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.”
