Nomination Information

Our Board of Counselors are key in connecting us with their Nebraska communities and shaping the trajectory of UNMC and our state. That is why we rely on recommendations from our UNMC community for who can fulfill this vital role.

The first step in joining the Board of Counselors is being nominated. The nominee does not need to be from the same area in Nebraska as the individual recommending them to serve on the board.

Tip: We recommend nominators visit with individuals before nominating them to determine if they are interested and willing to make the commitment to attend meetings and become a member. Make sure to let the individual know that being nominated does not guarantee selection.

Nominations open in January or February every year, with new members being inducted during the spring meeting. New members are selected by the Nominating Committee, which is composed of current Board of Counselors members.

The UNMC Board of Counselors Experience

If you are thinking of nominating someone or have been asked to join, here is information you need to know.

Scope of Service

The UNMC Chancellor's Board of Counselors is a statewide group of community leaders who help strengthen UNMC’s connection to Nebraska. Members have three primary roles:

Advisors: Share candid feedback with the chancellor and UNMC leaders on what's working, what could improve and what communities need.
Ambassadors: Share the UNMC story with the community and create opportunities for UNMC to engage locally through community visits.
Advocates: Lend their voice in support of our students, faculty, staff and patients.

Time Commitment

Two meetings each year (members may bring a guest)
Members are expected to attend a minimum of two-thirds of the meetings during their four-year term
A reception and networking opportunity occurs during each meeting

Term of Service

Four-year term
May serve up to two consecutive terms (eight years maximum)

Our Board of Counselors are connected closely with UNMC and their community. A few examples of how individuals serve include:

Board Participation & Advisory Service

Participate in regional Board of Counselors meetings and activities.
Serve on committees (e.g., Nominating, Awards, etc.)
Offer input, perspective and feedback to the chancellor and university leadership.
Stay informed by reviewing updates and resources on the Board of Counselors webpage.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

Host or help coordinate a community visit or event in their area.
Share key updates from Board of Counselors meetings with local community groups and partners.
Connect UNMC leaders with elected officials and civic leaders to strengthen relationships.
Encourage prospective students to explore UNMC and health careers (e.g., science fairs, admissions events, classroom visits, mentoring).
Engage elected officials and community thought leaders on behalf of UNMC, as appropriate.
Invite and encourage community members to connect with UNMC through events, programs and partnerships.

Criteria

Membership criteria is based on:

Maintaining state-wide geographic representation
Candidate's connection to their community
Candidates's ability to commit to advocate for UNMC
Candidates's interest and willingness to attend the Board of Counselor meetings and other UNMC events

Conflict-of-Interest Considerations

Because Board members serve as trusted ambassadors, advisors and advocates, we consider potential conflicts of interest and the unique perspectives nominees bring.

Public officials and staff: To avoid potential conflicts of interest, elected officials and their direct staff are generally not considered for membership while actively serving in an elected term.
Health professionals and industry representatives: While not excluded, individuals employed in health care or the health care industry are not typically prioritized, given existing ties they may already have to UNMC and its affiliates.

KEY CONTACT:

Anne H. Bowen Fischer, MPA
Director of Strategic Relations and Senior Associate to the Chancellor

Send Email

Phone: 402-559-4368