For 150 years, our university built a legacy of improving the quality of life for Nebraska and beyond. This year also marks a 100 years since the College of Business changed from a school of commerce into a college in 1919. Together, we will celebrate the historic past of our university during Charter Week, February 11-15, while also charting an energetic future for our land-grant institution.
 
As part of the N150 celebrations, the university released The Report of the N150 Commission, which includes a set of revised values, mission statement, goals, strategies and metrics. The report is the work of the Nebraska Commission of 150, a comprehensive group of 150-plus leaders who came together to develop strategic goals for the next 25 years. More than 20 students, faculty, staff and alumni on the commission represented the College of Business. The core aspirations listed in this report reaffirm the priorities identified in the college’s strategic plan created last year. The university’s aspirations include:

• Nebraska students co-create their experience;
• Our research and creativity transforms lives and learning;
• Every person and every interaction matter; and
• Engagement builds communities.

Huskers everywhere can take part in celebrating this sesquicentennial milestone. On February 14, you can Glow Big Red and:

• Light it: Light up your house or windows with Husker red lights and glow sticks
• Fly it: Wave your Husker flag
• Wear it: Wear your favorite Husker apparel
• Give it: Build the next 150 years of excellence by contributing to the university during its 24 Hours of Husker Giving. From noon on Thursday to Friday, you can specifically support the College of Business by donating to the college's Start Something N Fund. The Start Something N Fund allows us to offer special programs and events – such as the National Personal Finance Challenge and International Business Summit – and send students to conferences and case competitions throughout the nation.

In this e-newsletter, you will find examples of how we are charting a bright future by implementing our strategic plan and reinforcing the university’s N150 aspirations. For instance, I am proud of our Nebraska Business community members who are living our guiding principle of Be Inclusive. Dr. Gwendolyn Combs (pictured below on the left) is teaching an impactful course called Managing Diversity in Organizations (MNGT 365) and bringing in HR leaders to share their experiences. Students like Jacob Polk (pictured below on the right), a freshman economics major from Hooper, Nebraska, participated in a day of service reading books centered on diversity and inclusion education at early childhood centers in Lincoln. Together, we can lead the future of business.
 
 
Discussing another important business topic in Nebraska, the Center for Entrepreneurship will host the inaugural Family Business Conference, Friday, March 1. Formally launching the Nebraska Family Business initiative created by a gift from the Abel family, the conference will provide education, networking and exploration of the conference’s theme: The Challenge of Change. I hope owners, leaders and alumni who work in, with or for a family business will join our students and the center to address these important business and leadership topics.
 
I encourage you to show your Husker spirit and Glow Big Red on February 14. I hope you’ll tweet me (@KathyFarrellUNL) and share how you are lighting, flying, wearing or giving to celebrate!  Published: February 12, 2019