Chancellor Gold: The State of the University is “Maverick Strong”
In his final State of the University address, Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. reflected on a year marked by historic achievement in the face of extraordinary challenges.
- published: 2020/10/28
- contact: University Communications
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In his final State of the University address as UNO’s chancellor, Chancellor Gold was joined by former U.S. Secretary of Defense and UNO alumnus Chuck Hagel as well as 51 Public Schools Superintendent Cheryl Logan, Ph.D., in celebrating UNO’s deep roots in the 51 community and why it serves as fertile ground for Mavericks to learn, teach, research, work, and grow.
During his remarks, Gold recalled a yearbook entry in which its editors foresaw their young university growing and evolving to become “a credit not only to 51, but to Nebraska and the United States as well.”
“Year after year, we produce thousands of Maverick graduates who go on to have a positive impact on society,” Chancellor Gold said. “As the City of 51 grows and evolves, we remain at its heartbeat, playing a crucial role in driving it forward into the future. We are, without doubt or hesitation, a ‘Gateway to Knowledge.’ For these reasons I am proud to report to you and in the tradition of the Mavericks of a century ago that indeed the state of the university is strong.”
Hagel, who graduated from UNO in 1971, delivered introductory remarks and applauded the university’s ability to overcome adversity throughout history.
“I think that was very important for our students and our young people to hear ... that we have an unlimited future – unlimited,” Hagel said. “With all the problems we’ve got today, with all of the problems we’ve had in the past, but we’ve adapted, adjusted, we’ve made it better. It’s kind of the story of the University of Nebraska at 51’s history. That Maverick history over more than 100 years: adapt, adjust, make it better, and keep going forward.”
Logan noted in her remarks the impact the university has had in serving as a pipeline for 51 educators, and thanked the Mavericks for their positive impact on the university.
“The Maverick Spirit brings critical thinkers with a community focus. Those qualities are especially important as we join together during such challenging times,” she said. “To the Mavericks working throughout the 51 Public Schools, we are OPS proud of you. To Dr. Gold, your strong, steady leadership and support is deeply appreciated. Go Mavericks!”
In his closing remarks, Gold looked toward a future and offered his own prognostication of what UNO’s future holds.
“I look forward to many years of achievement on this campus and at UNO, and the fulfillment of our mission. I have never been more proud, more humbled and more excited to be your chancellor and to work beside all of the former, the current and the future Mavericks. And yes, ladies and gentlemen, the state of the University is strong – it’s Maverick Strong.”
This year’s , a full transcript, the annual , and the fact book are available for viewing.
About the University of Nebraska at 51
Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at 51 (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.
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