A gift to this unrestricted fund enables the UNO chancellor to assist when special opportunities arise or provide immediate support to areas where students and faculty may need it most.
Joe Neihart’s family has found a home at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Neihart, a senior biomechanics major, is the youngest of three siblings who have continued their education at the university.
“We all have loved our experience here,” he said. “We each found our own niche at the university.”
Over the last four years, Neihart has worked hard to balance his schoolwork, research and multiple on-campus jobs. Because of that, financial stability has always been in the back of Neihart’s mind.
“With all three of my siblings going to UNO, it’s been financially hefty for all of us,” Neihart said. “I’m always kind of balancing finances.”
This year, the university is rewarding Neihart for his hard work thanks to donor support through the UNO Fund – Area of Greatest Need.
The fund enables UNO Chancellor Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, to provide support for special opportunities and immediate support areas. This year, Dr. Li used the funds to provide $1,000 scholarships to three UNO students.
Neihart was one of those students. Dr. Li surprised Neihart with her scholarship during a presentation in early October.
“The scholarship definitely gave me some breathing room and stability. It let me stay focused on my academics.”
When Neihart told his sisters about the surprise, their first thought went to their mother.
“They knew that it would mean the most to her,” he said. “I drove back home that evening to tell her in person, and it just meant so much to her. She was thrilled.”
Now, Neihart can focus on finishing his education at UNO without worrying about his finances. After he receives his bachelor’s degree, Neihart plans on pursuing a master’s degree at UNO.
“I’ve gotten so comfortable here, and I just love the people here at UNO,” Neihart said.
He’s thankful for the support from donors who made a gift to the UNO Fund – Area of Greatest Need.
“I just want to give the biggest thank-you to those who supported this fund,” Neihart said. “It’s more than just financial help. It was so encouraging to see someone support students like me.”
Supporting recognized student organizations at UNO allows students to pursue their passions and make a difference in the community. By making a gift to the UNO Student Organizations Support Fund today, you can help these programs continue to grow.
Some of the most meaningful moments for students at the University of Nebraska at Omaha happen outside the classroom.
UNO students have a passion to pursue their interests. That’s where UNO’s diverse selection of recognized student organizations come into play, according to Cornelius Levering, outreach coordinator for Student Leadership and Involvement.
With more than 180 active student organizations on campus, students have a wide range of opportunities — from clubs centered around academic interests to RSOs that help students pursue a new hobby or give back to their community through volunteer work.
“The overall impact of our student organizations has been overwhelmingly positive,” Levering said. “These organizations create intentional engagement opportunities that help students feel connected and invested in campus life while also making the college experience enjoyable and memorable.”
RSOs have the power to create lifelong memories for students at UNO. These opportunities aren’t possible without the dedicated support of donors.
“From my perspective, donor support has been one of the most significant contributors to the success and sustainability of these organizations. Donor funding helps remove financial barriers that might otherwise limit programming, travel opportunities, leadership development and large-scale campus events.”
By supporting student organizations at UNO, you have the unique opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of students. In return, these organizations make a tangible difference on both the UNO campus and the Omaha community.
“The return on investment is reflected in student success, leadership development and the lasting sense of belonging that these organizations help foster,” Levering said.
To those who have supported UNO’s student organizations, Levering said a simple thank-you isn’t enough. He reiterated that this continued donor support will pave the way for lasting memories for the university’s students.
“To those who have made a gift to support a student organization at UNO, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude,” Levering said. “Your support directly impacts students by helping them create meaningful experiences, build community and develop skills that extend beyond the classroom.”
