Search

Investing in Mavericks: UNO Alumni Engagement Annual Report 2025–2026

When Mavericks invest in one another, extraordinary things happen.

Students gain access to opportunities, alumni build meaningful connections, communities are strengthened through service, and the traditions that define UNO continue to thrive.  
 
Explore the return on these investments from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. 

OUR INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO

CONFIDENCE

Through four Career Closet pop-up shops, 520 students selected free professional attire, while 180 volunteers donated clothing and helped sort, organize, and assist shoppers. Together, the program provided an estimated $40,000 in professional clothing, removing financial barriers, and helping students pursue professional opportunities with confidence. 

“My interview went amazing and I felt so dressed for success thanks to your help! I am now employed with the college as a student worker in a Mavigator position. The clothes I received from the closet have been a huge help.” — Breanna Lundgren, current UNO student 

PRIDE

“My husband and I went with two other couples on a five-day trip to Sonoma. Here’s a photo of the girls on the coast!” — Sarah Zeluf Robak, B.S. ’03, MBA ’06

Mavericks continue to Show the O around the world through stories, photos, and shared school spirit. This year, engagement grew significantly, with a 167% increase in website users, 330 flag requests, and 45 photos shared on the site. From local landmarks to destinations across the globe, Mavericks continued to show their UNO pride while strengthening connections to the university and one another.

Explore the Show the O map and request your flag at showtheo.com.

THE FUTURE

Through the generosity of alumni and friends, the UNO Alumni Association awarded 22 scholarships totaling $50,500, helping Mavericks pursue their educational and career goals. The inaugural recipient of the Lee Denker Scholarship, Vivian Kaldahl, is fulfilling her dream of becoming an elementary school teacher at Bellevue Public Schools. 

“These scholarships allowed me to focus on my education. They also allowed me to have a work-life balance so that I could get my education without any debt. It’s one of the biggest blessings I could ask for.” – Vivian Kaldahl, B.S. ’25, M.S. ’26

COMMUNITY

During UNO Alumni Month of Service, Mavericks made a difference both on campus and in communities across the country. Together, 329 alumni and friends contributed 3,512 hours of service! Over the past five years, volunteer hours have grown by more than 700%, underscoring UNO’s culture of community engagement and service. 

Read stories from Mavericks and why they volunteer at unoalumni.org/month-of-service.  

CONNECTIONS

Maverick Network creates opportunities for connection, learning, and support. The online networking and professional development community grew to 3,173 users and saw a remarkable 152% increase in messages exchanged between members. By fostering meaningful connections, Mavericks are investing in one another’s success.  

LEGACY

To celebrate the Omaha Athletics Hall of Fame 50th anniversary, interactive displays were installed at Baxter Arena showcasing each inductee with photos and information that users can explore. The enhanced experience now includes a display at Milo Bail Student Center and highlights UNO Alumni Award recipients, championship achievements, and notable moments through This Day in UNO History. The investment connects students, alumni, and visitors to the people and milestones that have shaped UNO’s legacy, ensuring their stories continue to inspire future Mavericks. 

Thank you for your commitment to the Maverick community!

Your support helps create opportunities that would not otherwise be possible, and your partnership continues to make a lasting difference for students and alumni alike.

More News + Stories

UNO Magazine Summer 2026

Imagination is the ability to see beyond what is. Across campus and throughout the Maverick community, imagination encourages us to see possibilities where others see limits.

READ MORE