University of Nebraska President James B. Milliken has foregone tradition and delivered his 2006 State of the University address via e-mail and pod-cast. The speech is available on line, in both audio and print formats, at www.nebraska.edu.
Milliken highlighted university successes of the past year including:
- Strong relationships between the university and Nebraskans, their political leadership, and the private sector
- Progress in key areas affecting affordable access: a significant increase in state support, the smallest tuition increase in eight years, and an increase in need-based financial aid
- Record research funding that for the first time puts NU among the top 35 public universities in R&D funding
- Record private support provided from the University of Nebraska Foundation
- Partnerships with the private sector in such projects as the Ak-Sar-Ben Future Trust, BioNebraska and the Durham School of Architectural Engineering and Construction
- Strategic framework that will guide planning and priorities for the future.
In a message to all NU employees, Milliken said, “While the coming year will continue to offer challenges, I am optimistic and confident about the future of the university and the state.” He outlined these goals for 2006:
- Growing enrollment, including in-state and out-of-state students, and increasing participation among traditionally under-represented minorities and low income students
- Increasing the college-going rate in Nebraska
- Investing in faculty and academic programs
- Continuing to expand NU’s success in research and scholarly activity, and increase the development of technology
ß Passage of LB 605, legislation that provides renovation of buildings and infrastructure on all four campuses
- Expanding efforts in the area of economic development and outreach.
Comments on the report are welcome and can be sent to: president@nebraska.edu.