KEARNEY – Ten staff members have been selected for the 2025-26 Leadership UNK class.
They are:
Jaiden Morse – Kinesiology and Sport Sciences/Educational Administration
Kelcey Wetzel – Center for Entrepreneurship and Rural Development
Sally Wiarda – Student Health and Counseling
Lan Vu – UNK Global
Mandy Sand – College of Business and Technology Career Center
Francella Wiles – UNK Global
Leah Beckenhauer – Loper Success Hub
Brian Peterson – UNK Online/Biology
Grace Zeleski – Graduate Studies and Academic Innovation
Trevor Trine – Facilities Management and Planning
In its 19th year, Leadership UNK exposes participants to leadership opportunities at UNK and in the Kearney area, enhances their leadership skills and encourages them to accept leadership roles in the future. The program also increases their knowledge of the university system and gives them an opportunity to network with classmates, speakers and others while discussing issues pertinent to campus and leadership development.
Throughout the academic year, participants attend nine half-day sessions and one full-day meeting that examine various aspects of leadership within the University of Nebraska System. They’re also required to complete at least four hours of volunteer service on campus. There is no cost to participate.
Leadership UNK is administered by program alumni selected as members of the Board of Graduates. Current Leadership UNK Board of Graduates members are:
Tim Moulton – President
Julie Calahan – Vice President
Heidi Knake – Marketing
Dawn Cromer – Treasurer
Julie Smith – Secretary
Eileen Jahn and Amber Gapp – 2025-26 Co-Chairs
Sharon Johnson – Member
Lynelle Fritzen – Member
Meredith DeHaven – Ex-Officio Member