The power of philanthropy is evident across UNMC.
It’s seen in state-of-the-art facilities, new educational programs and research equipment, and student scholarships and faculty support.
In fact, for years, public-private partnerships have helped transform UNMC – from the main campus in Omaha to UNMC campuses in Scottsbluff, Kearney, Norfolk and Lincoln.
On Thursday, the med center community gathered in Omaha to celebrate the launch of the University of Nebraska’s Only In Nebraska fundraising campaign, a historic effort to encourage at least 150,000 benefactors to give $3 billion to support NU students, faculty, academic programs and research. UNMC campuses outside of Omaha also held rally-type events this week or have them scheduled in the coming weeks.
“The impact of philanthropy can be felt by everyone on our campus,” said Catherine Mello, director of the UNMC Alumni Association, which hosted the rally along with UNMC Strategic Communications. “This campaign will positively impact the trajectory of the university for generations to come.”
View images from the campus rally.
In a videotaped message, UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, said, UNMC and Nebraska Medicine are partnering to raise $1 billion. This marks the first time, he said, that UNMC’s clinical partner has been included in the campaign.
“By teaming up and raising money together, we have an opportunity to do even more for our state and for our university’s future,” Dr. Gold said. “You don’t have to look far to see the incredible power of Nebraskan’s philanthropic support of the med center.”
Philanthropy makes things happen, said Nebraska Medicine CEO Jim Linder, MD, who is chairing the med center campaign along with his wife, Karen. “This campus simply would not be what it is today (without philanthropic support).”
Beyond receiving free tote bags and lunch, attendees paused to show gratitude to UNMC donors, writing thank you notes – some of which read:
- Thank you for your generous support to the University of Nebraska and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Your support makes a difference to all employees and students. With your support we can change the world!
- Thank you for your dedication to my education. You’re helping me achieve my goals!
- Thank you so much for your support of UNMC. As a student, I have learned so much and I appreciate all the opportunities I have been provided…Your generosity helps make all of this possible.
Read more about the University of Nebraska’s Only In Nebraska fundraising campaign.