About the Academy
The 18-month program will include leaders from all areas of the university in a relatively small cohort. The nine, 90-120 minutes monthly sessions will consist of guest experts, discussion, and application/case studies on key topics and issues for higher education generally and UNO specifically. In addition to the monthly sessions, additional resources will be provided or recommended and participants will be invited to select campus and community events.
The purposes of the academy are to:
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Develop a system of leaders to work in a highly connected enterprise;
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Foster a culture of empathy and care in the context of teamwork;
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Equip participants a comprehensive understanding of modern university—particularly a public, urban, research, engaged university; and
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Retain and attract top talent at UNO.
Tentative academy topics include:
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Preparing Yourself for Future Roles/Leadership
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Culture, Change, Creativity and innovation in higher education
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Finance: University Budget 101 and Compliance
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Create Strategies with Competitive Advantages and Innovations
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Enrollment Management: Recruitment, Marketing, and Retention
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Relationships: Media, Government, and Community
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Media and Crisis Management
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How to Be a Leader
Congratulations to the Second Cohort
The Chancellor’s Leadership Academy is proud to announce that its second cohort of 14 emerging campus leaders has successfully completed the professional development program. The cohort was recognized during a graduation ceremony held on Jan. 20, 2026.
Past Participants
| Name | Title |
| Rachel Bachle | Senior Grants Coordinator, Office of Research and Creative Activity |
| Kate Bard | Director of New Student & Family Programs |
| Julie Blaskewicz Boron | Assoc Dean, Graduate Studies |
| Parvathi Chundi | Professor, Computer Science, College of Information Science and Technology |
| Kati Cox | Assistant Professor, School of Music, College of Communication, Fine Arts, and Media |
| Katie Hansen | Asst Dean for Student Success, College of Public Affairs and Community Service |
| Rosey Higgs | Assoc Director, Service Learning Academy |
| Bethany Hughes | Director, College of Business Administration Scholars Academy |
| John Kerins | Senior Data Analyst |
| Marshall Kole | Associate Director, Housing and Residence Life |
| Jodi Kreiling | Assoc Dean for Natural Sciences and Research, College of Arts and Sciences |
| Cristina Lamas | Director Project Achieve |
| Ashley Ostransky | Director of Operations, Office of Marketing and Strategic Communications |
| Tammi Owens | Director of Research & Instructional Services and Associate Professor, Criss Library |
| Sam Peshek | Director, Editorial & Media Relations, Office of Marketing and Strategic Communications |
| Rachel Radel | Manager, Employee Relations Development and Talent Acquisition |
| Scott Seeba | Title IX Coordinator |
| Michael Smith | Senior Associate Athletic Director - General Manager of Baxter Arena and Maverick Park |
| Sherry Weber | Director, Client Services ITS |