Staff Directory

Harnoor S. Dhaliwal, Ph.D.
Vice Provost, Innovative Student Experiences
Executive Director, Scott Scholars Program UNO | UNMC 

Jon Smail, MPA, PMP
Assistant Director, Scott Scholars Program UNO | UNMC

Jon Smail received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Colorado State University’s Global Campus. Additionally, he earned Master’s degrees in both Urban & Regional Planning and Public Administration from the University of Colorado Denver. He leveraged these disciplines to make a distinct impact as a City Planner and elected official in Greeley, CO, where he led community planning efforts and advanced public infrastructure and economic revitalization initiatives.

Before his tenure as Assistant Director, Jon spent 12 years in federal service, holding senior roles in IT management, contracting, facility & installation master planning, and various executive positions, including a four-year assignment as Chief of Staff for senior military officers and base commanders.

Additionally, Jon supports the DoD in a part-time capacity as an USAF Reserve officer assigned to U.S. Strategic Command, leveraging his Project Management Professional Certification to overhaul manpower systems, training programs, and recruitment processes. Furthermore, he spent a year on special assignment in the Data and AI Center, integrating data and artificial intelligence solutions throughout the organization.

Jon’s diverse background across local, federal, and military leadership roles gives him a 360° perspective on problem-solving, strategic planning, and talent development. In his current role as Assistant Director, he draws upon these experiences to matriculate top medical students to UNMC, connect them with meaningful research opportunities, and provide individualized guidance throughout their medical training. He works closely with students to ensure they meet all milestones as they prepare for their specialty of choice and a competitive residency match.

Outside of school he enjoys staying active, being involved in his church, and spending time with his wife and two young children.

Clare Fiore, MA
Experiential Program Coordinator

Clare Fiore joins the Scott Scholars Program from the University of South Dakota (USD), where she has been an active member of the campus community for many years—as both a student and a staff member. After earning her undergraduate and graduate degrees at USD in Communications Studies, Clare served as the Graduate Student Advisor for the Beacom School of Business Graduate Programs, supporting students in achieving their academic and professional goals. Prior to that role, she taught in the Department of Communication Studies and worked with undergraduate students in academic advising. During her undergraduate years, Clare also held leadership positions within Sorority and Fraternity Life, where she focused on strengthening student engagement and building community connections.

In her role with the Scott Scholars Program, Clare is excited to continue empowering students in an environment that values leadership, innovation, and community impact. She is especially passionate about helping students connect their academic experiences to their personal passions and meaningful, real-world change.