The College of Education and Human Sciences at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln held its annual scholarship donor luncheon Oct. 30 to celebrate more than $2.1 million in donor-supported scholarships and fellowships awarded to CEHS students for the 2026-27 academic year.
The college awarded scholarship or fellowship funding to nearly 750 students, including 237 graduate students. The nearly 500 undergraduate students who were awarded funding included one in four first-time freshmen and transfer students. About 150 donors and students attended the annual event to celebrate the funding.
“I’m proud to be part of a college that prioritizes our students and is committed to helping them succeed,” said Michael Merten, CEHS interim dean. “We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our donors, whose support creates opportunities for our students to pursue their educational and professional goals and make the most of their college experience.”
Hannah Herbel, a nutrition and biomedical science major from Bismarck, North Dakota, spoke on behalf of students. She highlighted how donor-supported funding served as a reminder that others believe in her potential and want to see her succeed. Herbel transferred to CEHS in the fall of 2025 and is in the process of applying for dental school.
Libby Swanson Jacobs, a member of Only in Nebraska campaign committee for CEHS and president of the Swanson Biggs Adams Family Foundation, spoke on behalf of donors. She noted that supporting students through scholarships is an investment in the future. During the Only in Nebraska campaign, the Swanson Foundation has supported several areas within CEHS, including literacy tutoring, rural mental health services, and teacher education scholarships.
Visit go.unl.edu/give-cehs to contribute to the College of Education and Human Sciences Scholarships/Fellowships fund, or any other CEHS-related fund, at the University of Nebraska Foundation.
College of Education and Human Sciences
Child, Youth and Family Studies
Educational Psychology
Nutrition and Health Sciences
Special Education and Communication Disorders
Teaching, Learning & Teacher Education
