Leadership Transition Announced for General Education and Academic Partnerships

After 10 years of service to the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), Matt Tracy, Ph.D., Senior Director, Academic Affairs, is transitioning into a new chapter that will allow for continued engagement in educational related projects alongside greater flexibility. In this next phase, he plans to pursue part-time opportunities focused on teaching, coaching, and mentoring.

Throughout his time at UNO, Tracy built strong partnerships across campus and contributed to key initiatives in general education reform, dual enrollment, and academic program review. Tracy shares that one of the most meaningful aspects of his time at UNO has been the opportunity to work alongside such a wonderful group of faculty and staff, all deeply committed to serving students and the state of Nebraska.

“Matt’s decade of leadership has been defined by a deep commitment to collaboration, student success, and the strengthening of academic partnerships across the institution,” said Phil He, Ph.D., Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

As Tracy prepares for this transition, the role itself is evolving to align with the university’s current priorities. Beginning in May, Elizabeth Wessling, Ed.D., will assume the role of Director of General Education and Academic Partnerships. The updated position reflects a focused emphasis on general education and strategic academic partnerships on campus and across Nebraska.

Wessling and Tracy will work collaboratively over the summer to support a smooth transition, with Tracy’s final day at UNO scheduled for the end of August. This intentional overlap ensures continuity in leadership while positioning the work for continued progress.

Wessling brings 30 years of comprehensive educational experience across P-12 instruction and post-secondary leadership and teaching, along with a strong connection to UNO as a three-time alumna and longtime faculty leader. Over the past decade, she has served in key instructional and governance roles, including Faculty Senate President, where she contributed to campus-wide academic and curricular initiatives.

Her work has supported priorities such as general education innovation, dual enrollment, and transfer pathways, grounded in a commitment to academic quality and student success. Known for her collaborative and data-informed approach, Wessling brings a comprehensive perspective on the student experience and a demonstrated ability to advance institutional priorities.

“Liz’s extensive experience and campus leadership make her exceptionally well-positioned to guide the next phase of general education and partnership efforts at UNO,” He said. “Her focus on continuity, innovation, and student-centered outcomes will be critical as we move this work forward.”