The Marian Smart Ambassador Program: Championing Digital Safety in Schools
An inside look at how a local nonprofit and Marian High School students are teaming up to create safe spaces for conversation about social media’s impact on youth in the latest episode of Consider This.
- published: 2025/08/18
- contact: Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications
- email: unonews@unomaha.edu
➡️ In this episode: Suzie Fogarty, community development coordinator with the Smart GEN Society, and Jen Christen, liaison for the Marian Smart Ambassador Program, team up with a Marian High School junior ambassador to explain how local students are tracking social media trends and leading forums that open dialogue about online behaviors. The initiative empowers young voices to foster awareness, safety, and well-being in digital spaces through school and community-based conversations.
📺 Watch the episode: Season 28, Episode 35 – Marian Smart Ambassador Program
💡 Why it matters: Nebraska youth are growing up in a digital era filled with challenges—from misinformation to mental health concerns tied to social media. By guiding responsible dialogue and peer-led discussion, the Marian Smart Ambassador Program helps communities tackle these issues head-on. This episode highlights how young Nebraskans are leading change by promoting digital responsibility and emotional safety.
🎞️ About Consider This: Now in its 28th season, Consider This is a weekly public affairs program on Nebraska Public Media. Episodes are recorded at the UNO television studio as part of a hands-on production class led by Michael Pacholski. Produced by students from UNO’s School of Communication, the show delivers thoughtful, relevant content statewide. Hosted by Cathy Wyatt, Consider This brings expert voices and fresh perspectives to help Nebraskans better understand the issues shaping our communities.
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.
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