��Ƶ News

“Elite” Hudl internship is game changer for ��Ƶ senior

Chris Basnett — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 21:27:46 +0000

“Elite” Hudl internship is game changer for ��Ƶ senior

By Chris Basnett

At ��Ƶ, senior Ella Mahaffy found the opportunity to explore her wide-ranging interests, including philosophy, religion, communication and marketing. She also found an exciting internship opportunity right in ��Ƶ’s backyard at Hudl, one of the world’s top sports technology companies.

Mahaffy is Hudl’s first intern to earn an “elite marketing” title, which gave her the flexibility to customize her internship experience.

“That’s been really cool because I already have a foot in the door at the company,” Mahaffy said, “as well as this base of knowledge from Wesleyan that allows me to step in and thrive wherever I’m put.”

The end result, she said, has been an experience far beyond the stereotype of “an intern getting coffee for their boss.”

Mahaffy has experienced “a lot of the nitty-gritty” of Hudl’s marketing efforts. She’s helped manage Hudl’s partnerships with sports organizations like the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA); worked on campaigns to publicize Hudl’s collaborations; coordinated communications with thousands of NCAA coaches and staff; and helped formulate ideas for product campaigns.

Mahaffy credited ��Ƶ’s resources for putting her on the road to a successful college experience, even if she didn’t realize it when she first arrived.

“Coming in as a freshman, I was homesick, I was alone, I really didn’t know my place at Wesleyan or the world,” Mahaffy said. “And now as a senior I feel so incredibly established with all the resources that Wesleyan has given me.”

Those resources allowed Mahaffy to thrive away from home. She is an athlete ��Ƶ’s tennis team, a campus ambassador welcoming visiting students, vice president of ��Ƶ’s chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, an a FBLA member.

Mahaffy’s experiences at ��Ƶ and Hudl have the Colorado native rethinking her post-college plans.

“I originally thought I’d go home to Colorado right after college,” Mahaffy said. “But I’ve learned over the years that the people are amazing here, and if (a career at Hudl) is an opportunity I’m given, I would definitely be willing to stay for it.”

Chris Basnett Wed, 12/17/2025 - 3:27pm

��Ƶ students and faculty transform lives through prison outreach

Erin Wirth — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 20:01:34 +0000

��Ƶ students and faculty transform lives through prison outreach

By Erin Wirth

One Professor’s Idea Changes Hundreds of Lives

Before he began teaching, James Perry, associate professor of professional studies, worked in prisoner rights in foreign countries, a passion that has shaped his work at ��Ƶ.

In 2008, he took a group of ��Ƶ students on a field trip to the Nebraska State Penitentiary.

“I was listening to the questions students were asking and realized they had no familiarity with this whole world,” Perry said. “And what better way to learn about the prison system than to volunteer inside it?”

Perry met with administrators and agreed to start a book club with 15 ��Ƶ students and 15 individuals at the Lincoln Correctional Facility. Over the past 17 years, the initiative has expanded to include weekly classes focused on topics the incarcerated individuals want to learn about. ��Ƶ students co-teach the classes, facilitating discussions, preparing readings, and leading sessions.

“There is a lack of programming in the correctional system across the United States, including Nebraska,” Perry said. “These individuals often have limited opportunities to fill their time. We want to help them develop the skills and confidence to successfully reintegrate into their communities.”

Helping Individuals Understand the Bigger Picture

Recent classes have included Sociology of the Family, Business Law, and Innovation and Leadership. One class focused on the sociological imagination — the ability to connect personal experiences with larger public issues.

“In sociology, we explore how much agency a person has versus how much societal pressures shape their choices,” said Heba Khalil, assistant professor of sociology and criminology, who helps teach the prison outreach classes. “Using real examples, such as being born into limited circumstances, helps participants understand how decisions are influenced.”

“Working with these individuals has shown me how powerful this perspective can be,” Khalil said. “It’s not about excusing poor choices — it’s about understanding them within societal constraints, which many of these individuals find empowering.”

In addition to weekly sessions, participants receive homework or discussion prompts — something new to think about, learn or read between classes.

A Powerful Experience for ��Ƶ Students

The ��Ƶ students who co-teach the classes are typically sophomores and must complete an introduction to criminal justice course. Students from any major may enroll in the one-credit class, and many choose to participate multiple times during their time at ��Ƶ.

“We’ve had physics majors, French majors — students from all backgrounds — who say this is the most impactful class they’ve taken,” Perry said. “They’re engaging with important ideas, whether it’s sociology or leadership. Both groups — the ��Ƶ students and their students — realize they can learn from each other, and that’s powerful.”

When the Walls Fade Away

Ella Fundus, a senior social work student who has taught for two semesters at the Lancaster County Jail, said the experience taught her how misinformed the public’s perception of the incarcerated population can be.

“These individuals are determined and motivated to turn their lives around. I’ve never been in a classroom where every single person was so eager to learn,” she said.

Perry noted that once class begins, the setting quickly fades into the background.

“Within the first five minutes of class, the ��Ƶ students and their students are joking together and talking about their lives,” he said. “It’s very rewarding to see those relationships grow.”

The Transformative Power of Prison Outreach

Over 17 years, Perry and his ��Ƶ students have impacted countless lives.

“I ran into a former student at a convenience store years later,” Perry said. “He told me the experience transformed his life because he was able to have thoughtful conversations with ��Ƶ students and professors who took his ideas seriously. It helped build his confidence in his own potential.”

Perry credits correctional staff as essential partners in the program’s success.

“One staff member suggested we teach theater,” he said. “She wrote a one-page proposal outlining what a theater production could look like, and we’re working hard to make that happen this spring.”

Preparing ��Ƶ Students for Purpose-Driven Careers

The program also exposes ��Ƶ students to careers in criminal justice, while encouraging empathy and compassion toward people within the system.

Maria Ghanim, a senior pre-law student, shared that everything she's learned will strengthen her future legal career.

“What I’ve enjoyed most is seeing our students connect personal experiences to the social norms we’ve studied. We don’t judge — we listen, laugh, and even cry. There is no greater force than education and empathy," she said.

Building a Special Community

For Perry, the emotional impact remains profound.

“They’re amazed that Wesleyan students keep coming back,” he said. “They say, ‘Those are our Wesleyan students.’ They look forward to every visit.”

Erin Wirth Tue, 12/16/2025 - 2:01pm

��Ƶ sociology honor society receives grant to support reentry program

Erin Wirth — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 19:59:49 +0000

��Ƶ sociology honor society receives grant to support reentry program

By Erin Wirth

��Ƶ’s chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta (AKD), the international sociology honor society, received the Social Justice Award, a grant supporting meaningful social justice initiatives.

The grant will fund a reentry skills course for incarcerated individuals at the Lancaster County Jail, offered through ��Ƶ’s Department of Sociology and Criminology Prison Outreach Course (CRIM 3400). Susan Wortmann, professor of sociology and AKD chapter president, and Heba Khalil, assistant professor of sociology and criminology, will lead the course in Spring 2026.

The course was designed using feedback from incarcerated participants, who highlighted a need for job skills to secure employment upon release. In addition to the course, the chapter will host a workshop with community organizations, college partners and advocacy groups to strengthen reentry support for Nebraskans across the state.

“��Ƶ’s AKD chapter joins an impressive list of past award winners who have launched creative social justice initiatives engaging students and communities,” Wortmann said.

Erin Wirth Mon, 12/15/2025 - 1:59pm

��Ƶ’s first Give to Learn class culminates with emotional grant ceremony

Chris Basnett — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:31:18 +0000

��Ƶ’s first Give to Learn class culminates with emotional grant ceremony

By Chris Basnett

The culmination of Nebraska Wesleyan’s first Give To Learn class resulted in tears.

The happy kind.

The class presented a $10,000 grant to Lincoln’s Good Neighbor Community Center on December 11.

“I grew up here in Lincoln, and it's just so rewarding to know that I and everybody else in the class was able to help the community,” senior Ollie Maryott said. “And the fact that we actually got to go visit the Good Neighbor Community Center and volunteer with them, and see the good work that they do firsthand, and we know that the money is going to a good place — that's a very rewarding feeling that I've never gotten to really experience before.”

The Give To Learn course, taught by retired president and CEO of Community Health Endowment of Lincoln Lori Seibel, aimed to give students a greater understanding of their local community and its healthcare needs.

Students practiced hands-on volunteer service and fieldwork with eight community organizations: Good Neighbor Community Center, BraveBe Child Advocacy Center, Asian Community and Cultural Center, Mentoring Plus, Malone Center Athletics, Community Learning Center, Family Service Lincoln, and Northeast Family Center.

The class then reflected on their experiences while working through the process of choosing which nonprofit would receive the grant.

The first-of-its-kind class at ��Ƶ used a grant from the Duncan Aviation Family Trust. Seibel facilitated the grant thanks to her relationship with Connie Duncan, a 1987 ��Ƶ graduate who serves as vice president of the trust.

“As they got going, they did what I did. You get to know the people that need you. And it's all about your heart,” Duncan said. “You start falling in love with these agencies and the people they work with, and you want to do more. That's what they did.”

The class also received a promise from Duncan during the ceremony.

“As long as you have the class,” Duncan said, “we will find the funds for it.”

The class considered splitting the grant into two $5,000 awards. But because one of its core values is “impact”, the class kept the grant in one piece.

“It was a wonderful experience working with the students here,” said Tom Randa, executive director of the Good Neighbor Community Center. “It was just an opportunity to make an impact with what we are doing at the center.”

The class designated most of the grant to support the center’s Middle East and North Africa (MENA) hope project, which provides support to refugees and immigrants from the Middle East and North Africa, and a new clothing program for local children.

The class named clothing program “Ali’s Closet”, in memory of Ali Al-Baaj, who drowned in HolmesLake in 2024. He was the son of Zainab Al-Baaj, who directs the center’s MENA initiatives.

“We’re just a bunch of students trying to present an award,” senior Ghaith Taha told the crowd gathered for the event. “But I think we’re doing a pretty good job.”

Chris Basnett Mon, 12/15/2025 - 11:31am

Golden Service Award recognizes employees who stepped up to help Residential Education

Chris Basnett — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:03:26 +0000

Golden Service Award recognizes employees who stepped up to help Residential Education

By Chris Basnett

Several Nebraska Wesleyan employees were awarded ��Ƶ’s Golden Service Award at the December 2025 staff meeting.

The group came together in November to assist Residential Education and Student Life in providing students with personal attention while supporting their health, safety, and success.

The group was led by Kara Brant, director of residential education, and Maddi Galusha, assistant director of residential education, who took on extra responsibilities and leadership during a period of transition for the Residential Education Office (REC).

In addition, staff members inside and outside of student life stepped up to ensure REC on-call procedures were maintained. That group included Workstation Support Associate Christian Sunderland, Assistant Director of Student Engagement Alex Munson, Project Director for the Gender-Based Violence Team Jen Dyson, and Assistant Vice President of Human Resources Maria Harder.

With Brant and Galusha developing training materials for the group, Sunderland, Munson, Dyson, and Harder offered to move into campus housing to serve in the on-call rotation and ensure there were no gaps in on-call and emergency response coverage on the ��Ƶ campus.

These individuals received training, provided leadership for ��Ƶ’s Peer Assistant staff, and responded to urgent concerns in ��Ƶ’s residence halls over the past month.

Members of the group were also able to make more personal connections with ��Ƶ students. For example, while staying at Pioneer Hall, Dyson was able to bring members of her family on campus to play ping pong and pool, eat dinner, and meet new residents.

The Golden Service Award promotes Nebraska Wesleyan’s core values by recognizing and awarding staff and faculty working as a group and demonstrating cross-departmental collaborations, whose efforts and contributions as a group significantly exceed expectations in demonstrating or promoting one or more of these values: excellence, liberal arts, and personal attention to students, diversity, community, and stewardship.

Congratulations to these individuals and thank you for your service and dedication to our community.

Chris Basnett Tue, 12/09/2025 - 11:03am

��Ƶ tradition returns with Psychology Department's Xtreme Rat Challenge

Chris Basnett — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:19:34 +0000

��Ƶ tradition returns with Psychology Department's Xtreme Rat Challenge

By Chris Basnett

One of ��Ƶ’s most unique traditions recently made its return to Acklie Hall of Science.

After a three-year pause, the Xtreme Rat Challenge was back, with 23 students and their rat partners taking part in the 48th version of the event November 25 as part of ��Ƶ’s “Basic Learning Principles” course.

“I’m not a rat person, but you wouldn’t be able to tell. It’s been so fun,” said senior psychology major Lina Le. “When we first started training obstacles, I remember I put (her rat) Ruthie on this stainless-steel table, and she just jumped off. And she’s running around the room and I’m trying to catch her.

“But now if I were to put her on some of those apparatuses, she’s gunning right through it. It has been so fun to watch her grow and develop. It’s so awesome to see just how much work she’s putting in.”

The bond between Le and Ruthie was emblematic of the connections between all the students and their rat competitors.

The Xtreme Rat Challenge is the final demonstration project for students in the class. Students receive their rats about three weeks into the fall semester, then spend the rest of the semester applying research-supported reinforcement techniques to teach their rats a wide range of behaviors.

Rats learned to compete in rope climb, wall climb, tight rope, lever press, long jump, hurdles, and warrior dash, an obstacle course combining the tight rope and climbing disciplines, in addition to a slide.

Dozens of interested spectators watched the live competition on Acklie’s second floor.

“Ultimately once you reach that learning curve and when you are habituated with your rat, things really start picking up,” Le said. “And it was just amazing to watch her learn and retain information. Just as I was learning and retaining information, she was doing the same thing. And it was really cool to see how these basic learning principles are applied.

“She has really just been a bright spot in my semester, coming in and training her every day.”

Started in 1974 by former ��Ƶ psychology professor Marty Klein, the Xtreme Rat Challenge was known as the Rat Olympics until 2003, when the U.S. Olympic Committee issued a cease and desist order over use of the word “Olympics.” ��Ƶ responded with a national naming contest that resulted in the new name: Xtreme Rat Challenge.

Professor Emerita of Psychology Marilyn Petro organized the event for several years before her retirement in 2023. After a two-year hiatus, Assistant Professor of Psychology Gregory DeGirolamo brought the tradition back.

“It’s been really exciting to see the students train the rats, interact with the rats, and to see all the students’ fears and nervousness kind of melt away,” DeGirolamo said. “It’s also been nice watching this come together. The students have been working really hard, and I’ve been working really hard trying to help them. So, it’s a relief that everything is going off without a hitch.”

Chris Basnett Fri, 12/05/2025 - 10:19am

Student mentorship program "Wolf Tracks" wins Brugman Pitch Contest

Erin Wirth — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 19:12:14 +0000

Student mentorship program "Wolf Tracks" wins Brugman Pitch Contest

By Erin Wirth

Each year, ��Ƶ students are challenged to pitch their ideas for how to make ��Ƶ stronger at the annual Brugman Pitch Contest. This year, senior Mady Schoffstall and sophomore Bruce Archambault had the winning idea: Wolf Tracks, a mentorship initiative designed to strengthen and connect the ��Ƶ community by pairing seniors with first-year students.

“The purpose of Wolf Tracks is to support first-year students as they transition into college by giving them access to guidance and tips from senior students,” Schoffstall said. “The program also gives seniors a meaningful way to leave a positive impact on campus while building leadership skills they can take into the workforce.”

The idea for Wolf Tracks grew out of conversations between Schoffstall and Archambault. They compared their student experiences — one having recently navigated their first year and the other currently navigating senior year.

“We realized how much smoother our first-year transition could have been with a little guidance. Those conversations made it clear that ��Ƶ could benefit from a campus-wide program that intentionally connects seniors with first-year students, and that shared realization inspired Wolf Tracks,” Archambault said.

The first Wolf Tracks experience launched this year. The program flowed through several intentional phases: Welcome and Orientation, Campus Exploration, Wellness and Success, and Legacy and Celebration.

“The goal of the first Wolf Tracks experience was to have participants feel welcomed, supported and connected. The experience wrapped up with a finale to celebrate the relationships formed, the growth that took place, and to show the seniors the meaningful impact they had on their first-year students,” Schoffstall said.

Sharing Wolf Tracks at the Brugman Pitch Contest with a broader audience was exciting and rewarding for Schoffstall and Archambault.

“Presenting pushed us to grow our public-speaking skills, and winning was a valuable reminder that stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to incredible opportunities,” Archambault said.

Erin Wirth Thu, 12/04/2025 - 1:12pm

Senior Tate Crawford combines humanities with science to plot a future path

Chris Basnett — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:19:42 +0000

Senior Tate Crawford combines humanities with science to plot a future path

By Chris Basnett

Tate Crawford could have chosen a more traditional route for his four years at ��Ƶ. One major. One minor. Do the work and continue toward his goal of medical school.

But with the variety of humanities degrees available at Nebraska Wesleyan, why be traditional?

“It's been involved, it's been unique, it's been busy, but it has been very fulfilling — and I definitely want to emphasize the fulfilling,” Crawford said of his time at ��Ƶ. “I will leave here in May and know that I did all that I could, I learned a lot, I’m more independent, and I know that I'm leaving a different person than when I came here.”

Crawford, a senior, is on track to graduate in May with a double major in biology and Spanish — two things that, at first glance, may not seem to have much to do with each other.

Crawford, though, realized early on how beneficial both majors could be in combination.

A Roca, Nebraska, native who attended nearby Norris High School, Crawford chose ��Ƶ because of its proximity to home and its reputation for preparing students well for the medical profession: 86% of ��Ƶ students who take the MCAT are admitted to medical school.

Add Crawford’s deep knowledge of the Spanish language — he took four years of Spanish in high school before he “fell in love” with the language while taking Spanish classes in Old Main with assistant professor of Spanish Jaime Cano — and he has a skillset that expands his reach, allowing him to work with a multitude of patients.

“The love for Spanish came with the fact that I was able to use it and apply it in my life, and I was able to see a difference,” Crawford said. “And another piece of the language I like is, there’s not a stopping point, so I continue to learn forever. Through my journey (at Wesleyan) I was able to study abroad in Spain. It just kept growing and growing.”

Crawford has already used his Spanish knowledge as an assistant soccer coach at Norris High School, where he translated for a student-athlete, and in his work as an endoscopy technician at a Lincoln gastroenterology clinic, where he communicates with Spanish-speaking patients as part of his duties.

Crawford has stayed busy outside of the classroom too, as a member of Theta Chi, the ��Ƶ Pre-Health Club, Tri-Beta, Alpha Mu Gamma, Global Service Learning, and as vice president of the Order of Omega Greek Academic Honorary. Crawford also served as a Prairie Wolf Welcome leader and as a student instructor in the Archways Curriculum.

This summer, he plans to take the MCAT with hopes of getting into the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

The education he’s received at ��Ƶ has him well on his way.

“The things that I've been taught here, that I've learned throughout my time here, whether it's textbook or real-life application, I know I will be going out into the world a better person,” Crawford said. “Someone who's been fulfilled by their by their experiences through college, and I can go out and in the medical field, and I'll be better because of it.”

Chris Basnett Wed, 12/03/2025 - 3:19pm

Students crack “missing mascot” case in hands-on crime investigation activity

Erin Wirth — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 21:38:23 +0000

Students crack “missing mascot” case in hands-on crime investigation activity

By Erin Wirth

First-year students in ��Ƶ’s True Crime Casebook: Secrets, Stories and Suspects and Let’s Crack Open a Cold Case courses, part of the Archway Seminar, put their investigative skills to the test during a “Missing Mascot” crime case designed by Matt Flores, assistant professor of education, and Amber Johnson, assistant professor of psychology.

Students worked in teams to interview faculty and staff members serving as suspects and to gather clues to determine what happened to the missing P-Wolf mascot.

“We designed the activity to make investigative thinking tangible and fun by giving students the chance to use their deductive reasoning skills in a real-world context. It also gave first-year students an opportunity to explore campus and meet faculty and staff members,” Johnson said.

The crime case reinforced several of the courses’ learning goals.

“A main goal was for students to learn how to collaborate effectively with others while completing a task and building analytical thinking skills,” Flores said.

The activity emphasized key methods of critical inquiry: how to frame questions, collect and interpret data, and draw well-supported conclusions.

“One of the skills they took away was asking the right questions — for example, looking for motives, means and opportunities,” Flores said.

Students said the activity was exciting and felt like solving a real case, and they enjoyed exploring campus along the way.

“I was surprised by how creative they were in forming theories and analyzing the suspects. The activity inspired a lot of collaboration and energy in our students. They even asked if they could spend more time investigating outside of class,” Johnson said.

Flores said he was impressed by how well the students did in cracking the case.

“There were some clues they didn’t notice, but in the end they were still able to solve the case,” he said.

Faculty and staff who participated appreciated how original the activity was, noting that it energized students and offered an effective, interactive way to apply their skills.

“The faculty and staff suspects were trying to solve the case before the students and figure out which one of them kidnapped the mascot,” Flores said.

Erin Wirth Thu, 11/20/2025 - 3:38pm

��Ƶ nursing students mark milestone at White Coat Ceremony

Erin Wirth — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 17:25:06 +0000

��Ƶ nursing students mark milestone at White Coat Ceremony

��Ƶ celebrated a key milestone for its nursing students on November 7 with its annual White Coat Ceremony, a tradition that marks their induction into the nursing field.

During the event, the 2025 student cohort received their white coats and affirmed their commitment to compassionate, ethical patient care.

Faculty speakers included Brittney Fritzinger, Erin Putney and Kristi McGuire, and student speakers were Taylor Holter and Eden Schmit.

Congratulations to the following White Coat recipients:

Kiara Burnell

Hannah Churchill

Abbie Drewes

Ariel Edgington

Samantha Escobar Barrera

Rylie Hale-Keller

Johanna Hidalgo-Ramirez

Reagan Kjeldgaard

Sarah Kolterman

Kiley Kotas

Jersey Koza

Olivia Lawrence

Nicole Loop

Rozalin Murad

Esther Muturi

Stephanie Mwai

Lauren Ott

Peyton Pack

Iris Pudasaini

Brynn Sebek

Erin Wirth Thu, 11/20/2025 - 11:25am

Christmas with Wesleyan returns to usher in holiday season

Chris Basnett — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 16:52:17 +0000

Christmas with Wesleyan returns to usher in holiday season

��Ƶ’s choral ensembles will present Christmas with Wesleyan: The Weary World Rejoices on Sunday, December 7, at 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church near the ��Ƶ campus.

The free performance features ��Ƶ’s University Choir, Unity Choir, and Gold Standard Singers, joined by the Beatrice High School Choir.

The choirs will present compelling works by Rodgers and Hammerstein, Shawn Kirchner, André Thomas, and Josef Rheinberger, in addition to music from South Africa, Norway, and Puerto Rico. The audience will be invited to sing along with beloved carols accompanied by orchestra and organ, including “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “Silent Night,” “Joy to the World,” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.”

“It's easy for our students to get lost in the busyness of their schedules and to be carried away with anxiety for all the deep challenges and stresses that seem to chase us in this world,” said Tom Trenney, ��Ƶ director of choirs. “Our hope is that the time we spend together experiencing Christmas with Wesleyan might remind both our singers and our audiences of what joy feels like.”

Freewill donations will support the Gathering Place, which provides free, hot meals seven days a week from 5 to 6 p.m. to anyone who needs a meal.

Chris Basnett Tue, 11/18/2025 - 10:52am

��Ƶ sophomore learns from Nebraska’s 2025 Teacher of the Year

Erin Wirth — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 19:53:55 +0000

��Ƶ sophomore learns from Nebraska’s 2025 Teacher of the Year

By Erin Wirth

Madison Demke, a sophomore at ��Ƶ and a member of ��Ƶ’s WISE (Wesleyan Institute for Successful Educators) Honors Program, has a unique opportunity this semester to shadow Lindsey Wilson, who was recognized as the 2025 Nebraska Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska Department of Education.

Wilson currently teaches seventh-grade science, math and social studies at Bennington Middle School in Bennington, Nebraska. Her teaching approach emphasizes connecting students to real-world concepts and creating a classroom culture of curiosity and collaboration.

“My goal this semester is to show Madison how to teach like a rebel,” Wilson said. “Teaching doesn’t have to be scripted, rigid or one-size-fits-all. Teaching should be about breaking the barriers that hold students — and ourselves as teachers — back from achieving greatness.”

Demke experienced Wilson’s innovative teaching style on the first day, when she was handed two costumes to wear.

“For our order-of-operations lab, we played medical doctors. And in science, we were working with geology on Mars, so we wore NASA spacesuits. I got to join in on the fun and see how Lindsey’s teaching approach really hooked the students,” Demke said.

Wilson says future teachers learn the most when they can see great educators in action.

“I help them realize teaching is not about perfection or control,” she said, “but about giving students a voice, letting them lead parts of their learning, and watching great things happen.”

Demke has not only connected with Wilson, but with the students as well.

“For example, today I noticed a student who was frustrated and not sure where to start. I helped him break his task down. From there, he knew what to do. It was really meaningful to guide him, earn his trust and watch him finish his work,” she said.

It is rare for a sophomore to have a teaching practicum experience.

“What I’ve loved about this partnership is that Madison is still early in her career with so much time to grow,” Wilson said. “The fact that she’s already in the classroom as a sophomore means she can continue building on what she’s learning. She’s expanding her toolbox and will have more to draw from when she’s in her own classroom.”

Wilson also teaches Demke about classroom management.

“Being in a real classroom lets you see all the variables that affect a school day. For example, you can write the perfect lesson plan, but you never know what will happen. No day of teaching ever looks the same. I can teach the same lesson five times, and it will be different every time because of the students, their struggles, their excitement and everything they bring with them," she said.

“It’s about how you connect with your students and spark their curiosity. You only learn that by being in the classroom—you can’t get it anywhere else.”

Erin Wirth Fri, 11/14/2025 - 1:53pm

Cooper Center honored for "going to the mat" for students

Eric Wendt — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:56:35 +0000

Cooper Center honored for "going to the mat" for students

By Eric Wendt

Melissa Hayes-Connolly remembered the day in the fall of 2023 when Brandon Bradley, then ��Ƶ’s head wrestling coach, came to her office in Cochrane-Woods Library. “He told me, ‘I’m struggling to get my guys feeling prepared for college.’”

Hayes-Connolly directs Nebraska Wesleyan’s Cooper Center for Academic Resources. She described the backgrounds of many ��Ƶ wrestlers. “Oftentimes, they’re first-generation college students coming to Nebraska Wesleyan from under-resourced high schools.” They often arrive on campus without the exposure to role models or effective study habits that many of their peers grew up seeing.

Bradley wanted to know: Could she help his team get stronger?

“We set up a team-wide, 10-week study hall,” Hayes-Connolly said. “We started with data collection—asking lots of questions about their study skills and current processes. We asked them, ‘What’s working for you now? And where are some areas where you know you want to improve?’”

Hayes-Connolly took that information and developed a special curriculum. This curriculum didn’t cover academic disciplines, like algebra or American history, but instead focused on broader fundamental academic habits, like notetaking, time management and reading comprehension strategies.

Most weeks, Hayes-Connolly brought three or four student tutors with her from the Cooper Center. “We wanted the team to recognize them as classmates and just know who they are. They could say, ‘Hey, are you a math tutor?’ And those relationships make asking for help a lot easier.”

Hayes-Connolly was careful not to stereotype. But she said there’s truth to the image of wrestlers as tough, proud and masculine. “And sometimes masculinity’s rules make it hard to ask for help or admit you’re weak at something.” The team study hall helped address that.

Over time, she saw the team’s culture shift. “And it became more than just a study hall,” she said. “Studying the right way became about being accountable to yourself and to your team,” she said. “You can be an amazing wrestler, but if you don’t make your grades, you can’t compete. You can’t help the team win.”

The results of this culture shift were dramatic, Hayes-Connolly said. “By the spring of 2025, we had zero wrestlers on academic probation for the first time” since ��Ƶ reintroduced wrestling in 2016.

Those results caught the attention of the International College Learning Center Association (ICLCA), an organization which supports the professionalization of academic resource groups like the Cooper Center at colleges and universities across the Americas.

Hayes-Connolly accepted the 2025 ICLCA President’s Outstanding Learning Center Award for Specialized Populations at its annual conference in Rapid City, S.D., in October.

“Melissa and the Cooper Center have been fundamental in the success of our student-athletes,” said Assistant Athletic Director Erin Dwyer. “Not only have we gotten at risk students off probation and suspension, but we have kept them in good academic standing and put them on a path to success for their futures.”

Eric Wendt Tue, 11/04/2025 - 8:56am

From grief to growth: Student finds healing and purpose at ��Ƶ

Erin Wirth — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 23:42:06 +0000

From grief to growth: Student finds healing and purpose at ��Ƶ

By Erin WIrth

A Journey Shaped by Loss

Marielle Wilson’s path to ��Ƶ began hundreds of miles away in Michigan. A first-generation college student and single mother, she started her academic career at Delta College. Amid the challenges of balancing coursework and parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic, she faced an unimaginable loss — her son’s father, a veteran, tragically lost his battle with PTSD.

“I always knew I wanted to transfer,” Wilson said. “I was even getting offers from Ivy League schools. But after our loss, I needed to reassess everything.”

That period of grief and reflection ultimately led her to Nebraska Wesleyan. Through her membership in Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), a national community college honor society, she earned a scholarship that made the move possible.

“When I first toured ��Ƶ, I fell in love instantly. I just knew it was where I needed to be,” she said. “It was a huge sacrifice to move out of state, and I left my son with his grandparents so I could pursue higher education. It wasn’t easy, but it was beautiful in its own way. It felt peaceful, like the right step forward.”

Finding Purpose Through Art and Psychology

Since arriving at ��Ƶ, Wilson has immersed herself in the university’s art and psychology programs, an academic blend that’s preparing her for a future career in art therapy.

“I was looking at a lot of prestigious art programs,” she said, “but what stood out about ��Ƶ was how unique their classes are. They offer things like metal smithing and a course called Research Painting, which I’m taking right now. It's not a normal painting class; they expand upon your skills and apply things like color theory and mathematics.”

These experiences are shaping her vision for the future. “What I’m learning will make me a better art therapist someday — understanding why people are drawn to certain colors, or how our eyes perceive depth. Those kinds of insights aren’t offered at every university.”

Wilson credits much of her growth to her professors. “I look to my faculty like family. They’ve been so welcoming and encouraging. Every single one of my professors pushes me to find myself. For example, Professor David Gracie is an expert on color theory. He gives incredible critiques that make you see your work differently and apply that knowledge to your career.”

Building a Community Away from Home

The transition from Michigan to Nebraska wasn’t just an academic leap — it was a personal one.

“The support system and family I have at Wesleyan have been exceptional,” Wilson said. “That’s been integral for me and my son. He’s even met some of my professors. My family flew here from Michigan for his birthday, and everyone has been so supportive. My son has been part of this academic journey so Mama could get her degree.”

She also found belonging through ��Ƶ’s art club, which she credits with helping her grow as both an artist and a person. “Professor Lisa Lockman introduced me to the art club, and that was a game changer. We do critiques, collaborate, and everyone is so welcoming. It’s been amazing.”

Immersing Herself in Her Passion

“I have a pretty elaborate portfolio,” she said. “I’ve collaborated with NASA and the Henson Company, and last year I won a juried art exhibition that was featured in a museum. ��Ƶ has helped me expand on the things I love doing.”

This semester, she’s channeling that inspiration into a furniture collection that blends her Michigan roots with her Nebraska experience.

“My collection represents both states,” she explained. “I’m using elements from nature — maple leaves, rocks, rivers — and weaving them into the designs. It’s poetic, really. Wesleyan has taught me to see art holistically. We even talk about poetry while painting.”

Lately, Wilson’s been inspired by the transcendentalist writers. “My furniture collection embodies their principles — being in nature, celebrating learning, self-discovery and higher education. It’s the perfect way to merge my love of art with what I’ve learned here.”

A Story of Strength

Marielle’s story is one of strength, perseverance and the power of art to heal. Now thriving academically — she currently holds over 100% in all her classes — Wilson is proof that determination and hope can transform even the deepest pain into purpose.

“For anyone considering transferring — if I can do it, after everything I’ve faced, you can too. Our story includes tragedy, but it’s also one of hope and growth. Wesleyan has truly been a blessing.”

Erin Wirth Wed, 10/22/2025 - 6:42pm

��Ƶ faculty are redefining how to prepare students for the future

Erin Wirth — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:07:30 +0000

��Ƶ faculty are redefining how to prepare students for the future

By Erin Wirth

At ��Ƶ, these standout educators are transforming the student experience by blending academic excellence with real-world preparation and personal development.

Bringing AI Into the Classroom

Gina Chambers, Assistant Professor of Health and Human Performance

This semester, Gina Chambers redesigned a marketing course to be AI-integrated, giving students the opportunity to experience firsthand the efficiencies of AI from a marketing perspective. The course emphasizes the importance of using AI ethically and responsibly.

“At ��Ƶ, we are committed to preparing students with the skills they will need for their careers, and AI is an essential one. Blending practical skills with ethical awareness helps students maximize opportunities to become tomorrow’s leaders,” Chambers said.

In this redesigned course, students are gaining hands-on experience with real-world AI tools, learning how to prompt effectively, identify misinformation, navigate ethical use and understand privacy concerns.

Building Tomorrow's Change Makers

Sarah Spitsen, Director of the Philip S. Mullin Innovation & Entrepreneurship Program

Meet the force behind one of the Midwest’s most forward-thinking programs, where students aren’t just learning business; they’re learning how to lead, solve and disrupt.

“As the first program of its kind in the Midwest, we’re not housed in a department or college. That means our program grows with deep insights and quick pivots, just like a startup,” Spitsen said.

“We recognize that not every student comes in planning to start a business. What we prepare them for is creating impact. Our courses teach the transferrable skills to make change and impact happen.”

This program empowers ��Ƶ students to become change makers, disruptors and entrepreneurs. This is what innovation in education looks like.

Empowering Students to Drive Meaningful Change

Zachary Baumann, Associate Professor of Political Science

This fall, Zachary Baumann is leading ��Ƶ students into the heart of the state’s legislative process through a new course: Lobbying and Policy Advocacy.

“Nebraska has the only unicameral and nonpartisan legislature in the nation,” Baumann explains. “This course helps students from all majors understand how that system operates, and how they can use it to drive meaningful change.”

Students in the course don’t just learn advocacy theory. They select issues they care about, collaborate with local policymakers and advocacy groups, and develop action plans they can implement once the legislature reconvenes in January.

With ��Ƶ located in Lincoln, the state capital, Baumann emphasizes how the university’s location enhances the course. “We have direct access to a wide range of interest groups, lawmakers and advocacy organizations. It’s an ideal environment for civic learning.”

Erin Wirth Wed, 10/22/2025 - 10:07am

From campus to capitol: ��Ƶ students learn to advocate for change

Erin Wirth — Sat, 18 Oct 2025 15:51:52 +0000

From campus to capitol: ��Ƶ students learn to advocate for change

This fall, students at ��Ƶ enrolled in Lobbying and Policy Advocacy are engaging with a distinctive political system: Nebraska is the only state with a unicameral legislature, rather than the more typical bicameral structure of a house of representatives and a senate, and it has the only nonpartisan legislature in the nation.

The course is part of the ENACT (Educational Network for Active Civic Transformation) program, which is designed to teach students how to participate in the legislative and political advocacy process at the state level through both coursework and hands-on experience.

Like students enrolled in ENACT courses in other states, ��Ƶ students select issues they are passionate about and work with local policymakers and activists to drive change in their state.

The course, taught by Zachary Baumann, an associate professor at ��Ƶ and an ENACT faculty fellow, is being offered for the first time this fall. It fits within ��Ƶ’s Archway Curriculum, which encourages students to go beyond campus, engage with the community and explore issues firsthand.

“This course is open to students from all majors and aims to equip them with the skills to be effective advocates,” said Baumann, “as well as the background knowledge needed for active participation in state government.”

“Since ��Ƶ is in Lincoln, the state capitol, we have access to a diverse range of interest organizations, advocacy groups, policymakers and individuals, making the ENACT model a perfect fit for this class,” added Baumann. “This course is excellent because it draws students from multiple majors, allowing them to deepen their understanding of this unique system’s operation and how to use it effectively.”

Students have appreciated the opportunity to choose issues they care about. Because the Nebraska State Legislature is out of session during the fall semester, student groups have time to develop advocacy plans they can implement once state senators return in January.

“The class is designed to prepare students for the upcoming session so they are ready to hit the ground running when the legislature reconvenes,” said Baumann.

This article appeared in the ENACT: The Abraham Feinberg Educational Network for Active Civic Transformation October 2025 newsletter. Edited and reprinted with permission.

Erin Wirth Sat, 10/18/2025 - 10:51am

Ford becomes first ��Ƶ student to receive prestigious Phi Kappa Phi award

Erin Wirth — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:52:39 +0000

Ford becomes first ��Ƶ student to receive prestigious Phi Kappa Phi award

By Erin Wirth

Ella Ford has made history as the first ��Ƶ student to receive the prestigious Pioneer Award from The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective academic honor society, whose motto is "Let the love of learning rule humanity."

Ford, a 2024 ��Ƶ graduate from Lincoln, was one of only 50 students nationwide selected for the $1,000 award, which recognizes undergraduate members who demonstrate outstanding leadership, engagement and research skills critical to scholarly success.

While at ��Ƶ, Ford distinguished herself as an exceptional scholar and athlete. She graduated with a 4.0 GPA as a double major in biology and psychology. On the court, she played a pivotal role in shaping ��Ƶ’s women’s tennis program, serving as a three-year team captain. She was also a four-time letter winner and a three-time American Rivers Conference All-Academic selection.

Ford is currently a first-year medical student at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine in Omaha.

“Receiving this award reflects the support I received from my professors and coaches at ��Ƶ,” Ford said. “Their encouragement has opened many doors for me, and this scholarship is helping me take the next step. I’m pursuing my passion for anesthesiology, a field I explored during my time at ��Ƶ while working as an anesthesiology technician at Bryan Health."

With a proud legacy as the 11th chapter of Phi Kappa Phi since 1914, Nebraska Wesleyan continues to inspire academic excellence and leadership—ideals brought to life each year by students like Ford.

Erin Wirth Fri, 10/17/2025 - 2:52pm

��Ƶ recognized as a Top Regional University, Best Value and Hidden Gem

Erin Wirth — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 20:17:08 +0000

��Ƶ recognized as a Top Regional University, Best Value and Hidden Gem

By Erin Wirth

��Ƶ has once again earned national recognition for excellence in higher education, being named a Top Regional University and a Best Value in the U.S. News & World Report: Best Colleges 2026 rankings.

��Ƶ is ranked 39th out of 161 institutions in the Regional Universities Midwest category. The university stands out for its strong student outcomes, exceptional faculty, the academic strength of incoming classes, and alumni support.

In addition to its regional ranking, ��Ƶ was recognized as a Best Value, an honor that factors both academic quality and net cost, underscoring ��Ƶ’s commitment to providing an outstanding education that remains accessible.

Further highlighting ��Ƶ’s national appeal, the university was also named a 2026 Hidden Gem College by College Raptor, a college planning resource used by students and families nationwide. The Hidden Gem distinction celebrates institutions that deliver exceptional education and outcomes but may not yet be on every student’s radar.

College Raptor’s rankings are based on key metrics such as first-year retention, academic strength of incoming students, student-to-faculty ratio, selectivity, four-year graduation rates and unique academic offerings.

With high-impact academics, personalized support and a steadfast commitment to student success, Nebraska Wesleyan continues to be a standout choice for students seeking excellence, value and a vibrant campus experience.

Erin Wirth Wed, 10/15/2025 - 3:17pm

Seven ��Ƶ students selected for Capitol Hill Internship Program

Erin Wirth — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:22:55 +0000

Seven ��Ƶ students selected for Capitol Hill Internship Program

��Ƶ is proud to announce the students selected to participate in the Spring 2026 cohort of the Capitol Hill Internship Program (CHIP), a premier experiential learning opportunity that connects ��Ƶ students to high-impact internships available only in Washington, D.C.

Congratulations to the following students:

Parker Brown
Hayden Byarlay
Brianna Hartman
Bella Longoria
Michelle Ruiz-Garcia
Henry Spethman
Jaxson Waller

These students will gain practical, hands-on experience through internships in a wide variety of settings, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations, the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, private corporations, and lobbying firms and associations.

This is a truly impressive group of students, each ready to take their academic and professional ambitions to the next level in the heart of our nation’s capital.

By the numbers:

Average GPA: 3.93
Majors represented: 5
Career-focused: Prepared to explore Washington, D.C. as the next step in their journey

In addition to their internships, CHIP students will:

Earn up to 15 credit hours through internship work, seminars and coursework.
Live in a Capitol Hill townhouse, just steps away from the Capitol and major landmarks.
Engage in a weekly seminar discussing current D.C. issues with field experts.
Build their network of career contacts.

Erin Wirth Wed, 10/15/2025 - 12:22pm

Weis awarded prestigious Phi Kappa Phi Fellowship

Erin Wirth — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:18:08 +0000

Weis awarded prestigious Phi Kappa Phi Fellowship

By Erin Wirth

��Ƶ graduate Zachary Weis ’24 has been awarded a prestigious $8,500 fellowship from The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Weis is one of just 48 students nationwide to receive the 2025 Phi Kappa Phi Fellowship.

A native of Omaha, Weis graduated from ��Ƶ in December 2024 with a 4.0 GPA. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in philosophy and religion, and political science. He is currently pursuing a Juris Doctor at Harvard Law School, preparing for a career in legal advocacy.

During his time at ��Ƶ, Weis earned widespread recognition for both academic and athletic excellence. In 2024, he was named a First Team Academic All-American by College Sports Communicators, one of the highest honors in collegiate athletics. As a four-year starter on the Prairie Wolves men’s soccer team, he helped lead ��Ƶ to four consecutive conference tournament appearances and was a two-time First Team All-Conference selection.

Weis’s leadership extended beyond the soccer field. He served as co-chair of the university’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, where he led mental health initiatives and mentored youth in the Lincoln and Omaha communities through local soccer programs.

In addition, Weis received grant funding to study transitional justice in Rwanda. His research included fieldwork at government offices, community centers, genocide memorials and a Reconciliation Village, experiences that deepened his commitment to justice and human rights on a global scale.

Weis is ��Ƶ's 37th Phi Kappa Phi Fellowship recipient. Fellowship winners are selected based on academic excellence, leadership and service, letters of recommendation, and acceptance to an accredited graduate or professional program.

Erin Wirth Wed, 10/08/2025 - 2:18pm

Science meets storytelling: ��Ƶ and Sko Labs launch creative partnership

Erin Wirth — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:21:55 +0000

Science meets storytelling: ��Ƶ and Sko Labs launch creative partnership

By Erin Wirth

��Ƶ is proud to announce a dynamic partnership with Sko Labs, Inc., a nonprofit organization known for its award-winning Professor Sko Science Show, which combines storytelling with science demonstrations to make STEM education accessible and fun.

This collaboration offers resume-building, hands-on experience for students in ��Ƶ’s WISE (Wesleyan Institute for Successful Educators) Honors Program.

“This partnership provides opportunities for WISE students they won’t find anywhere else,” said Brenda Skoczelas, a physics professor and creator of the Professor Sko Science Show. “Students can serve as curriculum writers for the show’s expanding library of educational content, perform in live shows, and work behind the scenes on a nationally recognized program. These experiences give students a competitive edge as they prepare for careers in education.”

The partnership also supports ��Ƶ’s goal to inspire and attract the next generation of education majors.

“Professor Sko will bring national visibility to ��Ƶ’s Education Department by spotlighting our students and faculty,” said Dr. Mark Thompson, assistant professor of secondary education and director of the WISE Program.

As part of this growing collaboration, ��Ƶ will host the Professor Sko’s Let’s Go Make Music live show in March 2026. This science-meets-arts performance targets students in grades 3-7 and is approved by Lincoln Public Schools as a fourth-grade field trip.

“We take a brain-friendly approach to learning that helps kids connect science to things they already love, like music, art, dance, history and especially athletics,” said Skoczelas, a triathlete and former college soccer player.

What sets The Professor Sko Science Show apart is its unique blend of theatrical storytelling and hands-on science. Led by Skoczelas and a cast of original characters, each episode follows an engaging narrative while encouraging at-home experimentation with common household items. The show’s philosophy is simple: science is everywhere, not just in a lab.

“Like many of today’s educators, I grew up on Bill Nye and Steve Spangler,” said Skoczelas. “But Professor Sko is different. We don’t just say, ‘Isn’t that interesting?’ We take kids on adventures. The goal is to make science both accessible and exciting for every learner.”

In addition to the Professor Sko Show, Skoczelas regularly guest lectures in ��Ƶ education courses, sharing her expertise in curriculum design, science education and gender equity in the classroom.

Additionally, WISE students recently worked with Skoczelas to create worksheets to accompany Professor Sko YouTube videos, a project funded by Nebraska EPSCoR.

Erin Wirth Wed, 10/01/2025 - 10:21am

��Ƶ hosts 2025 Visions & Ventures Symposium

Erin Wirth — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 17:26:15 +0000

��Ƶ hosts 2025 Visions & Ventures Symposium

By Eric Wendt

��Ƶ held its annual Visions & Ventures Symposium on September 24. The day featured a full schedule of lectures and events centered on the theme of “Igniting Innovation.”

The symposium kicked off with the Senator Carl T. Curtis (1928) and Mildred M. Curtis Lecture on Public Leadership, delivered by Professor Beth Simone Noveck, director of Northeastern University’s Burnes Center for Social Change.

Her speech, “From Ideas to Impact: Solving Public Problems with AI and Innovation,” focused on how this generation of college graduates will leverage technology to do critical work, “from tackling climate change to advancing literacy to strengthening democracy itself.”

In the Q&A, ��Ƶ students asked questions about artificial intelligence’s trustworthiness. Noveck was frank in response. “You shouldn’t fully trust AI. It’s not your friend.” But it can, she said, be extraordinarily useful in your life’s work.

“The ultimate goal here is to go out with purpose and do work that matters,” she said. “AI is just a footnote in that work—a tool you can use wisely to have greater impact.”

After Noveck’s lecture came an Innovation Expo with events across campus showcasing the interdisciplinary work of current students in psychology, art, theatre, the humanities and more.

The afternoon brought a panel discussion with a trio of local innovators. “Oops! A Celebration of Glorious Failures” examined how career setbacks often trigger changes professionals need to unlock future breakthroughs.

The panel included Paul Jarrett, founder and CEO of Bulu, a brand logistics partner; Alicia Reisinger, founder of Wax Buffalo Pure Soy Candle Co.; and Joshua Berry, director of Econic, an organizational culture consulting group.

They all embraced failures as learning opportunities in their careers, and engrained a willingness to take risks in the teams they lead.

“Now I read ‘fail’ as ‘First Attempt in Learning,’” Jarrett said.

And Reisinger assures her new employees, “You cannot mess up in a part of my business where I haven’t already messed up before you.”

Still, Reisinger cautioned students against romanticizing recklessness. “My darkest failures—the ones that could have cost me my house—they changed the way I think about risk, and not in a good way,” she said. “And it can take a lot of work to get yourself back in a place where you can dream again.

Chance Hergott, a 2025 graduate, emceed the symposium’s capstone event: a student-led effort, “TEDx��Ƶ: A Community of eXcellence,” which featured an evening of rapid talks by five alumni innovators.

Ben Pankonin, founder and CEO of Social Assurance and Class Intercom, explored ways our own imperfections help us to build trust with clients and colleagues.

Art Wilson, founder of Rebel Built Leadership, described his journey from addiction and incarceration to “excellence on the edge of chaos.”

Greg Harris, cofounder of Quantum Workplace, advanced an approach to organizational leadership that values durability because, he said, “Every career is an endurance race.”

Laura Young gave audiences a practical framework for thriving at work and home—not based on a mythical “work-life balance,” but rather on clear decisions about our priorities and clear expressions of what we need.

And Joshua Berry, a leadership consultant and author, spoke about the ways we limit ourselves when we’re reluctant to acknowledge the things we do not know. “Real excellence isn’t about pretending we’re certain,” he said. “It’s about learning faster than a problem evolves.”

Erin Wirth Fri, 09/26/2025 - 12:26pm

��Ƶ welcomes new class with expanded career pathways

Erin Wirth — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:11:40 +0000

��Ƶ welcomes new class with expanded career pathways

By Erin Wirth

��Ƶ officially welcomed 412 new students in August, marking the start of their exciting academic journey.

This year’s incoming class represents a broad regional mix, with 67% of students hailing from Nebraska. Other top states represented include Colorado, Texas, Arizona, Missouri, Kansas and Iowa.

“Students are beginning one of the most exciting times of their life and there’s no better place to do it than at Nebraska Wesleyan,” said President Darrin Good.

The newest Prairie Wolves are arriving at a pivotal moment in ��Ƶ’s continued growth, as the university enhances academic offerings with innovative programs designed to prepare students for success in high-demand career fields.

Through strategic partnerships with other leading Nebraska educational institutions, ��Ƶ now offers accelerated degree pathways that allow students to save time and money while gaining a competitive edge in the workforce:

Law: Through a partnership with the University of Nebraska College of Law, qualified students are granted automatic admission and may begin law school during their senior undergraduate year, earning both a bachelor’s degree and a juris doctor in just six years.
Engineering: In collaboration with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Engineering, students begin their studies at ��Ƶ in physics, chemistry or biochemistry before transferring to UNL to complete engineering coursework, earning dual bachelor’s degrees in as little as five years.
Public Health: ��Ƶ public health majors can pursue a combined bachelor’s and master’s degree in public health in only five years, thanks to a partnership with the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health.

“These partnerships help make college more accessible, affordable and impactful, and help our talented graduates enter the workforce sooner,” said Good.

��Ƶ also has expanded its academic offerings to meet emerging workforce demands, adding the following:

Business analytics major
Cybersecurity major
AI literacy minor
Esports and gaming administration minor

These programs prepare students for in-demand fields and equip them with versatile skills that carry value across a wide range of industries and roles.

Additionally, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program has added five new specializations that are highly sought after by employers:

AI
Business analytics
Cybersecurity
Finance
Healthcare administration

“At ��Ƶ, we’re committed to evolving with the needs of today’s students,” said Ryan Cassell, vice president for enrollment and marketing. “By expanding our academic offerings, we’re preparing students for fulfilling careers and empowering them to leave their own mark on the world.”

The new academic year also brings:

A new era for ��Ƶ’s baseball and softball programs with the opening of state-of-the-art facilities at Championship Village in the Sandhills Global Youth Complex. These fields will support the growth of the programs and serve as a cornerstone for regional youth athletics.
A third-place national ranking for the total number of NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship recipients across all NCAA divisions. These scholarships are awarded to exceptional student-athletes to support their postgraduate studies.
A record number of Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship recipients. This competitive, merit-based program supports study abroad opportunities for students. The seven recent recipients bring ��Ƶ’s total number of recipients to 71. They will study in Argentina, Costa Rica, England, Japan and Spain.
Campus enhancements to improve the student experience, including new turf in Abel Stadium, renovations to the Prairie Point Dining Center, the addition of new outdoor lighting, and upgrades to the sand volleyball courts.

Erin Wirth Tue, 09/23/2025 - 10:11am

Meditation and yoga events for students and employees

Erin Wirth — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 15:08:22 +0000

Meditation and yoga events for students and employees

Meditation and yoga can be powerful tools. These practices offer mental, physical and social benefits, including:

Stress reduction: Both meditation and yoga activate the body’s relaxation response, lowering cortisol levels and anxiety.
Improved focus: Meditation trains attention, helping students concentrate more effectively.
Emotional regulation: Learning to notice thoughts without judgment builds resilience against negative self-talk.
Better sleep: Yoga and breathing practices calm the nervous system, promoting faster sleep onset and deeper rest.
Boosted energy: Mindful movement and breathwork increase oxygen flow, leaving students more awake and refreshed.
Increased self-awareness: Mindfulness fosters reflection, helping students clarify their values and choices.
Reduced burnout: Regular practice encourages balance, preventing overcommitment and exhaustion.
Community connection: Group yoga or meditation creates a sense of belonging and shared support.

Mindfulness Mondays

15-minute guided mindfulness meditations are offered:

Every Monday
12:34 p.m. -and- 5:15 p.m.
In the Contemplative Corner, Library, 2nd Floor
You can also join in on Zoom.

Everyone is welcome — students and employees. No experience is necessary.

��Ƶ Yoga Club Schedule

Updated on October 13

Everyone is welcome — students and employees. No experience is necessary. Please bring a mat if you have one; a limited number of mats will also be available to share.

Wednesday, October 22
Mindful Dance + Yoga @ ��Ƶ Dance Studio, 48th Street
4:00 p.m.
Co-hosted with the ��Ƶ Dance Club
Tuesday, October 28
Commune with Nature Campus Walk @ Smith-Curtis Steps
4:30 p.m.
Co-hosted with the Wesleyan Communication Association
Tuesday, November 10
Hot Yoga @ Lotus
9:00 p.m.
Registration required. (Facebook, Instagram)
Thursday, November 20
Gratitude Yoga @ Library, 3rd Floor
4:30 p.m.
Monday, December 1
Hot Yoga @ Lotus
8:30 p.m.
Registration required. (Facebook, Instagram)
Wednesday, December 10
Study-a-thon Yoga @ Library, 3rd Floor
6:00 p.m.
Monday, December 15
Finals Week Yoga @ Library, 3rd Floor
4:30 p.m.

Erin Wirth Mon, 09/08/2025 - 10:08am

Elder Gallery: Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle Exhibit 2025

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

Elder Gallery: Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle Exhibit 2025

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 News

“Elite” Hudl internship is game changer for ������Ƶ senior

������Ƶ students and faculty transform lives through prison outreach

������Ƶ sociology honor society receives grant to support reentry program

������Ƶ’s first Give to Learn class culminates with emotional grant ceremony

Golden Service Award recognizes employees who stepped up to help Residential Education

������Ƶ tradition returns with Psychology Department's Xtreme Rat Challenge

Student mentorship program "Wolf Tracks" wins Brugman Pitch Contest

Senior Tate Crawford combines humanities with science to plot a future path

Students crack “missing mascot” case in hands-on crime investigation activity

������Ƶ nursing students mark milestone at White Coat Ceremony

Christmas with Wesleyan returns to usher in holiday season

������Ƶ sophomore learns from Nebraska’s 2025 Teacher of the Year

Cooper Center honored for "going to the mat" for students

From grief to growth: Student finds healing and purpose at ������Ƶ

������Ƶ faculty are redefining how to prepare students for the future

From campus to capitol: ������Ƶ students learn to advocate for change

Ford becomes first ������Ƶ student to receive prestigious Phi Kappa Phi award

������Ƶ recognized as a Top Regional University, Best Value and Hidden Gem

Seven ������Ƶ students selected for Capitol Hill Internship Program

Weis awarded prestigious Phi Kappa Phi Fellowship

Science meets storytelling: ������Ƶ and Sko Labs launch creative partnership

������Ƶ hosts 2025 Visions & Ventures Symposium

������Ƶ welcomes new class with expanded career pathways

Meditation and yoga events for students and employees

Mindfulness Mondays

������Ƶ Yoga Club Schedule

Elder Gallery: Dorothy Antoinette LaSelle Exhibit 2025

��Ƶ News

“Elite” Hudl internship is game changer for ��Ƶ senior

��Ƶ students and faculty transform lives through prison outreach

��Ƶ sociology honor society receives grant to support reentry program

��Ƶ’s first Give to Learn class culminates with emotional grant ceremony

��Ƶ tradition returns with Psychology Department's Xtreme Rat Challenge

��Ƶ nursing students mark milestone at White Coat Ceremony

��Ƶ sophomore learns from Nebraska’s 2025 Teacher of the Year

From grief to growth: Student finds healing and purpose at ��Ƶ

��Ƶ faculty are redefining how to prepare students for the future

From campus to capitol: ��Ƶ students learn to advocate for change

Ford becomes first ��Ƶ student to receive prestigious Phi Kappa Phi award

��Ƶ recognized as a Top Regional University, Best Value and Hidden Gem

Seven ��Ƶ students selected for Capitol Hill Internship Program

Science meets storytelling: ��Ƶ and Sko Labs launch creative partnership

��Ƶ hosts 2025 Visions & Ventures Symposium

��Ƶ welcomes new class with expanded career pathways

��Ƶ Yoga Club Schedule