KEARNEY – The Center for First-generation Student Success has selected the University of Nebraska at Kearney as part of its 2021-22 First-gen Forward cohort. The First-gen Forward designation recognizes higher education institutions demonstrating a commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students. Selected institutions receive professional development, community-building experiences and a first look at the center’s research … [Read more...] about UNK recognized for commitment to first-generation student success
Arts & Sciences
UNK junior Claudia Taylor uses her voice to advocate for others
By TYLER ELLYSON UNK Communications KEARNEY – Claudia Taylor is a “very shy” person, but you wouldn’t know that from meeting her. The Lincoln High School graduate found her voice at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, where she’s active in the Office of Student Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) and TRIO Student Support Services. “My passion for social justice and fighting for basic humanity overshadows my shyness and my uncomfortableness,” said Taylor, an Afro … [Read more...] about UNK junior Claudia Taylor uses her voice to advocate for others
Phadiziana Smith-Whiteside overcomes obstacles to be first in family to attend college
By ERIKA PRITCHARD UNK Communications KEARNEY – Phadiziana Smith-Whiteside didn’t know a single family member – parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles or cousins – who had attended college. “Leaving high school was a big transition,” she said. “I had to look up YouTube videos of freshmen moving in because I didn’t know anything. Should I bring a mirror? Do they have a checklist? Is that a thing?” An Omaha Northwest High School graduate, Smith-Whiteside also … [Read more...] about Phadiziana Smith-Whiteside overcomes obstacles to be first in family to attend college
Kearney Symphony Orchestra concert celebrates American music
KEARNEY – Kearney Symphony Orchestra will present a livestream performance, “From Sea to Shining Sea: Celebrating American Music in the Heartland,” at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. The free concert features the orchestra’s brass and percussion, woodwind and string ensembles and a special performance by University of Nebraska at Kearney sophomore Jacob Cahill. It will be livestreamed at unk.edu/music. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, there won’t be an in-person audience. The … [Read more...] about Kearney Symphony Orchestra concert celebrates American music
UNK freshman Isaiah Mahone uses education as form of activism
By ERIKA PRITCHARD UNK Communications KEARNEY – University of Nebraska at Kearney freshman Isaiah Mahone’s first word was an unusual one – “hallelujah.” His parents thought it was a sign that he was destined for greatness. “I’m pretty sure they thought it in the way of bringing people to Christ,” Mahone explained. “If someone needs that motivational word, I’ll be there to give that to them and just bring life into them.” The pre-dental hygiene student also wants … [Read more...] about UNK freshman Isaiah Mahone uses education as form of activism
