CPACS Alumni Honored for Outstanding Public Service Contributions

On April 9, 2024, the College of Public Affairs and Community Service gathered to recognize distinguished alumni for their noteworthy contributions to public service. These individuals, celebrated for their dedication to both everyday acts of service and significant accomplishments, embody the core values of integrity, stewardship, volunteerism, leadership, and a commitment to social justice and human dignity. Their exemplary conduct brings honor to their professions, families, and alma mater. We extend heartfelt congratulations for their achievements.

The honored alumni include:

• Jacob L. Stodola, Director of Student Legal Services at UNO, recipient of the Goodrich Scholarship Program award.
• Sherry Kennedy-Brownrigg, General Manager of KVNO, recipient from the Division of Continuing Studies.
• Machaela Cavanaugh, Nebraska State Senator for the 6th District, recognized by the School of Public Administration.
• Rebecca Murray, Associate Dean and Professor of Criminal Justice at Creighton University, honored by the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice.
• Kelly McManus, Operations Supervisor at Omaha Airport Authority, recipient from the Aviation Institute.
• Carl Lee Jackson III, Director of Life Skills Coaching, Grace Abbott School of Social Work.
• Jason Nitz, Administrator at Vetter Senior Living, acknowledged by the Department of Gerontology.
• Anne Hindrey, CEO of the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands, received the prestigious Hubert Locke Distinguished Service Award. Her profound commitment to community service is evident through her active involvement in organizations such as the Metro Area Continuum of Care for the Homeless (MAACH), the Omaha branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, and the National Council of Nonprofits. Hindrey, a graduate of Creighton University and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, serves as a beacon of inspiration through her tireless dedication to serving others.

Reflecting on the evening's events, Carl Lee Jackson III shared his journey, remarking, “I came to UNO at the age of 47 and started in psychology. That wasn’t enough for me, I need to be out amongst people, so I tried sociology, still not enough of what I was looking for. When an advisor told me that they thought I was a social worker, it clicked. I am a social worker!” Jackson, who earned his undergraduate degree and MSW from UNO, and a Ph.D. from Walden University, attributes his success to his wife’s encouragement and his involvement with Omaha Bridges Out of Poverty, where he earned the nickname “Mr. Positivity” for his ability to build relationships and foster collective success.

We extend our congratulations to all CPACS alumni award recipients.