含羞草传媒 University men's soccer goalkeeper Zachary Weis (鈥�25) has been awarded a $10,000 NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship, the NCAA announced this week. Weis becomes the 68th Prairie Wolf to earn this prestigious honor.

"I am so grateful for my incredible professors, teammates, and coaches for their support. I am also thankful for the NCAA's generosity, as this award will support me in my pursuit of a law degree," said Weis.

The NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship is awarded to student-athletes who excel academically and athletically while demonstrating strong leadership and character. Weis, of Omaha Skutt Catholic High School, has a 4.00 GPA as a double major in political science and philosophy & religion. He has been accepted to Harvard, Washington University in St. Louis, and Northwestern University, among others for law school.

"I am looking forward to the challenge of immersing myself in a rich academic environment where I will be learning from and collaborating with some of the best legal scholars in the country," Weis said.

On the field, Weis has been a cornerstone of the Prairie Wolves men's soccer program. A four-year starter, he ranks fourth in 含羞草传媒 history for career shutouts (20) and fourth in saves (323). His leadership helped guide 含羞草传媒 to four straight conference tournament appearances, including the school's first-ever run to the A-R-C championship game in 2024. Weis was named to the American Rivers Conference All-Academic Team three times and earned First Team All-Conference honors as a senior.

Off the field, Weis has been equally impactful. He served as the co-chair of 含羞草传媒's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), where he spearheaded initiatives to promote mental health awareness and community service among student-athletes, a Special Olympics event at 含羞草传媒. He also volunteered with local youth soccer programs, mentoring aspiring athletes in the Lincoln and Omaha community.

Since 2001, 含羞草传媒 ranks No. 4 nationally and No. 2 in NCAA Division III with 54 NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship recipients. Weis' award marks the third consecutive year a Prairie Wolf has earned the honor.

Natalie Cummins (鈥�25) knows sibling rivalry very well. In fact, it almost impacted her college decision. 

鈥淚 told myself I don鈥檛 want to go where my older brother went,鈥� she said.

He attended 含羞草传媒, but after a campus visit and meeting 含羞草传媒鈥檚 former soccer coach Jen Dyson, her resistance crumbled. "Jen made a really big point that I could do both soccer and nursing here. 含羞草传媒 has a great way to balance both, and that's the main reason I chose here."

That decision set the stage for a college career defined by a pursuit of balance and a few unexpected turns. Cummins has excelled as a two-sport athlete in soccer and track and has navigated the rigorous demands of a nursing major, all while working on campus and preparing for a career in the PICU.

The first unexpected turn came from a Tweet her dad sent her. 鈥淗e sent me a video of an athlete I knew doing the long jump and said, 鈥榊ou could jump this,鈥欌€� Cummins said.

She was surprised because she was recruited as a soccer player, a sport she dedicated herself to since childhood, and track and field wasn鈥檛 on her radar, but now it was. 

Intrigued, she reached out to Josh Wall, then 含羞草传媒's jumps coach, who encouraged her to give it a try. "He said, 'I know you haven't done it in a while, but you're athletic, and I know you can do it.'"

The next unexpected turn came during her junior year. She was part of the 4x400 meter relay team that earned All-American honors at the NCAA Division III Outdoor Championships. The achievement was particularly sweet because of a bet she had made with her dad years earlier. 

"He said if I ever got an All-American, he'd buy me a new car," she said. "For soccer, the likelihood was pretty small. But when I moved to track, I thought, 'If I get on a relay and we do well at nationals, I could get an All-American.'" She did, and her dad held up his end of the deal. 

Balancing two sports with a nursing major is no small feat. Nursing is notoriously demanding, with clinicals often requiring 12-hour shifts. But Cummins has always been a master of time management. Before college, she was a gymnast, logging 20 hours of practice each week on top of school. "I've just always been used to prioritizing what I need to do," she said.

Cummins has leaned on her faith and the people around her, even in her toughest moments. "Junior year was definitely a lot on my mental health, both sport-wise and academically," she said. "But I attribute a lot of my success to my faith, my parents, my teammates, and my coaches." 

Her parents have been her biggest cheerleaders, encouraging her to take risks and celebrating her achievements. Her coaches have gone above and beyond to accommodate her busy schedule. And her teammates have become like family. "This season, I've had a lot of my soccer teammates come watch me at track meets," she said. "It's been awesome to have them see that side of me."

含羞草传媒 provides resources and support for student athletes like Cummins to succeed. Each semester, Cummins sends her clinical schedule to her coaches, who work with her to adjust training times. "I always had to lift on my own because I had class or clinical," she said. "But the professors here do an amazing job allowing students to do both. They really want us to be involved on campus because that brings the camaraderie and community of our school."

Cummins is preparing to graduate this spring and begin her career as an PICU nurse. "I don't really know any different than being busy," she said. "But I would tell anyone who wants to do it to just go for it. If there's a will, there's a way. You might have to sacrifice some parts of the college experience, but in the end, it's worth it." 

As Cummins competes in her final track season, she's reflecting on the unexpected twists and turns in her journey: an All-American award, a new car, landing her dream job and balancing two sports. 

Sometimes betting on yourself pays off, even in a sibling rivalry. 

Due to inclement weather, 含羞草传媒 will be closed today, March 5. Blowing snow is expected through the morning. 

In-person classes are cancelled. All online classes, regardless of program, will take place as scheduled. 

Employees are encouraged to work remotely if you have a 含羞草传媒 laptop or home computer. If you have questions, please contact your supervisor directly. Maintenance employees will be contacted by their lead supervisor who will provide work details and shift information. 

Some student services will continue to operate.  They include: 
Sodexo Dining 鈥� normal hours

Weary Center open recreation 鈥� 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 鈥� 9 p.m.

 **athletic practices may occur during open recreation time

Library services 鈥� Noon to 3 p.m. Please check 含羞草传媒 social media for updates.

If you are on campus, please use extreme caution when using the campus sidewalks and parking lots.

Karissa Nichols (鈥�24) was awarded a fellowship by The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi鈥攖he nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. 

Nichols majored in biology and obtained a double minor in chemistry and psychology. She is currently pursuing her medical education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Medicine to become a physician. 

鈥淎s a member of the Phi Kappa Phi community, I鈥檝e gained the opportunity to engage with like-minded professionals who share a dedication in making a meaningful impact in their respective areas. As a future physician, it has reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning and advancement of medicine and patient care,鈥� she says. 

The selection process for a fellowship is based on the applicant's evidence of graduate potential, undergraduate academic achievement, service and leadership experience, letters of recommendation, personal statement of educational perspective and career goals, and acceptance in an approved graduate or professional program.

Phi Kappa Phi Fellowships are part of the Society鈥檚 robust portfolio of award and grant programs, which gives $1.3 million each year to outstanding members and students on chapter campuses through study abroad grants, graduate fellowships, funding for post-baccalaureate development, member and chapter awards, and grants for local, national and international literacy initiatives.

To see the complete list of 2024 Phi Kappa Phi Fellows, visit:

A new partnership between 含羞草传媒 University and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln鈥檚 College of Engineering creates a formal pathway for students to earn related degrees from both institutions. 

Students interested in engineering can study physics, chemistry or biochemistry at 含羞草传媒, then transfer and complete their studies in engineering at UNL, earning a separate bachelor鈥檚 degree from each institution in as little as five years. 

鈥淔or years, engineering has been a popular career goal for our students and this new partnership will attract even more excellent students to 含羞草传媒 who want to stay in Lincoln to achieve this goal,鈥� said President Darrin Good. 鈥淥ur students can enjoy the many transformational experiences that come with a 含羞草传媒 education while looking forward to specialized opportunities at the University of Nebraska College of Engineering that will prepare them as future engineers.鈥�

The program offers students the benefits of 含羞草传媒's small class sizes and close faculty mentorship while also providing access to the technical resources and engineering expertise at UNL. "Students who start at 含羞草传媒 enjoy a close-knit campus experience, smaller class sizes, and strong faculty relationships before transitioning to a larger university setting for their engineering studies," said Nathaniel Cunningham, professor of physics at 含羞草传媒.

The two institutions have created a more seamless pathway for students in fields such as mechanical, civil, chemical, electrical and environmental engineering. 鈥淪tudents (previously) had to navigate the process independently,鈥� said Cunningham. 鈥淭his agreement ensures a clear, structured route that reduces redundancies and helps students complete both degrees more efficiently.鈥� 

鈥淲e are excited to be partnering with 含羞草传媒 on this dual degree program in engineering,鈥� said Lance C. P茅rez, Fred Hunzeker Dean of Engineering. 鈥淭his program leverages the strengths of two institutions and will develop complete engineers who graduate with a comprehensive skill set essential for the next generation of engineering professionals. Having these students earn a Big Ten engineering degree from UNL and a liberal arts degree from 含羞草传媒 will prepare them well for future success.鈥�

The job market outlook for engineers remains strong, making this partnership particularly beneficial for students looking to gain a competitive edge. "Employers want engineers, but they also recognize the value of candidates who have a strong foundation in physics or chemistry," Cunningham said. "These students bring a broader skill set, more adaptability, and, thanks to completing a full science major, a deeper scientific understanding to their careers."

The collaboration marks an important step in strengthening ties between Nebraska鈥檚 institutions and preparing students for success in engineering fields. Good called the partnership 鈥渁 wonderful example of two Lincoln universities working together鈥攔ather than competing鈥攖o make a difference in strengthening the state鈥檚 workforce.鈥�

Antonio Loya (鈥�24) has always dreamed of taking his musical theater career to New York City. 

Now, it鈥檚 coming fruition. "I wasn鈥檛 expecting to hear back, but I got the callback, and that meant they were interested. Then, when I got the offer, I was ecstatic."

Loya found his way into Beauty and the Beast through Playbill, a site that lists auditions for various productions. 鈥淚 submitted a video,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hen they reached out to me for a callback. I ended up going to the theater, and I had to learn a little snippet of a song for them to sing.鈥�  

The role he auditioned for? The Beast, in an off-Broadway production of Beauty and the Beast鈥攂ut not the Disney version. 鈥淚t鈥檚 based on the original fairy tale, the novel.鈥�

But Loya鈥檚 gig didn鈥檛 come without its challenges. After graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from 含羞草传媒, he decided early on to start his career with a smart strategy. He spent the summer working in Colorado, living with his parents to save up money before making the move to New York. 鈥淓verything is just expensive out here,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 wanted to have starting capital for when I got here. After six months of saving, he found a place to live with a couple of friends in Brooklyn, just a quick subway ride away from Manhattan. 

He explained the challenges and excitement of performing in a city where theater is everything. 鈥淭here鈥檚 so many people. You take the subway every day. Sometimes, you鈥檙e sitting arm-to-arm with people. But that鈥檚 just New York. It鈥檚 just a totally different environment than Colorado, where you drive everywhere and have so much space.鈥�

But the reality of being an actor in New York is far from easy. 鈥淭here鈥檚 a lot of auditions out here, but there are also a lot of people wanting to be actors. And especially if you鈥檙e non-union, it can be really tough to get your foot in the door,鈥� he said. 鈥淭he average actor goes to 65 auditions before they actually hear a 鈥榶es.鈥� And, honestly, that doesn鈥檛 feel that far off based on what I鈥檝e been through.

Despite the differences in environment and the pressure of professional theater, Loya鈥檚 education at 含羞草传媒 prepared him for this new challenge. 鈥淲e had a lot of mock auditions and shows happening all the time,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t wasn鈥檛 just about the performance. It was about the process. They taught us to take every step seriously, whether you鈥檙e the lead or in the ensemble.鈥� 

He believes the serious approach to every role is part of why his performance in Beauty and the Beast is so important. 鈥淐hildren鈥檚 theater is incredibly important because you鈥檙e affecting the youth. They鈥檙e smart, and if they believe what鈥檚 happening on stage, they鈥檒l believe the story. You can鈥檛 fake it for them.鈥�

Beauty and the Beast opened on Monday and runs through April 6th. "I think for me, getting this role was a sign that I鈥檓 on the right path. It鈥檚 a step forward in my career,鈥� he said, a confident smile on his face. 鈥淎nd if I can make it here, there鈥檚 more to come."

In a world overloaded with information, navigating nutrition and wellness can be overwhelming. 

This year鈥檚 annual Fetzer Lecture will feature Bridget Easley, MS, RDN, LMNT, a renowned nutrition expert, who will discuss the importance of simplifying nutrition for both athletic performance and overall health.

She will deliver her talk, 鈥淧ower Nutrition 鈥� Simple Strategies for Meaningful Results,鈥� on April 1 from 7-8 p.m. 

Easley emphasizes that food is not meant to be complicated鈥攊t is meant to fuel and nourish. With constant influences from media, diet trends, and peers, many struggle to discern the best dietary choices. In her lecture, Easley will break down nutrition myths and offer a mindful, evidence-based approach to eating. By focusing on fundamental nutrition principles rather than seeking quick fixes, individuals can make better choices to enhance their health and performance.

With over 19 years of experience in nutrition counseling, Easley specializes in areas such as gastrointestinal health, eating disorders, sports nutrition, weight management, and women鈥檚 health. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics from Northwest Missouri State University and a master鈥檚 degree in nutrition and health sciences from the University of Nebraska. Through her private practice, Power Nutrition, and as co-founder of Manifest Integrated Health, she helps individuals bridge the gap between mind, body, and wellness.

A dedicated athlete, Easley has firsthand experience with the role of nutrition in performance. Having qualified for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in 2012, she credits her success to a combination of rigorous training and a commitment to proper nutrition. Her passion for health and fitness translates into her work, where she helps clients develop sustainable, mindful eating habits that support their well-being.

Due to inclement weather, 含羞草传媒 will be closed today, February 12. Blowing and drifting snow, additional accumulation and slick road conditions are expected through the morning. 

In-person classes are cancelled. All online classes, regardless of program, will take place as scheduled. 

Employees are encouraged to work remotely if you have a 含羞草传媒 laptop or home computer. If you have questions, please contact your supervisor directly. Maintenance employees will be contacted by their lead supervisor who will provide work details and shift information. 

Some student services will continue to operate.  They include: 
Sodexo Dining 鈥� normal hours 

Weary Center open recreation 鈥� 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 鈥� 9 p.m.

 **athletic practices may occur during open recreation time

Library services - 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

If you are on campus, please use extreme caution when using the campus sidewalks and parking lots.

Lincoln and Lancaster County is in a Winter Storm Warning until 6 p.m. today. 

The 含羞草传媒 Honors Festival hosts the region鈥檚 most promising high school singers and instrumental performers during its annual concerts this month.

鈥淥ur festival has a rich tradition of engaging highly accomplished guest conductors and composers who we bring to campus to work with the high school students,鈥� says Josh Roach, director of instrumental activities and assistant professor of music at 含羞草传媒. 鈥淭his year, we are inviting two guests that are both conductors and composers. We are also splitting up the festival to take place over two separate weekends, which allows us to do several new things.鈥�

The honor choir culminated on Friday, Feb. 7, at 7 p.m. in the O鈥橠onnell Auditorium. The honor bands performance will take place on Saturday, Feb. 15,  in O鈥橠onnell Auditorium. 

Director of Choirs and Associate Professor Music Tom Trenney says it鈥檚 rare for students to create music with composers whose music they play. 鈥淭his a powerful experience.  And being able to make music with students from other schools who are as talented and excited about choir as you is such a thrilling experience, particularly for those who come from smaller schools.鈥�

The concerts are open to the public and tickets can be purchased at the door.

鈥淭he audience will be able to feel the passion and spirit of these young people uniting together to create something authentically beautiful.  In a world that is so chaotic and divided, to see and hear this unity and harmony is uplifting and inspiring,鈥� says Trenney.

含羞草传媒 University鈥檚 annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration event is dedicated to reflection and recognition of individuals who embody Dr. King鈥檚 legacy of equity, inclusion and service. 

During the event, the 含羞草传媒 University Choir delivered a moving performance that echoed themes of unity and justice. The program concluded with the presentation of 含羞草传媒鈥檚 Advocate for Diversity awards, honoring students, staff, and faculty whose efforts foster a more welcoming and inclusive campus.

Advocate for Diversity Awards: 

Alaa Al-Yasseri

Her nominators praised her for spearheading the creation of the 鈥渋nterfaith room,鈥� which began as a space for Muslim students to pray during Ramadan and evolved into a permanent, religiously neutral area where all students can practice their faith. Alaa鈥檚 vision has created a sanctuary for inclusion, ensuring that students of all beliefs feel seen and supported.

Rachel Stallworth

Stallworth鈥檚 nominators highlighted her work for gender inclusivity has had a lasting impact. Stallworth helped incorporate pronouns on university business cards, a change that underscores the importance of validating identities and fostering respect. Her dedication to creating an inclusive culture has sparked meaningful conversations among faculty and staff.

Ashton Barlow

Barlow was celebrated for his role as a natural bridge builder. As president of the Interfaith club, Bridge, Barlow fosters understanding and connections across faiths. His original play, I Am, explored complex topics surrounding the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, compelling audiences to reflect on acceptance and love. 

Mary Butler Award 鈥� Aniaya Reed

The Mary Butler Award recognizes a student of color who excels in leadership and service. Her nominators say her leadership in organizations like the Black Student Union and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee has fostered collaboration and advocates for diversity. Her work with the YWCA, Lincoln Public Schools, and local nonprofits demonstrates her passion for empowering others. Her nominators praised her authenticity and ability to inspire change through action.

含羞草传媒 University has partnered with Concordia University, Nebraska, to expand access to 含羞草传媒鈥檚 Master of Athletic Training (MAT) program making it easier for students to obtain a MAT degree. Under the agreement, 含羞草传媒 will reserve two seats annually for Concordia Nebraska students who meet specified criteria.

鈥淲e are extremely excited to partner with Concordia Nebraska and create strong relationships between our two institutions,鈥� says Sam Wilson, director of 含羞草传媒鈥檚 athletic training program. 鈥淭his is a great opportunity to provide students with exceptional experience and future job opportunities.鈥�

Eligible students must meet several requirements, including maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA and earning a bachelor鈥檚 degree from Concordia Nebraska. Additionally, they must complete all prerequisite courses before enrollment, submit a resume detailing volunteer work, internships, and professional experience, complete 50 documented hours of observation under a certified athletic trainer, and apply through the Athletic Training Centralized Application Service (ATCAS) with two letters of reference.

This partnership builds on 含羞草传媒鈥檚 ongoing efforts to enhance and grow the program by establishing strong relationships with regional institutions.

The MAT program鈥檚 recent growth is evident in partnerships with Concordia Nebraska, York University, Central Community College, Southeast Community College, and Western Nebraska Community College, reinforcing 含羞草传媒鈥檚 commitment to preparing future athletic training professionals for success across the region.

含羞草传媒 University has announced its 2024 fall semester academic honors list for students enrolled in traditional and adult undergraduate programs. 

Traditional undergraduates:

Students earning at least a 3.75 grade point average (on a 4.00 scale) while completing a full-time course load of at least 12 credit hours of graded work (pass/fail courses are not included) are eligible. 

Adult undergraduates:

Undergraduate students earning at least a 3.75 grade point average while completing 6 or more hours of graded work (pass/fail courses are not included) are eligible. 

含羞草传媒 University Athletics has appointed Kean Kontor as the new head men's and women's golf coach. 

Kontor joins the Prairie Wolves with a wealth of experience in collegiate coaching and golf operations, most recently serving as the head men's and women's golf coach at Midland University.

"Hiring Kean Kontor as our first in history full-time men's and women's golf coach has immediately elevated our golf programs within the American Rivers Conference," says 含羞草传媒Director of Athletics Dwight Merilatt. "Kean is a very good coach, and I'm looking forward to his leadership of both programs. I know he will make a very positive impact for our golf studentathletes."

Kontor, a Lincoln native, brings a history of success and dedication to the development of student-athletes. During his time at Midland University, he managed team budgets, organized tournaments, and structured practices for both men's and women's teams. Outside of coaching, Kontor has advanced the sport through his role in client success at GolfStatus and his leadership in a variety of golf-related positions.

A graduate of Midland University, Kontor holds a master鈥檚 degree in adult and organizational earning, as well as a bachelor's degree in business administration with a concentration in management. His collegiate playing experience, including time with the Midland University Men's golf team and the Southeast Community College Men's golf team, adds valuable perspective to his coaching philosophy.

"I am very excited for this opportunity at 含羞草传媒 University. I appreciate the confidence in the leadership team at 含羞草传媒 to see my ability to lead both these programs to great success,鈥� says Kontor. 鈥淚 am looking forward to taking both teams to the next level and competing for championships."

The Prairie Wolf men will open their 2025 spring season on March 18 at the Doane Spring invite, held at Pioneers Golf Course in Lincoln, with Kontor leading the team into competition.

Three-time national champion track and field athlete and 含羞草传媒 University graduate Isabella Hogue has been selected for one of the most prestigious academic awards in the American Rivers Conference. The selection marks 含羞草传媒鈥檚 sixth consecutive year earning the award.

The Murray, Neb., native has been named the 2023-24 A-R-C Johanna Olson Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year. The award recognizes academic excellence, community leadership and athletic accomplishments. The winners were selected through a vote by the conference's faculty athletic representatives and announced by the league earlier today

She graduated in 2024 with a 4.0 GPA in communication studies and a minor in marketing. Her academic accolades include earning College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-American First Team honors in both 2023 and 2024, being named to the Dean's List six times and receiving the Gold Key Award from Phi Kappa Phi.

On the track, Hogue earned several notable, record-breaking achievements:

鈥� National Championships: She clinched titles in the Indoor 200m, Outdoor 100m, and 200m in 2022.

鈥� All-American Awards: Bella earned this honor eight times across various events in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

鈥� Conference Records: She set new benchmarks in the A-R-C with records in the Indoor 60m and 400m dashes.

鈥� 含羞草传媒 School Records: Hogue holds six school records in several sprint events.

Hogue has also been active in the Lincoln community through volunteerism. She鈥檚 tutored at the Karen Society, conducted communication-based research for CEDARS, and led youth track clinics. She was a track and field ambassador for 含羞草传媒, a guest speaker at donor events, and as a representative for transfer students.

Included in the nomination for A-R-C Scholar-Athlete of the Year was an essay. In her essay, Bella expressed, 鈥淭he most incredible part about being a student athlete at 含羞草传媒 was not the championships, the records, the accolades, the test scores, the degrees, or the achievements; The most impactful part of the 1,095 days I spent at 含羞草传媒 while combining athletic participation with the pursuit of my academic degree was the love I felt for simply being there.鈥�

Reese Wilcox (鈥�24) has already achieved what few undergraduates do鈥攃o-author a research paper published in Scientific Reports.

"Being published as an undergraduate is a huge honor," Wilcox said. "It鈥檚 rare and will definitely strengthen my application to MD-PhD (physician-scientist) programs."

The Beatrice, Neb., native spent her summer in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, participating in the Sanford Program for Undergraduate Research. In Dr. Lance Lee鈥檚 lab, she contributed to pioneering work on primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), a rare genetic condition affecting 1 in 16,000 people.

PCD results from defects in motile cilia鈥攈air-like structures responsible for clearing mucus and debris from the body鈥攚hich can lead to chronic respiratory infections and progressive lung damage.

In addition to her assigned project, Wilcox took on an additional challenge: investigating an unidentified cell type discovered through single-cell RNA sequencing. Although the mystery remains unsolved, her work analyzing over 500 cell markers across 45 cell types advances the lab鈥檚 understanding of the airway鈥檚 cellular composition, a key step in developing diagnostic tools and treatments for PCD.

"During the first lab meeting, I became fascinated with this unknown cell type and asked if I could explore it," Wilcox said. "Even though I didn鈥檛 identify it, the experience taught me how crucial curiosity and persistence are in science."

Wilcox鈥檚 academic journey wasn鈥檛 without setbacks. During her sophomore year, she faced a medical withdrawal that left her uncertain about her future. "I didn鈥檛 know if I鈥檇 even graduate, let alone pursue my dream of becoming a doctor," she said.

Returning to 含羞草传媒, she found encouragement and mentorship from Assistant Professor of Chemistry Kate Weskamp. "Her support was instrumental in getting me back on track. The close relationships students build with professors here are what make 含羞草传媒 truly special."

Wilcox graduated in December with a biochemistry and molecular biology degree and plans to pursue a dual degree program that trains students to become physician-scientists鈥攄octors who specialize in research.

Explore the research here: 

含羞草传媒 University has promoted Jason Ensrud to Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine. 

Ensrud, who has been with 含羞草传媒 since 2006, will continue to oversee sports medicine and athletic training services, and will now take on additional administrative responsibilities, including serving as a liaison with student health services and overseeing strength and conditioning programs.

鈥淛ason is truly deserving of being elevated to the Assistant Athletic Director level,鈥� said 含羞草传媒 Director of Athletics Dwight Merilatt. 鈥淗is leadership and knowledge of our overall department and student-athletes has been a valuable resource for me since I started in 2022. I鈥檓 excited he will be joining our administrative team.鈥�

Ensrud came to 含羞草传媒 in the fall of 2006, serving as an assistant athletic trainer before being promoted to Director of Sports Medicine/Head Athletic Trainer in 2007. He is the primary athletic trainer for the Prairie Wolves football and baseball teams and assists other teams throughout the year. Ensrud was also inducted into the 含羞草传媒 Athletics Hall of Fame with the Spirit of the Plainsman Award.

In 2015, the College/University Athletic Trainers' Committee named Ensrud the NCAA DIII National Athletic Trainer of the Year. That same year, the Mid-America Athletic Trainers鈥� Association recognized him as the Most Distinguished Young Professional. In 2013, he was the recipient of the University鈥檚 C.O.R.E. Award, which the Sports Medicine team also received in the fall of 2021.

Before joining 含羞草传媒, Ensrud was a graduate assistant athletic trainer at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, providing medical care for their football, women鈥檚 basketball, and baseball teams. He also served as the assistant athletic trainer for the Windy City Thunderbolts, a semi-professional baseball organization in Chicago. Jason received his undergraduate degree in athletic training from North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND.

A native of Pekin, North Dakota, Jason and his wife Kylie have a daughter, Grace, and a son, Kellen.

鈥淚 would like to sincerely thank Mr. Merilatt for this opportunity. I鈥檓 excited to contribute to the continued growth and future successes of our department and 含羞草传媒 University,鈥� Ensrud said.

Ensrud and his team will continue to be based in the athletic training facilities at 含羞草传媒, ensuring top-notch care for all Prairie Wolves student-athletes.

含羞草传媒 senior goalkeeper Zachary Weis has been named a First Team Academic All-American, the College Sports Communicators (CSC) announced Tuesday.

Weis becomes the 192nd Academic All-American in 含羞草传媒 Athletics history. The selection extends the school's All-American streak to 41 consecutive years with an honoree. 含羞草传媒 is ranked 13th among all schools in the country regardless of division for Academic All-Americans and sixth among all NCAA Division III schools. Weis is the first men鈥檚 soccer player at 含羞草传媒 to win the award since 2015.

One of the most prestigious awards in collegiate athletics, the CSC Academic All-America庐 program recognizes student-athletes for their combined excellence on the field and in the classroom. Nominees must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50, demonstrate significant athletic contributions, and complete at least one year at their current institution.

Weis capped a stellar 2024 season as the cornerstone of the Prairie Wolves' defense.  His 100 saves, seven clean sheets, and an 83.3% save percentage were all career highs in his senior season. Weis played a key role in leading 含羞草传媒 to its first-ever appearance in the American Rivers Conference Championship match, showcasing dominant performances in the tournament's early rounds by conceding only one goal. Weis earned All-Conference honors for the fourth straight season, cementing his legacy as one of 含羞草传媒's most decorated goalkeepers.

Off the field, Weis has a perfect 4.00 GPA while pursuing a double major in political science and philosophy & religion. Weis is one of just 34 men's soccer players across all NCAA Division III programs to earn Academic All-America庐 recognition this year. For the full list of honorees and more details, visit .

Student studying sociology and criminology at 含羞草传媒 University recently turned the Callen Conference Room into a dramatic courtroom, hosting its largest-scale mock trial. This immersive event showcased sharp legal minds, gripping storytelling and fiery debate.

The proceedings began with Bailiff Trevor Storer, a student from Intro to Criminal Justice, commanding, 鈥淎ll rise!鈥� Judges Swara Patel from Intro to Sociology and Addie Priefert from Intro to Criminal Justice presided with authority, ensuring every moment reflected the gravity of a real courtroom.

At the heart of the trial was a sensational civil case inspired by real-world legal intrigue. Millionaire Avery Bancroft鈥檚 mysterious death aboard the luxury train Mid-Riverina Express on April 25, 2024, set the stage for a fierce legal showdown. 

Bancroft鈥檚 two children, Taylor Hopson and Shannon Shahid, became embroiled in a high-stakes inheritance battle. Bancroft鈥檚 will favored Hopson鈥攚ho happened to be on the train when Bancroft died鈥� but Shahid accused Hopson of foul play, invoking the Slayer Statute to prevent them from inheriting the estate.

Student attorneys engaged in strategic questioning and intense and cross-examinations. The plaintiff鈥檚 legal team were Adrian Ho, Ella Karrer, Madeleine Hendrix-Jones, and Zach Flegel (Intro to Criminal Justice), while the defense team鈥擜den Mercer, Jaxson Waller, and Moo Htee Paw (Intro to Sociology)鈥攄efended their client. 

Student witnesses delivered testimonies that showcased their preparation and commitment. Plaintiff witnesses were Olivia McMann, Parker Brown, and Rhyanne Mackling from Intro to Criminal Justice, and the defense witnesses were Rhya Cano, Emma Parker, and Lexi O鈥機onnell from Intro to Sociology.

Both sides clashed over key points: What was the motive? Were the witnesses reliable? Could the defense dismantle Shahid鈥檚 claims, or would the plaintiff sway the jury? 

After deliberation, the jury delivered its verdict: Taylor Hopson (played by Cano) was found not liable for Avery Bancroft鈥檚 death. 

Professors Heba Khalil and James Perry adapted the mock case from the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) and encouraged students to participate in the AMTA National Championship in the future.

Dr. Sarah Kelen鈥檚 teaching and research on medieval and early modern English literature and culture have earned her one of the highest academic honors at 含羞草传媒 University.

Kelen has been chosen as the inaugural holder of the Dr. Roger A. Cognard Professorship in the Liberal Arts. 

鈥淚t is an honor to be selected for this professorship,鈥� Kelen, professor of English, says. 鈥淒r. Cognard and I were colleagues in the English Department for my first several years at 含羞草传媒. He set high standards for his students, sharing with them his enthusiasm for Shakespeare and demonstrating how those plays resonate with us today. I hope I can bring those same characteristics to my teaching.鈥� 

Named professorships lend prestige to the university and recipient. They help recruit and retain top talent and inspire faculty colleagues in their work. 

The professorship was made possible by Dr. Rodney ('77) and Betsy Markin, who have now established two professorships in honor of their longstanding friendship with and gratitude for the mentorship of Dr. Roger and Anne Cognard. Just last month, Dr. Jonathan Redding was named the recipient of the Dr. Anne MacLeod Cognard Professorship in the Humanities.

鈥淒r. Roger Cognard was one of my favorite professors. He opened my eyes to the importance of literature and its interpretation,鈥� Markin says. 鈥淗e is one of several 含羞草传媒 professors who had a long-lasting impact on my career in academic medicine. The gratitude I feel for Roger鈥檚 teaching is immeasurable.鈥�

Cognard, a 1967 含羞草传媒 graduate and 1971 Ph.D. recipient from Texas Christian University, spent 37 years teaching English at 含羞草传媒. Renowned for his courses in composition, world literature, modern drama, and Shakespeare, he received numerous honors, including the Creative Young Professor Award and the Prouty Distinguished Teaching Award. 

He led 11 study abroad tours to England, engaging over 200 students in British literature and Shakespeare. Dr. Cognard also served as chair of the English Department, faculty president, and dramaturg for 含羞草传媒鈥檚 annual Shakespeare productions for 21 years.

鈥淧roviding professorships at 含羞草传媒 in our names is a stunning act of generosity from the Markins,鈥� Cognard says. 鈥淭hese gifts will enrich the work of faculty members and the lives of their students. A liberal arts education provides students with a broad foundation of knowledge and skills and encourages intellectual curiosity. These professorships help ensure that this tradition continues.鈥�

The professorship includes funding that will directly benefit students. 鈥淚t鈥檚 important to me that these opportunities be available to all students," Kelen says.

This summer, the grants will support students participating in the London Theatre Immersion study abroad trip led by Professor Ryan Kathman. 鈥淚 can鈥檛 think of a better tribute to Dr. Cognard, who regularly took 含羞草传媒 students to England to study Shakespeare in summer study abroad courses,鈥� Kelen says.

The professorship will also support Kelen鈥檚 research on medieval and early modern English literature and culture. 鈥淚 am working on a book on sixteenth and seventeenth century responses to earlier English literature, in particular, how those later readers and editors described the changes in language. This was the period when works reprinted from the Middle Ages started including notes or glossaries to help later readers understand the earlier texts.鈥�

For 25 years, Dr. Sarah Kelen has taught English to majors and non-majors at all levels from first-year writing through senior thesis. She has been recognized with the 含羞草传媒 University Scholar Award and the Ameritas Research Grant; she has served on numerous University committees and has published several chapters and articles as well as two books with another in progress. She has also served in administrative roles, including English Department Chair, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Dean of the Colleges, and Vice President for Student Life. 

Kara Cavel, associate professor of social work, has been named the 2024-2025 Faculty Mentor of the Year. 

The honor recognizes faculty who dedicate their time and expertise to mentoring their colleagues, fostering professional growth, and enhancing the teaching and service environment on campus.

Selected by the 含羞草传媒 University Faculty Development Committee, Cavel exemplifies the spirit of mentorship. Her dedication to supporting fellow faculty members goes beyond guidance, transforming how they teach, collaborate, and serve their students and communities.

Excerpts from Cavel鈥檚 nominations highlight her contributions:

• Her generosity in sharing resources and advice stood out, with one nominator noting, 鈥淪he graciously shared documents, sample assignments, and provided guidance to improve my teaching.鈥�
• Cavel鈥檚 expertise in course design and curriculum improvement has been instrumental, particularly in clinical skills courses. 鈥淗er influence makes us all better.鈥�
• Her contagious enthusiasm and vision have left a lasting impact on her department, with another nominator stating, 鈥淗er knowledge and vision are a primary reason we are the successful program we are today.鈥�

The Faculty Development Committee鈥攃haired by Tanya Martin, with Mary Hickman, Jenny Eilts, Hyeong-Gyu Choi, and Megan Pendley鈥攑layed a vital role in selecting this year鈥檚 winner.

含羞草传媒 University鈥檚 choral ensembles will present Christmas with Wesleyan: Love and Joy Come to You on Sunday, December 8, at 7:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church on the 含羞草传媒 campus. 

The free performance features 含羞草传媒's University Choir, Jazz Choir, and Unity Choir, joined by the Omaha Skutt Catholic High School Chamber Choir and Lincoln Boys Choir.

Audiences will enjoy works by diverse composers such as Abbie Betinis, Moses Hogan, Rosephanye Powell, and Robert Ray, with highlights from Misa Criolla and Gospel Mass. Beloved carols like 鈥淪ilent Night鈥� and 鈥淛oy to the World鈥� will include opportunities for audience sing-alongs, accompanied by orchestra and organ.

"It's easy for our students to get lost in the busyness of their schedules and to be carried away with anxiety for all the deep challenges that seem to chase us in this world,鈥� says Tom Trenny, 含羞草传媒 director of choirs. 鈥淥ur hope is that the precious time we spend together experiencing Christmas with Wesleyan might remind both our singers and our audiences of what joy feels like.鈥�

Donations will support 含羞草传媒鈥檚 2025 concert tour to Europe.

Tom Trenney, assistant professor of music, has been named the 2024 Nebraska Music Educator of the Year by the Nebraska Music Education Association. 

This prestigious honor recognizes his profound impact on music education, his exceptional leadership and his unwavering dedication to students. 

Trenney oversees 含羞草传媒鈥檚 University Choir and Chamber Singers, teaches Advanced Conducting, and plays a pivotal role in recruiting prospective vocal students. Beyond his work on campus, Trenney has established a dynamic presence in Nebraska's choral community, regularly collaborating with high school choirs and enriching the university's choral program through partnerships with Abendmusik at First-Plymouth Church.

One nominator said, 鈥淪ince joining the 含羞草传媒 community in the fall of 2019, he has brought visibility and recognition to the 含羞草传媒 music program and community. Tom has substantially reimagined and elevated choral music at our university while continuing to impact choral and organ music locally, regionally, and nationwide."

鈥淭here is noticeable joy that characterizes the choirs and ensembles under Tom鈥檚 direction. In his course evaluations, students share that they look forward to choir time, which one of them described as 鈥渢he highlight of my day.鈥� They commend Tom鈥檚 positive attitude, encouragement, authentic concern for them as individuals, as well as his ability to lift their spirits.鈥�

A student nominator said, 鈥淣ot only is he an amazingly gifted creator and educator, but an intentionally loving person who saves a seat for everyone in his choir. He celebrates and employs the diversity and experiences of each individual he encounters. Mr. Trenney emphasizes the sensations and emotions that his choirs feel as we produce music and strives to express the deepest message a piece has to offer. I have been exposed to a new perspective of the choral arts, and I can confidently say that it has forever changed how I view the world of music.鈥�

Trenney's choirs are celebrated for their technical precision, emotional depth, and artistic excellence. Under his direction, 含羞草传媒 ensembles have performed at high-profile events, including national conferences and collaborations with the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra. His leadership extends to creating innovative opportunities, such as the Unity Choir鈥攁 multigenerational ensemble uniting students, alumni, and community members in joyful music-making.

Trenney鈥檚 national and international reputation as a conductor, composer, and organist enhances the visibility of 含羞草传媒's music program. His recent accolades include conducting honor choirs nationwide and winning the Raabe Prize for Excellence in Sacred Composition. His leadership fosters critical conversations about diversity and social justice in the arts, further enriching the educational experience for his students.

Zach Weis (鈥�24) and Chance Hergott (鈥�25), both of Omaha, Neb., have won this year鈥檚 Brugman Pitch Contest, earning $1,500 for their initiative, What Being Nebraskan Means to Me.

鈥淭his is our second time competing, and coming back after last year鈥檚 second-place finish feels like redemption,鈥� Hergott says. 鈥淲e were able to learn from some of our mistakes that we made last year and improve.鈥� 

Weis says, 鈥淪uccess in the contest is really important to us. It has such fantastic heritage. The contest goes back almost 20 years.鈥�

Students are given a prompt and a tight deadline to pitch a solution. Winning pitches move through rounds eventually into a final round. This year the panel of judges asked students to refine proposals from the second round, which asked them to secure a strategic partner and support an initiative within their major. 

Weis says this year鈥檚 competition was intense. "It felt like preparing for a soccer game. My hands were shaking a little bit. You can feel your heart beating, but the adrenaline is a really good thing.鈥� Weiss and Hergott are 含羞草传媒 Men鈥檚 Soccer student athletes, too.

In the final round, Weis, a philosophy and political science double major graduating this December, and Hergott, a business and finance major graduating in spring 2025, pitched a partnership with TED Talks. Their initiative would foster community and dialogue, addressing divisive topics in a unifying and innovative way. 

Their idea emerged from a desire to bridge divides, particularly in political discourse. 鈥淣ot many people enjoy politics because it鈥檚 divisive. It's hard to connect with people about politics,鈥� Weis says. 鈥淚 thought maybe therein lies the solution鈥攆inding a way that we can bring different people together. Then, that connects to the core values of our institution of building a community of integrative learning. And we just kind of jumped off that.鈥� 

Hergott says the idea came at the right time, just weeks after the latest presidential election. 鈥淟et鈥檚 take a step back from that and focus on our unity within our community in Nebraska. Our country was never founded on the idea that everyone would agree about everything. And that's okay. We鈥檝e lost track of the idea that while we disagree on things, we have more things in common.鈥� 

The pair credited their success to their complementary strengths鈥擶eis鈥檚 speechwriting and Hergott鈥檚 presentation skills鈥攁nd expressed gratitude to the Brugman family, event sponsors and fellow participants. 鈥淭here were phenomenal ideas across the board,鈥� Weiss says.

With their win, Weis and Hergott say they hope to inspire conversations that celebrate shared values while respecting diverse perspectives, embodying the contest鈥檚 spirit of innovation and collaboration.

Jeremiah Ourada, chief information officer, has been recognized with 含羞草传媒 University鈥檚 CORE Award, which celebrates staff whose efforts and contributions significantly exceed expectations in demonstrating 含羞草传媒鈥檚 core values.

He was recognized for his contributions both within the CSIT Department and beyond:

• Improving University IT policies, software and hardware efficiencies, and network security;
• Implementing Softdocs, which moved the University from three different software applications into one, fully reducing paper forms and providing a paperless storage database;
• Providing innovative solutions and proactive approaches to significantly improve efficiencies and user satisfaction;
• Mentoring of WITS and IT team members
• Leading and navigating the campus through difficult IT challenges, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations;
• Organizing a consortium of higher education institutions across Nebraska and Kansas to negotiate and purchase software contracts, reducing costs for all institutions in the consortium.

鈥淛eremiah embodies the core values of 含羞草传媒,鈥� said his nominator. 鈥淗e is highly deserving of the award, and I am confident that his continued contributions will have a lasting positive impact here.鈥�

In an innovative course at 含羞草传媒 University, students with different majors are coming together to master an unlikely subject: coffee brewing.

The course, Special Projects 2980, was inspired by a casual conversation between professors last spring. "We thought it would be interesting to recreate something similar to a scene in Breaking Bad where they build a coffee maker in the lab," Brent McKain, assistant professor of math and computer science, says. "We applied for a grant, got the equipment, and structured the course over the summer." 

The professors then invited students from math, psychology, chemistry, and physics to form interdisciplinary teams, each exploring different brewing methods such as AeroPress, pour-over, and French press.

Physics major Georgia Crandall, from Overton, Nebraska, is part of the AeroPress team. "We鈥檙e using all sorts of factors like grind size, water temperature, and brew time to see what makes the best cup,鈥� she says. "This project is more than just science; it鈥檚 about understanding how people鈥檚 preferences differ and why. It鈥檚 a great chance to work with others who have unique skills.鈥�

McKain helped develop the class with Kate Weskamp, assistant professor of chemistry, Maria Becker, assistant professor of physics, and Kelsey Thiem, assistant professor of psychology and social psychology. 

McKain emphasizes the importance of blending skills from each major. 鈥淓ach student brings something unique. Our chemistry students understand the brewing chemistry, psychologists focus on survey design, and physicists often bridge the gap between scientific analysis and real-world application,鈥� McKain says.

The class has already started drawing attention on campus, with students, faculty, and staff stopping by to sample the different brews. 含羞草传媒鈥檚 campus community took a survey, which asked them to identify their favorite cup.

At the end of the semester, a panel of professional baristas will judge the final products to declare the best brew. McKain says the project has been a rewarding experience for everyone involved. "It's brought people from all corners of campus into one room for coffee and conversation鈥攁 meaningful community moment."

For Crandall and her classmates, the project has been eye-opening in unexpected ways. "I didn鈥檛 think my physics background would overlap with psychology or data analytics, but it鈥檚 amazing how much we can learn from each other,鈥� she says. 

Beyond brewing the perfect cup, students are developing skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and cross-disciplinary communication. By the semester鈥檚 end, they鈥檒l have had not only a hands-on education in coffee science but also a crash course in collaborative learning that鈥檚 likely to stick with them long after a cup of coffee.