UNO Names Olivia Kenny Employee of the Month

Olivia Kenny, coordinator of co-curricular education and outreach for the Office of Student Leadership and Involvement (SLI) at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), has been named UNO's Employee of the Month for August 2026. She was praised for her positive leadership, collaborative spirit, and commitment to supporting student growth.

One nominator said: "Olivia is a true pleasure to work with as a colleague. She consistently brings a positive and steady presence to our team, and her energy naturally uplifts those around her. Her outlook is encouraging and solution focused, which contributes to a healthy and productive work environment."

Kenny was also recognized for her leadership and mentorship of students through the development of a new campus initiative.

"In partnership with Kolby Brock, Olivia has helped build and pilot a new leadership initiative, Elevated Mavericks. Through this program, she serves as both a facilitator and mentor, modeling the qualities of leadership she hopes to cultivate in students. She approaches the work with intentionality, ensuring participants are challenged to grow professionally while also reflecting on their individual development."

Her collaborative approach extends across campus, helping strengthen programs and partnerships.

"Olivia has also been purposeful in strengthening cross-campus partnerships. Most recently, she collaborated with our MarComm team to design graphics for program t-shirts, helping ensure the initiative is visible and well represented. This level of coordination demonstrates her understanding of how strong partnerships enhance program impact."

In addition to her program leadership, Kenny was praised for the support and guidance she provides to graduate assistants.

"Olivia is a supportive and attentive supervisor to Graduate Assistants. She creates engaging learning environments and has also been instrumental in implementing Bystander and Title IX trainings. Her professionalism, consistency, and student-centered approach make her highly deserving of recognition."

For being named Employee of the Month, Kenny received a certificate, a hot/cold tumbler provided by The Maverick Store, a monetary award, two tickets to a UNO sporting event, and use of a designated parking space.