Eileen Jahn, outreach coordinator for the UNK Honors Program, received the University of Nebraska Board of Regents KUDOS award during Thursday’s meeting.
KUDOS awards recognize university staff for their professional expertise, service and “superior dedication” to UNK and the University of Nebraska. It is the university’s top staff award.
A Red Cloud/Davenport native, Jahn came to campus in August 1991 as part of the first UNK freshman class. The Omaha World-Herald/Kearney Hub Scholar earned a bachelor’s degree in music before pursuing a master’s in music from Kansas State University. She also holds a teaching certification in K-12 vocal/instrumental music.
Jahn says of her career path: “In many ways it chose me. Opportunities have come my way that have suited my abilities well and that I have enjoyed immensely.”
She served as an adjunct faculty member in the UNK Department of Music and Performing Arts and directed the Nebraskats show choir for 12 years while teaching voice lessons. Jahn began working part time in the Honors Program in 2021 and transitioned to full time in 2023.
As outreach coordinator, her responsibilities include communicating with current and prospective Honors Program students; overseeing publicity; facilitating events such as the Omaha World-Herald/ Kearney Hub Scholars Day, convocation, awards banquet and senior showcase; coordinating recruitment efforts with UNK Admissions; supervising Honors Envoys and student workers; and providing one-on-one support.
“I value the relationships I’ve built over the years with students, faculty, staff, administration and alumni,” Jahn says. “The people are what make this job and this place precious to me.”
In turn, Honors Program Director Angela Hollman has high praise for Jahn. “She works every day to support students. She is an amazing asset to the Honors Program and the university. The Honors Program is a better program with her here.”
Outside her job, Jahn is involved with the Kearney Concert Association, UNK Alumni Association, Platte River Singers, National Association of Teachers of Singing, Phi Kappa Phi, Delta Omicron International, Crane River Theater, Kearney Community Theatre and Minden Community Players.
