The University of Nebraska Board of Regents formally installed Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., as the ninth president of the University of Nebraska, in a ceremony attended by hundreds of faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, elected officials, community leaders and other Nebraskans at the State Capitol.
The theme of the day was “From Excellent to Extraordinary,” as Dr. Gold reflected on the University of Nebraska’s 155-year history of successful service to the state and opportunities in the years ahead. The setting at the Capitol, he said, was intentionally chosen to convey the university’s role and mission as the peoples’ university.
Dr. Gold began his tenure as president on July 1, following a decade as chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center with additional service as chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Omaha and executive vice president and provost of the NU system.
His installation as president came 10 years to the day after his UNMC installation, and five years to the day after his UNO installation.
In remarks following his acceptance of a presidential medallion from Board of Regents Chairman Rob Schafer of Beatrice, Dr. Gold said that the University of Nebraska has a “deeply embedded legacy” of providing affordable education to Nebraskans; academic leadership in areas like health care, agriculture, public policy, early childhood and national security; and athletic success at the highest levels.
“And yet, our legacy of excellence is a solid foundation to build upon, but is not adequate,” he said, calling on the extended University of Nebraska community to join together on an “odyssey” to an even higher level of achievement. “Our legacy serves as an inspiration, but not as a roadmap for the pathway ahead.”
Dr. Gold shared observations from his first 10 weeks as president, during which he has traveled the length of the state and met with students, faculty, staff, as well as business, government, philanthropic, agricultural, military and civic leaders to hear their thoughts on the university’s future.
Again and again, he said, he has heard about the crucial importance of an affordable, accessible university that provides the highest-quality education, delivers cutting-edge research and serves as “a strong and sustainable economic engine” that meets Nebraska’s workforce needs.
“I believe Nebraskans expect that the University of Nebraska can and should set bold goals for our odyssey to extraordinary,” Dr. Gold said. “Goals regarding student retention and degree completion, regarding the scope, excellence and impact of our research, bold goals for workforce and economic development. Bold goals for new and trusted partnerships, and for the confidence of our public and private supporters across all sectors.”
Gen. (Ret.) John Hyten, who served as vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff after a 40-year career in the U.S. Air Force, delivered keynote remarks, reflecting on his long personal friendship and professional partnership with Dr. Gold.
“He loves Nebraska. He is all in. He wants this University to be the best in everything it touches,” Gen. Hyten said. “And he will put forth all the energy necessary to make that happen. Academics, leadership, athletics, everything. I am convinced the University of Nebraska is about to achieve new greatness under his leadership, because I have seen him in action.”
As is customary during university investiture ceremonies, representatives of various stakeholder groups also shared remarks offering well-wishes and support to Dr. Gold. Following are quotes from greeters at the ceremony.
U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer:
“The University of Nebraska has grown in size, in scope and in excellence over the years. Today, it is thriving: from its agriculture research to its medical center, and from its institution in our state’s heartland to the campus in our urban core. The future of the University of Nebraska holds even more excellence, and even more progress. President Gold will be at the helm of that progress, and I know he will do a remarkable job.”
Regent Rob Schafer of Beatrice, Chairman of the Board:
“I believe the University of Nebraska’s best days are still ahead of us, and I believe Nebraskans share that conviction. Our most exciting chapters are still to be written.”
Sam Schroeder, student regent and student body president, University of Nebraska at Kearney:
“As student regents, and as students in general, we all want a leader who will put the students first, and I am proud to say that Dr. Gold is committed to this principle.”
Chancellor Rodney Bennett, University of Nebraska-Lincoln:
“As administrators, we are pleased that the Board of Regents has selected a president with a distinguished academic background, as well as proven leadership ability, and an established lengthy record of achievement. And as administrators, we know how high the stakes are that you succeed. Nebraska is depending on us, and we offer our full support to you.”
Ann Anderson Berry, M.D., Ph.D., executive director of pediatrics, Child Health Research Institute director and former Faculty Senate president, University of Nebraska Medical Center:
“I am excited to see where the next decade will take the University of Nebraska. With Dr. Gold as president, we clearly expect to maximize our potential and lead the world in our work across this system and great state. On behalf of the faculty of the University of Nebraska, congratulations!”
Ashley Ostransky, director of operations for the Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications and Staff Advisory Council president, University of Nebraska at Omaha:
“As members of the staff, we take great pride in supporting all endeavors of our institution. We understand that our roles are crucial in fostering an environment where learning and discovery thrive. It is in this spirit of collaboration and dedication that we welcome our new president, Dr. Gold, whose vision and leadership will undoubtedly guide us to new heights.”
Jim Linder, M.D., CEO and Board Chair, Nebraska Medicine:
“As alumni, we have experienced the transformative power of our education at the University of Nebraska. The University has shaped our lives, those of our families and the future of Nebraska and beyond… Dr. Gold’s commitment to excellence in education, research and service will propel the university to new heights, creating countless opportunities for our faculty and students.”
Angie Muhleisen, chair, University of Nebraska Foundation Board of Directors:
“For the University to be successful, we need everyone to work together: the Legislature, the business community, and the philanthropic community to give every student the chance to earn a degree and grow the state’s workforce, to support the innovative ideas of our faculty, and to conduct research that is truly transformational. True collaboration will allow this transformation to occur. And that is why I can stand here today and tell you how excited we are for Dr. Gold and his leadership as president of the university.”
Nancy Keegan, trustee, University of Nebraska Foundation:
“President Gold has demonstrated that he is an outstanding ambassador to the philanthropic community. Educational philanthropy is more than just financial support; successful educational philanthropy is a partnership with visions that are shared between the university and the private sector. It is about investing in ideas, people and projects that will elevate lives and communities.”
Mike Baumgartner, executive director, Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education:
“You grasp how Nebraska’s colleges and universities persistently seek our new ways to meet the education, engagement and research needs of our students and our communities, our businesses and our farms, our country and our world; how students navigate between campuses and even systems in pursuit of quality education that is right for them; how affordability, student services and sense of community can make the difference between starting college and completing a degree; and how Nebraska’s colleges and universities must collaborate to serve the diversity of Nebraska’s students and lifelong learners efficiently and effectively.”
Susie Buffett, chair, Sherwood Foundation (remarks read by Wally Weitz on her behalf):
“Higher education is an investment in our state and in our future. It transforms lives and makes Nebraska a better place to live and work. I am proud to support this university, and to support Dr. Gold in his new role.”