Faculty Excellence in Engagement Award

Faculty Excellence in Engagement Award

The Faculty Excellence in Engagement Award recognizes excellence in global or community engagement. Global engagement refers to the many ways faculty work to connect UNO to the world through their teaching, research and creative activity, and service. UNO defines community engagement as the “collaboration between the University and its local, regional, national and global communities for the exchange of knowledge and resources.”

Jodi Benenson, Ph.D. School of Public Administration College of Public Affairs and Community Service

Dr. Jodi Benenson, Associate Professor in the School of Public Administration and program chair of the Master of Public Administration, has exemplary dedication to community engagement and her deep commitment to fostering civic engagement, equity, and social impact has made her a standout leader in the community. With a diverse background that spans professional roles and academic pursuits, she has consistently sought to build bridges between higher education and community service. Her contributions and engagement expand far beyond the classroom into local, national, and international connections.

Dr. Benenson’s ability to create and foster meaningful partnerships is one of her key strengths. She has collaborated with schools, nonprofit organizations, and various community groups, aligning the needs of these stakeholders with academic resources to promote positive, lasting change. These partnerships testify to her ability to foster collaboration, enhance community capacity, and address complex social challenges. She has contributed to professional associations and academic initiatives on national and international levels that aim to address social inequities on a broader scale.

Dr. Benenson’s commitment to research, teaching, and service is evident in her work. She advocates for integrating community engagement into the academic curriculum, ensuring that students gain real-world experience while contributing to the public good. Through her work, Dr. Benenson has helped shape the next generation of public servants, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to lead and serve in an increasingly complex world. Her students consistently benefit from her mentorship and her unwavering dedication to their success.

Her leadership in community engagement, her commitment to promoting equity, and her dedication to student success have all contributed to her well-deserved recognition with the Faculty Excellence in Engagement Award. Her work has left a lasting mark on the University and the broader community, making her a truly deserving recipient of this honor.