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On Sept. 9, 2025, UNO hosted its Fall Strategy Forum. This event was an opportunity to align UNO’s academic strengths and community partnerships with the needs of Nebraska’s workforce and beyond. It ensures UNO continues to lead as the premier metropolitan university, driving innovation, discovery, and growth.

At the forum, UNO leaders outlined key initiatives in budget strategy, workforce development, and data-driven planning to advance student success. Chancellor Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, shared how the university is leaning into innovation and data-driven strategies.

Highlights included:

• Budget strategy: University leaders expanded on an to faculty and staff to share how UNO will address a manageable $1.9 million structural deficit this fiscal year.

• Data-driven planning: UNO has launched a market analysis dashboard enabling leaders to track enrollment demand, academic competition, and job placement, informing strategic resource allocation.

• Scaling AI innovation: Through the NebraskaCYBER MATRIX initiative, UNO will expand AI-infused training, build strategic industry partnerships, and grow hands-on student opportunities to meet rising cybersecurity workforce demands.

• UNO’s role as an economic equalizer: With a 7.3% rise in first-generation students, the university continues to advance access, workforce-aligned programming, and community impact in the face of broader higher-ed disruption.

In her closing remarks, Chancellor Li said that:

“Higher education must remain focused on its mission as an economic equalizer. At UNO, we are proud to serve students of every background, with a 7.3% increase in first-generation students this fall. Despite the challenges ahead, we will remain optimistic and resilient. The most powerful statement we can make is that we will get through it together.”