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Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives News

Monday, August 18, 2025
  1. UNO
  2. Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives
  3. Newsroom
indextrue175501882490284749620Division NewsroomThe landing space for all news, newsletters, and blogs for the Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives.1462078800000Division Newsroom/news/indexInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativessite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/news/indexcjanes16607552762468219740717555288673861667278800000
News ReleaseYesNoYesYes1754596860000Whether you're a curious newcomer or an AI early adopter, the OMA x AI event on Oct. 7 hosted in partnership with KANEKO in Downtown Omaha is your invitation to plug into the future./news/2025/08/img/1795-grphc_mc_omaxai_bullseye0801.jpgnavigationNosite://www/news/2025/08/img/1795-grphc_mc_omaxai_bullseye0801.jpgwww1795-grphc_mc_omaxai_bullseye0801.jpg2184881200800The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), in partnership with KANEKO, will host OMA x AI the afternoon of Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, at KANEKO in Downtown Omaha.///YouTube

Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work, live, and think. But most people don’t know where or how to start using it. OMA x AI is on a mission to change that. 


➡️ What’s new: The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), in partnership with KANEKO, will host OMA x AI the afternoon of Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, at KANEKO in Downtown Omaha. The event is powered by the Greater Omaha Chamber and supported by the City of Omaha. 

  • Registration is now open, but spaces are limited and expected to fill fast. 

  • Information on speakers and activities are coming soon. 


🤝 Who it’s for: Omaha by AI (OMA x AI) is where corporate leaders, small business innovators, nonprofit changemakers, educators, and trailblazers of all backgrounds gather to unlock the real power of generative AI. 


✅ What to expect:  

  • Custom experiences: Attendees will have an opportunity to tailor their experience to their AI goals and comfort level: Beginner, intermediate, and advanced. 

  • Hands-on learning: Dive into demos and workshops designed to show AI in action—no tech degree required. 

  • Real-world insight: Hear from a wide variety of Omaha leaders already using AI to solve problems, spark ideas, and drive impact. 

  • Community-powered innovation: Connect with peers and partners committed to workforce development and inclusive access to AI. 


🎤 What they’re saying:  

  • Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, Chancellor, University of Nebraska at Omaha: “AI fluency is quickly becoming one of the most valuable skill sets in today’s economy—not just for tech professionals, but for anyone who wants to stay relevant and make an impact. We created OMA x AI because we believe access to AI knowledge should be universal. It’s designed to meet people where they are. Whether you're new to AI or already exploring how to use it in your work, you’ll leave with practical ideas, approachable tools, and a network of peers who are asking the same questions. This event reflects UNO’s deep commitment to empowering our community with practical skills that elevate careers, expand opportunities, and unlock human potential.” 

  • John Ewing, Mayor of Omaha: “Omaha has always been a city that leans into innovation. From our history in transportation and finance to our leadership in emerging tech, we’ve never been afraid to try something new. OMA x AI builds on that legacy—it’s a chance for our entire community to come together, explore what’s next, and make sure we’re not just keeping pace with change, but leading it.” 

  • Heath Mello, President & CEO, Greater Omaha Chamber: “This event sends a powerful signal: Omaha is serious about the future of work. We are bullish on adopting AI and investing in the skills and mindsets that help our people and businesses thrive. OMA x AI is about showing the benefits of this technology and helping our workforce see it as a tool for growth and scale.”

  • Chris Kircher, Executive Director, KANEKO: "KANEKO is pleased to partner with UNO to host the OMA x AI event, and we very much appreciate the support of the Greater Omaha Chamber and the City of Omaha.  AI is a tool with many dimensions that’s clearly here to stay.  We believe that open dialogue around this technology is critically important in all aspects of the creative process." 


💡 Why it matters: OMA x AI arrives as artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the workplace, but much of the workforce lacks skills and familiarity with AI technologies:  

  • In 2025, 78% of organizations reported using AI, up sharply from 55% just a year earlier. 

  • The first quarter of 2025 saw 35,445 AI-related positions in the U.S., with median annual salaries for AI roles now at $156,998.

  • 63% of American workers say they don't use AI much or at all in their jobs. 

  • Just 27% of working-age U.S. adults have used generative AI like ChatGPT at work. 

  • 82% of employees say they aren’t well-versed in the practical applications of AI. 

  • By 2030, 60% of jobs in advanced economies will have tasks significantly modified by AI. 

  • Mentions of AI in job listings soared 56% in the first four months of 2025 alone. 

  • Sectors exposed to AI are experiencing 3x higher revenue growth per employee. 


🌎 The big picture: Led by UNO, hosted in partnership with KANEKO, powered by the Greater Omaha Chamber, and supported by the City of Omaha, this OMA x AI event is rooted in innovation and impact. This convening reflects a shared community mission to drive workforce development and social mobility in Omaha through cutting-edge learning experiences that meet the moment. 

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/news/2025/08/oma-x-ai-to-explore-the-practical-power-of-artificial-intelligencedepartmentOffice of Strategic Marketing and Communicationsphoneemailunonews@unomaha.educategoryMediaGeneral Publiclocationevent-startsevent-endssite://www/news/2025/08/oma-x-ai-to-explore-the-practical-power-of-artificial-intelligencewwwoma-x-ai-to-explore-the-practical-power-of-artificial-intelligenceOMA x AI to Explore the Practical Power of Artificial IntelligenceOMA x AI to Explore the Practical Power of Artificial IntelligenceWhether you're a curious newcomer or an AI early adopter, the OMA x AI event on Oct. 7 hosted in partnership with KANEKO in Downtown Omaha is your invitation to plug into the future.Sam PeshekWhether you're a curious newcomer or an AI early adopter, the OMA x AI event on Oct. 7 hosted in partnership with KANEKO in Downtown Omaha is your invitation to plug into the future.Aug 13, 2025 7:01 PM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1754888400000/_files/images/160210_daverichards_031a.jpgnavigationYessite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/_files/images/160210_daverichards_031a.jpgInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives160210_daverichards_031a.jpg2375191200800Outgoing Criss Library Dean David RichardsDavid Richards, outgoing Dean of Criss Library, poses in the library.///YouTube

The Outstanding Innovation in Teaching with Technology Award honors faculty who have implemented outstanding innovative teaching approaches shown to increase student learning, engagement and success. The award recognizes faculty members who have contributed significant, creative teaching innovations that promote effective and deeper learning via technology. Prior recipients of this award include Dr. Gwyneth Cliver (CAS), Becky Lutte (CPACS), Dr. Cecilia Tocaimaza-Hatch (CAS), Tara Toscano (CAS), Dr. Melissa Cast-Brede (CEHHS), Jody Boyer (CFAM), Dr. Jeff Bredthauer (CBA), and Erica Rose (CEHHS).

Crystal award with beveled edges presented by the University of Nebraska Omaha. The text on the award reads: "Outstanding Innovation in Teaching with Technology presented to David Richards of Criss Library by The Division of Innovative & Learning Centric Initiatives." The university logo and UNO athletic 'O' symbol are engraved at the top.

During his nine-year tenure at UNO, Richards helped to accelerate Criss Library as a vibrant, student-centered space that fosters innovation, research, and community.  He was driving force behind the formation of the Creative Production Lab, a maker-space, greenscreen, and podcast center that supports creative and academic pursuits of UNO students and faculty.  He was instrumental in adopting eBooks and accessible learning materials to meet the needs of online and hybrid learners.

Richards was well known for his tireless advocacy of Open Educational Resources (OER), free- and reduced-cost digital course materials used in lieu of traditional textbooks.  The affiliated Open Nebraska program – a partnership between Criss Library, the Digital Learning Team, the UNO bookstore, and the Registrar’s Office – has saved UNO students nearly $10M since its inception in 2018.  A faculty research team (led by Dr. Dan Hawkins, Dr. Julie Pelton, and Craig Finlay) studied the impact of Open Nebraska at UNO with the following key findings:

  • Compared to non-OER sections, students in OER sections at UNO have 4% lower DFW rates;
  • When UNO students are in a course using OER, they are ultimately more successful in the course, earning 5% more A’s compared to non-OER sections;
  • Part-time UNO students in OER sections have 8% lower DFW rates than non-OER sections;
  • When first generation students at UNO took a course using OER, they earned 10% more A’s compared to non-OER sections.

In his role as Dean, Richards has been a cherished partner to many colleges, units, and individuals across the UNO campus. Several campus leaders shared sentiments about David’s selection for this award:

David and his team have been such great collaborators to our college, and David has helped us to do some wonderful things, such as aggressively integrating open educational resources and embracing new advances in information. Most of all, David has been a model of a well-respected, cheerful leader who has certainly led with his big heart as well as his impressive mind. We will miss him greatly!

- Neal Grandgenett, CEHHS Dean

Hearing DeanRichards’ speak about the impact of OER on teaching, learning, and student finances, one of our College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) donors was inspired to create a fund for CAS faculty to adopt OER in their courses. This has allowed us to partner with Criss Library, who provide OER expertise and support, while we provide additional funding. This partnership would not have been possible without Dave’s leadership.

- Melanie Boom, CAS Dean 

He cared deeply about students and, in his delightfully David's way, was always on a mission to convince the deans to encourage their faculty to use open educational resources.

- Martha Garcia-Murillo, IS&T Dean

 

Throughout his career at UNO, Dean Richards has prominently provided faculty with access to technology in support of excellent and innovative teaching, especially in regard to promoting open educational resources. The Open Nebraska program at UNO, providing no-cost and low-cost course materials to thousands of students, would not be nearly the success it is without Dave's support of the program through Criss Library.

- Dan Hawkins, Director of Online Development

Richards has accepted a new appointment as Dean of the Library at Missouri State University.  We wish him all the best in his new role, and we thank him for his tremendous leadership and advocacy of faculty excellence and student success at UNO!

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About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

Follow UNO on Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. 

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/news/2025/08/outgoing-criss-library-dean-david-richards-awarded-with-2025-outstanding-innovation-in-teaching-with-technology-awarddepartmentphoneemailjlindburg@unomaha.educategoryStaffFacultyGeneral Publiclocationevent-startsevent-endssite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/news/2025/08/outgoing-criss-library-dean-david-richards-awarded-with-2025-outstanding-innovation-in-teaching-with-technology-awardInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesoutgoing-criss-library-dean-david-richards-awarded-with-2025-outstanding-innovation-in-teaching-with-technology-awardOutgoing Criss Library Dean David Richards Awarded With 2025 Outstanding Innovation in Teaching With Technology AwardOutgoing Criss Library Dean David Richards Awarded With 2025 Outstanding Innovation in Teaching With Technology AwardDavid Richards, outgoing Dean of Criss Library, was recently awarded the Outstanding Innovation in Teaching with Technology Award. This is the seventh year this award has been presented at UNO.UNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)David Richards, outgoing Dean of Criss Library, was recently awarded the Outstanding Innovation in Teaching with Technology Award. This is the seventh year this award has been presented at UNO.Aug 11, 2025 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1754312400000/_files/images/marcomm-sam-blog_header_r2.jpgnavigationYessite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/_files/images/marcomm-sam-blog_header_r2.jpgInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesmarcomm-sam-blog_header_r2.jpg1310061257844Illustration of a person emerging from a computer monitor, raising a large pen triumphantly with a red starburst behind it. A broken keyboard lies below. The headline reads: "A Copywriter’s Efficient Assistant: How AI is Maximizing UNO’s Editorial Efforts." The University of Nebraska Omaha logo appears in the bottom right corner.///YouTube

In an age of endless content, the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s MarComm Editorial and Media Relations team found a way to cut through the noise using artificial intelligence, all while emphasizing heartfelt storytelling.

How do you know what people are searching, what’s trending, what keywords matter most? Simple strategic research has become far more complex with the increase of 100% AI-generated content being introduced into the digital world at record speed. Here are three ways Director of Editorial & Media Relations Sam Peshek and MarComm Communications Specialist Bella Lockwood use generative AI to help with storytelling and media engagement:

  1. For news stories, faculty members complete a brief questionnaire to gather the appropriate information. Then, this information, as well as other pertinent research, is entered into the custom GPT titled “UNO Copywriter” to create the first draft.
  2. For media pitch cold emails, the team will find what’s trending, recruit a UNO faculty expert to discuss with the media, then use their custom GPT to write an email that will get the attention of journalists.
  3. For feature stories, they record interviews and upload the recording to an AI transcription service. Then, they upload the transcript to ChatGPT to help them identify quotes that will resonate with their target audience.

“With just the three examples above, we estimate we save about three hours per writing project,” Peshek says. “We use this time to pursue more stories and use our people-powered creativity to write better content.”

Time saved is a definite plus. But is it working?

The answer is yes. According to Peshek, “The biggest difference we have noticed is how journalists interact with our cold emails. Since implementing ChatGPT into our work, we’ve seen across-the-board increases in email open rates and click-through rates, which has resulted in more awareness of our faculty experts, and in turn, created more media engagements.”

Increased efficiency, all while getting UNO’s people and projects into the spotlight, is an effective use of AI.

The AI Learning Lab’s Open AI Challenge has paved the way for so many staff and faculty members, like Peshek, to discover how well-placed AI can truly transform the way you work. For the MarComm Editorial and Media Relations team, participating in the Open AI Challenge was a no-brainer. UNO’s openness and trailblazing outlook on embracing new technology empowered this team to be a part of it. “It made me want to seek out new challenges and opportunities, apply AI tools, and see what happens,” Peshek concluded.

For those unsure of how to begin or hesitant to use AI in their work at UNO, Peshek recommends starting by using AI on a topic that interests them. Enjoy running? Have ChatGPT create a personalized training regimen tailored to your goals. Love to cook? Give it a list of the ingredients you have and ask it to challenge you with a new recipe.

“This will help you build the familiarity you need with AI to start digging into your own workflows in your job, freeing up time for you to do more fulfilling and impactful work.”

Interested in AI but not sure how to begin? The AI Learning Lab has a host of resources to help you begin implementing AI into your work.


About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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/news/2025/08/a-copywriters-efficient-assistant-how-ai-is-maximizing-unos-editorial-effortsdepartmentphoneemailinnovate@unomaha.educategoryFacultyGeneral PublicStafflocationevent-startsevent-endssite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/news/2025/08/a-copywriters-efficient-assistant-how-ai-is-maximizing-unos-editorial-effortsInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesa-copywriters-efficient-assistant-how-ai-is-maximizing-unos-editorial-effortsA Copywriter’s Efficient Assistant: How AI is Maximizing UNO’s Editorial EffortsA Copywriter’s Efficient Assistant: How AI is Maximizing UNO’s Editorial EffortsUNO’s MarComm team uses AI to boost storytelling, save time, and increase media engagement—proving that smart tech can elevate human creativity.UNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)UNO’s MarComm team uses AI to boost storytelling, save time, and increase media engagement—proving that smart tech can elevate human creativity.Jul 31, 2025 8:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1755262800000/_files/images/blog-16_header.jpgnavigationYessite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/_files/images/blog-16_header.jpgInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesblog-16_header.jpg1048651257844Illustration of a woman working on a laptop with a document icon, accompanied by the headline "AI in Research Compliance and Policy Development" in bold red and black text///YouTube

In fields where precision and consistency are critical, artificial intelligence is proving to be an invaluable tool. At the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), AI-powered initiatives are streamlining processes in research compliance and policy development, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. Below, we explore two projects demonstrating AI’s potential in these areas.

AI-Enhanced Research Compliance

Project Lead: Brenda Kolobara

Brenda Kolobara’s project integrates AI into sponsored programs and research compliance workflows. The initiative includes using AI for research security reviews, proactive compliance checks, and automated document creation. By analyzing publications and collaboration disclosures, the project ensures accuracy and transparency while reducing the administrative burden on researchers.

AI in Civil Rights Compliance

Project Lead: Sarah Weil

Sarah Weil’s project leverages AI to improve the clarity and consistency of university policies related to civil rights compliance. By analyzing governing documents and using natural language processing, the initiative ensures that policies are clear, comprehensive, and free of conflicts. Interactive tools, such as decision trees and FAQs, further enhance accessibility and understanding for the university community.

Ensuring Compliance and Excellence with AI

From research compliance to policy clarity, these projects showcase AI’s role in ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility. By adopting innovative solutions, UNO is setting a benchmark for leveraging AI in critical administrative functions.


About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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/news/2025/08/ai-in-research-compliance-and-policy-developmentdepartmentphoneemailinnovate@unomaha.educategoryFacultyGeneral PublicStafflocationevent-startsevent-endssite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/news/2025/08/ai-in-research-compliance-and-policy-developmentInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesai-in-research-compliance-and-policy-developmentAI in Research Compliance and Policy DevelopmentAI in Research Compliance and Policy DevelopmentUNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)UNO uses AI to boost research compliance and policy clarity, improving accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility across critical functions.Aug 14, 2025 9:00 AM
AI Learning Lab
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1753160400000/_files/images/blog-15_header.jpgnavigationYessite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/_files/images/blog-15_header.jpgInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesblog-15_header.jpg14060017461172Illustration of a person sitting next to a red square with upward-pointing arrows, under the title 'AI for Operational Excellence in Campus Services.///YouTube

Administrative and operational efficiency is essential for creating a seamless campus experience. At the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), AI-powered initiatives are helping campus services operate more effectively, enhancing both student and staff experiences. Here are two projects that showcase AI’s impact on campus operations. 

ITS/Library Tech Support Chatbot

Project Lead: Eric Hinsdale 

To improve access to technical support, Eric Hinsdale’s project introduces a conversational chatbot that can answer common IT and library-related questions. This AI tool streamlines support for students, faculty, and staff by providing quick, accurate answers while reducing the workload on help desk teams. By leveraging AI, the chatbot ensures that campus users can resolve issues efficiently. 

MarComm Operational Efficiency with AI

Project Lead: Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications

The University’s Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications (Marcomm) team is embracing AI to enhance their workflows. AI tools assist with content creation, SEO optimization, persona building, and analytics. By maximizing operations, the team can focus on crafting compelling stories and impactful campaigns that elevate UNO’s brand and outreach. 

Driving Efficiency Across Campus 

These projects demonstrate how AI can optimize operations and improve communication. By leveraging AI in innovative ways, UNO is setting a new standard for operational excellence.  


About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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/news/2025/07/ai-for-operational-excellence-in-campus-servicesdepartmentphoneemailinnovate@unomaha.educategoryFacultyGeneral PublicStafflocationevent-startsevent-endssite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/news/2025/07/ai-for-operational-excellence-in-campus-servicesInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesai-for-operational-excellence-in-campus-services[Article Heading]AI for Operational Excellence in Campus ServicesUNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)AI is driving efficiency at UNO, from chatbots in tech support to smarter workflows and content.Jul 21, 2025 12:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1752238800000/_files/images/blog-14_header.jpgnavigationYessite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/_files/images/blog-14_header.jpgInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesblog-14_header.jpg20982826191758Illustration showing a hand holding a red icon with a user profile symbol and another hand giving a thumbs up, with the headline "AI for Accessibility and Inclusion in Education" in bold red and black text.///YouTube

Artificial intelligence has the potential to make education more inclusive and accessible for all students. At the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), several projects are harnessing AI to address barriers, support diverse learners, and create equitable learning environments. Below, we highlight two initiatives focused on accessibility and inclusion. 

Improving Accessibility in Biology Labs

Project Lead: Dawn Fuelberth 

Dawn Fuelberth is leveraging AI tools to streamline administrative tasks and enhance accessibility in introductory biology labs. By generating clear lab protocols, personalized communications, and accessible teaching materials, this project ensures that all students can engage fully with course content. The initiative also reduces faculty workload, enabling more focus on student success. 

Student Conduct & Case Management

Project Lead: Chloe Smith

Chloe Smith’s initiative integrates AI into student conduct processes to enhance accessibility and communication. By reviewing templates for accessibility standards and simplifying language, the project ensures that all students can easily understand critical policies and procedures. This AI-driven approach makes interactions more equitable while improving overall communication with students. 

Making Education More Inclusive with AI 

These projects highlight how AI can break down barriers and create more inclusive learning environments. By prioritizing accessibility and equity, UNO is ensuring that all students have the tools they need to succeed. 


About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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/news/2025/07/ai-for-accessibility-and-inclusion-in-educationdepartmentphoneemailinnovate@unomaha.educategoryFacultyGeneral PublicStafflocationevent-startsevent-endssite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/news/2025/07/ai-for-accessibility-and-inclusion-in-educationInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesai-for-accessibility-and-inclusion-in-educationAI for Accessibility and Inclusion in Education AI for Accessibility and Inclusion in Education UNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)UNO uses AI to enhance accessibility in labs and student services—advancing support and success for all learners.Jul 10, 2025 8:00 AM
News ReleaseNoNoYesYes1740488400000/_files/images/misc/header_blog-2-empowering-student-success.pngnavigationYessite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/_files/images/misc/header_blog-2-empowering-student-success.pngInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesheader_blog-2-empowering-student-success.png31156450753409Illustration of online learning with AI-driven support tools. A student interacts with a virtual instructor on a screen, while two graduates engage in a chat. Icons of a globe, clock, and digital tools symbolize global, AI-enhanced education.///YouTube

AI is revolutionizing how universities support students on their academic journeys. By integrating generative AI into advising, learning resources, and classroom tools, the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) is leading the charge in leveraging technology to foster student success. Here, we highlight three innovative projects that enhance the student experience with personalized and efficient AI applications. 

Custom GPT for Counting Seat Availability

Project Lead: Huai-Mei Furman 

Advisors often face time-consuming challenges when manually checking seat availability for high-demand general education courses. To address this, Huai-Mei Furman is creating custom GPTs that will streamline the process, saving hundreds of hours during peak advising seasons. These GPTs will allow advisors to quickly and accurately check seat availability, ensuring students enroll in the courses they need without unnecessary delays. By improving operational efficiency, this tool promises to enhance the overall advising experience and simplify course selection for students. 

Enhanced Learner Autonomy with Custom GPT for MLTI 3000 

Project Lead: April Paschall 

In the Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Studies program, fostering learner autonomy is key. April Paschall’s project involves developing a custom GPT chatbot tailored to the MLTI 3000 Multidisciplinary Foundations Seminar. Designed as a “three before me” resource, the chatbot empowers students to independently navigate course materials, clarify assignment requirements, and access syllabus details. By providing just-in-time information and streamlining access to essential course content, the chatbot reduces cognitive load for adult learners who are often balancing academic with work, family, and other responsibilities. This support structure not only enhances learner confidence and self-efficacy but also promotes self-directed learning and improves the overall academic experience by making learning more accessible and manageable. 

Grace Abbott School of Social Work Chatbot

Project Lead: Katie Robbins 

Social work students often have multiple points of contact for admissions, advising, and practicum support, which can lead to confusion and inefficiencies. Katie Robbins’ initiative introduces a chatbot to the Grace Abbott School of Social Work website. This AI-powered assistant provides timely, accurate answers to common student questions, such as how to submit practicum learning contracts or locate resources. By streamlining communication and reducing misdirected inquiries, the chatbot increases efficiency for faculty and staff while improving the support experience for social work students. 


About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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/news/2025/02/empowering-student-success-with-ai-driven-support-toolsdepartmentUNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)phoneemailinnovate@unomaha.educategoryFacultyStaffGeneral Publiclocationevent-startsevent-endssite://Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives/news/2025/02/empowering-student-success-with-ai-driven-support-toolsInnovative and Learning-Centric Initiativesempowering-student-success-with-ai-driven-support-toolsEmpowering Student Success with AI-Driven Support ToolsEmpowering Student Success with AI-Driven Support ToolsUNO leverages AI to enhance student support, streamline advising, and improve learning, ensuring future-ready students for academic and career success. Feb 25, 2025 8:00 AM
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Featured

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), in partnership with KANEKO, will host OMA x AI the afternoon of Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, at KANEKO in Downtown Omaha.

OMA x AI to Explore the Practical Power of Artificial Intelligence

Whether you're a curious newcomer or an AI early adopter, the OMA x AI event on Oct. 7 hosted in partnership with KANEKO in Downtown Omaha is your invitation to plug into the future.

David Richards, outgoing Dean of Criss Library, poses in the library.

Outgoing Criss Library Dean David Richards Awarded With 2025 Outstanding Innovation in Teaching With Technology Award

David Richards, outgoing Dean of Criss Library, was recently awarded the Outstanding Innovation in Teaching with Technology Award. This is the seventh year this award has been presented at UNO.

Illustration of a person emerging from a computer monitor, raising a large pen triumphantly with a red starburst behind it. A broken keyboard lies below. The headline reads: "A Copywriter’s Efficient Assistant: How AI is Maximizing UNO’s Editorial Efforts." The University of Nebraska Omaha logo appears in the bottom right corner.

A Copywriter’s Efficient Assistant: How AI is Maximizing UNO’s Editorial Efforts

UNO’s MarComm team uses AI to boost storytelling, save time, and increase media engagement—proving that smart tech can elevate human creativity.

Illustration of a woman working on a laptop with a document icon, accompanied by the headline "AI in Research Compliance and Policy Development" in bold red and black text

AI in Research Compliance and Policy Development

UNO uses AI to boost research compliance and policy clarity, improving accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility across critical functions.

AI Learning Lab

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Illustration of a person sitting next to a red square with upward-pointing arrows, under the title 'AI for Operational Excellence in Campus Services.

AI for Operational Excellence in Campus Services

AI is driving efficiency at UNO, from chatbots in tech support to smarter workflows and content.

Illustration showing a hand holding a red icon with a user profile symbol and another hand giving a thumbs up, with the headline "AI for Accessibility and Inclusion in Education" in bold red and black text.

AI for Accessibility and Inclusion in Education

UNO uses AI to enhance accessibility in labs and student services—advancing support and success for all learners.

Illustration of online learning with AI-driven support tools. A student interacts with a virtual instructor on a screen, while two graduates engage in a chat. Icons of a globe, clock, and digital tools symbolize global, AI-enhanced education.

Empowering Student Success with AI-Driven Support Tools

UNO leverages AI to enhance student support, streamline advising, and improve learning, ensuring future-ready students for academic and career success.

Events

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