By TYLER ELLYSON
UNK Communications
KEARNEY – When Thomas Safago reflects on his time at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, he doesn’t start with the degrees he earned or the software development career he’s already launched.
Instead, he talks about the faculty members who always had time for questions, the classmates who became close friends and the campus community that made three busy years pass too quickly.
“That’s the real college experience,” he said. “You can take classes and learn the material, but I don’t think it’s as meaningful without the people there to support you.”
Safago graduates summa cum laude on Friday with bachelor’s degrees in computer science and mathematics. He’ll represent the College of Business and Technology as a gonfalonier during the summer commencement ceremony, closing a chapter defined by academic achievement and meaningful connections.
Originally from Arizona, Safago moved with his family to south-central Nebraska about seven years ago and attended Lawrence-Nelson High School. When he was looking at colleges, UNK stood out because it was close to home, the computer science program was strong and the smaller class sizes were ideal for someone who values personal relationships.
“We have top-notch professors here,” Safago said. “The faculty work with students really closely. It’s a more personalized experience, and that makes the curriculum much better compared to a larger school. Instead of just listening to lectures and completing assignments and exams, you can interact with your professors, ask questions and look for answers together.”
As an added bonus, Safago received the Nebraska Career Scholarship, which provides up to $8,000 per year for students pursuing degrees in high-demand areas such as computer science, cybersecurity, healthcare, engineering, mathematics, industrial technology, psychology and veterinary medicine.
His interest in STEM started long before college.
“My father was a machinist, and when we were young he introduced us to computers,” Safago explained. “I wondered how they worked, and I wanted to learn everything about them. Looking back at human history, there have been inventions that have reshaped the world over and over, but none as significantly or as quickly as computers.”
That curiosity led him to programming in middle school, technology-focused classes in high school and Future Business Leaders of America competitions in cybersecurity, computer problem solving and digital media production.
At UNK, he found yet another way to pursue that passion while helping others do the same. As president of the UNK Cyber Club, he focused on creating opportunities for students to connect through networking events, game nights, potlucks and other social activities. The club also hosts guest speakers, giving members a chance to hear from professionals working in a variety of technology-related fields.
“I really wanted this to be a place where people can hang out and make friends,” Safago said. “I think it’s important that students branch out and take advantage of these opportunities. We’re very fortunate to have an environment like this for computer science students.”
Adam Spanier, a lecturer in UNK’s Department of Cyber Systems, describes Safago as a “brilliant” student whose impact reached far beyond the classroom.
“Thomas brought a solid sense of leadership and camaraderie,” Spanier said. “As president of the Cyber Club and a key personality in the Cyber Systems Department student body, Thomas always brought a comforting presence and inspirational model for underclassmen.”
He expects those qualities to continue serving Safago well.
“The same things that made him stand out as a student make him stand out as a graduate,” Spanier said. “Thomas learns fast, he is curious, he is talented, and when he wants to solve a problem, the problem is going to get solved. … I wouldn’t be surprised if someday I get to teach alongside Thomas, not as a student and mentor, but as colleagues.”
The skills Safago developed at UNK helped him land a software development internship with Grand Island-based Hornady Manufacturing in late 2024. He has since transitioned into a full-time role, creating software that supports the company’s shipping, packaging and production operations.
“There’s just something fun about being able to make something with your own hands that actually works and supports what other people do,” he said. “When you can see something you write being used by people and they’re benefiting, that’s where the magic shines.”
As he prepares to graduate, Safago views commencement as both an ending and a beginning.
“It’s the culmination of a lot of effort, but it’s also a reflection of the people who’ve supported me throughout my career here,” he said. “I wouldn’t have been able to do everything I’ve done without a lot of support from a lot of friends and faculty.”
Looking ahead, he hopes to continue growing in his profession while finding opportunities to mentor others.
“I’d like to get into something where I can help others,” Safago said. “Whether that’s working with junior developers or teaching someday, I want to be part of a team that works together to share knowledge.”
