The University of Nebraska Board of Regents convened on August 14, 2025, to recognize outstanding faculty achievements and discuss various awards presented to faculty members for their contributions in teaching, research, and community engagement.

The meeting commenced with the presentation of the Faculty Excellence Awards, where two recipients were honored for their exceptional work. Timothy Shofford, an Adele Hall professor of English and director of creative writing at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), was recognized for his significant contributions to literature and his role in elevating Nebraska's presence in the literary world. Shofford has authored seven acclaimed novels and has been instrumental in supporting other writers through his editorial work with the Prairie Schooner, the nation's longest-running university-sponsored literary journal.

The second recipient of the Faculty Excellence Award was Dr. Jay Storrs, the Willa Cather professor in the School of Biological Sciences at UNL. Dr. Storrs was acknowledged for his impactful research on hemoglobin in high-altitude species, with over 160 peer-reviewed publications and significant citations in top scientific journals. His work extends beyond academia, as he leads mountaineering expeditions in South America to study animal life at various elevations.

Following the Faculty Excellence Awards, the Outstanding Teaching and Instructional Creativity Awards were presented. Dr. Betsy Becker, professor and director of physical therapy education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, received recognition for her innovative teaching methods and commitment to student mentorship. Her efforts have significantly shaped educational experiences in physical therapy, particularly through rural-focused initiatives.

Dr. Renee McPhee, coordinator for the professional program in veterinary medicine, was also honored in this category. Her dedication to teaching excellence and her holistic approach to veterinary education have set a high standard for student success.

The meeting continued with the Innovation, Development, and Engagement Awards. Dr. Gina Ligon, the Jack and Stephanie Korolevsky professor for collaborative science at the University of Nebraska Omaha, was recognized for her leadership in counterterrorism research and her role in establishing a national hub for collaboration between academia and law enforcement. Dr. Karoly Murnix, dean of the Munroe Meyer Institute for Genetics and Rehabilitation, was also honored for his transformative leadership in providing services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The meeting concluded with the anticipation of further discussions on faculty intellectual property innovation and commercialization awards, highlighting the university's commitment to recognizing and supporting faculty contributions that extend beyond traditional academic boundaries. Overall, the Board of Regents meeting underscored the University of Nebraska's dedication to excellence in education, research, and community engagement.