Every day at the College of Business, I see students stepping into new challenges that prepare them to lead in their future careers. What makes Nebraska Business special is how our students apply what they learn in the classroom through real-world experiences.
Recently, a team of Nebraska students demonstrated exactly what this preparation looks like in action during the Tenaska Business Challenge, hosted by the College of Business in partnership with one of the nation’s leading energy companies. Competing against teams from universities across the country, the students analyzed a real-world case created by the company and collaborated to develop a winning strategy. Experiences like this allow students to test their ideas, refine their thinking and build the skills that define exceptional business leaders while working directly with industry partners.
That growth is the result of intentionally designed learning experiences that stretch students beyond their comfort zones. One of our most "out of the box" examples is our Applied Improv for the Successful Business Leader course, where students use improvisational theater techniques to strengthen their adaptability and communication skills. These are essential skills in today’s fast-moving workplaces, and this course helps students move from simply knowing ideas to communicating them effectively when it matters most.
At Nebraska Business, we also believe leadership is strengthened through connection. Our Women Lead conference, hosted in partnership with the College of Law, brought together leaders from business, law, government and nonprofit organizations to share insights and expand networks. The conference highlighted the power of collective leadership and reminded the students and professionals who attended that progress happens when people collaborate around a shared purpose.
Alongside these experiences, our Ph.D. programs are preparing the next generation of scholars and thought leaders. Doctoral students at Nebraska work closely with faculty mentors to tackle important economic and business questions, as economics Ph.D. student Rebekah Jack did, earning a prestigious National Bureau of Economic Research Dissertation Fellowship. One of the most competitive honors for emerging economists, the fellowship supports promising doctoral scholars whose research has the potential to influence economic understanding and policy. Opportunities like this demonstrate that the work they do here can contribute to conversations and solutions far beyond our campus.
Together, these stories reflect a larger vision for the College of Business built on hands-on learning, industry engagement and meaningful mentorship. Our new undergraduate core curriculum was designed with these principles in mind, integrating experiential opportunities and real-world partnerships so students graduate ready to lead and innovate.
All of this is possible due to the generosity of our alumni and friends. Donor support fuels scholarships, innovative courses, competitions and research opportunities that transform how students learn and what they believe is possible for their future.
With your help, Nebraska Business students are preparing for their careers by gaining the skills and experiences needed to lead the future of business.
We hope you will invest in their journey.
Dean Kathy Farrell
