I was 13, turning 14, when I left conventional schooling.

At that point, I had been in the Nottingham Forest Academy for almost four years, and when the club offered me the chance to join a program where up-and-coming talent could do a school program tailored to my aspirations of making in the professional ranks, I jumped at the chance.

It might have been quite abnormal at the time, but for me, it was really incredible. I was able to train more, I was on the field more, I was developing quicker, my training and games taking priority over my schoolwork.

Even as a teenager, you know the odds of turning professional having been an academy player all the way through to 17 in England are very slim. I knew it was important to have the educational element to fall back on if things didn't work out. But as an individual, I only ever saw football as my goal.

That’s what I wanted to achieve, and leaving conventional schooling made me certain that that's what I wanted to do.

Little did I know it would happen a continent away.

Looking for a Fresh Start

Ten years ago, I was looking for a fresh start. Although I’d achieved my goal of earning a professional contract with Forest, the next step never quite arrived.

Now a 21-year-old free agent, I was trying to just make any headway into the game that I could, but America beckoned. I connected with Barry Venison, who was a former England international working at Orange County SC at the time, and he had a friend, Carl Craig, who was the Head Coach at Minnesota United FC.

He got me a trial, and honestly, I was just buzzing to be involved with a team at that time. I was excited to show what I could do.

That May, a new door opened. I signed with the Loons for their final season in the North American Soccer League, scored my first professional goal days later, and things were off and running.

Since then, the journey over the past 10 years has been incredible, and I’m really grateful for it.

Football-wise, it’s been great, but I can't think of many better experiences than the places I’ve been, moving around the United States. Going from Minnesota to Florida, then going to Salt Lake City, Utah, San Diego, California, and then here in Indy, I’ve got to live in some great places.

I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished on the field, too.

Winning the USL Championship with Real Monarchs SLC in 2019 is No. 1 for me. There’s no feeling like lifting a trophy, and to captain the side was an incredible honor. Forming that bond with the other squad mates and winning that championship together was incredible.

I’m also really proud of coming here to Indy, bringing my family here, and integrating into the community. Becoming the all-time leading goal scorer for Indy Eleven was big for me, and something I'm really proud of.

More than 250 appearances into my career, I feel great, and I’m hoping I’ve got many more years left.

As players, it’s up to us how much work we put in, and that ultimately is how you end up getting that longevity in your career. If you’re willing to put in the work – whether that’s recovery, whether it’s working hard in the gym, whether it’s also adapting to the game tactically – I think I’ve always been one to try and get the edge on others and try and work hard to do that.

But I know playing doesn’t last forever. That’s when I knew it was time to go back to school.

Huge Array of Options to Learn From

When I first heard about the USL’s partnership with Bellevue University, I was interested immediately.

It almost seemed too good to be true. You can basically get a scholarship to learn whatever you want, and all you have to do is just be a USL player and be enrolled as a professional footballer, it was a no-brainer for me. I felt like, “I have to do that, and anything I can do to get on that program, try and make possible.”

Having teammates who’d gone through the experience was a godsend as well. One of my good friends, Aedan Stanley, and I had many conversations about finding the balance between playing and school – he was one of the first people that I reached out to and asked, “What’s it like, how are you making it work?” I didn't want to jump into something that I couldn't handle, especially with a small family. He was really helpful, as was James Musa, who was going through the same thing when he was at Indy Eleven last year.

Now I’m pursuing a degree in Sport Management, but the great thing about Bellevue University is there’s a huge array of options to learn from. I think that’s what makes it so good, you can pick and choose what you want to learn.

I’m really enjoying learning aspects of education that I didn't think that I would get to know about. There’s lots of individual classes that go from human geography, nutrition classes, algebra classes, there’s all kinds of stuff that I’m delving into that I honestly couldn’t remember learning about. I think I was diving into the back of my brain with the algebra from when I was 11 or 12, that was a tough one, but I’m really enjoying it.

For my kids, too, I’ve always wanted to be a positive role model for them, and I think them seeing me take the time to do that is something positive. I don’t hide it from them, I don’t go off into a room, if I need to catch up on some work, they’ll see me working. I think that’s important, too.

They’re six and eight years old now, and sometimes we sit around the table as a family and we do schoolwork together. Maybe they're catching up on me, but it’s a positive thing. I think it’s something where I hope they could follow in my footsteps.

‘I Wanted to Give Myself the Tools to Do Something’

Long-term, I think staying in football is something that is a good idea for me. I’m not sure what that role looks like, whether that’s coaching, whether it’s a front office role, whatever that may be, I’m not quite sure yet, but I wanted to give myself the tools of being able to do something if I wanted to, which is where my degree comes in.

What’s been really cool the last few years here at Indy, we get to train with the Academy lads who come up. My son, as well, has been involved in the Academy at Indy Eleven. He’s only eight, and he’s at the youngest age group, so it’s cool to see him at the bottom, and then I’m at the pro level.

I’ve done a bit of coaching in the academy as well with my son’s team. There’s a lot of joy that you get out of it, where you know their brains are like sponges. You give them information, they absorb it, and then you see it happen in real time. I think the coaching side is another passion of mine, where I feel like I can use the experiences I’ve had and hand them down to the younger generation.

As fulfilling as that is, and as much as I’ve achieved as a player, completing my degree is definitely going to be right up there when it comes to accomplishments. Being the first proper degree I’ve worked toward, I’ll be really happy once I achieve that.

I’m definitely looking forward to that feeling.

- Jack Blake, Midfielder, Indy Eleven

From The Pitch aims to provide a platform for individuals within the USL to share their thoughts on things that matter most to them – at the crossroads of life and the beautiful game. USL partner Bellevue University is committed to empowering motivated students to explore their passions, impact change in their communities and chase their dreams.

After more than four decades in higher education – and specifically at Bellevue University, Dr. Roxanne Sullivan has learned something surprising:

Students haven’t changed nearly as much as people think.

As Bellevue University’s longest-serving professor and longtime Psychology Department Chair, Sullivan has spent 43 years helping students understand human behavior. Along the way, she’s witnessed the rise of personal computers, the internet, online education, smartphones, social media, and now artificial intelligence.

Yet despite all the technological disruption, the fundamentals of learning remain remarkably consistent.

“People always think students today are completely different,” Sullivan says. “The excuses have changed from ‘the dog ate my homework’ to ‘my computer ate my homework,’ but many of the challenges are the same.”

The Human Side of Learning

Sullivan’s perspective is grounded in both scholarship and experience.

A developmental psychologist by training, she earned degrees from the University of Iowa, Purdue University, and Michigan State University before joining Bellevue University in 1983.

Over the years, her focus shifted from researching young children to understanding how college students learn most effectively. One lesson stands above the rest: students thrive when they take ownership of their education.

“The biggest change I’ve seen is the amount of responsibility students take for their learning,” Sullivan explains. “Some simply don’t have modeling when it comes to college.” That’s especially true for first-generation college students, a group Sullivan understands personally.

Despite growing up in a family without college degrees, education was always expected. Her parents encouraged academic achievement and instilled a belief that learning could create opportunities beyond what previous generations had experienced.

Today, she works to provide that same encouragement to students navigating college for the first time.

Psychology Is More Relevant Than Ever

When we asked Sullivan if, and how, psychology has changed over the years, she said that it hasn’t changed much. “When people think about psychology as a major or profession, they think you’re going to analyze them.” Many of Sullivan’s students aspire to be therapists or counselors, and while some go on and earn these credentials, she made the point that what people learn in psychology courses runs wide and deep across many other careers – and life. “In today’s workplace, understanding how people think, communicate, make decisions, and respond to change may be more valuable than ever. It’s not just the content,” she said, “It’s the skill sets.”

Those skills include critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, empathy, and understanding human motivation—capabilities that apply in business, marketing, leadership, healthcare, education, and countless other professions.

In fact, some of Sullivan’s most successful former students never became practicing psychologists at all. Instead, they apply psychological principles in careers ranging from real estate to nonprofit leadership to veteran services.

The common denominator isn’t a specific job title. It’s an understanding of people.

The Online Learning Experiment That Worked

When Bellevue University began expanding its online offerings, Sullivan wasn’t immediately on board. Like many faculty members, she worried about whether students could receive the same educational experience outside a traditional classroom.

Rather than resisting the change, she decided to shape it.

Over the course of several years, Sullivan helped move nearly an entire psychology program online while maintaining the rigor and engagement she believed students deserve. Her goal was simple: online students should receive the same quality education as students sitting in a classroom.

Today, psychology remains one of Bellevue University’s strongest programs, with online enrollment continuing to grow.

The experience taught Sullivan an important lesson about innovation – technology works best when it serves educational goals.

The AI Conversation Is Familiar

As artificial intelligence rapidly enters classrooms and workplaces, Sullivan sees parallels to earlier technological revolutions.

When calculators became common, educators worried students would stop learning math. When the internet emerged, many feared research skills would disappear.

Now, AI has become the newest source of concern. Sullivan believes the discussion should focus less on fear and more on responsible use. “Like anything else, you learn to use the tool appropriately,” she says.

The solution isn’t avoiding the technology altogether. The solution is teaching students how to question it. “Use it,” she advises. “But think about what it’s giving you.”

AI can help students brainstorm ideas, create visuals, summarize information, and explore concepts. But it cannot replace critical thinking, judgment, or genuine understanding.

But Sullivan warns: AI can generate inaccurate information, fabricate references, or confidently present incorrect conclusions. She is fine with students using AI, because she knows they’re going to, but she instructs them to cite their sources and deploy their good thinking to a piece that AI has helped research.

Curiosity Still Wins

Throughout the interview, one theme surfaced repeatedly: curiosity.

Whether discussing psychology, technology, or student success, Sullivan returned to the importance of asking questions, exploring ideas, and remaining open to learning. That’s one reason she remains optimistic about the future.

While technology will continue to evolve, the qualities that drive success remain remarkably stable: Students who are curious. Students who take responsibility. Students willing to challenge assumptions and think critically. Those are the students who thrive.

And after 43 years in the classroom, Sullivan has seen enough evidence to know that will never change.

A Legacy Beyond Psychology

As Sullivan prepares for retirement in a year, her influence extends far beyond the psychology department.

Thousands of students have passed through her classrooms. Hundreds have chosen careers inspired by lessons learned under her guidance.

Perhaps most importantly, she has modeled what lifelong learning looks like.

From adapting to online education to thoughtfully embracing AI, Sullivan has never stopped learning herself. That may be her most enduring lesson. The world will continue to change. New technologies will emerge. New challenges will appear.

But curiosity, critical thinking, and a commitment to understanding people will always matter.

And those are lessons worth carrying forward.

“It’s sadness,” Brownlee said. “I miss it. I like to be busy. I like to be challenged. This wasn’t an easy program, and I really appreciated that.”

That response might seem unexpected from someone who just completed a rigorous graduate degree while working full time. But it captures something essential about Brownlee: he’s drawn to complexity, growth and meaningful work.

Today, Brownlee serves as a senior organizational development specialist for a large mining company with operations around the world. His role takes him across three operating sites in Montana, where his work focuses on leadership development, performance management, succession planning, training and large-scale change initiatives.

It’s high-stakes work in an industry where human behavior and decision-making can carry real consequences — and it’s work that increasingly reflects the education he gained at Bellevue University.

A career shaped by curiosity

Brownlee’s professional path didn’t begin in organizational development. He earned his undergraduate degree in geology and spent years working underground in mining operations. Over time, though, something shifted.

“Rocks are great,” he said. “But people are what keeps it interesting.”

When an opportunity emerged to move into training, development and people-focused work, Brownlee leaned in. He learned from mentors on the job and began looking for an academic program that would deepen his expertise and give him a stronger foundation for the work he was already doing.

He discovered Bellevue University’s online Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology program and was drawn to its credibility and cohort structure. He didn’t want an isolated, self-paced experience. He wanted discussion, connection and accountability.

Balancing school with work wasn’t easy. Brownlee’s job often requires early mornings, long days and frequent travel between sites. But instead of feeling disconnected, his coursework and professional responsibilities reinforced each other.

A Bellevue University experience that translated directly to work

One of the biggest surprises for Brownlee wasn’t the workload — it was how much writing the Bellevue University program required.

“I wasn’t prepared for how much writing was involved,” he said. “But it showed me how to organize my thoughts and communicate them clearly.”

That skill shows up daily. Brownlee often serves as the bridge between complex ideas and practical application, helping frontline employees, supervisors and executives understand not just what needs to change, but why.

What stood out most was how directly the Bellevue University coursework connected to his real-world responsibilities.

“There was so much emphasis on theory to practice,” he said. “I’d learn something in class and then go back to work and apply it almost immediately.”

Research rooted in lived experience

Brownlee’s graduate research focused on the relationship between fatigue, risk perception and decision-making in the mining industry — a topic shaped by his own experience working demanding schedules in challenging environments.

“There were times I’d be driving at two in the morning and think, ‘How did I even get here?’” he said. “You’re still functioning, but you can tell something isn’t quite right.”

His research found that as fatigue increases, people tend to become more sensitive to financial risks while becoming less sensitive to health and wellbeing risks — a dynamic that can help explain why workers may be willing to take risks that adversely affect their health but limit risk to their financial situation.

Just as important, the research process gave Brownlee tools he continues to use today.

“I’m able to gather better data now,” he said. “I can analyze it better and help others make decisions based on evidence, not just opinions.”

Faculty who made the difference

Brownlee credits Bellevue University’s faculty with making the experience both rigorous and deeply relevant.

He points to Dr. Leslie Stager as someone who challenged his thinking and pushed him to slow down and examine assumptions more carefully. Dr. Leroy Simpson, he said, provided encouragement and perspective during a particularly difficult season at work.

Brownlee also credits JoDee Goracke, the program’s director, for bringing real-world understanding into the academic experience. Her industry background and ability to translate complex ideas into practical guidance helped him think more clearly about how to communicate with executive leaders.

“They get it,” Brownlee said. “They understand the real world.”

A career — and impact — still unfolding

Ask Brownlee where he hopes to be in five years, and you won’t get a rehearsed answer.

“I’ve always been an opportunist,” he said after a long pause. “That’s how I went from working with rocks underground to working with people.”

His focus isn’t on a specific title. It’s on continuing to grow, contribute meaningfully and stay open to what’s next.

From the classroom to the workplace, Brownlee’s story reflects what Bellevue University’s programs are designed to support: professionals balancing real lives and real careers — and seeking education that strengthens not just their résumé, but their confidence, capability and impact.

Bellevue University will join other area nonprofits this month and participate in #GivingTuesday, a global generosity movement, on Tuesday, Dec. 2. 

This year, contributions made to Bellevue University will go toward funding scholarships for students enrolled in Bellevue’s undergraduate and graduate teacher education programs. 

Bellevue University offers a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts, and prepares students to teach as certified teachers at the elementary and secondary levels. Bellevue also offers several Supplemental Endorsements in areas such as ESL, coaching, information technology and work-based learning. 

You can support aspiring teachers by visiting the Bellevue University SHARE Omaha page at https://shareomaha.org/nonprofit/bellevue-university-foundation, where you can donate.

Created in 2012, Giving Tuesday encourages people to do good. It takes place annually, always on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving. Locally, Giving Tuesday is led by SHARE Omaha + SHARE Iowa, and this year's giving day is sponsored by Kiewit Corporation, Core Bank, Dundee Bank, Elevator, REDi-TECH and Union Bank and Trust. 

You can also make a gift directly to Bellevue University and donate online, where you can designate the area for your gift.

Julian Andrade found a home in recreational sports as a young boy, never knowing that one day he would provide the same sense of belonging for youth in his community. Recently appointed the Executive Director of PACE (Police Athletics for Community Engagement) in Omaha, Neb., this Bellevue University Sport Management Degree graduate has embraced his love of sports to make public service his life’s work.

Navigating an Uncertain Path

Growing up in South Omaha with divorced parents, playing recreational baseball provided some stability for Andrade. He even got his first job umpiring in his early teen years. However, he didn’t realize the career opportunities it would provide. “I was always interested but I had never really considered it a viable career,” he said.

Andrade graduated high school with a scholarship and began studies at a public university, but wasn’t sure what major to study or what direction to go. He decided to enter the workforce, and found himself working in the parks and recreation field at Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midlands.

“We kept kids off the streets. I really liked what they were doing, but I needed to have a college degree to build a full-time career there,” he said. Furthering his education was imperative to showing donors the organization’s impact, inspiring kids with possibilities for their futures and ultimately securing the role he wanted.

An Unmatched Educational Experience

Returning to school meant finding the right fit for Andrade’s busy life. “I could no longer do a four-year traditional path,” he said. After completing his associate’s degree at a community college, he found Bellevue University was the perfect fit – thanks to a generous credit transfer policy, tuition reimbursement from his employer and the right program offering.

Andrade studied in a hybrid format, completing some courses online and others on campus. As he took on more responsibility at work, this flexibility made completing his degree more achievable. “They were really cutting edge with their hybrid model at the time,” he said.

He said he felt a strong sense of belonging and understanding from his fellow students and professors. “My professor knew I was working a lot and worked with me closely,” Andrade said. “Bellevue University was great at understanding the real challenges of a working adult. Professors go above and beyond in communication and getting to know your life.”

The program also directly connected to what he was doing every day in his job. “Every time we worked on a lesson, we could apply a real situation or a hypothetical. I was applying the lessons in real time to things I was working on - I didn’t need hypotheticals.”

With such a positive undergraduate experience, Andrade decided to pursue graduate work immediately after completing his bachelor’s degree in 2020.

Focusing on Equity in Recreation

After furthering his education, Andrade continued to grow within his field, assuming increasing responsibilities at Boys and Girls Club and then the City of Papillion – including running adult and youth sports programs, developing programming, overseeing staffing, and facilitating communications.

As Executive Director at PACE since June 2025, Andrade runs all operations for the organization that brings volunteer Omaha police officers and first responders together to offer free sports programs for at-risk and economically disadvantaged youth.

“The longer you keep them engaged, the less likely they are to find something on their own,” he said.

Andrade was honored to be chosen to lead an organization who faced some financial fraud troubles in recent years, followed by a short time with the Omaha Sports Commission taking on leadership as a contractor. “Our supporters wanted an executive director back in place, and I look forward to taking us in a positive direction,” he said.

He has a strong vision for the organization, starting with a strong focus on youth development and communications advancement. Andrade said though the organization has done impressive work in the community for more than two decades it’s time to take a look at where it can go next.

“Gender equity and age discrepancy are important to address,” he said. “Female representation has never been equitable at the recreational level. It has not been encouraged, and we have the chance to introduce programs to girls equally at a young age.”

Andrade said he also hopes to expand programs and grow offerings by considering neighborhoods and areas outside those traditionally considered to be in need. “This organization is for every child who needs it,” he said.

Ultimately, Andrade said his Bellevue University prepared him to lead PACE’s next era. “It was my only educational experience where I really felt part of the school. You weren’t just a number,” he said. “It enabled me to carry on to earn my masters and get my current role. Landing at Bellevue University was the best thing that could have happened.”

Today, as Director of Graduate Enrollment at Bellevue University, Stock draws on his own journey to guide others—especially military students—through one of life’s biggest transitions: discovering what comes next.

“I’ve had students come back and say thank you—just like I did when I was an Air Force recruiter,” he said. “That’s the best part of this job, helping someone take that next step and knowing you made a difference.”

Stock’s own second chapter began shortly after retiring from active duty. He joined Bellevue University in 2016, initially as Assistant Director of Enrollment Management before ascending to director in 2017. But his relationship with the University goes back even further. While stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, Stock earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2008. He later earned a master’s degree in Organizational Performance in 2021.

“Being a student here gave me empathy for what our learners go through,” he said. “Balancing school, work and family is hard. But I also know how powerful it is when you finish.”

Why military students find their fit at Bellevue University

Bellevue University has prioritized serving military students since its founding in 1966. Courses are built with flexibility in mind—offered online, in accelerated formats and with generous credit granted for prior military experience. Stock says those features are important, but what really sets the University apart is its people.

“There are a lot of military folks who work here,” he said. “We understand deployments. We understand that life happens. And we’ve built a culture around flexibility and support.”

As someone who spent 10 years recruiting for the Air Force, Stock sees clear parallels between that role and his current work leading graduate admissions. In both, it’s about listening, building trust and helping people make informed, life-shaping decisions.

“Recruiting for the military taught me that you’re not just offering a product, you’re offering a life path,” he said. “It’s about guiding people and supporting them through the process.”

That philosophy shows up in the continuity of care students receive. Admissions counselors, coaches and advisors often stay with a student throughout their degree journey—something Stock says mirrors the tight-knit support systems military learners are used to. “You’re not a number here,” he said. “That kind of consistency makes a difference.”

Family ties and a legacy of service

Stock’s personal connection to Bellevue University extends to his family. His quadruplet children—Emma, Dillon, Riley and Owen—enrolled together after high school and often saw each other in classes while completing their general education requirements.

In 2024, three of the siblings graduated: Emma with a degree in Biology, Dillon in Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity, and Riley in Sustainability Management. Owen will graduate soon with a degree in Behavioral Science.

“They saw what this University did for me, and they knew what it stood for,” Stock said. “To watch them grow here and earn their degrees has been one of the proudest experiences of my life.”

His family’s service tradition runs deep, as well. Stock’s oldest son, Colin, is currently serving in the Air Force—marking four generations of military service. Colin is stationed in Alaska and will soon transfer to Washington state.

Reflecting on his own journey—from a young airman to a university leader helping others pursue their goals—Stock sees a throughline of purpose and preparation. “You’ve already had a job with a mission,” he said. “A lot of vets want their next step to be just as meaningful. Education is how you start defining what that looks like.”

“I would not describe myself as a great teacher, but rather as a lucky one. I am fortunate to work with faculty and staff colleagues whose creativity and wisdom enrich my teaching experience,” she said. “I am also fortunate to work with so many students who generously share their life experiences and inspire me with their determination to realize the promise of higher education.”

Joeckel is the Program Director for the Communication Studies bachelor’s program and the Master of  Arts in Business and Professional Communication. She’s been teaching at the University since 2010. 

“I had previously worked at a small liberal arts college in Nebraska, and a number of my esteemed colleagues had left the college to work at Bellevue University. I trusted their judgment and when I learned about the opening in Communications, I applied. It has been one of my best professional decisions,” she said.

An Early Love of Communications

Joeckel first felt a connection with communications in an elementary school language arts class that featured public speaking opportunities. Her interest continued to grow with an introduction to debate in high school.

“It became my life's work when I taught my first college class in 1982 at the University of Nebraska,” she said. “Communication has allowed me to combine and dive deeply into so many of my interests: language, politics, social movements, popular culture, literature, and more. Teaching communication classes has allowed me to share some of my interests, but above all, it has allowed me to work with students on developing skills and habits of mind that are critical to their well-being and success.”

Empathy Born From Experience

As a first-generation college student, Joeckel understands the importance of making students feel welcome.

“The experience has stayed with me all these years. I remember feeling embarrassed over what I did not know about going to college and deeply unsure that I belonged in higher education,” she said. “I hope I can help students feel that they are part of the Bellevue University community and empower them to take responsibility for their growth and development.”

In addition to Joeckel’s efforts to make students feel welcome, she says the University provides the right environment to focus on their progress. “Although we may take it for granted, a key difference is Bellevue University's financial health,” she said. This financial stability, she said, frees faculty to focus on education.

Creating High-Quality Courses

In her efforts to give her students the best experience possible, Joeckel has created highly impactful courses, One, her interpersonal communications course, has even earned a Quality Matters certification.

“A Quality-Matters (QM) certified course (online or hybrid) has undergone a rigorous review process against QM standards. The certification tells students that a course is carefully designed and that potential barriers to their achievement have been reduced or eliminated. I learned a great deal about course design by participating in the QM process. Truly, the knowledge I gained now informs all of my course development,” she said.

Joeckel devotes a lot of time to her students but in her spare time she enjoys reading biographies and autobiographies; planning, planting and maintaining container gardens for hummingbirds and butterflies; doing agility work with her Keeshond; and watching "cozy mysteries" on Acorn and BritBox.

During the showcase, Rachael and Sarah presented information to attendees, who circulated to different tables, on the work to streamline the online students’ experience in accessing support. Their showcase presentation focused on “Operationalizing Cognitive Kindness.” It highlighted how the University team mapped the user experience to engage with each type of support online and then simplified the student experience with:

• Single sign-on to access academic supports
• Embedded descriptions and links to academic support inside courses
• Cross-functional team collaboration to increase University-wide information sharing and awareness of academic supports

Since the first changes were made two years ago, academic support usage across all types has steadily increased from just under 1,000 users per week in November 2022 to nearly 6,000 users per week in November 2024.

The study, titled Perceptions of Academic Discrimination Mediate the Relationship Between Political Minority Status and Self-Censorship Among U.S. College Students, examines how perceived political discrimination and political identity influence self-censorship among students. It focuses on how students’ perceptions of their political minority status shape their academic experiences and behavior.

“Given that political orientation and political affiliation are often used interchangeably, it was surprising to find differences in how these categories related to college students' perceptions and behaviors,” said Grady. 

Grady explained that in Study 1, research showed that perceived academic discrimination is associated with self-censorship, regardless of political orientation. However, in Study 2, perceptions of political discrimination and political minority status contributed to Republicans perceiving themselves as political minorities and self-censoring. 

“These results show that political tribalism may be driving perceptions of political discrimination more than actual political values,” said Dr. Lewis. “The good news is that if we can figure out a way to reduce political tribalism, we may be able to reduce perceptions of political discrimination and increase bipartisan collaboration in university settings.” 

The article is open-access, making it available to the general public and accessible for those interested in understanding political expression in academic settings.

Bellevue University is one of America's top online colleges and universities, according to Newsweek. 

Bellevue University is one of 125 higher education institutions to receive a five-star rating - the recognition list's highest honor. 

The Newsweek ranking is split into two groups:

• America's Top Online Colleges - the top 250 colleges and universities that offer online undergraduate or graduate degree programs, including hybrid programs with online and offline courses and exams.
• America's Top Online Learning Providers - the top 100 institutions other than a university or college, and platforms, which provide access to their own or third-party online courses.

Bellevue University ranked #36 overall among public and private universities in Newsweek's ranking of online colleges and universities. The magazine worked with marketing and consumer data firm Statista to rank the institutions and released the list in November 2024.

"This ranking highlights Bellevue University's commitment to and ongoing investment into providing learners with the access and flexibility they need to pursue a high-quality education and successfully earn their degree or enhance their career," said President Dr. Mary Hawkins. 

The rankings are based on an online survey of U.S. residents who have used online learning services to obtain an academic degree or acquire knowledge and skills for their jobs (professional development) or hobbies (personal development).

User reviews and additional institutional indicators were transformed into score values and aggregated toward a final score. The ranking's evaluation criteria include:

• Institutional indicators (enrollment, graduation statistics, research activity): 20%
• Rating of experience: 50%
• Overall satisfaction: 20%
• Recommendation: 10%

Rove, a best-selling author and conservative commentator, advised voters to consider that while a contentious, partisan, even angry, political climate exists now, it won’t always be that way.

“We’re in a particularly divisive moment in American politics,” he said. “But don’t wring your hands over that, because we’ve been there before, and it’s been worse.”

Rove’s remarks, moderated by University Board member Mike Cassling, were wide-ranging and covered topics such as current and past U.S. elections, partisanship, leadership, and the American Dream. Excerpts follow.

The 2024 Election

Rove asked for a show of hands on two questions: First, “How many of you are happy with the state of American politics?” and two, “How many of you are confident that the country will be in good hands, no matter who is elected President?” No hands went up. “This is not how we normally feel prior to an election,” Rove said, adding a word of hope for the future.

 “We are going to come through this moment for one simple reason, that nobody raised their hand and said they’re satisfied. The people we send to Washington, the good ones, aren’t satisfied either. They came to do something for their community, their district, state, or country, and are they determined to do it,” Rove said, citing recent instances of bipartisanship, including the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the 2022 CHIPS Act for domestic manufacture of high-end semiconductors vital to U.S. technology innovation and security.

He said about 160 million Americans, or two-thirds of eligible voters, will cast votes. Rove said the remaining third still needs to be registered or turned out for the election.

A relatively small proportion of voters (8-12%) are undecided — conflicted about both candidates or not yet engaged in the election process. He noted that “one study of low-propensity voters showed they spent only about four minutes a week thinking about the election, but they are becoming more engaged as the election approaches.”

Polls and Predictions

While Rove said the only poll that really matters is Election Day, he pointed out that Presidential polling has been very close and very stable, showing little change – a virtual dead heat within the polls’ margin of error. Both parties will spend in excess of $1 billion to win their campaigns.

“We’ve got a relatively small number of seven battleground states which will likely decide it,” Rove said. “Former President Donald Trump’s best path is through the Sun Belt: Arizona, Georgia and North Carolina. He wins those three, and one other, and he’s back in the White House. Vice President Kamala Harris’s best path is the ‘Blue Wall,’ the Great Lakes states: Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania. She wins that, and she’s President.”

Rove predicted both U.S. Senate and House majorities could flip. “Republicans take the Senate with a small majority, possibly 53 seats. Democrats probably take the House by a small margin. Blue areas of Texas, and red areas of California and New York could decide the outcome.”

America’s Leadership Role 

“We’re not going to solve every problem, but the prosperity of our country, its future economic growth, and the peace of the world depends upon a strong America, starting with a strong military and a country that has its fiscal house in order,” Rove said.

The American Dream

Rove said two recent conversations while traveling on two continents indicate the American Dream is alive and well. A cab driver in Abuja, Nigeria, asked where Rove was from. “I said ‘Texas.’ He says, ‘Oh, America! I want the American Dream.’ I said, ‘What’s the American Dream to you?’ He says, ‘Work hard. Dream big.’”

Then, during a recent visit to New York, Rove met a Taiwanese-American cab driver who emigrated to the U.S. in 1976 and washed dishes while taking English language lessons. He pursued education and eventually became an actuary. His daughter became a doctor, and his son, a financial analyst. “I drive a cab on weekends to make money so that my grandchildren may go to college. Only in America could I do this,” he said.

“Think about that,” Rove said. “Only in America could you take somebody from a rice paddy in Taiwan and give him the vision to love this country, to work hard, dream big and sacrifice for those he loves. So don’t bet against America. We’re like that.”

Bellevue University launched its annual Signature Event speaker program in 2009 to extend the impact of the University’s undergraduate Kirkpatrick Signature Series course, which is a requirement for all undergraduate degree students.

Since its introduction in 1996, the Signature Series has emphasized informed, engaged citizenship based on knowledge of America’s foundational values and freedoms, including free enterprise and America’s role in the world, and source documents like the Declaration of Independence, the Federalist Papers, and the U.S. Constitution. To date, more than 65,000 University undergraduates from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and 100-plus foreign countries have completed the three-course series.

Karl C. Rove served as Senior Advisor to President George W. Bush from 2000 to 2007 and was President Bush’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy from 2004 to 2007. He engineered Bush’s successful 2004 and 2008 election victories and ran more than 75 GOP campaigns for Senator, Governor, Congress, and other elective offices in 24 states. Today, Rove teaches at the University of Texas-Austin, writes a weekly op-ed column for the Wall Street Journal; and is a frequent contributor on FOX News Channel.

For Ashley Trollinger, that reason is to achieve her dream career in sport management.

Her interest in the field sparked when she served as manager of her high school basketball team in Georgia — a state where sports are a big deal.

“I was always playing a sport growing up or watching sports on television,” Trollinger says. “This degree is more than wanting to watch sports at work; I want to help create the best game day experiences for those who have been to see a team 100 times or for their first time. I have a strong passion for creating amazing memories for others.”

Trollinger chose to pursue her sport management degree at Bellevue University after attending numerous ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) games. Bellevue is the official higher education partner of the league, meaning all ECHL players, officials, staff and employees are eligible to apply for a scholarship to start or finish a bachelor’s or graduate degree program of their choice at the university.

Trollinger often saw the University’s name displayed at the hockey games she went to, so when it came time to apply for college, the university was already top of mind.

Things came full circle for Trollinger when she was selected to attend the 2023 ECHL Summer Meetings.

“When chosen, I don’t think Dr. Brenda Mechels, Program Director of Sport Management, understood what that meant to me,” she says. “Hockey is the sport that I have stuck with so strongly and have really been driving my career in that direction.”

As she flew out to Las Vegas for the meetings, Trollinger had no idea what to expect. But immediately upon arrival, she ran into someone she was acquainted with, who works as an ECHL social media manager.

“I sat in many meetings with her, along with everyone else who works in the front offices of their ECHL teams,” she says. “I took so many notes on transforming culture, ticket sales, game presentation and more. Today, I still have contacts from the meetings that I speak to regularly. This event changed my entire perspective on working in sports.”

Throughout her time as a Bellevue University student, Trollinger has taken part in other big-name internships, all of which have enabled her to gain hands-on experience in sports. This includes a stint on Orlando City Soccer Club’s corporate partnership team, service as an event activation representative with the NBA’s Orlando Magic and now, a role as communications intern for USA Hockey.

“I will be doing all things media,” Trollinger explains. “What I enjoyed most about these opportunities was getting to have different experiences and see what I liked best before graduating. I have met many people from different leagues, and it has helped me know what I want.”

When she graduates next spring, Trollinger will have an impressive resume with names like the MLS, NBA and USHL to share with potential employers. Her ultimate goal is to continue working in the professional hockey space.

“I have met many people from different leagues, and it has helped me know what I want,” she says.

Trollinger credits all these experiences to Bellevue University.

“My BU education helped me secure my internships through being able to use what I have learned in class and apply it in the real world,” she explains. “My major-specific classes I have taken are excellent and have truly given me knowledge that is already being used when I go to these jobs. Knowing the details of how everything works helped me deepen my conversations with those I’m speaking to and learning from.”

With all these experiences under her belt, it’s no surprise that Trollinger finds hands-on learning and internships to be a huge part of a college education.

“Anyone still in school, no matter what stage, should do as much as they can to get experience before graduating,” she says. “There are so many opportunities out there for any degree, you just must be willing to look. My knowledge from the classroom and from real life experience has prepared me for a full-time role in the future.”

Trollinger adds that her Bellevue University education has been made all the more fulfilling because of her mentor, Dr. Brenda Mechels.

That sentiment is exactly why Mechels does what she does. She says:

“Our students have a ton of potential. As a faculty member, I get to get that potential out of them. I get to reach those students and see them be successful. It’s so cool watching them not only succeed academically, but watching what they do after they leave here. It’s almost like there’s a light switch that goes off, and I absolutely love that light switch.”

The Story Behind his Eclectic Career

Weinstein earned his bachelor’s degree in Film History from Manchester Metropolitan University in England. “This sparked my initial foray into the entertainment industry as a film and television location scout,” he said. “However, my trajectory took a profound turn when I delved into my Jewish historical and cultural heritage during an extended stay in Yeshiva in Israel, ultimately leading me to embrace the role of a rabbi.”

He said his time in Israel was transformative. “I discovered a deep sense of fulfillment in serving others, particularly in pastoral care,” Weinstein said. After meeting his wife and relocating to Brooklyn, he returned to academia as the rabbi at Pratt Institute. “There, I endeavored to merge spirituality with cultural exploration, culminating in the publication of a bestselling book that examined the Jewish influences on superheroes and their creators.”

The book – Up, Up, and Oy Vey – explores the intersection between Jewish culture and the world of superheroes. “It delves into the profound influence of Jewish immigrants on the creation and evolution of iconic comic book characters, revealing how their experiences of identity, resilience, and social justice shaped the narratives we know and love today,” Weinstein said.

Over the past few years, Weinstein has developed a passion for peer support advocacy, serving as a family peer support advocate and now training the peer support workforce for Families Together in New York City. “These experiences have been instrumental in amplifying marginalized voices within our systems of care and shaping policies in Albany related to mental health and developmental disabilities,” he said.

Furthering Advocacy Through Education

Through his own experiences, Weinstein came to believe that mental health counseling would be a natural continuation of peer advocacy. “Peer support training, with its focus on strength-based and empathetic support, provides a solid foundation for clinical counseling,” he said. “It felt like a natural evolution for my career, allowing me to further develop my skill set and continue advocating for those in need.”

He found Bellevue University and its CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling program through the recommendation of a good friend. “The flexibility and professionalism of the institution, coupled with its faculty's apparent understanding of marginalized voices, resonated deeply with me,” he said. “Additionally, as someone with a child on the autism spectrum and a late diagnosis of ADHD, I am eager to research adaptability within the context of neurodiversity and mental health.”

CACREP stands for the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs. The council is an independent, nationally recognized accrediting body that evaluates graduate counseling programs in the United States to ensure they meet the counseling profession’s standards.

Through his studies, Weinstein has found the flexibility and growth that will fuel his efforts to make an even bigger difference going forward. “My experience with Bellevue University has been very positive,” he said. “The professors are very friendly, relatable, supportive, and open to new ideas and perspectives.”

Weinstein also said the online modules are flexible, and since they are so interesting and available 24/7, he finds himself logging throughout the day and night.

“I’d recommend the program to those looking to be challenged, changed and committed, and want professors that feel like mentors,” Weinstein said.

Online learning wasn’t an option when Dr. Tony Jasnowski began teaching writing in 1993. Now, as he nears retirement, Jasnowski is an expert in both online teaching and learning design.  

Jasnowski recently completed a comprehensive redesign of the General Education online writing courses in collaboration with Gloria Lessmann, chair of the English area, and other Bellevue University writing professors.

“We evaluated the three courses as a whole experience rather than standalone courses," Jasnowski explained. “That led us to focusing on the process of writing rather than expecting students to write perfectly in the first course.”

In the new General Education writing sequence each course builds on the last. Students learn the writing process along with important tools and skills. Jasnowski said this powerful combination gives students the confidence to be effective communicators in work situations and everyday life.

“Most importantly, students reach the point where they write something they are proud of and is meaningful to them,” he added.

Jasnowski describes the writing process as habits of “the mind of a writer.” These habits include:

•  Be open — Stop and think; consider all points of view; challenge yourself to think from all sides versus jumping in right away.

•  Be obsessive — Don’t settle; push for the harder answer; never be satisfied.

•  Be empathetic — Put yourself in the reader’s shoes; ask: ‘Why would they read this? Why would they care?

•  Be patient — Slow down so you have time to explore; don’t rush just to get it done.

These habits are easy to understand but take practice to apply. And, there are always challenges along the way.

“Writing courses are part of General Education requirements for students who are just starting undergraduate studies,” Jasnowski said. “Teaching General Education can be particularly challenging. Students are required to learn subjects that may not be in their particular area of study. Yet effective writing is a crucial capability for success in all undergraduate courses and the working world.”

Another challenge is that Bellevue University students are very busy people, often working over 50 hours a week between jobs and home life. Jasnowski never wants to waste their learning time. Plus, students come to Bellevue University from a variety of educational backgrounds. “Our learning activities must align with all skill levels,” Jasnowski said.

The General Education writing sequence innovations required faculty to rethink how they teach. “Interestingly, all of us who teach writing had to ‘unlearn’ a few things,” Jasnowski laughed. “We were used to trying to prevent students from making mistakes. Now, it’s not about getting everything right but instead, giving feedback and looking for improvements.”

Jasnowski’s experience made him well-suited to serve on the Bellevue University Academic Assessment Committee for several years. This committee demonstrates a University-wide commitment to evaluating the effectiveness of all degree programs. “We help faculty in all of our colleges set meaningful goals and methodologies to improve, and evaluate, student learning outcomes,” Jasnowski explained. “The committee serves as a peer-to-peer effort for continuous improvement.”

Jasnowski recently retired from Bellevue University after teaching writing for more than 30 years. He said the reason he’s thrived throughout his career is because of the students, faculty, staff, and the university’s culture of innovation, 

Jasnowski cites American novelist Mary Flannery O’Connor as one inspiration for his philosophy on writing. She is quoted as saying, “But there is a certain grain of stupidity that the writer of fiction cannot do without, and that is the quality of having to stare, of not getting the point at once.”

“Teaching people not to hurry and to explore outside of their comfort zone is ultimately how a writer’s very best work is done. Watching students struggle with that and then achieve success is a big reason why I have loved teaching,” he said.

• Paul Banks, College of Arts and Sciences, was honored with the Lou Soukup Adjunct Faculty Award at the undergraduate level. Banks teaches in the Bellevue University Kirkpatrick Signature Series. 
• Inna Goldman, College of Business, was honored with the Lou Soukup Adjunct Faculty Award at the graduate level.  Goldman teaches in the MBA program, as well as Accounting and Business areas.
• Sue McDaniel, Professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, was honored with the Excellence in Teaching Award. As part of the University's faculty since 2007, McDaniel has taught 92 different courses, and more than 540 classes to more than 11,500 students.
• Dr. Stephen Linenberger, Professor in the College of Business, was honored with the Excellence in Service Award. In addition to his teaching role, Dr. Linenberger leads the Faculty Senate and provides leadership and support to the Yeshiva Initiatives Educational Program (YIEP). 
• Monica McElhaney, Professor in the College of Business, was honored with the Excellence in Service Award. She teaches and direct numerous Accounting-related courses and also serves the community – she has organized campus blood drives since 2014. 
• Brian Kear, User Experience Designer and Adjunct Faculty, was honored with the President's Service Award. Kear has represented the University in several initiatives, ranging from developing technology to support the state academic decathlon to design and development of a website and online storytelling capabilities for the new Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Kear has also played a key role in the University's education partnership with Opportunity education, including working with Dr. Jodee Goracke to implement a design thinking course that benefits students in Nebraska and at the Opportunity Education campus in Tanzania.

Several employees reaching milestone service anniversaries were also recognized, including:

• Anthony Clarke, Associate Professor, College of Business, 25 years of service
• Sue McDaniel, Professor, College of Science and Technology, 25 years of service
• John Watson, AVP, Corporate Marketing & Business Intelligence, 25 years of service
• Tony Jasnowski, Professor Emeritus, College of Arts and Sciences, 30 years of service
• Ani Shrestha, Vice President, Information Technology Services, 30 years of service
• Roxanne Sullivan, Professor, College of Arts and Sciences, 40 years of service
• Robin Bernstein, Sr. Director, Library Services, 45 years of service

The all-campus meeting was held in-person and via Zoom and brought together more than 500 employees from campus and multiple remote locations for an update on university operations.

The latest issue of Rattle poetry magazine, one of the country's foremost poetry magazines, features a poem by Bellevue University Professor Dr. Clif Mason.

Dr. Mason's poem, entitled “Fractured Double Ghazal," is included in the Rattle issue Tribute to the Ghazal. Read Dr. Mason's ghazal in its entirety below. 

According to the Academy of American Poets, the ghazal is composed of a minimum of five couplets and no more than 15 that are structurally, thematically, and emotionally autonomous. Each line of the poem must be of the same length. The ghazal has its roots in seventh century Arabia and ghazals traditionally invoke love, longing, melancholy and metaphysical questions. 

Mason, who recently retired as Professor of English and Humanities at the University, is an accomplished poet. He is the author of one full-length collection, Knocking the Stars Senseless (Stephen F. Austin State University Press), and three chapbooks: The Book of Night & Waking (winner of the Cathexis Northwest Press Chapbook Prize); Self-Portraits in Which I Do Not Appear (Finishing Line Press); and From the Dead Before (Lone Willow Press). 

Mason's work has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize and has won prizes from the Joe Gouveia Outermost Poetry Contest (chosen by Marge Piercy), Writers’ Journal, Plainsongs, the Midwest Writers’ Conference, and the Academy of American Poets. He has been the recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship to Rwanda, Africa..

Among the graduates is Maddy Vasquez, student speaker, who has earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology degree. Vasquez, an Omaha Central graduate, worked as a lab technician in the university science lab and played soccer for the Bruins before an injury sidelined her in 2019.

“It’s inspiring to see our students realize they can do more and achieve their educational dreams,” said Bellevue University President Dr. Mary Hawkins. “Maddy’s story shows that the pathway to a college degree isn’t easy, but it’s always worthwhile.”

The commencement ceremony, which begins at 9:10 a.m. with the procession of graduates and the program starting at 9:30 a.m., will also feature comments from Michael Horn, a widely recognized thought leader.

10 students will also receive their doctoral degrees in a separate hooding ceremony held at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, May 31, at the John B. Muller Administrative Services Building - Symposium Room located on the campus of Bellevue University. Dr. Cherisse Navarro, who has earned her Doctorate in Business Administration, will be the student speaker at the doctoral hooding ceremony.

According to University Registrar Colette Lewis, the University conferred 784 degrees from Jan. 1 through March 1, 2024. This includes 517 undergraduate degrees, 255 graduate degrees and 12 doctoral degrees. Bellevue University now has more than 60,000 graduates worldwide.

Bellevue University will also host a Commencement Open House event on its main campus on Friday, May 31 from 4 to 7 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.bellevue.edu/student-support/graduation/before-ceremony#gradopenhouse.

The University streams the commencement ceremony live so those who cannot attend have an opportunity to see students receive their diplomas. Click here to watch the spring commencement ceremony.

Roxanne is quick to point out that the field of psychology is not the same as it was when she first started teaching. “There have been many scientific advancements in understanding the integration of the brain, body, and one’s social environment,” she said. “In addition, employers have come to appreciate people skills, leadership abilities, and diversity awareness. Our psychology students learn to conduct research, cope with stress, collaborate, and respect others. These skills are valued in a variety of jobs and industries.”

Today, psychology degrees are in demand whether a student wishes to attend graduate school or not. Roxanne oversees and teaches in the Bachelor of Science in Psychology and the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology which are both options for future psychology professionals. Closely connected, these degrees differ in the electives students choose to take. 

Students who select a Bachelor of Science (BS) will be encouraged to take more laboratory science and mathematics courses to prepare for research-intensive graduate programs and related careers. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) path incorporates more courses in culture, language, and communications to better position students for graduate programs in counseling, therapy, or related careers.

“I was fortunate to always know I wanted to be a teacher,” Roxanne said. “I had a real connection to psychology and when I taught my first class in graduate school, I felt it was my superpower.” She holds a Master of Science in Child Development from Purdue and a Doctorate in Developmental Psychology from Michigan State. 

When Bellevue University offered her a teaching position over 40 years ago, she knew right away a smaller school was right for her. “Bellevue University has grown so much over the years, but I am still in the right place,” Roxanne added. She has received many awards from Bellevue University including the John Maenner Award for professionalism in teaching.

Along with her influence at Bellevue University, Roxanne is respected nationwide. She has embraced not only digital content but new technology platforms that help students focus on learning key concepts. “For example, students used to spend hours stressing over how to format papers using the required APA style for papers,” Roxanne explained. “Now, the technology handles formatting so they can hone in on critical thinking and writing.”

Bellevue University psychology students also get extensive support. “Our students receive the kind of attention and hands-on experience that isn’t available in large university settings,” Roxanne said. “For example, they do research and develop proposals on their own instead of just assisting a professor in their work. When students get into a job or a graduate degree program they are already ahead of their peers.”

Roxanne is proud that her connections with students often last beyond graduation. She speaks lovingly about her “250 grand babies” — babies born to students over the past four decades while their moms were in Roxanne’s classes. “Students have even brought their babies into class, the little ones recognize my voice,” Roxanne shared with a smile.

Roxanne believes Bellevue University’s psychology programs prepare students to make a difference regardless of their career paths.

Determination on a Nontraditional Path

Day worked hard to earn her associate’s degree at Metropolitan Community College (MCC), graduating in 2010 – more than a decade after her initial college experience. She quickly found work as a paralegal, but also wanted to continue on to a bachelor’s degree.

 “I became an advanced certified paralegal and had an amazing mentor who encouraged me to keep making strides in my career,” she said.

 Day transferred to Bellevue University through its partnership with Metropolitan Community College after completing her Associate in Applied Science in Legal Studies. She jumped right in and earned her Bachelor of Applied Science in Legal Studies in 2012 .

Balancing work, family and school was sometimes challenging. However, when she expressed doubt mid-way through her program, Professor Seagle assured her completing the degree was doable and worth it.

She had been considering starting a new career with the Army but didn’t know if "I could do that at this point in my career and life,” Day said. “She was very supportive. By the end of the program, we both laughed that I had actually gotten hired by the Army as a direct result of taking the Bellevue University program.”

 Exploring New Perspectives

With her bachelor’s degree in hand, Day took on a role with the Douglas County Attorney’s Office. After nearly a decade working there, she began thinking about her future yet again. “I realized I’d still be working another 20 years and I really wanted to be an expert in something,” she said.

 She decided the way to do that was pursuing a graduate degree. Bellevue University was a natural, as she had a great experience in her bachelor’s degree program. Day chose to pursue intelligence security because she was genuinely interested in the subject and found it challenging. However, unlike her in-class bachelor’s program she chose to study online.

 Day balanced her program around family, her full-time job and her involvement in professional paralegal associations. “My time is very limited – I needed it to be online,” she said.

Putting the Classroom Experience to Work

Day said pursuing a political science related degree during the conflict between Russia and Ukraine proved interesting and productive, thanks to the leadership and focus of the class.

 “The other students in the class were so nice. It was a healthy, supportive environment at Bellevue University,” she said. “My program had students from all over the world. We discussed the issues, but it was respectful and no one fought.”

 While pursuing her graduate degree, Day found her next step – a position as a paralegal with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “Before I graduated, I’d accepted the position and been onboarded,” she said.

Though she started in a temporary position at the Corps, she recently became a permanent employee. She said she uses the critical analysis, research and writing she learned in her program on a regular basis.

 Continuing to Grow

Day said continuing her education was the right step. “I always recommend pursuing education if you’re questioning your career,” she said. ”Every time I earned a degree, I got a new job as a result,” she said.

 “This ended up being perfect for me because I realized being a paralegal is the right fit for me,” she said. It enhanced what I was doing and made me realize I didn’t want to walk away.”

Joan Bambrick, a student in Bellevue University's CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Clinical  Counseling program, has received an honorable mention for her essay in the  American Counseling Association's "Tomorrow's Counselor” essay competition. 

Bambrick will receive her recognition at the ACA Annual Conference in New Orleans, April 11-13. 

Bambrick's essay focused on the relationship between artificial intelligence and the therapeutic relationship. Bambrick discussed how AI may help or hinder the development and growth of the counselor and client relationship, and argued that a balance must be struck between innovation on one side, and privacy and unbiased care for clients on the other.

“I love when our students are recognized for their scholarship and excellence," said Dr. Barb Daubenspeck, Professor and Program Director of the Clinical Counseling program. “Joan's commitment to ensuring that counselors are involved in the AI revolution bodes well for the future of our field."

Omahan Braxton Crowder, a young professional who participated in after-school programs when he was growing up and today is actively involved in directing multiple after-school programs for youth, has been named the recipient of the Ethical Leadership and Service Award by Bellevue University’s Ethical Insights Committee. The award was presented to Crowder in a ceremony at Monroe Middle School on Feb. 5, 2024. 

The son of a single, hard-working mom, Crowder was involved in the Monroe Middle School’s Activity Center and credits the center for playing a pivotal role in shaping his character and career path. Crowder is currently employed as Experience Manager at the Kiewit Luminarium and previously has worked as a YMCA Camp Counselor and as Site Director for after-school programs at the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo, Kids Can, Jackson Elementary, and as a consultant for MENTOR Nebraska.

Through these roles, Crowder has impacted youth across all parts of the Omaha metropolitan area. “His efforts show how one person can make a positive contribution that benefits many,” said Bellevue University President Mary Hawkins when presenting Crowder with the award. 

“Ethical leadership is all about doing the right thing even when you don’t think anyone is watching,” said Crowder. 

“Being able to see the impact of your actions is important,” Crowder said. “I remember being in after-school programs and the programs changing my life and changing my outlook. As I got older, I remembered those key skills I learned and they’ve helped me become the person I am today.”

Ethical Insights is a faculty-driven initiative which fosters the teaching and learning of ethics across the colleges at Bellevue University. The current members of the Ethical Insights Committee include Committee Chair Karla Carter, Associate Professor; Pat Artz, Associate Professor; Leo Mayhan, Assistant Professor; and Dr. Carlos Del Rio, Associate Professor. 

The Ethical Leadership Award is presented annually to a community member or student for outstanding leadership in ethics as demonstrated by professional and community service.

Previous winners of the Ethical Leadership and Service Award include:

2022 - Debra Parsow

2021 - JR Richardson

2020 — Beth Riley

2019 — Katherine (KC) Noble

2018 — Pete Heineman

2017 — Gina Ponce

2016 — Mike Livergood

2015 — Dr. Jon Kayne

2014 — Rabbi Pesach Lerner

2013 – Frank Kumar

2012 – Dr. Robert Saniuk

2011 – Prof. Del Stites

On Friday, Feb. 16, Bellevue University alumni Season R. Hanner will celebrate the publication of three new books with a book signing event at the Gateway Mall at 6100 O Street in Lincoln, Nebraska. 

The book release and signing event, which runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., will be held inside the mall's Dillard's Store. The event is free and open to the public.

Hanner's second edition of “Sabi” focuses on King Tut’s widow, Ancksunamun, and her generations in Japan as the African ninja. “The Right Hand of God” is the story of a married couple stationed in the Middle East. The husband goes missing and is declared KIA, but his wife is determined to find him. “The Napkin Letters” is about a woman whose life has not turned out the way she had hoped. She decides to go to Hawaii to end her life; but things don’t always turn out the way one plans.

Copies of each of the books will be available at the book signing event, or for more information about purchasing books, you can email Season at hannerseason15@gmail.com. 

Season, who is an African American, has been writing stories since she was in elementary school. “I wanted to see myself represented in the pages of the books I read.” Season is currently working on “Dusty Shade Six Guns,” the story of a black, female gunslinger in the late 1800s.”

Hanner earned her Bachelor of Science in Human and Social Services from Bellevue University in 2007. In addition to writing, Hanner is publishing her works under her own imprint, Blaisian Books. 

Season and her husband have four children and three grandchildren. 

Bellevue University, a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, has been recognized as one of the Best Open Enrollment Colleges Online 2024. 

The recognition comes from EdSmart, a leading educational resource, which compiles an annual ranking that highlights institutions that offer open admissions. Open admissions make higher education accessible to a wide range of students.

“Bellevue University has been fiercely open access since we opened our doors in 1966,” said Dr. Mary Hawkins, Bellevue University President. “What this means is that we’re committed to making sure all learners have the skills and support needed to achieve their goals.”

Bellevue University, which ranked sixth in the EdSmart list, offers more than 80 degree programs from the associate to the doctoral level, and many are offered fully online. The University also offers a number of skill-based certificates, including several where students can earn college credits that can later be applied to other degrees and credentials.

Over the course of three days earlier this year, the students learned about the creative process, the importance of exploring unconventional materials and methods, research methods, and building a critique.

Evaluating the Growth of Digital Mediums

During the workshop, Creative Arts Program Director David Thomas worked hands-on with the students. They examined various materials to determine if the use of digital media is an adequate cultural substitute for printed matter.

They worked with cement, pulped paper, and dried chive stalks, and thought outside the status quo to develop a booklet detailing their findings. They even constructed their own paper out of pulp.

“I really loved that we used stuff that I don't think of as ‘art material’ and gave them a new purpose,” said workshop participant Aubrey Ashby. “It was really cool to see all the different stuff that Professor David brought in for us to use.”

The students found that working with the print mediums gave them a freedom that digital mediums cannot, because art can look and feel like anything.

“I enjoyed learning new techniques for art and exploring my interests,” said workshop participant Rayne Goracke. “My favorite project was the printmaking for our book, though, because I like making an abstract piece with meaning behind it. I also liked being able to be messy with it and not being worried about the final product looking bad.”

Applying Lessons to Real Life

The workshop gave students the chance to learn lessons that will help them in life and possibly in future careers. 

“The workshop was a fun opportunity to learn more about how there is art in everything,” Ashby said. “I didn't know what to expect when I started...and I didn't know that I would be making concrete blocks and using power tools to cut forms, but it was fun to do it and see how real artists do things like that.”

Bellevue University has received a generous $15,000 grant award from the Midlands Community Foundation to fund scholarship assistance for Sarpy County students enrolled in Bellevue University's new Mental Health Technician Certificate program.

The University's Mental Health Technician certificate program, which launched last year, is designed to meet the local and national need for more entry-level workers in the mental healthcare fields. 

The 24-week certificate program is offered 100% online and is eligible for financial aid. Students who complete the program earn 16 semester hours of college-level credit and are prepared to work in various settings alongside other healthcare professionals, and with clients and families impacted by substance abuse, mental and emotional disorders, domestic violence, abuse and trauma. 

According to Bellevue University President Dr. Mary Hawkins the new program addresses a major workforce need, as well as a societal one. “Hospitals, human service agencies and other organizations are looking to hire entry-level professionals who can implement care plans and know how to interact effectively with diverse teams,” she said. “Mental health is really critical to how individuals contribute, in both their personal and professional lives, to the world in which we all live.”

Dr. Michelle Eppler, Dean of the College of Arts and Science, said that the program aims to fill a gap in the Sarpy County and Omaha metropolitan community. “There's really strong demand for qualified, skilled employees who are prepared to work alongside other professionals," she said, "and help provide compassionate care for clients and families dealing with a host of mental health issues.”

The credit hours earned in the program are stackable, Dr. Eppler added. This allows students to apply the credits and build on them if they pursue a bachelor's degree. 

About Bellevue University

Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 60,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 80 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).

She did this all while raising three children on her own.

“Parenting gave me firsthand experience of how education can transform lives as I watched my children grow into adults and independent thinkers,” she said. “My passion for the arts allowed me to envision a future where learning design and creative thinking converge to impact business.”

As an instructional designer and artist, Ellis is able to do all that while pursuing her biggest passion: making a difference in people’s lives through adult learning. She currently works for Scooter’s Coffee in learning and development and franchise operations education.

“I am fortunate to use my education in a fast-paced, quick service restaurant environment, collaborating on training approaches that solve problems and enhance experiences,” Ellis said. “Blending creative design and technology, I create engaging and innovative learning experiences, from in-person workshops, microlearning, eLearning, and skill simulations to collaborating on virtual reality learning experiences. I'm thrilled to embrace new vistas where education, creativity and business meet.”

Since graduating from Bellevue University in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in adult education, Ellis has also earned a master’s degree in instructional design and technology from Concordia University Chicago.

Both programs have benefitted Ellis and her career greatly, but she feels the adult education program specifically enabled her to gain real-world and practical experience.

She actually discovered Bellevue University and the program while researching colleges with her eldest son.

“Initially looking on his behalf, I soon realized I was filtering information myself,” she said. “With encouragement from my three teens, I decided to pursue a new career and the education to achieve it. Bellevue (University) met my needs as a non-traditional student with online cohorts, degree options, resources and fantastic faculty. The flexibility allowed me to continue working full-time while earning my bachelor's degree in adult education.”

Ellis feels it’s the knowledge and skills she built at Bellevue University that have provided her with a strong foundation on which she’s advanced her career in instructional design.

“The lasting influence of the knowledgeable professors and accomplished peers I encountered remains significant as I face new opportunities and overcome fresh challenges,” she said. “I sincerely appreciate the exceptional Dr. (David) Byers, whose guidance has helped me navigate my journey toward professional development and excellence.”

Castillo works full-time as an academic program assistant at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences and works part-time at the Walt Disney Company. 

She teamed up with her husband, Brandon Murray, a clinical mental health counseling student at Southern New Hampshire University, and Dr. Joanna Carter, an associate at St. Augustine, to look deeper into barriers to resilience in higher education that can cause burnout among faculty and staff. 

Based on their literature review, they created a poster presentation for the conference entitled “Burnout: Identifying Resilience Barriers in Higher Education Faculty and Staff.” They plan to collect data and submit their paper to be published in key academic journals.

According to Assistant Professor Dr. Terissa Upchurch-Butler, Castillo’s presentation and conference participation extends her 100% online classroom experience into the real world. 

“Presenting at academic conferences enhances the learning and development that students receive in the classroom,” said Dr. Upchurch-Butler. “We’re so proud of Ruthie’s success at the conference and expect that her research and practical counseling skills will be enhanced by the experience.”

The Florida Counseling Association and the association’s annual conference promote the value of professional counseling, as well as support and unify thousands of professional counselors in all settings resulting in high-quality practices in Florida. 

Castillo, from Palm Coast, Florida, holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Psychology from St. Leo University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University. She earned her associate degree in Psychology from Daytona State College. 

Excerpts follow from his conversation with moderator Mike Cassling, an Omaha business leader and former University Board Chair.

Only-in-America Background

Ian Bremmer has an only-in-America back story. He was 4 years old when his father, a Korean War veteran, died.  His mother, who didn’t finish high school, raised him in housing projects in the Boston suburb of Chelsea, Massachusetts. He graduated high school at 15 and earned a B.A. degree, with honors, from Tulane University at 19, when he began doctoral studies in 1989. He completed M.A. (1991) and Ph.D. (1994) degrees in Political Science from Stanford University. His doctoral dissertation, “The politics of ethnicity: Russians in the Ukraine,” included perspectives gained from a year living in Ukraine, shortly after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Bremmer launched New York-based Eurasia Group, the world’s leading political risk research and consulting firm, in 1998, with just $25,000 in start-up capital. Today the multinational corporation has offices in North and South America, Europe and Asia. He also founded GZERO Media and hosts “GZERO World,” a weekly international affairs program on U.S. public television. He is a frequent contributor on CNN, Fox, MSNBC, the BBC, and Bloomberg news outlets.

Russia-Ukraine War

The February 2022 Russian invasion and continuing war in Ukraine has resulted in 500,000 casualties so far, as well as billions of dollars in damage in Ukraine and the regional and world economies. “We wouldn’t care as much if they weren’t white people in Europe,” Bremmer said. The war has affected energy and fertilizer costs in Europe and elsewhere, but its greatest impact has been in some of world’s poorest nations, which depend on grain shipments from the region that have been disrupted. He said the situation in Ukraine is sad, and the war has divided the country ethnically. Russians and Ukrainians lived together peacefully prior to the invasion. The war currently is at a near stalemate. Russian forces occupy about 18 percent of Ukraine, unchanged for the past nine months. However, U.S. and German support for the war appears to be wavering, and waves of western economic sanctions have failed to shut down or hamper the Russian economy. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin appears to have strong, nearly uncontested control, and is resolved to continue fighting.

The Middle East

In his Omaha remarks, five days prior to the October 7 Hamas terrorist strikes on Israel, Bremmer expressed cautious optimism for a more peaceful Middle East because of the Abraham Accords, a series of U.S.-moderated initiatives to foster peaceful coexistence, mutual respect for human dignity and freedom, and the pursuit of interfaith and intercultural dialogue in the region to “advance a culture of peace among the three Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) and all humanity.” Bilateral Israel-United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel-Bahrain peace treaty agreements have been signed. A third treaty is being negotiated between Israel and Saudi Arabia, which is vying for regional power and influence with Iran, an ally of Russia and China. (Time Magazine and other news outlets have cautioned that renewed hostilities following the Hamas attack could threaten further progress toward normalization in the Mideast. An October 8 Time article said Iran provides 70 percent of Hamas’s financial support, plus military training.)

China

Relations between China and Russia have deteriorated because of the Ukraine war, although “the Chinese don’t want Russia to lose.” The Chinese continue to provide non-military aid and trade with Russia. There is little likelihood either China or Russia would use nuclear weapons in Ukraine, and China is unlikely to invade neighboring Taiwan any time soon, according to Bremmer. Economic growth in China has slowed, and the country likely won’t overtake the U.S. anytime soon. “China is not an investable economy. They have a closed economy. Their currency is not convertible. I don’t see any threats to the dollar.” Chinese dominance of the world’s supply of rare earth elements needed for new and emerging technologies is a concern, but new supplies of the needed materials are being discovered.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The advent of AI technology is nearly comparable to electricity in its potential societal impact. Going forward, it could drive a “second globalization” in 10 to 20 years. “Not only is it transformative in creating new companies but within existing ones—making everything more efficient by working better and smarter without disrupting things.” The potential downside? “I also think there will be a proliferation of the ability to use AI by bad actors.”

American Political Dysfunction

During his Omaha visit, which came on the eve of the ouster of California Representative Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the House, Bremmer recalled that when the Soviet Union collapsed in 1989, America was heralded as the place other countries wanted to be like. He said that while America still leads the world in most respects, the current political climate is troubling. “Today it pains me to say that no one looks at Washington and says, ‘I wish our political system was like that.’ That is a laugh line, but it’s so sad!” he said. “It hurts me to say, as someone who considers himself a true patriot of this country, which has given me every opportunity and more than I could ever imagine, that I’m not proud of what our political system has become.” Bremmer said three things are contributing to the situation:

1.      Feelings of economic disenfranchisement by many Americans due to inequity between rich and poor,

2.      The decline of societal institutions—the church, family, community, and higher education, and

3.      “The rise of the algorithm,” he said, hoisting his cellphone—the pervasive influence of digital technology and social media.

Civics Education

“Civic values matter so much!” Bremmer said. He likened the University’s Kirkpatrick Signature Series courses to the jury system, where jurors learn about justice through engagement. “It turns out that when everyone gets in the room, they actually try to do right by their fellow Americans. I think that’s what the country was founded on,” he said. “There are so many good people that continue to engage in public service for the right reasons. We need to keep making a path our young people want to be on.”

Bellevue University’s Dr. Barb Daubenspeck, Program Director of the University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, has been recognized as Nebraska Counselor of the Year by the Nebraska Counseling Association.

The Counselor of the Year award was presented to Daubenspeck at the 2023 NCA Fall Conference that took place Sept. 29 in Hastings, Nebraska. 

Dr. Michelle Eppler, Dean of the College and Arts and Sciences, said “We’re proud to see Barb recognized for the positive impact she has had on the clinical counseling profession and on Nebraska’s clinical counseling community. The passion she has for excellence in clinical counseling education is evident across all her interactions.”

Dr. Daubenspeck leads Bellevue University’s CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree program. CACREP, which stands for the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, represents specialized program accreditation. It provides recognition that the content and quality of the program has been evaluated and meets standards set by the profession. 

Over the last decade, the Bellevue University program has grown in enrollment significantly. More than 900 students from every region of the United States are currently enrolled in the 100% online program, and more than 1,100 students have earned their Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degrees through the program. 

Dr. Daubenspeck’s nominator, Dr. Katey Shirley, highlighted Dr. Daubenspeck’s mentoring of non-traditional students to ensure access to opportunities and resources, her alignment of the Bellevue University program with the American Counseling Code of Ethics and CACREP standards and her cutting-edge teaching strategies. 

“She is supportive of creative teaching modalities that engage distance learners to become active participants in their online education,” said Dr. Shirley, who teaches in the clinical counseling program alongside Dr. Daubenspeck. “For example, the program recently adopted the Skillsetter tool, which allows students to practice audiovisual counseling microskills in response to simulated counseling clients.”

Dr. Shirley cited another example, as well, noting that Dr. Daubenspeck has personally worked to increase the accessibility of counselor education for the Orthodox Jewish population. “She supports a unique cohort program to meet the needs of these learners alongside community partners in New York and Israel,” Dr. Shirley explained. “This program helps to reduce the stigma of seeking professional counseling and widens the availability of counselors in historically underserved areas.”

The Nebraska Counseling Association is a counseling community with approximately 550 members, with six districts to connect counselors across the state. 

Dr. Daubenspeck earned a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Wyoming, as well as her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University. She has nearly 25 years of higher education teaching and administration experience, plus seven years of professional experience as a mental health counselor. 

Dr. Daubenspeck is a National Certified Counselor as certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and licensed in Nebraska as an Independent Mental Health Practitioner and Professional Counselor. 

Gabriella Batchelder presented “An Experimental Investigation Into the Relationship Between TikTok Consumption and Reports of Psychological Symptoms.”

Paige Holdsworth presented “Auditory Perception of Pedestrian Direction in Three-Dimensions.”

Brooklyn Hundt presented “The Impact of What You See and What You Hear on the Perceived Severity of Contact.”

According to Associate Professor of Psychology and Faculty Sponsor Dr. Mike Russell,  the students' poster presentations culminated their comprehensive work on their individual topics. 

“Presenting at academic conferences is a fantastic opportunity for our students and their learning and development,” said Dr. Russell. “From identifying their research topics and reviewing the existing literature to designing a novel study and collecting and analyzing data, they demonstrated their expertise in the field of psychology.”

The Rocky Mountain Psychological Association and the association’s annual conference advance psychology as a science, as a profession and as a means of promoting human welfare. 

It was all possible thanks to Bellevue University's participation in DELFIN, a network of academic institutions in five Latin American countries that is designed to enhance undergraduate research, expand students’ international perspectives and open the door to faculty collaborations.  

The students and their research projects included:

• Delgado Ortega Jazmín Azucena - “Unveiling the secrets of Mono Lake's extreme environment through characterization and genomic analysis of extremophilic bacterial species”
• Ibarra Zamudio Jose Saul - “Metagenomic analysis of soil microbial health after glyphosate (Roundup) treatment” 
• Martinez Yesenia - “Genomic analysis of new bacterial species from extreme environments”
• Peña Durán Emiliano - “Poly I:C-induced cell death following CRISPR Cas9 knockout of IRF3 in B16 melanoma cells”
• Ramirez Oxte Hannia Nahomi - “Using sound to detect machine damage: Impact of observer experience”
• Vieyra Vega Montserrat - “Unveiling the secrets of Mono Lake's extreme environment through characterization and genomic analysis of extremophilic bacterial species"

Bellevue University is one of just a handful of American universities that is a member of DELFIN, which stands for the Inter-Institutional Program for Strengthening of Research and Graduate Studies in the Pacific. The University of Nebraska at Kearney was the first U.S. member of the DELFIN program and houses the United States DELFIN chapter. 

DELFIN includes more than 200 academic institutions and research centers across Mexico, has been established with chapters in Colombia, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Peru, and students travel to countries such as Germany, Argentina, Canada, Chile, Colombia, South Korea, Costa Rica, Cuba, Spain, United States, England, Peru, Puerto Rico, and Uruguay. Since DELFIN began in 1995, more than 55,000 students have participated alongside faculty in research projects.

“We’re energized by the opportunities that DELFIN represents,” said Julie Verebely, Director, Global Partnerships at Bellevue University. “We have strong relationships with educational partners in a variety of different countries and our joining DELFIN builds on those connections and creates even more opportunities for our students and our faculty to have wonderful experiences.”

Throughout her early career, she held several positions in the mental health, substance use and criminal justice fields.

“Like many people, I felt overworked and underpaid,” Gaskins explained. “In the field, although I was doing the work of someone with a degree, I was not getting paid to do the work, which is why I wanted to find a university that could provide me the experience and education needed.”

After some research, Gaskins learned of Bellevue University, where she ultimately decided to pursue her bachelor’s degree in behavioral science because the university would provide her with real-life experience in the field, fit in her schedule and enable her to grow.

“I chose the major because it matched the work that I had already been doing in the community,” Gaskins said. “This major was spot on with everything that I was already doing and was very beneficial.”

She added, “The professors were very knowledgeable, and my peers were very helpful. I learned so much that was valuable to my real-life experiences.”

Since graduating from Bellevue University in 2010, Gaskins has authored two books: “Closing the Revolving Door: Reentry Readiness,” and “NC Prerelease Blueprint” – a highly acclaimed reentry workbook that provides a comprehensive blueprint for successful reintegration. The book is currently in discussion to be run as a pilot program within eight prisons throughout the state of North Carolina.

Gaskins also holds a master's degree in justice and security administration from the University of Phoenix, and is one credit shy of a master’s degree in special education with certifications in emotional behavioral disorders and response to intervention from Ball State University.

Today, Gaskins continues to work as a reentry coach, helping individuals transition back into society after incarceration. She’s also the founder of a non-profit organization focused on wellness and works specifically with individuals returning home from incarceration.

Last year, Gaskins ran for Congress on the platform of criminal justice reform, traveling through 15 counties in Eastern North Carolina and into neighborhoods of various socioeconomic backgrounds.

While she wasn’t elected, Gaskins still has an interest in politics and is currently running for mayor of her town and plans to continue advocating for criminal justice reform.

With her foundational education from Bellevue University, Gaskins succeeds no matter the work she’s doing.

“Bellevue provided me with that real world experience that I needed to have an impact in the field,” she said.

Mason, a professor of English and Humanities at the University, is an accomplished poet. He is the author of one full-length collection, Knocking the Stars Senseless (Stephen F. Austin State University Press), and three chapbooks: The Book of Night & Waking (winner of the Cathexis Northwest Press Chapbook Prize); Self-Portraits in Which I Do Not Appear (Finishing Line Press); and From the Dead Before (Lone Willow Press). 

Mason's work has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize and has won prizes from the Joe Gouveia Outermost Poetry Contest (chosen by Marge Piercy), Writers’ Journal, Plainsongs, the Midwest Writers’ Conference, and the Academy of American Poets. He has been the recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship to Rwanda, Africa..

Mason will be joined by Sarah Voss, a Unitarian Universalist minister, former math professor and poet who has has published several poetry chapbooks. In 2022, she published her first full-length book of poetry, Poems From the Gravel Road (FLP). She has also published extensively on religion and mathematics. Her most recent book is the Math Mystic's Guide (MMG) to Spiritual Creativity: Collected Work of Sarah Voss (forthcoming, Wipf and Stock). 

The Imaginary Gardens Reading Series was founded in 2014 by Michael Skau, an emeritus professor of English at the University of Nebraska Omaha. The readings are held at Mister Toad's in the Old Market on the third Tuesday of each month. The events are open to the public. 

For more information on the Imaginary Gardens Reading Series, visit https://www.facebook.com/imaginarygardens.

As technology continues to evolve the workplace, educators must adapt to ensure students receive the most relevant, applicable degree programs possible. Bellevue University recently honored Assistant Professor David Joel Thomas with its Innovation in Teaching Award for doing just that.

Combining Two Specialties

Thomas is the Program Director of Creative Arts at the University. The program combines philosophy, art and culture in general education courses for residential, corporate and online students. These offerings are available for both undergraduate and graduate students.

As he holds both philosophy and art degrees, Thomas felt he always had to choose between teaching one subject or the other. When he saw Bellevue University was seeking someone with the same unlikely combination of degrees, he was excited to take the role. “I always wanted to consolidate the two,” he said.

Applying Art in New Ways

In just over two years, Thomas has evolved the arts curriculum for Bellevue University students. He has transitioned from traditional art classes like painting and drawing to learning in ways that fuel today’s careers. He also launched the University’s first artist residency program.

One of these offerings is a social entrepreneurship certificate, which provides a foundation for making social impact though the arts. “It allows students to look around corners they didn’t know existed,” Thomas said.

“Our courses can help with any path, from athletics to business,” Thomas said. “We focus on multimedia, multidisciplinary projects that give students practical skills and resources.”

These skills include problem solving, cognitive flexibility, and integrative creative inquiry. “Some people don’t realize how art principles like exploration and ideation can be applied to business,” Thomas said.

Letting Creativity Flow

Thomas focuses on methodologies, processes and concepts, and lets students find their own ways to bring their ideas to life. In-person students build in the studio, while online students explore creativity from the comfort of their homes.

“I do not teach to virtuosity but to creativity” Thomas said. “I really want students to have fun in the studio. There’s no correct way – who am I to interrupt the creative process?”

He encourages his students to pursue creative risk taking and bring their social commentaries and visions to life.

New Pathways Spring From Collaboration

Thomas said he appreciates the recognition he’s received, but that his achievements are the results of collaborative efforts. “I didn’t get that award – we did. I couldn’t have done that without a whole bunch of people that were part of the effort.”

One example of this was his work with the science department on a greenhouse project, the University’s first art and science integration.

“When I first arrived on campus, I was told ‘have a vision, make a proposal and we’ll make it happen,'" Thomas said. “Collaboration with other colleges, departments, and outside partners has been amazing. Everybody here is so open to sharing ideas.”

“It was important to me that I join a college that was welcoming to me and my religious values,” she said. “Bellevue University maintains a strong collaboration with the Jewish community, which we are very grateful for.”

That collaboration is showcased through Bellevue University’s partnership with Yeshiva Initiatives Educational Programs (YIEP). The customized programs, administered through the University, allow Orthodox Jews to continue their education in an environment that is respectful of their lifestyle and cultural customs.

Mandelbaum’s choice to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science and Human Services at Bellevue University was inspired by her experiences working in a shelter for homeless and runaway youth in the Jewish community.

“I was amazed at the resilience of these teenagers who had gone through tremendous childhood trauma and, with the right therapeutic supports, were able to move toward healing,” she said. “I was curious about the recovery process in trauma, which led me to discover my interests in therapy, applied clinical research, and teaching undergraduate students— the combination of which led me to continue my education for my doctoral degree in clinical psychology.”

Mandelbaum graduated from Bellevue University with a 4.0 GPA in December 2014. She then completed a post baccalaureate in psychology at Brooklyn College before continuing on to earn a master’s degree in clinical psychology at Hofstra University, where she’s a current sixth-year Ph.D. student.

In 2022, Mandelbaum was selected to receive the prestigious Fulbright Research Award. The Fulbright Israel open-study award is granted to three individuals each year based on academic excellence, the leadership promise of the applicant, and their potential to both advance knowledge and enhance mutual understanding between the peoples of the United States and Israel.

During her ten-month Fulbright fellowship, Mandelbaum studied the impact of childhood trauma on the development of complex-PTSD in Israeli lone soldiers.

“My Fulbright experience was incredibly meaningful because I was able to collaborate for an entire year with Dr. Rachel Dekel, Ph.D., a fabulous professor at the Louis and Gabi Weisfeld School of Social Work at Bar-Ilan University, Israel, whose work I really appreciate,” Mandelbaum said. “Dr. Dekel studies how PTSD impacts not only the person who has it, but the family members and spouse of the individual. It has been a tremendously rewarding opportunity to learn from her this past year, and I am hopeful that I will have future opportunities to collaborate with her and her lab.”

Another effort that Mandelbaum is proud of is having the opportunity to represent the Orthodox Jewish community, and more specifically, the Bais Yaakov school system across a wide spectrum of audiences from around the globe, including as a representative of Israel at a Middle Eastern North African Conference hosted by Jordan, where she presented her research on Israeli lone soldiers.  

Mandelbaum’s research in general focuses on the impact of childhood trauma on mental health struggles in adulthood.

“Many people who have experienced abuse in their early years find that as adults, they struggle with complex-PTSD, trust difficulties, relationship difficulties, depression and high levels of anxiety,” she explained. “My research aims to improve evidence-based and culturally sensitive therapies to help people find healing.”

This year, Mandelbaum moved to Boston to complete a dialectical behavior therapy-focused internship at McLean Hospital-Harvard Medical School.

Looking further into the future, Mandelbaum hopes to be a researcher, professor and clinician in the area of complex trauma, virtual reality treatment for phobias and trauma, as well as continue her work supporting lone soldiers and lone soldier veterans.

“I am particularly interested in the overlap between neuroscience, technology and psychology,” she said. “I think that over the next few years, the world of neuroscience and technology will increasingly influence trauma treatments. I have had some access to this overlap in my work as a therapist in the Phobia and Trauma Clinic at Hofstra University where I used virtual reality exposure therapy to treat phobias and PTSD symptoms.”

Mandelbaum added, “I would not have reached this point of my education without the foundations that I received during my undergraduate education. I will always be grateful to Bellevue University for starting me on this journey.”

• David Petty, adjunct faculty member, College of Science and Technology, was honored with the Lou Soukup Adjunct Faculty Award; 
• Megan Berry Barlow, adjunct faculty member, College of Business, was honored with the Lou Soukup Adjunct Faculty Award; 
• Dr. Cynthia Nye, Professor, College of Business, was honored with the Excellence in Teaching Award (not pictured);
• Karla Carter, Associate Professor, College of Science and Technology, was honored with the Excellence in Service Award; 
• David Joel Thomas,  Assistant Professor and Program Director, College of Arts and Sciences, was honored with the Innovation in Teaching Award; 
• Marshall Peterson, Sr. Instructional Designer, was honored with the Excellence in Innovation Award;
• Caitlin Petty, Instructional Designer, was honored with the Excellence in Innovation Award (not pictured);
• Alexis Perea, Sr. Director, Enrollment Management, was honored with the President's Service Award.

Employees reaching milestone service anniversaries were also recognized. 

The annual awards were announced at a University all-campus meeting held June 16. The meeting was held in-person and via Zoom and brought together more than 500 employees from campus and multiple remote locations for an update on university operations.