By Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D.
President, University of Nebraska System
As we prepare to gather around Thanksgiving tables, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on our blessings and the collective efforts that make Nebraska strong. Among those blessings are the bright, motivated students who hold the promise of our state’s future. At the University of Nebraska, we are giving thanks by doubling down on our commitment to retain and cultivate that talent, ensuring that extraordinary students have extraordinary opportunities right here at home.
Seventeen Nebraskans began their freshman year this fall as the inaugural cohort of Presidential Scholars — students who achieved a perfect 36 on their ACT and are receiving full-ride scholarships at our campuses in Lincoln, Omaha, and Kearney. This joint effort, announced earlier this year with Gov. Jim Pillen, underscores the value of investing in our state’s top academic talent and the future of our communities.
Why is this so important? Data tells us that nearly 50% of our graduates take their first job and set their first family roots within 50 miles of where they completed their education. The more Nebraska can retain its young people, the stronger our communities, economy, and future will be.
Recognizing this, we are now expanding the Presidential Scholars program. Starting in fall 2025, up to 50 Nebraska students — including both those with perfect ACT scores and other high achievers — will receive “full ride” scholarships covering tuition, fees, housing, food, and personal expenses for four years of study, plus a $5,000 annual stipend.
Already, the program is showing success. Caleb Kelly, a Presidential Scholar from a farm family near Pender, is studying computer science and physics with a minor in business at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. He credits the Presidential Scholars program and the prestigious Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management for reinforcing his decision to stay in Nebraska.
Another Presidential Scholar, Lillias McKillip from Lincoln, plans to be an elementary school teacher. The scholarship has not only alleviated financial concerns but also opened doors to networking with leaders across the state. She believes these connections and experiences will better equip her to contribute to Nebraska long-term.
These stories remind us of the importance of gratitude and community investment. As we count our blessings this Thanksgiving, let us also celebrate the generous support that makes such programs possible.
The University’s prestigious Regents Scholarship program, the Nebraska Promise program, which covers the cost of tuition at NU campuses for families making $65,000 a year or less, and many, many donor-funded scholarships are just a few examples of how we’re helping students achieve their dreams. During fiscal year 2024 alone, over 17,000 donor-funded scholarships were awarded, totaling more than $36 million. Thanks to the NU Foundation’s “Only in Nebraska” campaign, 570 endowed scholarship funds ensure sustainable support for future generations of University of Nebraska students.
Career development is another pillar of our strategy to keep talent in-state. Programs like the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Handshake platform and internships at the University of Nebraska at Kearney connect students with local employers, and strengthen ties between Nebraska’s current and future workforce.
This Thanksgiving, as we gather with family and friends, let’s also reflect on the shared vision across Nebraska that supports initiatives like the Presidential Scholars program. Together, we are creating a brighter future for our state by investing in its greatest asset: our young people.
With gratitude for all who contribute to this shared mission, the University of Nebraska remains steadfast in its commitment to keep our best and brightest right here in Nebraska, one pillar of our odyssey to the extraordinary.