Thank you to Brian Hastings, President and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation, for joining me on a new episode of “Heart to Heart.”
The NU Foundation supports many areas across the university that wouldn’t be possible with state-appropriated funds alone—from major capital construction projects and purchase of complex research equipment to scholarships and emergency assistance for students.
Brian has served the Foundation—and through it, the University of Nebraska System—since 2012. Under his leadership, the Foundation’s donor base has steadily grown year over year, and the Foundation has regularly been ranked in the top U.S. public higher education institutions for funds received.
I invite you to listen to our conversation here: https://t.co/OdXJkQCOt9
Husker Nation will unite Feb. 11-12 for the eighth annual Glow Big Red, a 24-hour celebration of giving to support the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Details: https://t.co/7xrY7D1cR2 #Nebraska#UNL#LNK
The University of Nebraska Foundation set another fundraising record last year, receiving more than $416.6 million in new funds during 2024-25. https://t.co/OX8oyR9bkC
Cindy McCaffrey and her husband, Mick, created the McCaffrey Student Success Fund to support UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications student workers. https://t.co/sphNdEgyYX
It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of Dr. John Christensen, Chancellor Emeritus of the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Dr. Christensen was a steadfast champion for access, equity and student success, and he leaves a legacy that has shaped @UNOmaha and the broader University of Nebraska System in profound and lasting ways.
A respected scholar and a passionate advocate for urban engagement, he served as UNO’s chancellor from 2007 to 2017. During his decade of leadership, Dr. Christensen led UNO through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. He strengthened the university’s ties with the Omaha community, expanded its research and academic programs and helped position UNO as a national model for community engagement and metropolitan service. His warmth, humility and deep commitment to students defined his tenure and continue to inspire those of us privileged to follow in his footsteps.
On behalf of the entire University of Nebraska community, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Christensen’s family, friends and former colleagues. We are forever grateful for his leadership and his unwavering dedication to our mission.
#Nebraska U alumni David Dickinson and Karen McCluskey have made a $117,650 gift to establish a permanent endowment to support the Nebraska Council on Economic Education. Details: https://t.co/Yugk8wEs6h #UNL@NebraskaBiz
@SteveLiewer Steve, you truly are an expert on military issues and an objective, dedicated journalist. Also, worth noting, you’re a great human. I’m so sorry.
We're absolutely speechless! The love the Husker community just showed for @unlincoln and #GlowBigRed is unmatched and we couldn't be more grateful for the support this year as all of our record numbers were broken yet again. On to 2026!
The Omaha hockey program has received a substantial financial boost, thanks to David and Jane Offutt.
The couple has committed $1 million to invest in the Mavericks' program.
#OmahaHKY
From @MPattersonOWH: https://t.co/rMt8ZY6l7v
We are so grateful to the Menke Family for their generous investment in @OmahaHKY . This is a difference-maker. 1st ever named position for @omavs athletics. Welcome to the Hockey Excellence Circle, Menke’s!