December 2023 EMDS Graduate Chosen to Represent CPACS at UNO Ceremonies
Meet Raine Somerville, UNO EMDS Graduate
Our EMDS program is proud to announce one of our own chosen to represent the College of Public Affairs and Community Service as Student Marshal for the Class of 2023. Raine's dedication to academic excellence, community service, and commitment to emergency management exemplify the values of UNO. He graduates in December with a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management, with concentrations/minors in Public Health and Logistics & Supply Chain Management.
Why UNO? Raine is a transfer student to UNO from Georgia Southern University (GSU) in Savannah, GA. While he studied a variety of subjects at GSU, he felt he wasn’t provided the support or inspiration he needed. After having conversations with schools all over the US for emergency management, UNO stood out as one of the few that put in the effort to recruit him and showed that they wanted him. On top of that, his college credits transferred, and he received in-state tuition through LB 197.
“After flying from Georgia to Nebraska to take a campus tour, I knew it was the right move to come here. I reflect on this decision and have no regrets on the matter, and I’m happy to call myself a UNO Maverick!” he said.
Internship Experience: During the summer of 2023, Raine worked as an Intern Trainee with the Saint Louis County Sheriff’s Office in its Emergency Management Division in Duluth, MN. This internship provided Raine with hands-on experience in search-and-rescue management, emergency planning, disaster response, and disaster declarations. He also participated in conferences, travel, and networked with individuals and groups in emergency management/public safety all over the Northern part of Minnesota.
“It took several months of applications and denials to find this opportunity, but it was well worth it because I’ve gained lifelong knowledge and experience from that summer. I’d recommend this sort of opportunity to all students,” Raine said.
Next Steps: Post-graduation, Raine has committed to an 11-month service term with AmeriCorps NCCC FEMA Corps as an Operations Support Team Leader (STL). In this role, Raine will be stationed in Vicksburg, MS, supporting corps members with equipment management, safety, vehicle maintenance, and health needs. Raine's dedication to disaster response and management aligns with the mission of FEMA, reflecting his commitment to serving communities in times of need.
Favorite Parts of UNO Education: Raine highlights the vibrant community at UNO as one of the university's strongest attributes. “In my opinion, the best part of UNO has to offer is its students and faculty. Everyone has been super supportive, and I was able to find my group of people to put myself into. Everyone wants to learn and make a difference. There’s plenty of opportunity if you put yourself out there.”
Favorite Classes and Inspirational Professors: Raine cites EMGT 3040: Preparedness, Planning, and Risk Mitigation, PHHB 4040: Epidemiology & Prevention/Control of Diseases, and SCMT 4380: Industrial Purchasing & Logistics Management as standout classes. Raine commends his professors for going above and beyond in their teachings, inspiring a passion for their respective subjects.
For more information about our programs, please feel free to contact our advisors. They would love to work with you!