-heavy cast and crew

Cheever joins ������Ƶ as Director of Bands

Fuess receives White Award for Internationalization

Wilson named Advisor of the Year

Decker named CSC Second Team Academic All-American

Barta becomes ������Ƶ’s ninth Freeman-ASIA Scholar

Wortmann earns ������Ƶ's top teaching award

Three ������Ƶ student-athletes earn NCAA postgraduate scholarships

New ������Ƶ partnership creates accelerated path to a law degree

������Ƶ students named to spring semester academic honors list

Khalil presented Faculty Scholarship Presentation Award

Record seven ������Ƶ students earn prestigious Gilman Scholarships

������Ƶ sends three to Japan on JET scholarships

Giving Day results in record-breaking donations

������Ƶ students shine in annual pitch contest

Fast-acting employees presented with the Golden Service Award

P-Wolves mean business at FBLA competition

2025 FBLA Collegiate State Leadership Conference Awards

Ochsner honored with 20-year service award from NeASFAA

������Ƶ students dive into meteorology with mobile radar storm tracking

Husband, wife faculty bring piano mastery to ������Ƶ

������Ƶ launches Esports and Gaming Administration minor

��Ƶ News

��Ƶ Exhibits Major Works by Texas Modernist Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle

��Ƶ faculty and staff honored with service awards

First ��Ƶ TEDx part of annual Visions & Ventures Symposium

��Ƶ and UNMC launch accelerated pathway to Master of Public Health

Cheever joins ��Ƶ as Director of Bands

Barta becomes ��Ƶ’s ninth Freeman-ASIA Scholar

Wortmann earns ��Ƶ's top teaching award

Three ��Ƶ student-athletes earn NCAA postgraduate scholarships

New ��Ƶ partnership creates accelerated path to a law degree

��Ƶ students named to spring semester academic honors list

Record seven ��Ƶ students earn prestigious Gilman Scholarships

��Ƶ sends three to Japan on JET scholarships

��Ƶ students shine in annual pitch contest

��Ƶ students dive into meteorology with mobile radar storm tracking

Husband, wife faculty bring piano mastery to ��Ƶ

��Ƶ launches Esports and Gaming Administration minor