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Staff Advisory Council Newsletter | May 2025

Celebrating Staff Who Make a Difference

Photo left to right: Levi Thiele, Ph.D., Natsumi Avedissian (Staff Excellence Award recipient), & Nicki Allen. All are staff in UNO Career Services.

Recipient of the Staff Excellence Award, Natsumi Avedissian (center), is pictured with Levi Thiele, Ph.D., (left) and Nicki Allen (right) during the 2025 Awards and Reocognition Reception.

The UNO Staff Advisory Council (SAC) proudly recognized seven exceptional staff members during this year’s annual awards celebration. The SAC Staff Awards highlight employees who exemplify integrity, initiative, collaboration, and a lasting impact on the UNO community.

Each year, SAC presents three honors to staff who embody UNO’s values:

  • Staff Excellence Award
  • Above and Beyond Award
  • Unsung Hero Award

Nominees were evaluated using a rubric that measured leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and their commitment to strengthening the staff community.

👏🏼 Congratulations to Our Colleagues! 👏🏼

Timely Reminders

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Seasonal Changes to MarComm Publications

Following the conclusion of spring classes, the Maverick Daily and the Bullseye will begin operating on an adjusted schedule through mid-August.

 

These changes reflect historical readership trends and a decrease in the level of campus activity. Read the May 5th article on these changes.

The UNO Henningson Campanile (bell tower) pictured behind a bush with bright pink blossoms.

Parking and Transit Services Updates

Summer permits went on sale for those without annual permits on Monday, May 12, at 8 A.M.

 

From Monday, May 19, through Friday, August 15, shuttles will run with limited service from 8 A.M. to 6 P.M. and will service the Criss Library, Scott Crossing/Hall, and Scott Court stops.

 

Read the May 11th article to understand these updates.

A graphic with the word "Closures" in the center. Top and bottom has alternating red and black stripes slanted to the right slightly.

Projects to Impact Travel on Dodge Campus This Summer

The following projects may impact travel/access to parts of campus this summer:

  • 5/19 - 6/13 [Arts and Sciences Hall (ASH) South Plaza Closure]
  • 5/20 - 7/31 [University Drive South Road Closure]

Questions regarding ADA Accessibility should be directed to UNO’s ADA/504 Coordinator at 402.554.2120 or sweil@unomaha.edu.

 

Review these projects via the May 7th article and potential travel/access impacts.

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Summer Dining Update

Most campus dining locations will pause operations over the summer due to reduced foot traffic. However, the following will remain open with limited hours and will continue serving students, faculty, and staff on Dodge and Scott campuses:

  • Durango’s Grill (11 A.M. – 2 P.M.)
  • Maverick Den C-Store (7:30 A.M. – 2 P.M.) 

This update was communicated in the May 12th Maverick Daily. Please note that the UNO Food Policies remain unchanged during this time.

Upcoming Events

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Opportunity for Involvement | CCSGE

The Chancellor's Commission on the Status of Gender Equity (CCSGE) is on the lookout for a co-chair to join their leadership team. As per the bylaws, this role is shared between a faculty member and a staff member.

 

If you or someone you know is passionate about gender equity and interested in this opportunity, please contact Kay Siebler for further details. The role requires a commitment of just one to two hours per month, with the term spanning from September to May.

 

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SAC General Meeting | June 10

All UNO staff are invited to the monthly general Staff Advisory Council meetings, held the second Tuesday of every month from 9 to 10:30 A.M.

 

This month we will be at the Milo Bail Student Center (MBSC), Chancellor's & Board Room (MBSC 228/226). If you're unable to join us in-person, you are welcome to join us via Zoom! 📣

Board of Regents KUDOS Award

Photo of Alisha Olson, Senior Practicum Specialist for the Grace Abbott School of Social Work at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, alongside many members of the Grace Abbott School of Social Work, UNO Chancellor Li, and NU President Gold.

April | Alisha Olson

Alisha Olson, Senior Practicum Specialist for the Grace Abbott School of Social Work at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, was awarded a KUDOS award during the April 11th Board of Regents meeting at UNO.

 

Olson was recognized for her creativity, dedication, and unwavering support for students and colleagues alike. Her innovative problem-solving and commitment to excellence in social work education positively impact not only her students but the entire Grace Abbott School of Social Work team.

 

Congratulations, Alisha! 🎉

Employee of the Month

David Miller, Business Operations Coordinator for Academic Affairs, poses for a photo as UNO's April Employee of the Month.

April | David Miller

David Miller, Business Operations Coordinator for Academic Affairs, has been named April 2025 Employee of the Month.

 

Miller was highlighted by colleagues for his willingness to go above and beyond, his deep understanding of complex systems, and his collaborative spirit. 

 

Congratulations, David! 🎉

Advisor of the Month

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April | Alex Zatizabal Boryca

Alex Zatizabal Boryca, Academic Advisor in the College of Business Administration, has been named April 2025 Advisor of the Month by the Academic Advising Council (AAC).

 

Zatizabal Boryca was nominated by her peers for her dedication to student success.

 

Congratulations, Alex! 👏🏼

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Nominate a UNO Staff Member for Employee of the Month and/or KUDOS Award

Do you know a UNO colleague who continues to go above and beyond expectations? Someone who excels in interpersonal skills and communication with others? A Maverick who practices adaptability and knowledge of their responsibilities?

 

Do you know a fellow Maverick who demonstrates UNO's values? Someone who regularly surpasses the call of duty and outstanding service to UNO?

Nominate Someone Today!

Community Corner

Here’s your reminder to check out Community Corner, your hub for local stories, engagement opportunities, and more. Stay connected with the community and discover ways to make an impact.

✉️ Got a story or event to share? Email us at unosac@unomaha.edu.

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🫂 Acts of Service Passport 🛂

There is still time to make your mark! The UNO Acts of Service Passport is live and it’s your chance to celebrate the service you’re already doing. Whether you’re volunteering on campus or giving back in the community, log your impact now through May 31. Explore the Passport Program and grab the flyer to share with your team!

Fontenelle Forest Trail Map and Membership Card exist on top of a wooded backdrop of wood chips and arranged foilage.

🌳 Fontenelle Forest Day-Passes 🚶🏼

Are you looking to branch out and explore the outdoors year? The Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library has day passes to Fontenelle Forest for students, faculty, and staff to check out at no cost.

 

Passes are good for one day and allows entry for two adults and up to five children. Each pass is good for one day, but will be checked out for three days to allow for checkout and return.

 

To learn more and/or to book your own day-pass adventure, contact the Main Service Desk by emailing unocirculation@unomaha.edu or call 402-554-3206.

Things To Know

Blue365 Health and Wellness Discounts

 

Durango Discounts

 

Micro-Credential Course Offerings

 

SAC Suggestion Box

 

SAC Your Voice Matters Letter

 

Submit an application to request funding from the SAC Professional Development fund. The 2024-2025 application is currently closed. We will provide more updates soon.

 

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its education programs or activities, including admissions and employment. The University prohibits any form of retaliation taken against anyone for reporting discrimination, harassment, or retaliation for otherwise engaging in protected activity.

Read the full statement.

University of Nebraska Omaha, 6001 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE 68182, United States, 402.554.2800

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