One hundred faculty and staff from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, University of Nebraska Medical Center, University of Nebraska System and Nebraska Medicine gathered Sept. 30 for the inaugural UNL-UNMC Summit, identifying ways the two institutions can work more closely together following the university’s move to a joint accreditation.
H. Dele Davies, MD, chancellor of UNMC, and Katherine S. Ankerson, interim chancellor of UNL, led the summit. Discussions focused on expanding opportunities for students, researchers, faculty and staff while reducing barriers to collaboration.
“We are committed to removing barriers and streamlining collaboration as we work together,” Dr. Davies said. “Chancellor Ankerson and I were encouraged by the engagement, energy and optimism as we explore how the University of Nebraska will look with the Medical Center and Lincoln campuses more closely aligned.”
Participants worked in groups focused on four areas: educational pathways for student success, research, analytics and communications. Each group reported its findings at the conclusion of the summit and next steps. Suggestions included ensuring seamless cross-campus student pathways; working to remove administrative obstacles affecting students, faculty and staff; establishing major cross-campus research initiatives to benefit Nebraskans; creating shared data governance structures and creating a central repository to simplify data discovery; and producing a branding and joint messaging guide.
Ankerson and Dr. Davies described the meeting as a beginning that will strengthen the University of Nebraska’s core missions of teaching, research, extension and service.
“The power of this partnership is what happens when we stop thinking in terms of campuses and start considering what Nebraska needs,” Ankerson said. “Together, UNL and UNMC can create more pathways for students, bring more talent and expertise to communities and have a bigger impact on the future of our state.”
Participants will continue developing the ideas discussed during the summit, with the full group reconvening within six months to review progress, refine recommendations and identify next steps.