Omaha philanthropists Barbara and Wally Weitz have made a $25 million gift commitment to invest in strategic priorities and leadership at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO).
The Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund is awarded to strategic UNO priorities that may benefit from new investment. The fund’s purpose is to elevate particularly good programs to nationally recognized ones while addressing critical areas of need in Omaha and the state of Nebraska.
The stories below highlight how some of this generous gift is being used to support our city and state.
3D Printing for Healthcare Education and Workforce Development
This project will equip students with hands-on experience in 3D printing for medical applications.
AI-CCORE
AI-CCORE—the Artificial Intelligence Center for Collaborative Outreach, Research, and Education—will position UNO as a leader in AI innovation, education, and industry partnerships.
AI CodeLab System
The AI CodeLab System will create an interactive, hands-on AI coding platform to be used across multiple colleges at UNO.
Change Lab for Engagement Capacity Building
The Change Lab for Engagement Capacity Building will serve as a resource center and innovation hub, equipping faculty and staff with the tools, policies, and support needed to integrate community engagement into their teaching, research, and service.
Civic Leadership Fellows Program
This three-year experiential learning initiative designed to develop future leaders in public service, civic engagement, and global leadership.
Destination Omaha: Spatial Immersion Project
This project will create an interactive, technology-driven experience that allows users to explore Omaha’s historical neighborhoods, businesses, and cultural landmarks.
Developing Educators and Promoting Achievement (DEPA)
The Developing Educators and Promoting Achievement (DEPA) project seeks to recruit, retain, and support educators, ensuring schools have access to well-prepared teachers.
General Education Transformation
This initiative will enhance the curriculum by integrating critical thinking, integrative learning, and community engagement into core courses.
HeartBeats
HeartBeats builds on this rich history by providing a safe space to engage and socialize through music-making experiences that encourage sharing and connection.
North Omaha Initiative
This project is a community-driven education program that brings UNO courses directly to North Omaha community spaces.
Summer Musical Theatre Academy (SMTA)
SMTA provides tuition-free, industry-level training for high school musical theatre performers, technicians, and musicians in the Omaha area.
UNO Jumpstart
This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between high school and college by extending the successful Summer Scholars Program.