Michael Smith Earns Board of Regents KUDOS Award

At their recent meeting on February 10, 2023, the University of Nebraska Board of Regents presented Michael Smith with a KUDOS Award for his outstanding support of the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s (UNO) Athletics department as the general manager of Baxter Arena.

Michael was recognized by his peers in this nomination for consistently going above and beyond expectations for events and facility management, as well as his ability to put customers, peers, and guests at ease in any interaction. He was also recognized for his dedication to building a culture of inclusiveness and accessibility in Baxter Arena, helping it become the venue of choice for many community events and organizations.

Michael has been with Baxter and UNO in several roles since July 2016, and in addition to his duties as general manager, serves on a variety of committees within UNO. He has had the opportunity to plan and oversee some of Omaha’s biggest events like the USA Olympic Team Trials in Curling, the USA Olympic Swim Trials, the NCAA Division I Men’s College World Series and countless concerts, sporting events, family shows, conventions, trade shows, and expos.

“He has set UNO and Baxter up for a great reputation as the venue of choice in Omaha,” one nominator said of him.

His nominators also cited the example of his ability to work quickly and effectively when UNO Athletics was contacted by outside parties who wanted to host a memorial service for Marlin Briscoe at Baxter. Arena staff had less than two weeks to organize but under his leadership and direction, it was a great success, and was showcased on the front page of the Omaha World-Herald for its beautiful and powerful recognition of Briscoe’s life and legacy.

With more than 25 years of experience in event services and management, “Michael knows the Omaha area and area promoters well, and this helps make sure that he and his staff can set an amazing stage for a wide range of events, from exciting games to serious and poignant ceremonies and memorials.”

His vision and leadership also saw the conversion of the former arena store into the Hall of Fame party room, which has enabled Baxter to host large-scale events as well as more close-knit, intimate gatherings.

“The truth is, we need more Michael Smiths on campus,” a nominee said. “He can find solutions to any issue that might come up and makes everyone involved feel like they are Baxter’s and UNO’s top priority.”

In presenting the KUDOS award to the Board of Regents, University of Nebraska President Ted Carter said, “For his commitment to creating an accessible, inclusive space, ability to resolve issues, as well as create memorable, outstanding events under pressure, Michael Smith has shown what true Maverick Spirit looks like. Thanks to his work, UNO and Baxter’s reputation within the community is excellent. He is a vital member of the University of Nebraska System and is a deserving recognition of this KUDOS Award.”

Congratulations, Michael!

KUDOS Award Nominations

The University of Nebraska KUDOS award recognizes the accomplishments of outstanding employees and is presented six times a year during NU Board of Regents meetings.

Do you want to submit a nominee for KUDOS? Use the People Are Everything software by clicking on the tile in Firefly under Self Service.