UNO Lands Grant to Expand Opportunities for Computer Science Students in Omaha

➡️ What’s happening:

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) has received a $499,000 implementation grant from Northeastern University’s Center for Inclusive Computing to enhance student retention and success in computer science degree programs.

💡 Why it matters:

Computing careers are among the fastest-growing fields in the U.S., but retention in STEM programs remains a challenge. This funding will help UNO strengthen student pathways to graduation, addressing local workforce needs in Omaha's tech industry.

🔎 Zoom in:

UNO is one of just 36 institutions nationwide to receive this grant.

The two-year initiative, led by Associate Professor Brian Dorn, Ph.D., will:

• Streamline curriculum through faculty collaboration.

• Expand recruitment and training for undergraduate learning assistants.

• Improve onboarding for students in introductory computing courses.

🎤 What they’re saying:

• Brian Dorn, Ph.D., associate professor: “This funding allows us to double down on our commitment to empowering learners of all backgrounds to thrive in computing careers. By addressing barriers to retention and degree completion, we’re not only improving student outcomes but also contributing to a stronger workforce for our community.”

• Carla Brodley, Ph.D., founding executive director of Northeastern University’s Center for Inclusive Computing: “We are absolutely thrilled to be launching this multi-year effort with the University of Nebraska at Omaha. We have been doing this work for five years, and the results support that making these kinds of systemic changes are effective at creating computing pathways where all students can thrive, regardless of whether they were exposed to computing in high school or not.”

• Mahadevan Subramaniam, Ph.D., Department of Computer Science chair: "Retention in STEM degree programs, particularly in fields like computer science, is essential to meeting the workforce demands of Omaha's rapidly growing tech industry. By supporting students on their path to graduation, we are transforming individual lives and equipping our community with the skilled professionals needed to drive innovation and economic growth."

🌎 The big picture:

The grant aligns with UNO’s strategic goals to foster student success and workforce development. By improving retention and reducing time-to-degree, the College of Information Science and & Technology aims to prepare a diverse pool of graduates to fill Omaha’s growing demand for tech professionals.

⚡️ What’s next:

Over the next two years, UNO will implement these changes to ensure students are better supported from their first computing course to graduation.