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College of Arts and Sciences News

Monday, August 25, 2025
  1. UNO
  2. College of Arts and Sciences
  3. CAS News
indextrue1756105207467systemNews RoomMavericks are making news. Follow the latest headlines to learn about our dedication to students, our national recognition for community engagement and Division I athletics, and the opportunities to excel in scholarship and research. Students, faculty, staff and alumni are changing the landscape of our community every day.News from the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Nebraska at OmahaNews Room/news/indexCASsite://CAS/news/indexearenner14110591686843345569417561375415581515391200000
News ReleaseNoThe New Semester GuideNoYesYes1755450000000A resource for all Mavericks enrolled in fall classes./news/_imgs/20240825_mavfest_04.jpgnavigationNosite://www/news/_imgs/20240825_mavfest_04.jpgwww20240825_mavfest_04.jpg2767261200800students attend MavFest on the Dodge Campus///YouTube

Welcome to the Fall 2025 semester, Mavericks!

Here's a quick reminder of all the opportunities that are available to you on campus, online, and in our community. If you're moving into housing on campus, check out our Maverick Move-In Guide. 

Don't forget to get your parking permit before classes start!

Have a question? Call the UNO MavIGATION Station at 402.554.2800.

Navigate this guide:

  • Five Things to Remember
  • Durango Days and Discover With Durango
  • Get Involved On Campus
  • Taking Care of Yourself and Others
  • Dining Dollars Program
  • Tools and Tech
  • Quick Links

Five Things to Remember

  1. Ask for help if you need it: Don't be afraid to reach out to your instructor or your advisor about questions or concerns you may have about your course. Your instructor's contact information will be provided in your course syllabus. You can find your advisor on the Academic Advising site, or schedule an appointment with your advisor on MavCONNECT. Campus mental health resources are also available to all Mavericks.

  2. Get your textbooks and any supplies: Textbooks are available for purchase or rental from the the Maverick Store (formerly the UNO Bookstore), in-person or online. Computer equipment is available for checkout from the UNO Help Desk. Make sure to check MavLINK and your course syllabus for a complete listing of what you'll need for your course.

  3. Check Canvas early and often: Log in to Canvas daily, starting with the first day of classes or before if the course content is available. Use the syllabus to help plan ahead and pace yourself to complete your session(s). Attendance and participation will be critical to your success as there are limited class meetings in any modality. You can also use the calendar in Canvas, the one included in your email, or any other planner to stay on track and get ahead during the session.

  4. Check your UNO email regularly: Official communciations from the university will be sent to your UNO email rather than your personal email. Be sure to check it often so you don't miss important information. If you're having issues logging in, check out this article.

  5. Read The Bullseye: Each Sunday, and on occassional special bonus days, UNO students will receive The Bullseye — a newsletter full of fun events, opportunities, and need to know info. If you aren't receiving it and want to, you can sign up.


Durango Days and Discover With Durango

Durango Days is UNO's official welcome week! This semester, the fun starts on Aug. 23 and runs through Aug. 31.

Discover With Durango provides free or low-cost opportunities for Mavericks to experience hidden gems in the Omaha area. You don't want to miss Saturday Movies in Turner Park, the bus trip to the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island, Opera Outdoors, Fat Putter Night, The Kiewit Luminarium, and Zoolightful Holiday Lights at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. 


Get Involved on Campus

Show off your Maverick Spirit through one or more of these exciting engagement opportunities on and off campus:

  • MavSYNC: UNO’s student involvement portal. Explore ways to get involved with UNO clubs and organizations or see what upcoming student-focused events your fellow students are organizing!

  • UNO Events Calendar: Want to know what’s happening across campus? Use the UNO Events Calendar to explore events by type, date, and location and then add them to your own personalized calendar so you can set reminders for yourself.

  • Give Back: Our campus works hand-in-hand with dozens of city organizations and nonprofits in need of volunteers and interns. Explore your options for how UNO can help you get involved in your community and help give back.

  • Student Leadership and Involvement (SLI): Not sure what your options are? There's no better place to start than SLI, located on the main floor of the Milo Bail Student Center. Stop by and say hello!

Taking Care of Yourself and Others

We take the health and wellness of our campus community seriously. We encourage all Mavericks to "Connect. Take Care. Get Help" when they need support.

Physical Wellness

  • Nebraska Medicine UNO Health Center: In-person and virtual consultations for a variety of services including physical exams, immunizations, pregnancy testing, STD management, and more. Students not enrolled in on-campus credits for the current semester may still use health center services, but all care will be billed to insurance or paid out-of-pocket after a 35% self-pay discount. To schedule an appointment, call 402.554.2374. 

  • Vaccination Records: If you are a new, transfer, or international student, please make sure to review UNO’s immunization record requirements.

  • Campus Recreation: With world-class facilities, staff, and programming, UNO offers a variety of ways to stay physically active and engaged. If you're taking in-person classes, you have access to the facility through your UPF fees. If you're taking online-only classes, you will need to purchase a membership or guest pass. Faculty and Staff have numerous membership options.

Emotional Wellness

Staying emotionally well is just as important as our physical wellness. Don’t hesitate to reach out to these resources if you need support:

  • Counseling and Psychological Services Office (CAPS): CAPS services, including confidential access to licensed counselors, are available in person and online for all enrolled students. Appointments can be made by calling 402.554.2409.

  • UNO Recovery Community: The UNO Recovery Community offers a common, safe space for students in recovery from addiction to socialize, support each other, and build academic success.

  • Campus Support Groups: It’s okay to not be okay and we’re here to listen. UNO has a variety of general and specialized support groups available for our student body. Remember: You are not alone. You are welcome here.

Dining Dollars Program

Enjoy the convenience of Dining Dollars — a meal program for both on and off-campus students! Use your MavCARD to enjoy meals and snacks at any dining location on both Dodge and Scott Campuses.


Tools and Tech

We've got you've covered with helpful tips about the most common tools you'll use in your classes. Confused about which tool to use? Below are the most common student tasks and the tech tool(s) to help you complete the task. Reach out to the MavTECH Help Center with any software or computer questions you have. Explore the UNO Online Learning site for additional resources and information.

What are you trying to do?

Tool to Use

Description

Support

Communicate with Instructors

UNO Email/Canvas Inbox

Canvas Announcements

Use your UNO email/Canvas inbox to communicate with your instructors, and check Announcements in Canvas for important course updates.

UNO Email

Canvas

Attend Synchronous
Video Lectures or Office Hours

Zoom

Your instructor may use Zoom for live course meetings, weekly office hours, or recorded class sessions.

Zoom

Recording Online
Presentations/
Screen Sharing

YuJa

Zoom

YuJa or Zoom can be used to record yourself and your screen (audio and video) for presentations, video responses in discussion boards, or group projects.

Zoom is best for recording synchronous discussions with groups; YuJa is best for recording your screen or yourself for later annotations or editing.

YuJa

Zoom

File Sharing

OneDrive

Canvas

Use OneDrive or Canvas to share files with your instructor or classmates.

OneDrive

Canvas

Collaborate with Group Members

Zoom

OneDrive

Set up a video or audio call using Zoom and share files with each other using OneDrive.

Zoom

OneDrive

Upload Assignments and Check Grades

Canvas

MavLINK

For most courses, you'll use Canvas to upload assignments and check your grades. For final/official grades, you'll want to check MavLINK.

Canvas

MavLINK

Quizzes and Exams

Canvas

Respondus

You'll access most quizzes/exams through Canvas. Some instructors will require you to use the Respondus lockdown browser for online proctoring. Use the Respondus support link to check if your hardware is compatible before testing begins.

Canvas

Respondus


Quick Links

  • Academic Advising
  • Academic Advising for Students and Scholars on F and J Visas
  • Accessibility Services Center
  • Cashiering and Student Accounts
  • Computer Science Learning Center
  • Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
  • Criss Library
  • Dodge Campus Dining Options
  • Dodge Dining Dollars
  • Financial Support and Scholarships
  • Graduate Studies
  • Honors Program
  • Housing and Residence Life
  • ITS Services
  • Math and Science Learning Center
  • MavCARD Services
  • Maverick Advising Center
  • Maverick Food Pantry
  • MavTECH Help Center
  • Military-Connected Resource Center
  • Nebraska Medicine – UNO Health Center
  • Office of Research and Creative Activity
  • Parking and Transit Services
  • Scott Campus Dining Options
  • Service Learning Academy
  • Speech Center
  • Spirit, Tradition, and Signature Events
  • Student Leadership, Involvement, and Inclusion (SLII)
  • Testing Center
  • The Maverick Store (formerly the UNO Bookstore)
  • University Registrar
  • Victim and Survivor Advocates
  • Writing Center
Left/
Academic Calendar/https://www.unomaha.edu/registrar/academic-calendar.php/Events Calendar/https://events.unomaha.edu//MavCONNECT/https://www.unomaha.edu/enterprise-systems/mavconnect/index.php/The Maverick Store (formerly the UNO Bookstore)/https://www.unobookstore.com//
Stay Connected to UNO

We're here to support you throughout the semester. For helpful resources and the latest news and events information, keep an eye out for the Bullseye hitting your inbox every Sunday evening and follow UNO's official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube.

/No
/news/new-semester-guidedepartmentphoneemailunonews@unomaha.educategoryCurrent Studentslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://www/news/new-semester-guidewwwnew-semester-guideThe New Semester GuideThe New Semester GuideA resource for all Mavericks enrolled in fall classes.Office of Strategic Marketing and CommunicationsA resource for all Mavericks enrolled in fall classes.Aug 17, 2025 12:00 PM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1756098000000Meet Betty, Gene and Kathy — three Passport students taking courses within the College of Arts and Sciences. /news/2025/08/img/uno-cas-passport.pngnavigationYessite://CAS/news/2025/08/img/uno-cas-passport.pngCASuno-cas-passport.png18581631200800From left to right: Betty Chin, Gene and Kathy Schwarting.Three students sit together and smile in a classroom. ///YouTube

For some Omahans, learning is a lifelong pursuit. This curious crew can be found, notebooks in hand, in classrooms and lecture halls across the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s campus. Unlike many of their classmates, they’re not pursuing any degrees or certifications — they’re taking notes and engaging in discussions as part of UNO’s Senior Passport Program.  

With the Passport Program, learners aged 65+ can sit in on two undergraduate courses at UNO each semester – turning a typical classroom into an intergenerational example of the power of education and impact of community conversations.  

Kathy and Dr. Gene Schwarting have taken Passport courses since 2014. After retiring from careers in education, the pair gravitated towards Passport for the opportunity to engage in new ideas and hear perspectives unlike their own. Over the past ten years, they’ve dived into topics like world religions, women’s literature, and Nebraska history through the program. For them, it’s not always just about the topic – but about the learning space they’re sharing with other students.  

“I really want to hear the opinions and the viewpoints of other generations other than my own,” Kathy said.  

In their Spring 2025 medical humanities class, Kathy and Gene were also joined by another Passport student: Betty Chin. Betty sees her Passport courses as a beneficial bonus for her brain — a way to keep her mind sharp, and new ideas flowing.  

“I want to keep the brain stimulated and I always want to learn,” Betty said. “I want to learn what's going on in the world.” 

The trio share the same core curiosity that keeps them engaged in the Passport program. As Betty, Kathy, and Gene gather among their peers in their classrooms across campus, the interactions they share with undergraduate students appear like any other between two classmates.   

"I've been really pleased with how the students have accepted us — we’re older than their grandparents are, probably,” Gene said. “And yet they seem to accept that we're there and participate with us.”  

And it’s not only the students who enjoy getting to know their Passport counterparts – it's the professors, too.

“We usually end up getting a comment at some point in the semester that they're really happy that I said I enjoyed the student’s perspective,” Kathy said. “But then the instructors will say to us that they enjoy our perspective too.” 

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/news/2025/08/uno-passport-casdepartmentphoneemailcategoryCollege of Arts and Scienceslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CAS/news/2025/08/uno-passport-casCASuno-passport-cas[Article Heading]UNO Passport Program Connects Lifelong Learners to the Classroom Meet Betty, Gene and Kathy — three Passport students taking courses within the College of Arts and Sciences. Annie AlbinMeet Betty, Gene and Kathy — three Passport students taking courses within the College of Arts and Sciences. Aug 25, 2025 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1756098000000Psychology faculty member John W. Tiner, Ph.D., has developed a theory of counseling: Behavioral Economics Systems Theory./news/2025/08/img/uno-ash.pngnavigationYessite://CAS/news/2025/08/img/uno-ash.pngCASuno-ash.png18792701200800Arts & Sciences Hall.Arts & Sciences Hall is a brown brick building with a white tower in the middle of it. ///YouTube

📚️ New @ UNO: Psychology faculty member John W. Tiner, Ph.D., has developed a theory of counseling: Behavioral Economics Systems Theory. The theory combines concepts from economics on decision making with principles of sound counseling dynamics. 

 

🧠 Breaking It Down: Tiner says, “The theory uses the economic concept of the dimensions of decision making — do benefits equal or exceed the cost? Do I want it? Can I afford it? And even if I can afford it, is it worth the price?” 

 

🏔️ Theories Taking Flight: His work has taken him to the Rocky Mountain Psychology Conference, where he facilitated a workshop with counselors and counseling psychologists on Behavioral Economic Systems Theory for Counseling.  

 

💡 Why It Matters: Tiner teaches courses on Psychology and Economics at UNO — and is using his expertise on theories and concepts in the field to engage students and enrich their academic experience.  


 

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/news/2025/08/tiner-systems-theorydepartmentphoneemailcategoryCollege of Arts and Scienceslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CAS/news/2025/08/tiner-systems-theoryCAStiner-systems-theory[Article Heading]New @ UNO: John W. Tiner, Ph.D., and the Behavioral Economics Systems TheoryPsychology faculty member John W. Tiner, Ph.D., has developed a theory of counseling: Behavioral Economics Systems Theory.Annie AlbinPsychology faculty member John W. Tiner, Ph.D., has developed a theory of counseling: Behavioral Economics Systems Theory.Aug 25, 2025 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1752814800000UNO Student Court Chief Justice Jannette Castro-Gomez exemplifies how undergraduate leadership and experience can inform professional goals. /news/2025/07/img/web-jannette.pngnavigationYessite://CAS/news/2025/07/img/web-jannette.pngCASweb-jannette.png11415751200800Jannette Castro-Gomez stands in Milo Bail Student Center.Jannette Castro-Gomez wears a black judge's robe.///YouTube

Courtroom experience as an undergraduate student can be hard to find – luckily, one University of Nebraska at Omaha student found a unique way to prepare for her legal pursuits. 

As Chief Justice of the UNO Student Court, Jannette Castro-Gomez oversees the rules and regulations of the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s student government body. From quick emails explaining bylaw interpretations to hours-long hearings and judgements, the role has allowed Castro-Gomez to strengthen her skills when it comes to analyzing and interpreting bylaws and policies.  

“It’s taught me a great deal,” Castro-Gomez said, “Because law is also very impartial.” 

Castro-Gomez's student court experiences are just one portion of her prosecutorial pursuits. As a double major in Criminology/Criminal Justice and Latino/Latin American Studies, she found that her studies helped her better understand the intersection of law, criminal justice, and her own Latino community. Additionally, she is one of thirty students from across the country selected for LEDA Legal, an intensive LSAT and law school preparation program.  

While Castro-Gomez found a career path that excites and encourages her, it wasn’t always an easy journey. As a first-generation student, she felt what she described as “first gen guilt” when it came to picking her major. After entering UNO as a neuroscience major, she realized that even though she enjoyed her courses, she wasn’t entirely happy. With the support of the Goodrich Scholars Program, she felt empowered to change her major. 

Changing majors meant stepping into uncertainty — but ultimately, it helped her find her purpose.  

“It's probably the best thing that I could have ever done for myself,” said Castro-Gomez.  

/
///No
/news/2025/07/chief-justice-role-provides-legal-foundationdepartmentCollege of Arts and SciencesphoneemailcategoryCollege of Arts and Scienceslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CAS/news/2025/07/chief-justice-role-provides-legal-foundationCASchief-justice-role-provides-legal-foundation[Article Heading]Chief Justice Role Provides UNO Student with Foundation for Legal Education UNO Student Court Chief Justice Jannette Castro-Gomez exemplifies how undergraduate leadership and experience can inform professional goals. Annie AlbinUNO Student Court Chief Justice Jannette Castro-Gomez exemplifies how undergraduate leadership and experience can inform professional goals. Jul 18, 2025 12:00 AM
News
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1746641700000From smarter storage systems to fall prevention tech, UNO early-career researchers are tackling today’s toughest challenges and earning statewide recognition./_shared/images/1200x800/buildings/ash/20240606_campus-sunrise-light_57.jpgnavigationNosite://www/_shared/images/1200x800/buildings/ash/20240606_campus-sunrise-light_57.jpgwww20240606_campus-sunrise-light_57.jpg2147191200800The Arts and Sciences Hall at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO). Photo: Ryan Soderlin, UNO Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications.The Arts and Sciences Hall at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO). ///YouTube

A group of rising research stars at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) just secured a prestigious award that puts their early-stage projects on the fast track to national recognition.


➡️ What’s new: Four UNO faculty members have been named recipients of Nebraska's Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) 2024 FIRST Awards, a competitive program that supports early-career researchers across the state. Each award includes seed funding to accelerate research and strengthen future proposals for major federal grants.


💡 Why it matters:

  • Supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), Nebraska EPSCoR’s FIRST Awards aim to help early-career researchers in Nebraska’s higher education institutions develop nationally competitive research agendas.

  • Many past recipients have gone on to secure prestigious NSF CAREER Awards or other major federal research grants.

  • Four of the six 2024 recipients are UNO faculty.


🔎 Zoom in: UNO’s 2024 FIRST Award recipients represent four distinct academic disciplines, each tackling urgent challenges:

  • Madhur Mangalam, Ph.D., Department of Biomechanics | Mangalam’s research explores how long-latency postural reflexes (LLRs) are affected by balance training in older adults using wobble boards. His work applies advanced data modeling to improve fall prevention strategies and support safer aging. (Project: Investigating the impact of wobble board exercises on long-latency postural reflexes in older adults)

  • Yury Salkovskiy, Ph.D., Department of Biomechanics | Salkovskiy is developing a novel, scalable electrospinning technique to produce elastic and durable biopolymer textiles, offering potential breakthroughs in medical devices, wound care, and wearable protection. (Project: High-Speed Manufacturing of Biopolymer Textiles Made of Intertwined Nanofibers)

  • Joe (Xinqiu) Yao, Ph.D., Department of Chemistry | Yao is using high-performance molecular dynamics simulations to examine how cells transmit signals at the molecular level. His findings could shape future advances in precision medicine and drug development. (Project: Elucidating the Atomistic Mechanism of GPCR-Mediated Arrestin Activation)

  • Xiaoqian (Tiffany) Zhang, Ph.D., Department of Computer Science | Zhang is designing intelligent, congestion-aware network infrastructure for next-generation storage systems. Her research enhances the speed and efficiency of data centers powering everything from cloud computing to enterprise tech. (Project: Auto-zoning Configuration and Adjustment for Disaggregated Storage Systems)


🎤 What they’re saying:

  • Phil He, Ph.D., Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs: “Our faculty continue to lead with purpose, advancing research that delivers real-world impact. These projects not only align with UNO’s mission to challenges that affect communities here in Nebraska and across the country. We thank these researchers for their commitment to innovation, and for turning ideas into action that benefits society at large.”

  • Sara Myers, Ph.D., Associate Vice Chancellor for Research and Creative Activity: “FIRST Awards do more than fund individual projects. They ignite ripple effects across our entire research ecosystem. These early investments help faculty build momentum, attract competitive national funding, and raise UNO’s profile as a hub for discovery that matters. We’re incredibly proud of this year’s recipients and excited to see how their work shapes the future of science, technology, and innovation.”


🌎 The big picture: The awards reflect UNO’s strategic commitment to pragmatic research, hands-on student learning, and community-engaged innovation. Each project integrates student mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration, aligning with the university’s mission to transform lives through research that matters.


🧑‍💻 Read more: Kwangsung Oh, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Department of Computer Science, is UNO’s most recent NSF CAREER award recipient.

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/news/2025/05/four-uno-faculty-earn-nebraska-epscor-first-awardsdepartmentOffice of Strategic Marketing and Communicationsphoneemailunonews@unomaha.educategoryAwardsResearchOffice of Research and Creative Activitieslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://www/news/2025/05/four-uno-faculty-earn-nebraska-epscor-first-awardswwwfour-uno-faculty-earn-nebraska-epscor-first-awards4 UNO Faculty Earn Nebraska EPSCoR FIRST Awards4 UNO Faculty Earn Nebraska EPSCoR FIRST AwardsFrom smarter storage systems to fall prevention tech, UNO early-career researchers are tackling today’s toughest challenges and earning statewide recognition.Sam PeshekFrom smarter storage systems to fall prevention tech, UNO early-career researchers are tackling today’s toughest challenges and earning statewide recognition.May 7, 2025 1:15 PM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1747717200000The Conversation features UNO’s Jonathan Santo on the complexities of defining adulthood./news/2025/05/img/shutterstock_2111293559.jpgnavigationNosite://www/news/2025/05/img/shutterstock_2111293559.jpgwwwshutterstock_2111293559.jpg1550221200800Photo: Shutterstock. Multicultural group of young friends bonding outdoors and having fun.///YouTube

Maybe there was a defining moment that made you feel like you had become an adult, or a certain age that your culture considers someone to have become an adult.  

Jonathan Santo, Ph.D., expert and professor in psychology at UNO, was featured in The Conversation, offering insights into the complexities of the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Santo emphasized that adulthood cannot be defined by a single factor, but rather by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors that vary for everyone. 

💡 Why it matters: Santo’s analysis highlights that while legal definitions of adulthood may be clear, the actual transition is nuanced, with different milestones and experiences influencing when an individual can be considered an adult. 

📸 The big picture: Santo’s insights contribute to ongoing discussions about age-related milestones, helping to shape how society understands and supports young people as they navigate this important developmental stage. 

For more on Santo’s perspective on adulthood, read the full article on The Conversation. 

Read the full article on The Conversation 

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/news/2025/05/jonathan-santo-complex-transition-from-adolescence-to-adulthooddepartmentphoneemailunonews@unomaha.educategoryMediaFacultyAlumniStaffCollege of Arts and SciencesParents and FamiliesGeneral PublicCurrent StudentsProspective Studentslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://www/news/2025/05/jonathan-santo-complex-transition-from-adolescence-to-adulthoodwwwjonathan-santo-complex-transition-from-adolescence-to-adulthoodStandard Page - wwwUNO’s Jonathan Santo Explores the Complex Transition from Adolescence to AdulthoodThe Conversation features UNO’s Jonathan Santo on the complexities of defining adulthood.Office of Strategic Marketing Communications The Conversation features UNO’s Jonathan Santo on the complexities of defining adulthood.May 20, 2025 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1747717200000KETV, Nebraska Examiner, and Yahoo! News feature UNO’s Randy Adkins on the 2025 Omaha mayoral race./news/2025/05/img/shutterstock_2533198433.jpgnavigationNosite://www/news/2025/05/img/shutterstock_2533198433.jpgwwwshutterstock_2533198433.jpg1558281200800Photo: Shutterstock. Diverse people in line to vote at US election day. ///YouTube

Randy Adkins, Ph.D., political science expert and professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), provided valuable insights to KETV on the 2025 Omaha mayoral race, noting that the intensified campaigning signaled a highly competitive contest.  

Adkins observed that while the race traditionally focused on local issues, it had shifted toward national politics in its final weeks, adding complexity to the election dynamics. 

💡 Why it matters: Adkins’ analysis of John Ewing Jr.’s historic election as Omaha’s first Black and first Democratic mayor in over a decade, shared by the Nebraska Examiner, the Daily Nonpareil, and Yahoo! News, highlighted the political significance of Ewing's double-digit victory. Adkins pointed out that this marked a significant political shift in Omaha, with broader implications for the 2nd Congressional District and Nebraska state politics. 

📸 The big picture: Adkins emphasized how urban voting trends, particularly in Omaha, could increasingly influence Nebraska’s political landscape. His expert commentary helps frame the larger political changes occurring in the state and the nation. 

For more on how the mayoral race and Ewing’s victory are reshaping Nebraska politics, read the full articles on KETV, the Nebraska Examiner, the Daily Nonpareil, and Yahoo! News. 

Read the full article on KETV 
Read the full article on the Nebraska Examiner 
Read the full article on the Daily Nonpareil 
Read the full article on Yahoo! News 

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/news/2025/05/unos-randy-adkins-analyzes-omaha-mayoral-race-and-historic-election-outcomedepartmentphoneemailunonews@unomaha.educategoryFacultyCollege of Arts and SciencesResearchGeneral PublicAlumniProspective StudentsStaffCurrent StudentsMediaParents and Familieslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://www/news/2025/05/unos-randy-adkins-analyzes-omaha-mayoral-race-and-historic-election-outcomewwwunos-randy-adkins-analyzes-omaha-mayoral-race-and-historic-election-outcomeStandard Page - wwwUNO’s Randy Adkins Analyzes Omaha Mayoral Race and Historic Election OutcomeKETV, Nebraska Examiner, and Yahoo! News feature UNO’s Randy Adkins on the 2025 Omaha mayoral race.Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications KETV, Nebraska Examiner, and Yahoo! News feature UNO’s Randy Adkins on the 2025 Omaha mayoral race.May 20, 2025 12:00 AM
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/http:///http:///////Media Mentions/https://blog.nwf.org/2024/04/wild-kingdom-grant-awardees//https://kvno.org/art-news/ollas-celebrates-latin-artists//https://www.wunc.org/health/2024-10-04/comic-extreme-heat-bodies-health?utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--yWZfIYD5uEBvHVwk9an9EMd05def4b8_msyXWdycGdcoHBMFjW1qTLJQDEo7OEE6Sch56/news/cas-media-mentionsnavigationYessite://CAS/news/cas-media-mentionsCAScas-media-mentionsArts and Sciences Media MentionsSee more Media MentionsCollege of Arts and Sciences Mavericks are thought leaders, innovators, and news-makers. We'll be updating this page weekly with media stories featuring Arts and Sciences faculty, staff, and students.College of Arts and Sciences Mavericks are thought leaders, innovators, and news-makers. We'll be updating this page weekly with media stories featuring Arts and Sciences faculty, staff, and students.http://Stay Connected/https://www.facebook.com/unocas//https://twitter.com/UNOmahaCAS//http://
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1731477600000The four projects were selected alongside 10 other proposals. Altogether, the funded applications will receive a combined total of $1.5 million in awards. This is made possible by the generous support of the Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund. /_files/images/weitz-cas-awards.pngnavigationYessite://CAS/_files/images/weitz-cas-awards.pngCASweitz-cas-awards.png2813481200800Arts and Sciences HallArts and Sciences Hall is framed behind golden fall leaves. ///YouTube

Four University of Nebraska Omaha College of Arts and Sciences faculty have been named Principal Investigators (PIs) for a new series of grants provided by the Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund.  

These projects were selected based on their innovative and creative nature, as well as their alignment with UNO’s core pillars. Out of 45 applicants, 14 projects were selected in this first round of funding.  

Learn more about the exciting projects driven by Arts and Sciences faculty below!   


Change for Engagement Capacity Building

PI: Cecilia Tocaimaza-Hatch, Ph.D.

Faculty Member Department: World Languages and Literature

The Change Lab for Engagement Capacity Building will empower the campus community to promote and undertake organizational change efforts that align with the shared university mission and identity. Through campus Engagement Advocates, the Change Lab’s resource center and innovation incubator will serve as a hub for Change Advocates and lab leaders to work in partnership with academic units, committees, and campus offices to co-create solutions.

The lab is seeking faculty and staff interested in being leaders for change. In their role as Engagement Advocates, they will work in partnership with the university community to promote and undertake organizational change efforts rooted in collaborative inquiry, shared purpose, and co-creation of solutions.

Apply to be an Engagement Advocate by Dec. 10!


Civic Leadership Fellows Learning Community 

PI: Randy Adkins, Ph.D. 

Faculty Member Department: Dean’s Office, Political Science 

The Civic Leadership Fellows Learning Community will establish a three-year, high-impact program designed for undergraduate students with an expressed interest in civic leadership. As Civic Leadership Scholars, students will partake in extracurricular events and activities designed to strengthen their capabilities in public service, community engagement, and global leadership.  


The North Omaha Initiative 

PI: Cynthia Robinson, Ph.D. 

Faculty Member Department: Black Studies 

The North Omaha Initiative connects Omahans to educational opportunities via University of Nebraska Omaha courses taught in community spaces. By bringing classes directly to the community, the initiative aims to decrease barriers to education, increase enrollment, and provide community engagement that uplifts social and economic mobilities of underrepresented populations while also benefiting local workforce development.  


Destination Omaha: Spatial Immersion Project 

PI: Christina Dando, Ph.D. 

Faculty Member Department: Geography & Geology 

Destination Omaha: Spatial Immersion Project will bring together local tech professionals and UNO and high school students to develop immersive projects using data from the Omaha Spatial Justice Project. Through this project, participants will explore historical Omaha neighborhoods and uncover the deeper history of the city’s cultural heritage and history.  


 

/
///No
/news/2024/11/weitz-cas-awarddepartmentCollege of Arts and SciencesphoneemailcategoryCollege of Arts and Scienceslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CAS/news/2024/11/weitz-cas-awardCASweitz-cas-award[Article Heading]Four College of Arts and Sciences Faculty Receive Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund Awards The four projects were selected alongside 10 other proposals. Altogether, the funded applications will receive a combined total of $1.5 million in awards. This is made possible by the generous support of the Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund. college of arts and sciencesAnnie AlbinFour College of Arts and Sciences faculty members received a Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund award. The four projects were selected alongside 10 other proposals. Altogether, the funded applications will receive a combined total of $1.5 million in awards. This is made possible by the generous support of the Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund. Nov 13, 2024 12:00 AM
News ReleaseYesNoYesYes1729746000000Research supported by a Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom grant will conserve bats and help protect Nebraska agriculture.//news/2024/10/img/20240614_bat-research_03.jpgnavigationNosite://www/news/2024/10/img/20240614_bat-research_03.jpgwww20240614_bat-research_03.jpg1538631200800UNO Researcher Han Li, Ph.D., and his Graduate Assistant, Evan Wigley, prepare for a long night of catching and studying bats. UNO Researcher Han Li, Ph.D., and his Graduate Assistant, Evan Wigley, prepare for a long night of catching and studying bats. /news/2024/10/img/20240614_bat-research_04.jpgnavigationNosite://www/news/2024/10/img/20240614_bat-research_04.jpgwww20240614_bat-research_04.jpg3249301200800A live bat is seen being held by Li as he prepares to collect specimens from the animal. A live bat is seen being held by Li as he prepares to collect specimens from the animal. /news/2024/10/img/20240726_bats_05.jpgnavigationNosite://www/news/2024/10/img/20240726_bats_05.jpgwww20240726_bats_05.jpg11522801200800Li and Wigley enter a densley packed field to collect bat detectors that have been placed at the top of flagpoles.Li and Wigley enter a densley packed field to collect bat detectors that have been placed at the top of flagpoles./news/2024/10/img/202408123_insects_identification_003.jpgnavigationNosite://www/news/2024/10/img/202408123_insects_identification_003.jpgwww202408123_insects_identification_003.jpg1548591200800Wigley studies specimens under a microscope in Dr. Li's lab. Wigley studies specimens under a microscope in Dr. Li's lab. /news/2024/10/img/20240724_bats_04.jpgnavigationNosite://www/news/2024/10/img/20240724_bats_04.jpgwww20240724_bats_04.jpg7520061200800Dr. Li and Wigley spend hours in the dense, green, Nebraska fields discussing their research. Dr. Li and Wigley spend hours in the dense, green, Nebraska fields discussing their research. YouTube

Highlights:  

  • Bats play pivotal roles in ecosystems by regulating insect populations and pollinating plants, making their conservation crucial for Nebraska agriculture. 

  • Biology assistant professor Han Li, Ph.D., and graduate assistant Evan Wigley received Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom grant, marking a significant milestone for their urban bat conservation research.  

  • Their findings hold the potential to inform policy decisions and conservation strategies nationwide, offering practical insights into bringing together urban development and wildlife preservation. 



It’s after midnight in the heavily wooded area of the Glacier Creek Preserve just outside of Omaha, Nebraska. Han Li, Ph.D., is working diligently with the aid of his headlamp and the last bit of daylight to set up a net that is invisible to the human eye. Li waits patiently, sometimes until the early hours of the morning, waiting for one thing: bats.  

The next day, Li’s graduate assistant, Evan Wigley, will return to the field when the grass is still damp with the early morning dew to collect data and maintain the team’s equipment.  

Li, an assistant professor of biology at UNO, has been studying bats for nearly a decade. 

He has always been interested in the effects of urbanization on wildlife, but found himself particularly drawn to bats because of their nocturnal nature. Li stated that pursuing this research aligned best with his lifestyle, joking that he himself is nocturnal.  

Li and Wigley's current research delves into the complexities of urban bat conservation in Nebraska's evolving landscape.  

Bats play pivotal roles in ecosystems by regulating insect populations and pollinating plants, making their conservation crucial. Employing innovative methodologies, their study explores bat behavior, habitat preferences, and population dynamics amidst urban challenges. 

"The reason bats are crucial, especially in the Midwest, is due to our strong agricultural industry. In agriculture, pests pose significant threats, and North American bats, being largely insectivorous, play a vital role in controlling these pests,” said Li. “This is particularly important for our region.” 

Li added that bats serve as pollinators for many essential plants, such as agave used in tequila production, and traditional crops like bananas and cacao. He noted their role in pollination is “indispensable across various agricultural sectors." 

Li and Wigley began their first field season together during the summer of 2023 with the goal of their research being to promote bat conservation in Nebraska. Wigley, currently pursuing a master’s degree in biology at UNO, brings both enthusiasm and technical expertise to their collaborative effort.  

Each week, Wigley visits the field sites, where he collects bat detectors that have been placed at the top of flagpoles. Once Wigley reaches the top of the poles, he gathers the recordings located inside of the devices, replaces them with new ones, and replaces the batteries. These detectors collect audio that can be used by the researchers to determine what species of bats have been in the area.  



For Wigley, the opportunity to work alongside Li represents more than academic pursuit. It’s a chance to contribute firsthand to groundbreaking research that aims to shape conservation practices in urban settings. 

"I think the skills and experiences I've had at UNO so far will really help me in my future career. I've learned a lot of technical skills, working in both lab and field settings. Being in the field has given me valuable hands-on experience—planning ahead, making sure all equipment is ready,” said Wigley. “It's about being prepared. Networking and effectively communicating with people, explaining my research to those less familiar with it, have also been crucial skills I've developed." 

This summer, after a rigorous application process, Li and Wigley received Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Grant, which aims to support university efforts to carry out research, restore habitats, and promote conservation education for threatened and endangered species in their communities. UNO was one of seven universities awarded the grant and the only recipient in Nebraska.  

Securing support from Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom Grant Program marks a significant milestone for Li and Wigley's research endeavors. This collaboration, backed by the National Wildlife Federation, not only funds critical studies but also amplifies UNO's impact in wildlife conservation. 

“Through this grant, we can generate stronger evidence for grassland restoration. It's a perfect opportunity for comparison-based, experiment-based research. However, after the acceptance, the real work begins. It's about making sure we do the best job we can for any scientific research,” said Li. “Now that we have the funding, we need to ensure we use it effectively to generate the most impact. We have to start thinking about where to sample, how to find new sites, and what adjustments to make based on previous data. It's all about improving the research, planning the project, and managing every aspect of it.” 

Li and Wigley's research extends beyond academic curiosity. Their findings hold the potential to inform policy decisions and conservation strategies nationwide, offering practical insights into bringing together urban development and wildlife preservation. 

Looking ahead, their team envisions implementing sustainable practices that foster resilient urban ecosystems, setting an example for including conservation in city planning. 

"The principles we generate from the knowledge we have can be applied everywhere,” said Li. “We also hope to provide strong evidence to support conservation tools. In simple terms, we aim to offer the best tools available for bat conservation—tools backed by science and actual evidence demonstrating their effectiveness. Everything my lab is doing and everything in my research program has the end goal of providing evidence to support any tools we develop for bat conservation.”  

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///Yes
/news/2024/10/uno-researchers-protect-the-role-bats-play-in-nebraskas-ecosystemdepartmentOffice of Strategic Marketing and Communications phoneemailunonews@unomaha.educategoryCommunity EngagementResearchCollege of Arts and SciencesOffice of Research and Creative Activitieslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://www/news/2024/10/uno-researchers-protect-the-role-bats-play-in-nebraskas-ecosystemwwwuno-researchers-protect-the-role-bats-play-in-nebraskas-ecosystemStandard Page - wwwUNO Researchers Protect the Role Bats Play in Nebraska’s Ecosystem Research supported by a Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom grant will conserve bats and help protect Nebraska agriculture.Bella Lockwood-WatsonResearch supported by a Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom grant will conserve bats and help protect Nebraska agriculture.Oct 24, 2024 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYesErika Lewis made the most of her UNO education by getting two master’s degrees and securing a prestigious James Madison Fellowship. Now, she’s taking her knowledge right back to the classroom, where she inspires the next generation of civic leaders at Papillion La Vista South High School. /news/2024/11/img/erika-lewis-james-madison-fellowship.pngnavigationYessite://CAS/news/2024/11/img/erika-lewis-james-madison-fellowship.pngCASerika-lewis-james-madison-fellowship.png15534321200800Erika Lewis (center left) stands with professors from the James Madison Fellowship. Six individuals posing together in front of a blue James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation backdrop. The central figure, a woman wearing a light purple top and a red medal around her neck, holds a certificate with a smile. The group includes three men and three women all dressed in professional attire.///YouTube

Erika Lewis always saw herself as an educator. As an undergraduate student in Tennessee, her passion for history and government led her to a double major in political science and secondary education. Between classes and tests, she dreamed about extending her excitement for civics to the next generation of students. 

Her love of politics was strengthened through an internship with Tennessee Senate Majority Leader Ward Crutchfield. The energy of Nashville and the state capitol captured her – she felt like she was living out the stories she had read about in her textbooks. After the internship, she continued on to work for the Tennessee Attorney General.  

Then, life added a new path to her journey: motherhood. After her children were born, she placed her career on hold and focused her efforts on raising her daughter and son. As the days went on and her toddlers turned to teens, Lewis noticed another shift happening around her.  

“The world just seemed very hopeless in some ways, as far as having civically minded people...” Lewis said. “I just saw what I felt like was a strong need for good social studies and civics education.”  

She thought back to her first dream – the one she had before she discovered the electricity of politics. The dream she had as a little girl, back when she’d set up her dolls and captivated the attention of her play-pretend schoolroom.  

She knew it was time to get back to the classroom, and enrolled in the University of Nebraska Omaha’s secondary education master’s degree program. Even with the pandemic in her path, she completed the program in 2021 and secured her spot as a teacher at Papillion La Vista South High School.  

 

A New Direction 

As Lewis settled into her teaching career, a new goal formed: dual enrollment education. With aspirations of teaching an AP Government classroom, she headed back to UNO to work towards her graduate certificate in government. While there, she heard about the James Madison Fellowship – a prestigious national award designed to inspire and support educators that teach constitutional history and government.  

The program excited her. In addition to providing funds to support her graduate education, the program also hosted a monthlong intensive summer institute through Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. It seemed like the perfect opportunity for a political science enthusiast.  

Lewis knew that if she never tried, she’d never know. So, even with the gravity of the award’s highly selective nature in the forefront of her thoughts, she submitted her application materials.  

One teacher was selected as a James Madison Fellow for each state – and to Lewis’ shock, she was selected as Nebraska’s representative. 

Soon, she was on a plane to America's biggest political stage: Washington. As she convened with passionate American history and government educators from across the country in the nation’s capital, she felt entirely in her element.  

“They’re like-minded. They’re passionate teachers. We nerd out about all the same things,” Lewis said about her fellow fellows, “Professionally... I felt like I really found my people. Personally, I formed friendships with some wonderful people from across the country.”  

After a rigorous four weeks of lectures, papers, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like meeting Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, Lewis returned to her classroom with a renewed passion for civic education – and a new sense of self.  

 

"Why wouldn’t it be you?”  

In a short four years, Erika Lewis’ life had completely changed.  

She was back in the classroom – where she always felt like she had belonged. Her accomplishments included two master’s degrees (one in Secondary Education and another in Political Science) and a national fellowship. While at times it felt hard for her to grasp the magnitude of her accolades, to her coworkers and professors it was never even a question.  

Lewis thinks back to when she was in the application process for the Madison Fellowship. She ran into a colleague in the hallway, who mentioned to her that he had sent off her letter of recommendation for the fellowship.  

“It’s a longshot, why would they pick me?” She said, as she assured her coworker that the program was ambitious but probably unrealistic.  

His response was simple: “Why wouldn’t it be you?”  

It’s a message that sticks with her now, a vote of confidence that adds to her already cemented pride in her achievements. And it's something she can tangibly take back to the classroom and use to inspire the next generation.  

“When I talk to my students... sometimes we put so much pressure on kids to be like, ‘what do you want to do? Figure your life out!’ And I’m living proof that sometimes, life will throw you curveballs. Sometimes life will throw you opportunities. Never stop – there’s something you want? Go out and get after it. Put in the work to make it happen,” Lewis said. “Don’t ever lose that passion for what you love and what you love to do.”  

/
///No
/news/2024/11/erika-lewis-madison-fellowshipdepartmentCollege of Arts and SciencesphoneemailcategoryCollege of Arts and SciencesCollege of Education, Health, and Human Scienceslocationevent-startsevent-endssite://CAS/news/2024/11/erika-lewis-madison-fellowshipCASerika-lewis-madison-fellowship[Article Heading]UNO James Madison Fellow Inspires Next Generation of Civic Leaders in the ClassroomErika Lewis made the most of her UNO education by getting two master’s degrees and securing a prestigious James Madison Fellowship. Now, she’s taking her knowledge right back to the classroom, where she inspires the next generation of civic leaders at Papillion La Vista South High School. College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education Health and Human SciencesAnnie AlbinErika Lewis made the most of her UNO education by getting two master’s degrees and securing a prestigious James Madison Fellowship. Now, she’s taking her knowledge right back to the classroom, where she inspires the next generation of civic leaders at Papillion La Vista South High School. Nov 22, 2024 12:00 AM
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