The University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business awarded a record-breaking $1.45 million in scholarships to 577 students this year. Through the generosity of alumni and friends, 820 total scholarships were provided through 257 scholarship fund accounts.

"There are many reasons why students choose where they go to school, but many of our students rely on scholarship support to pursue their education, careers and business dreams," said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean and professor of finance. "Thank you to our esteemed scholarship donors who provided the generous support."

More than 200 student scholarship recipients, donors, faculty and staff gathered to celebrate at the third annual Scholarship Brunch on Sept. 13. The event was held on the heels of an official announcement of a 3.1% increase in business student enrollment this fall fueled by a 11.1% increase in first-time freshmen.

"There is a direct correlation between scholarships awarded and the success of our student recruitment and retention efforts," Farrell said. "Our alumni and friends — those who didn't necessarily earn degrees from Nebraska — have strong Husker ties and they want to make an impact on our students and our college through their philanthropy, and we are grateful."

Meredith Maher, partner at Fare Associates in Marietta, Georgia, watched her parents set up a scholarship fund for students. Both attended Nebraska in the 1960s and supported the community in various ways.

"My first industry job offered a $10,000 signing bonus, which was amazing back then. I didn’t spend the bonus, but rather invested it in the S&P 500 index fund. Now 25 years later, that $10,000 signing bonus is worth $135,000," she said.

Maher planned to donate the funds to the university through her estate, but after attending the Scholarship Brunch last year, she formed a new plan.

"With big gains comes big taxes and I had no desire to pay capital gains on most of the amount. At the Scholarship Brunch, a donor spoke about his endowed scholarship that he funded from his IRA to avoid taxes that gave preference to students from a private school. I realized it was my turn to help students come to the College of Business now," she said.

Scholarship recipient Carolina Barraza of Courtland, Kansas, shared her gratitude. An accounting major, she moved to the United States from Monterrey, Mexico, at age 10.

"Growing up a first-generation immigrant in rural Kansas taught me how to be jack-of-all-trades by being resourceful and highly involved in my community. Relocating to the U.S. gave me a unique perspective and deeper appreciation for the opportunities presented to me, because I am aware they are not available for everyone," she said.

Intimidated by the cost of tuition for an out-of-state university, she leveraged her resources to make her dream of attending Nebraska Business a reality.

"The College of Business donors made a difference in my education. The scholarships I received after my first year allowed me to focus on my studies fully because I know I am on track to graduate debt-free," Barraza said. "In addition, I’ve been able to take advantage of every opportunity and help others do the same as a student strengths coach for the Clifton Strengths Institute and accounting tutor at the Teaching and Learning Center. I also invested in myself and the development of my entrepreneurial talents through the Clifton Builders Program."

Barraza graduates in May with a bachelor’s degree and plans to continue her education at Nebraska in the Master of Professional Accountancy program. She also plans to sit for the Certified Public Accountant exam and join a public accounting firm in Nebraska.

Tom Dey, a junior marketing major with a minor in athletic coaching from Wheaton, Illinois, noted how he spent many Saturdays in the fall watching the Huskers play with his family. Even though attending Nebraska meant an eight-hour drive from home, he said he knew it was the place for him.

"The first time I visited campus and looked up at the beautiful Howard L. Hawks Hall, I knew there was something special about this place. I quickly learned that the alumni and donors here are deeply invested in the future of business," Dey said. "Now, I can confidently say that UNL is my second home."

He served as an orientation leader for New Student Enrollment at Nebraska this past summer and helped introduce the Class of 2028 to life as a Husker. He also gained skills in leadership, public speaking and problem-solving.

"When I was awarded a scholarship through the College of Business, it gave me even more motivation to excel both inside and outside the classroom and strive to become a stronger leader," he said. "I know the support from this incredible community of fellow students, faculty, staff, alumni and donors will continue to guide me. Thank you for investing in students and the future of business."

To give toward Nebraska Business Scholarships, go to: https://go.unl.edu/givecobscholarships.