REGENTS
The University of Nebraska Board of Regents consists of eight members elected to serve six-year terms representing districts across the state.
Regents are responsible for hiring the university president, setting tuition and room and board rates for students, approving annual operating budgets and building projects and reviewing academic programs.
Board members meet every six to eight weeks. Regents are not compensated but do receive tickets to athletic events. There are four seats on the ballot this year.
Incumbent Jim Scheer of Norfolk, who was appointed to replace Gov. Jim Pillen in District 3 representing northeast Nebraska, is running uncontested for a full six-year term. He did not respond to a request to participate in the Voter's Guide.
In District 5, which includes 11 counties in Southeast Nebraska, including parts of Lancaster and Sarpy counties, incumbent Rob Schafer of Beatrice and Gary L. Rogge of Auburn will appear on the ballot. Schafer won the three-person primary race in May.
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Incumbent Elizabeth O’Connor and challenger Jim Rogers are seeking the District 4 seat in Omaha. O’Connor won the primary over Rogers.
Incumbent Barbara Weitz and challenger Zachary Mellender are seeking the District 8 seat in Omaha. Weitz ran ahead of Mellender in the primary.
District 4
Elizabeth R. O’Connor
Age:34
Home:
Occupation:Deputy county attorney (Civil Division) in Douglas County
Party:Democrat
Elected offices held:Board of Regents, District 4 (2019-present)
Education:Bachelor of the Arts in Political Science, University of Nebraska at Omaha (2012); Juris Doctor, Notre Dame Law School
Family:HusbandEli Rosenberg, one child
Website:
Why are you running for office?
Our students deserve a quality, affordable education. A healthy university is key to a thriving state economy. We compete in a national market. A vibrant university promotes growth in the state. In the last six years, we expanded education to those in need, approved cutting-edge programs, received research grants, tackled costly deferred maintenance and created a partnership to address the health care gap in rural communities. Our work is not done yet.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
In 2012, as student body president at UNO, I was on the Board of Regents. I was inspired by how higher education can change a person’s life. For the last six years, I have participated in every standing Regent committee, and chaired Audit. In addition, my training and experience as an attorney provide critical skills in analyzing issues and conflicts. Additionally, I am attuned to the people and issues in my district, having attended grade school, high school and college within the district.
What is your top priority?
What, in your opinion, is the University of Nebraska’s role in the state?
NU is the framework upon which Nebraska’s future and its economy will be built. Looking to the future, I see students receiving a quality, affordable education from talented and fairly compensated professors. I see a state that increasingly attracts new businesses and industries with its strong workforce, leading to more retention of Nebraska’s young professionals. And I see a state and its residents thriving from the successes of the university.
The University of Nebraska has set the goal of regaining admission into the Association of American Universities, which will require significant investments in faculty and research. Do you support this goal? Why or why not?
I do support this goal. While this endeavor may be a decade-long process, the investments in faculty and research will only enhance the quality of NU and experiences of the students. These are wise investments that will bring measurable value to the people of Nebraska.
NU is funded primarily through state appropriations and tuition revenue, though tuition costs have increased at a greater pace than state tax dollars. What do you think the university should do to ensure a college education remains accessible to Nebraska students?
The rate of inflation has outpaced both NU’s state appropriations and tuition revenue, highlighting NU’s commitment to remain accessible and affordable while maintaining quality. NU must still pursue other avenues of funding to ensure it remains accessible, such as: continuing to seek grants (both state and federal), enhancing partnerships with private community and philanthropy for experiential learning, cooperation with private foundations and striving to find efficiencies to keep costs low.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recently announced it was closing its Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Do you agree with the decision? Why or why not?
While this was difficult, it will be necessary for NU to make challenging decisions while it faces funding concerns. The DEI Office functioned in the role of coordination, as opposed to providing unique services. Programs like Nebraska Promise demonstrate our commitment to creating access and building a diverse student body. The solution to lifting students out of poverty is education. We must invest in all students, not just some, and I remain committed to meeting the students where they are.
Jim Rogers
Age:61
Home:
Occupation:Retired Chair of Department of Mathematics, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Party:Independent
Elected offices held:None
Education:Ph.D., Albert Einstein College of Medicine (1993); master's degree, UNO; bachelor's degree, Creighton University
Family:Spouse Kathie, three children
Website:
Why are you running for office?
As an administrator at UNO, I became dissatisfied with the ability of NU administration to create and implement an operative mission and strategic plan. Mission statements were useless platitudes about “transforming lives” and strategic plans were often contradictory efforts aimed at maximizing growth rather than following a course most rational for Nebraska. So, I decided to retire early from my tenured position and run for regent. With my experience, I can make a real difference.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
I was a tenured faculty member in the Department of Mathematics at UNO for over 20 years, and was chair until last December, when I retired specifically to run for the Board of Regents. The math department is the largest credit-hour producing unit at UNO, with 34 full-time faculty members serving roughly 7,000 students per year. This level of university administration experience provides me with a unique ability to oversee and assess the performance of NU administration — the main job of a regent.
What is your top priority?
To do the primary job of the regents: develop an operative mission for NU.
The current mission is vague to the point of uselessness. NU must specifically define its purpose for existing. Crank out low-cost degrees as efficiently as possible? Be a leader in research? Admit more students regardless of college readiness? Admit fewer students to stronger programs?
It’s the board’s job to answer these questions and hold administration accountable for implementation. This will be my top priority.
What, in your opinion, is the University of Nebraska’s role in the state?
NU’s state role is determined by its mission (which is functionally non-existent). While my NU experience means I have opinions on the mission, it is set by the entire board.
Thus, I will share my opinions (I am a strong supporter of research) and consider the ideas of other regents (who may have other priorities).
This joint effort will result in a mission that represents the interests of all constituents and thus the state. This is the board’s main job, and it will be my top priority.
The University of Nebraska has set the goal of regaining admission into the Association of American Universities, which will require significant investments in faculty and research. Do you support this goal? Why or why not?
This is an example of a key question that cannot be answered due to a vague mission. Is the mission of NU to be a leader in research? Provide cost-effective teaching? Maximize community engagement? Retain lower-performing students?
NU administration wants to do “all of the above” as they chase growth, and the regents never question this. The result is high costs and low performance in all areas.
This is why the regents need to get serious about setting the mission of NU. I will do that.
NU is funded primarily through state appropriations and tuition revenue, though tuition costs have increased at a greater pace than state tax dollars. What do you think the university should do to ensure a college education remains accessible to Nebraska students?
This is another key question that requires a strong mission statement.
As per the previous question, NU wants to return to the AAU, which will require big research spending. But they also want to keep tuition affordable. And the Legislature cannot provide unlimited tax dollars to make up the difference.
So, what is the main mission of NU? AAU-level research or low tuition rates? This is exactly what the regents should be deciding based on input from their constituents. I will do that.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recently announced it was closing its Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Do you agree with the decision? Why or why not?
I have been very actively involved in DEI efforts at UNO but was often frustrated as I regularly saw grassroots DEI work stunted by lack of funds while the budgets for DEI administrators were expanding.
So, I believe I understand why Chancellor Bennett indicated that DEI efforts needed to be “reimagined” at UNL. I trust his judgment, and as regent I will work closely with all chancellors to make sure DEI initiatives have real results on the ground and not just fund expensive administrators.
District 5
Gary Rogge
Age:78 on Oct. 31
Home:Auburn
Occupation:Retired farmer, trustee for the Rogge Family Trust
Party:Independent
Elected offices held:
Education:Graduate of Auburn Nebraska public schools. University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Family:I am divorced and have a lady friend, Gerda, of 18 years; three sons
Website:None
Why are you running for office?
There is too much turmoil going on with the board. Looks bad and smells bad. I want to reduce spending on office buildings and put money into the instructors and scholarships. Nebraska taxpayers need the best for their tax dollars. Affordable education.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
I know people from my farming experience. I know small-town residents, I have military training in the National Guard. I have five years' experience working for BNSF in west Lincoln as a union member. I will speak up about issues and not play politics if I can on the board. I can relate to all Nebraskans. I will work well with the Unicameral. Everybody who meets me likes me.
What is your top priority?
I wish to bring common sense to the board. I have lots of leadership in me and will bring new direction for the University of Nebraska. Money spent in taxes. There is waste in spending with the 30-story office building at the University of Nebraska Medical Center projected for Omaha. The District 5 regent does not represent this district. The incumbent does not know this. He voted to spend $2.2 billion to "improve the skyline of Omaha" for President Gold.
What, in your opinion, is the University of Nebraska’s role in the state?
The role of the University of Nebraska in the state is to promote forward thinking and advance the economy of the state through education. The unicameral needs to help keep graduates in the state by making regulations and laws workable for all citizens.
The University of Nebraska has set the goal of regaining admission into the Association of American Universities, which will require significant investments in faculty and research. Do you support this goal? Why or why not?
If it is possible. The goals that are set may not be possible to meet in 2024. The AAU has rules and regulations to keep universities in or out as they wish ... They can move the goal posts. Lots of PR is needed -- at what cost? We must be proud of what we achieved to date.
NU is funded primarily through state appropriations and tuition revenue, though tuition costs have increased at a greater pace than state tax dollars. What do you think the university should do to ensure a college education remains accessible to Nebraska students?
Increase scholarships. Maybe offer tax deductions for students.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recently announced it was closing its Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Do you agree with the decision? Why or why not?
I agree. The Office of Diversity and Inclusion just says we failed at inclusion. Inclusion is out there if you want to be part of it.
Rob Schafer
Age:56
Home:Beatrice
Occupation:Attorney, business owner, farmer, cattleman, National Guard member
Party:Republican
Elected offices held:University of Nebraska Board of Regents, District 5 (elected in 2014, 2018)
Education:Bachelor and Juris Doctor, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Family:Andrea Schafer, two children
Website:
Why are you running for office?
First, as a sixth-generation Nebraskan who grew up in a family without a lot of resources, I am living proof that the American dream is alive and well and want to be able to provide that same opportunity to as many Nebraskans as possible. Second, a quality education and hard work are the two most critical factors in improving one's position in life. Third, the University of Nebraska plays an integral part in the success of our state and its people.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
My diverse background, which includes being an attorney, a business owner, farmer, cattleman and member of our nation's military for nearly 40 years has provided me with a wide array of experiences and knowledge for the position. Additionally, I have 12 years of elected service on the board of regents, serving twice as chairman.
What is your top priority?
Making tuition affordable for Nebraska working families and making the university a stronger positive force in economic development for the entire state.
What, in your opinion, is the University of Nebraska’s role in the state?
The role of the university is to provide a world-class education and work with our students to ensure they have quality jobs in Nebraska upon graduation, all while being good stewards of taxpayers’ money.
The University of Nebraska has set the goal of regaining admission into the Association of American Universities, which will require significant investments in faculty and research. Do you support this goal? Why or why not?
It is imperative that the University of Nebraska regain admission into the Association of American Universities. Research must be a priority in this process and be treated as a priority at all levels in the university. Research needs to become a factor in all faculty hirings and tenure appointments.
NU is funded primarily through state appropriations and tuition revenue, though tuition costs have increased at a greater pace than state tax dollars. What do you think the university should do to ensure a college education remains accessible to Nebraska students?
We must continue to grow our private/public partnerships along with enrollment in an effort to minimize any program cuts and work to keep tuition rates affordable for Nebraska working families.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recently announced it was closing its Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Do you agree with the decision? Why or why not?
I oppose any taxpayer dollars being used for the purpose of DEI throughout the university system. If we truly want to eliminate all racism and sexism in our society then we should remove race and gender as factors in any and all decisions and actions that are made and taken.
District 8
Zachary Mellender
Age:29
Home:
Occupation:Business Systems and Analytics Manager, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
Party:Independent
Elected offices held:Nebraska Information Technology Commission, which oversees the Office of the CIO in Nebraska. This position is appointed by the governor and confirmed by Legislature.
Education:BS in Business Science from Capella University. I am currently in the admissions process for my Executive MBA, outside of the NU system.
Family:Wife, Madison, four children
Website:
Why are you running for office?
I'm a millennial— an underrepresented group in politics. I see the frustration in my generation and Gen Z. They don't see themselves represented in office, they see radical polarization, and they feel unheard. Gen Z has the fewest registered eligible voters— because they don't feel voting will change anything.
I'm running because we need to represent our next generations. These are our students and our future - their stories need to be seen, too. I'll join our other great regents to do that.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
I have deep nonprofit leadership experience in next-gen technology and analytics, including in formal education and scientific research.
On the NITC, I help direct the state's digital strategies, such as in education, internet access and cybersecurity.
I've served for 6+ years on international research committees and speak globally on data ethics.
I'm an Eagle Scout and have served in leadership roles in many youth organizations at local, city, state and national levels.
What is your top priority?
My top priority is to restore confidence in our board and in the NU system. With staff turnover, long leadership searches, rapid hires and other challenges, current public opinion is clear. I entered this election because I wanted to make a difference— not just talk about it. Ensuring that you have confidence in NU leadership is my highest priority. Components such as tuition, the AAU, staff retention, consolidation, high costs, etc., are all part of that. It all starts with trust.
What, in your opinion, is the University of Nebraska’s role in the state?
NU is the pride of all Nebraska. It is instantly recognizable across the country. The university has an enormous economic impact in the state, both directly and indirectly. By building high-caliber programs, NU attracts investments in research and business. These range from UNMC's bio-warfare security to UNL's high-tech precision agriculture. NU promotes Nebraska values and ensures our needs are represented in research and education. NU is a voice for Nebraska and brings revenue to the state.
The University of Nebraska has set the goal of regaining admission into the Association of American Universities, which will require significant investments in faculty and research. Do you support this goal? Why or why not?
Yes, I do support rejoining the AAU. However, I do not believe that additional investments in faculty and research are an absolute requirement. The AAU has previously undervalued agricultural research and does not consider UNMC part of UNL. I believe that exploring consolidation should continue, as this would eliminate the largest hurdle. UNL is still an R1 university, while UNMC is one of the few "Special Focus" universities. All that remains is the AAU's apology for ignoring agriculture.
NU is funded primarily through state appropriations and tuition revenue, though tuition costs have increased at a greater pace than state tax dollars. What do you think the university should do to ensure a college education remains accessible to Nebraska students?
Let's look at the numbers. State appropriations are 20% of NU's total 2023 budget. Tuition is only 10%. Nebraska students get a 65% discount on tuition — before scholarships.
You and I already pay for NU. Lowering tuition for our in-state students is not our biggest financial threat. We can attract more out-of-state students, further reduce costs in administrative consolidations, and make up that difference. Keeping grads in Nebraska attracts new businesses, to pay new taxes, and keep that tuition low.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recently announced it was closing its Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Do you agree with the decision? Why or why not?
No, I dissent. I believe that DEI can be a hot topic. It can be politically charged. It may seem to be only one or two issues. Those issues matter. DEI also represents all Nebraskans. DEI includes veterans, working parents, rural students, first-generation graduates, low-income households, homeschoolers, students that have struggled academically, mental health and many more. I'm on this list -- are you? We may save a few dollars, but we lose a valuable resource.
Barbara Weitz
Age:76
Home:
Occupation:Social worker, educator (retired)
Party:Democrat
Elected offices held:University of Nebraska Regent, District 8 (2018)
Education:Bachelor of Arts/Carleton College (1970); Master's of Public Administration, New York University (1973); Master's of Social Work, University of Nebraska Omaha; PhD candidate, Mandel School, Case Western Reserve University
Family:Wally Weitz
Website:
Why are you running for office?
When I ran six years ago, it was because, as a former student and faculty member of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, I was concerned that UNO lacked its own chancellor, Nebraskans were struggling with tuition increases and student debt, and students, staff and faculty didn’t reflect the diversity of our state. We must keep tuition as low as possible. State budget shortfalls can't be covered with tuition increases. New revenue streams must be found to retain the best and the brightest.
What experiences qualify you for this office?
As a former student and educator at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, I bring a unique perspective to the issues brought before the Board of Regents. I have served on each of the four standing committees and have chaired two of them. I am not a politician. But I was and probably always will be a teacher with experience in almost every arena of higher education.
What is your top priority?
Students, students, students – Is it in the best interest of all our students? Does this decision positively impact the future of our students? Will this decision reduce or stabilize costs around tuition and fees that are weighing our students down post-graduation with long-term debt? The voters in District 8 deserve the very best of what we can do. The state deserves the very best of what we can do.
What, in your opinion, is the University of Nebraska’s role in the state?
We must be a university that our students want to attend. The competition for students will increase as birth demographics show a drop in college-age students in the years to come. We need to provide education in a variety of ways. We need to offer degrees and credentialing courses for students who want to gain additional skills. We can be the best land grant university and attract the best students, but we must work at it.
The University of Nebraska has set the goal of regaining admission into the Association of American Universities, which will require significant investments in faculty and research. Do you support this goal? Why or why not?
Rejoining the AAU is about the pursuit of excellence. The members of universities and colleges meet the highest criteria in several areas. Being an AAU member is the mission of education. It looks at schools’ graduation rates. The effort to be invited to rejoin the AAU is one that we need to follow to be the best university possible. Returning to membership will require us to become the best recruitment, retainment and graduation institution possible.
NU is funded primarily through state appropriations and tuition revenue, though tuition costs have increased at a greater pace than state tax dollars. What do you think the university should do to ensure a college education remains accessible to Nebraska students?
I am committed to keeping tuition as low as possible. The state budget revenue shortfall cannot be covered through tuition increases. We are proud of new programs such as Nebraska Promise scholarships which eliminated tuition for students from households with less than $65,000 income. That has allowed us to reach at least 1,000 students who otherwise couldn't attend college. We joined a national program that cuts the costs of textbooks, saving students more than $3 million.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recently announced it was closing its Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Do you agree with the decision? Why or why not?
As the only public four-year university, we must be open and inviting to everyone seeking a higher education. We are an increasingly diverse state. Why would we object to increasing diversity and inclusivity? We need 10,000 educated employees to meet economic needs. This requires an institution that creates an environment where all feel included. Every Nebraskan should want fairness in all we do. To recruit and retain our students, we must create a culture that is welcoming.