As a Training and Talent Acquisition professional at Tillamook, Bella Nguyen has continued to grow and learn throughout her career. After earning her Ph.D. in Human Capital Management at Bellevue University, that journey has become even more rewarding than she expected.

Through a partnership with her employer and Bellevue University, she gained a doctorate title, a promotion and an unforgettable experience.

Growing With a Supportive Employer

Nguyen, a native of Chicago, moved to the Portland area and in 2021 assumed a role as Technical Training Manager at Tillamook. She has since grown into a role as Senior Talent Acquisition and Technical Training Manager.

“This progression reflects both my commitment to human capital leadership and the opportunities the organization has given me,” she said. “Tillamook is an amazing place to work because it genuinely invests in its people.”

Included in Tillamook’s commitment to its employees is extensive support for education. “The Bellevue University partnership and its continued support for learning and development are perfect (and only a few of the many) examples of how the company helps employees grow and thrive,” Nguyen said.

Intertwining Education and Career

The program helped Nguyen build on her background to expand her future potential.

“I'd like to think this degree program helped accelerate my growth by strengthening my strategic perspective and expanding my toolkit,” she said. “The combination of the program and the company's investment created the perfect environment for becoming the leader I am today.”

Thriving in a Learning Community

During her time at Bellevue University, Nguyen found a supportive environment designed for student success.

“My experience at Bellevue felt supportive and flexible,” she said. “Although I've had great experience in my previous educational programs, I felt that Bellevue University did a great job of blending academic rigor with real-world relevance. Even more so, I think Bellevue University understands working professionals and designed a program where we would be successful.”

A large part of Nguyen’s positive experience was connecting with professionals from around the globe.

“My favorite experience at Bellevue was being part of a cohort. Going through the program with a group of people who were equally committed made the journey feel meaningful and human,” she said.

The strong connections between classmates resulted in them being a support network for each other. “Having people to turn to, celebrate with and struggle alongside made the experience richer and reminded me that learning is always better in community,” Nguyen said.

In fact, Nguyen was able to meet some of these classmates in person when she flew to Nebraska for graduation. “It was genuinely unforgettable for me,” she said. “Being surrounded by people who had fought their own battles to get there made the celebration feel bigger than a ceremony; it felt like a shared victory for all of us.”

Moving Forward With Confidence

Nguyen said completing her Ph.D. at Bellevue University had a direct impact on her career. “These opportunities and deeper partnerships have reinformed my commitment to lifelong learning and continuous growth,” she said.

She said she highly recommends the Human Capital doctoral program. “It truly supports working professionals while still delivering meaningful academic rigor,” she said. “It's a place where learners can grow, feel supported and walk away with skills that immediately translate into real‑world impact.”

When Holly Richie talks about her job, she doesn’t start with course schedules, degree plans, or tuition assistance.

She starts with people.

The student in Hawaii who flew thousands of miles to attend commencement and whom she finally met in person.

The student from Houston who persevered through the devastation of Hurricane Harvey and completed his degree against incredible odds.

The countless working adults balancing careers, children, and family responsibilities while trying to build better futures.

After more than 20 years in higher education and 11 years at Bellevue University, Richie has learned something important:

Students don’t just need information. They need someone who believes in them.

A Career Inspired by One Great Advisor

Richie’s path into higher education began with her own college experience.

As a student, she developed a close relationship with an academic advisor who helped her navigate more than course requirements. The advisor helped her make thoughtful choices, pursue subjects that genuinely interested her, and see possibilities she might not have recognized on her own.

That experience stayed with her.

“It inspired me to want to help people reach their personal and professional goals,” Richie says.

After working in financial aid at a community college, she joined Bellevue University as a student coach, eventually becoming a Guild Student Coach, a role she has held for more than six years. Guild is an education platform that works with major employers across the country, and Bellevue University is part of Guild’s academic network.

Today, she supports these students as they work toward their degrees while managing careers, families, and busy lives.

Meeting Students Where They Are

Richie’s students come to Bellevue University through the employer-sponsored education programs offered through Guild.

Companies such as Target, Disney, and others partner with Guild to give employees educational opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach.

For many students, that support changes everything.

Unlike traditional tuition reimbursement programs, Guild’s model streamlines the process, allowing students to focus less on paperwork and finances and more on learning.

But Richie’s role extends far beyond helping students understand benefits and policies.

She is a coach, cheerleader, problem-solver, and sometimes simply a reassuring voice.

“Adult students have lives outside of college,” she says. “They have families, jobs, and a lot of responsibilities.” Understanding and empathizing with those realities is essential to helping them succeed.

The Power of Encouragement

Throughout her career, Richie has seen firsthand how much support matters.

Many adult learners wonder whether they can really do it.

Can they balance work and school?

Can they make time for classes?

Can they finish something they may have started years earlier?

Richie believes one of the most important things she can do is help answer those questions with confidence.

“Yes. You can do this,” she reassures because she understands that earning a degree is about more than academics. “In college, particularly Bellevue University, you learn so much beyond the academics. You learn a lot about yourself,” she says.

For many students, college becomes a journey of self-discovery, confidence, and personal growth. Richie considers it a privilege to be part of that process.

Relationships That Go Beyond the Classroom

Because many of her students learn online, Richie spends a lot of time talking with people she has never met face-to-face.

Yet those relationships can become remarkably personal.

Students share triumphs and setbacks, celebrations and struggles.

“You can become part of their families,” she says.

Over time, trust develops.

That’s why commencement is one of her favorite experiences. Meeting students in person after years of phone calls and emails is often emotional—for Holly and the graduates.

One student traveled from Hawaii to attend graduation and spent nearly an hour talking with Richie during the open house event.

Another, who had endured extraordinary hardships during Hurricane Harvey, finally met her after completing his degree. “There were definitely tears,” she recalls.

Those moments remind her why she chose this profession. The relationships are real. The impact is real. And the accomplishments are deeply personal.

Changing Lives Through Education

One thing Richie loves about Bellevue University is its commitment to students who might not fit the traditional mold.

Many are working adults. Many are first-generation college students.

Many are returning to school after years away from the classroom. And many are pursuing higher education because they want to create a better future for themselves and their families. Richie understands that earning a degree requires an add-on to intelligence, desire, and ambition. It requires support and encouragement. And it requires someone willing to walk beside students when life becomes complicated.

“I always want to make sure that I do right by the student,” she says.

That student-first philosophy aligns perfectly with Bellevue University’s mission and culture.

A University That Feels Personal

Bellevue University serves students across the country and around the world, so when they get to come to the campus in Nebraska, they are often surprised to discover that the University has a vibrant campus community, championship athletics, and a long tradition of student success.

They arrive and realize something important: This place is real. The people they’ve talked with for years are real and the relationships they’ve built are real. And the accomplishment they’re celebrating is real, too.

For Richie, those moments never lose their meaning.

Every graduate represents persistence, courage, and hope. And every student reminds her why she chose this work in the first place – being a Student Coach isn’t just about helping students earn degrees.

It’s about helping them believe they can.

Spend a few minutes talking with Marissa Decker and one thing becomes clear: she knows exactly who she is.

She describes herself as sensitive, high-energy, bold, occasionally edgy and, above all, a storyteller. For years, she questioned whether those qualities belonged in a corporate environment. Today, those very qualities are driving her success.

Working for Metropolitan Utilities District (MUD) since 2015, Decker collaborates with contractors and engineers to improve customer satisfaction in her position as Business Development Builders Clerk. While the role is firmly rooted in a professional, service-driven environment, she has stretched beyond traditional boundaries, especially while completing her Bachelor of Science in Marketing degree at Bellevue University.

In addition to her full-time role, she took on an internal volunteer role within the organization in late 2025 as a creative content marketing lead for the Cultural Employee Resource Group (CERG). However, what began as a simple volunteer gig became a defining lesson.

"You have to be unapologetically yourself and push outside of the box," she said. "That's where the magic happens."

Turning Passion into Credibility

Decker has always been drawn to storytelling, graphic design, and content marketing. What she sought from Bellevue University was the structure behind that passion.

“I have experience. I have knowledge. I have the creative human touch. But I wanted those advanced skills and a deeper understanding of marketing,” she said. “Now I have credibility because I earned my degree.”

Through her coursework, she learned to pair creative instinct with strategic thinking—analyzing audiences, building campaigns and measuring impact. That combination proved transformative.

While working with the ERG, Decker began creating content designed to connect employees, educate the workforce and strengthen culture. Her work aligns with organizational branding standards while bringing warmth, personality and humanity into corporate communications.

Marketing with Empathy

At the core of Decker’s approach is a simple belief: good marketing starts with understanding people.

"You can't be a marketer if you don't ask questions and genuinely care," she said. "You can't serve your audience if you don't understand them."

That mindset shapes everything she creates.

Her newsletters don’t simply share information—they tell stories. When launching a new internal publication, she invited employees to help name it. The final choice, Culture Connect, reflected a shared vision. For an engagement initiative, she developed a global travel-themed campaign that tied into the current “passport program,” which employees collect stamps and points for participation. Decker designs personalized stamps for each event and colorful promotional materials to engage members with intentionality.

In fact, one profile in the program highlighted a colleague from Nigeria and included guidance on how to pronounce his name. It was a small but meaningful detail rooted in respect and inclusion while still being modern, fun, and educational.

"I can physically see people engaging with my work and how it makes them feel valued," she said. "I found my purpose."

That purpose was further recognized when Decker earned a Pinnacle Award from the American Marketing Association Omaha Chapter. Her winning project was one she completed during her time at Bellevue, and it focused on a social media strategy targeting an untapped audience: men interested in skincare. The project combined research, audience analysis, risk assessment, strategic planning and graphic design.

Decker credits Bellevue University faculty member Dr. Randa Zalman for helping elevate her work and being a mentor who saw her talents and encouraged her to put her work out there.

"I've never had a teacher personally reach out and say, 'Marissa, I want you to know you have a gift,'" Decker said. “It's really motivating to have a professor who sees your talents and provides detailed feedback on how to improve. But also provides the tools to be successful and genuinely cares about your wellbeing.”

An Academic and Career Journey to Be Proud Of

Decker’s journey extends beyond awards.

She is a first-generation college graduate who worked full-time while earning her degree. During that time, she also purchased her own home, maintained a 4.0 GPA and earned Dean’s List honors.

"I went from being a college dropout to being recognized as the winner of the Pinnacle Award," she said.

"I felt like a failure at one point in life, constantly comparing myself to others," she said. "Now I'm very confident in so many aspects of my life, seeing what I am capable of and so blessed I went back to school, met amazing people, secured my degree, and chose myself."

That confidence has created momentum beyond the workplace. Her work at MUD and involvement with the ERG have led to freelance opportunities and new ways to apply her skills.

But for Decker, success isn’t defined by recognition. It’s defined by connection.

"I help people feel seen and heard," she said.

And in a field often driven by metrics and dashboards, she’s found something equally powerful. "I am authentically me in everything I do," she said.

Making Strides in the Military

Originally from Seward, Neb., Noe attended a local university after high school. However, when it became quite expensive to continue after two years, his now-wife suggested the U.S. Air Force. That would set the course for his journey.

Noe was looking forward to traveling the world, but instead served his first six years at Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue. Succeeding in his career and education simultaneously was a struggle at the time.

“There was a continued expectation to get your bachelor’s degree,” he said. “I was getting promoted and took classes at a couple of different local universities, but I had to keep putting it on the back burner when I got deployed.”

Noe separated from active duty last year after 10 years of service and is now serving in the Air National Guard. In his time with the Air Force, he developed a passion for leadership through career roles including managing affairs for chaplains and representing Offutt in welcoming distinguished visitors.

Finding a One-of-a-Kind Education Experience

As he looked toward the next chapter of his life, Noe began looking at schools again. He landed on Bellevue University, where he could continue exploring leadership.

From the beginning, the experience has been completely different than his previous ones. “It was such a smooth process that I hadn’t experienced anywhere else,” Noe said. “It was seamless, and they easily helped me apply my educational benefits to continue my education.”

Noe has found many unique benefits came from studying in a cohort format where he completes all his classes with the same peers.

“It is a much different experience. I am able to commit to something I’m passionate about and the support system has been phenomenal,” he said. “It is also the first time in a classroom that my background has been respected and sought after.”

Program Director Rebecca Barnes said his classmates are directly benefiting from his background and perspectives. “Between his experience in the Air Force and his work in the nonprofit space, Crayton adds depth and meaning to our discussions,” she said. “He's constantly thinking about how what we're learning applies in the real world, and that service-oriented approach makes the learning experience better for everyone.”

In addition to contributing academically, Noe is known among his peers for mentoring others through professional transitions and helping connect classroom learning to real-world leadership challenges. He recently partnered with Professor Hinkle to facilitate an in-class activity on transformative leadership through communication, drawing on his "Cup of Trust" experiential exercise.

The cohort format also gives Noe the opportunity to connect with peers at different levels of leadership within their careers. “The diversity of peers is vertical compared to my other experiences where it was horizontal. I can connect with people implementing leadership programs the way I want to,” he said. “It reframed my world and my thinking.”

Noe is even getting straight A’s for the first time in his life. “I even made the dean’s list multiple times and will graduate with honors,” he said.

Helping Organizations with Leadership Learnings

Noe is now taking steps to make an even bigger impact with his leadership expertise. Building on his military background, Noe has designed experiential leadership development frameworks that help teams build trust, make decisions under pressure, and communicate more effectively—several of which he has already piloted with local organizations.

He said Bellevue University is playing a large role in this venture. “Bellevue University perfectly aligned with where I’m at in my life, with who I am right now and where I want to go,” he said.

Noe credits both staff and faculty with helping him succeed. “Having an advisor coach really makes a difference and the professors have challenged me to grow and make an impact,” he said.

Barnes said Noe’s story is a perfect example of how the University designs the entire student experience to meet their needs. “Bellevue University is built for students who are ready to finish what they started,” she said. “We meet students where they are and give them the support they need to cross the finish line with skills they can use immediately.”

Looking ahead, Noe plans to continue developing leadership programs that emphasize service, accountability, and real-world application—values shaped by his military experience and refined through his education at Bellevue University.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What will I learn in the Bellevue University Business Management and Leadership (BML) degree program?

A: You’ll build practical skills in communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and ethical leadership. You’ll also learn how to understand business environments and make decisions that move teams forward.

Q: Is the Bellevue University Business Management and Leadership degree offered fully online?

A: Yes. The program is 100% online and uses an accelerated cohort format where you take one course at a time with the same group of classmates.

Q: What makes the Bellevue University Business Management and Leadership program a good fit for working learners?

A: The one‑course‑at‑a‑time format, flexible online delivery, and stackable certificates make it easy to balance school with work and family. You’ll also build a strong network through the cohort experience.

Q: What kinds of courses will I take?

A: Courses cover business communication, talent management, leadership techniques, and introductory business intelligence using Excel — all designed to build real‑world business and leadership skills.

Q: What career‑ready skills will I graduate with?

A: You’ll learn how to manage operations, interpret business environments, improve team performance, and apply proven leadership practices—skills that prepare you for supervisory and leadership roles.

Q: Do I earn any credentials as I move through the Bellevue University Business Management and Leadership program?

A: Yes. After your first two courses, you’ll earn a Certificate of Completion in Communications and Team Building. You can continue stacking additional certificates as you progress.

 

On Saturday, Jan. 25, over 500 Bellevue University students will receive their diplomas during the University’s winter commencement ceremony at the Mid-America Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

The ceremony will begin at 9:10 a.m. with a procession of graduates, followed by the program at 9:30 a.m. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be live-streamed.

According to University Registrar Colette Lewis, Bellevue University conferred 821 degrees between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31, 2024, including 570 undergraduate, 249 graduate, and 2 doctoral degrees. The University now boasts over 70,000 graduates worldwide.

This year’s student commencement speaker is Nyasha St. Arromand-Wells, a U.S. Air Force veteran and native of Haiti. St. Arromand-Wells, who will earn her Master of Science in Criminal Justice, has overcome significant challenges on her journey to academic success.

Growing up, St. Arromand-Wells was often labeled a troublemaker in the classroom—a mischaracterization rooted in undiagnosed ADHD, autism, and dyscalculia. Despite these early challenges, she persevered, determined to pursue her education and thrive.

She credits Bellevue University’s open access policy with giving her a second chance. Drawing on the Haitian proverb, “piti piti wazo fè nich li” -"little by little, the bird builds its nest"- she hopes to inspire her fellow graduates to persevere and build their futures, one step at a time.

"Pursuing education is about opening doors to the future. It takes dedication and hard work, but those efforts lead to opportunities that make the challenges worthwhile and bring a sense of achievement," said University President Dr. Mary Hawkins.

The ceremony will also feature commencement speaker Diane Mendenhall, President of the Omaha Supernovas. A Nebraska native, Mendenhall guided the team to a League Championship during the Pro Volleyball Federation's inaugural season, showcasing her leadership and commitment to success.

In addition, all graduates and their guests are invited to an Open House on Friday, Jan. 24, from 4–7 p.m. at the Margre H. Durham Student Center on the University’s campus in Bellevue. The event will feature refreshments, campus tours, and opportunities to connect with instructors and classmates.

For more information about the winter commencement ceremony, visit the Complete Guide online.

Their article, Balancing Technology and Mental Health: A Study of Online Education's Influence on Graduate Student Achievement, investigates the effects of anxiety on the academic performance of graduate students in an online counseling program.

The study found no significant correlation between anxiety levels and students’ GPAs, challenging the assumption that increased anxiety leads to lower academic achievement. The research suggests that factors such as time management, coping mechanisms, and support systems play a more important role in student success.

“Online education is changing, and this study highlights the complex factors that influence student outcomes,” said Dr. Brezinski. “Our research helps to understand how to support online learners in balancing academic and mental health challenges.”

As online education continues to expand, the study underscores the need for further research into additional factors that affect student success. These findings could help develop strategies to support online students and improve their learning experiences.

For over 25 years, Bellevue University has led in online education, offering online degree programs to students worldwide. As one of the first accredited institutions to provide online learning, Bellevue University has focused on student success by using technology and expertise to prepare students for success in a changing digital environment.

The full article can be viewed here.

Native plants don’t get nearly enough research attention and the representation of genome information for native plants is substantially lower than the database information available for crop plants or popular ornamental plants.

New student-led research at Bellevue University is trying to change some of that paradigm, and students from our research classes, visiting student programs and student worker positions have been sequencing a variety of plants from our native plant garden on campus to gain more insight into the genetic wonders these plants might contain.

The newest publication in the International Journal of Plant Biology presents the work of Bellevue University students Maddy Vasquez, Emma Stock and Kaziah Terrell, and our greenhouse manager Julian Ramirez and Professor Dr. John Kyndt. 

The work was focused on sequencing the chloroplast genome of the native plant Cleomella serrulata (also known as Rocky Mountain bee plant or stinking clover). The chloroplast was sequenced in-house and the genome was analyzed to determine the evolutionary origin of this plant and compare its genetic differences with other plant families. This is a first step to determine how native plants have evolved and adapted to certain environments over many years.

Cleomella can adapt to harsh environmental conditions and is of ecological importance in maintaining biodiversity within an arid ecosystem. Historically, Native American tribes utilized various parts of the plant for medicinal purposes, from treating skin ailments to alleviating respiratory issues. 

Obtaining plant genomic data is still a challenging endeavor. Both Emma and Kaziah spend many hours of their student research work trying to optimize the DNA extraction and sequencing methods for Cleomella and other plants. Maddy took the lead on writing the article for publication as part of her Biological Investigations class. Under the guidance of Dr. John Kyndt and Julian Ramirez, the team uncovered some interesting features of the evolution of this native plant within its family. This now opens the doors for future evolutionary studies of these plant families. 

Cleomella serrulata was also one of the plants highlighted last year in our Art + Science presentation at the Benson Theatre for its unique color pigmentation. 

The sequencing of native plants, soil and mushrooms is an ongoing project, and there are more student opportunities to join in this research. For more information, contact Dr. John Kyndt.

Maria J. Pinedo Velarde, a Bellevue University student pursuing a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance, has been selected to join the FinServ Foundation program.

As part of the program, Pinedo Velarde will attend two industry conferences in San Diego and Nashville, where she will have the opportunity to connect with leaders and peers in the financial services sector. She will also participate in a one-on-one mentorship with an industry expert to develop her skills in finance.

“Being accepted into the FinServ Foundation program gives me the chance to improve my abilities and learn directly from professionals in the field,” said Pinedo Velarde.

The FinServ Foundation is a nonprofit organization that works with universities and colleges to support students as they transition from academic environments into professional roles in the financial services industry.

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.

This scholarship provides Arboleda and Munoz with a comprehensive package to support their journey towards earning the CMA certification. They will receive all the necessary resources to study for and take the CMA exam at no cost. The CMA certification, recognized as the benchmark for management accountants, certifies proficiency in 12 core practice areas of the profession.

In addition to the exam benefits, the scholarship includes IMA membership for up to three years, access to an exam support package with assessment tools, and comprehensive online materials for both parts of the CMA exam. The package also covers entrance fees to the CMA program and registration fees for the first attempt at both parts of the exam.

"Being awarded this scholarship is a significant milestone for our students and demonstrates their dedication to excellence in the field of management accounting," said Cynthia Nye, Professor in the Bellevue University College of Business. "We are proud of Victor and Jessica's achievements and look forward to their continued success."

Bellevue University, one of the nation’s top online universities, is the recipient of a 2024 Anthology Catalyst Award for the redesign of its top-enrolling People and Business Leadership certificate program.

The Catalyst Awards honor excellence in higher education online programs and were announced last week by Anthology, an educational technology company. This year, 35 winners in eight categories were chosen from 108 nominees across 19 countries. 

Bellevue University was recognized in the category of student success. The award recognizes institutions whose innovative use of Anthology solutions has led to increased retention, increased completion, and/or improved outcomes through the implementation of new academic and/or administrative resources, data analytics solutions, scalable advising and intervention strategies, student support programs, and more. Winners are selected by a cross-functional panel of Anthology judges.

“Through our innovative online learning programs we’re not only able to advance our mission, we’re also helping to address the nation’s workforce needs by helping learners gain the skills they need to make a positive impact in the world,” said Dr. Mary Hawkins, President of Bellevue University. 

According to Dr. Matt Davis, Executive Vice President and Dean of the College of Engineering, Technology and Management, the innovations implemented through the certificate program redesign have strengthened the University’s commitment to applied learning and surpassed completion and equity goals. 

“Program completion rates have increased by double digits to more than 90% across all student populations and we’ve also seen enhanced student and faculty satisfaction with the learning and teaching experience,” he said. Dr. Davis added that the lessons learned during the transformation initiative are now being applied to other Bellevue University certificate and degree programs with similar results.

The team from Bellevue – Rebecca Barnes, Nathan Kraft, Kent Burkholder, Marshall Peterson, Caitlin Petty and Dr. Davis – will be recognized during Anthology Together, an educational technology conference set for July 15-17 in Orlando. 

For more information on Bellevue University's award-winning work and other Catalyst Award recipients, please visit https://www2.anthology.com/catalyst-awards.

This year, college students competed in more than 100 event categories. More than $120,000 in scholarships were awarded to the top-ranked students in the events.

Bellevue University student Maria Pinedo placed fifth in the Foundations of Management category. Pinedo is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an Emphasis in Finance.

Bellevue University students Andres Valencia and Carlos Ortega placed fourth in the Management Case Study category. Valencia is pursuing a Bachelor of Sports Management with an Emphasis in Athletic Coaching, while Ortega is earning his Master of Science in Business Analytics. 

Dr. Laurel Mitchell, Program Director in Acquisition and Contract Management and Professor, served as the Bellevue University team advisor. 

“Our three student-athletes represented Bellevue University as exceptional leaders,” said Dr. Mitchell. “Their dedication and commitment to excellence highlights the importance of the real-world business skills that students learn as part of their academic programs.”

The FBLA-Collegiate organization is committed to bridging the gap between future and present professionals through service, progress and education. 

Bellevue University marketing students swept the student category awards at the 2024 American Marketing Association (AMA) - Omaha Pinnacle Awards held April 24, 2024.

• Pinnacle: Zip De Long, The Effects of Current Music Distribution Trends on the Music Industry
• Silver: John Hunt, Duran Woodworking Marketing Plan
• Bronze: Andrew Hughes, Anna’s Boutique

Bellevue University students have submitted work for consideration by AMA-Omaha for the past 20 years.

“It has been a long-standing Bellevue University tradition participating in this competition, and our students' success at the AMA Omaha Pinnacle Awards this year is a testament to their hard work and innovative thinking,” said Randa Zalman, Associate Professor of Marketing. “By consistently producing high-quality, impactful campaigns, our students not only demonstrate their mastery of marketing principles but also their readiness to contribute meaningfully to the industry.”

The AMA Omaha Pinnacle Awards recognizes campaigns that emphasize creative strategies that have delivered proven measurable results. Student entries were judged and scored with a point system by industry marketing professionals.

Cyber Camp, June 24-28, will be hosted on Bellevue University's main campus in the Integrated Technologies Lab, offering an opportunity for high schoolers to explore the world of cybersecurity. 

The camp, which will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day promises an immersive experience supervised by cyber tech experts. Participants will deepen their understanding of cybersecurity and hone practical skills crucial in today's digital landscape.

Professor Douglas Rausch, one of the co-leads for the camp, is excited for the opportunities this camp will provide for students.

“There continues to be a strong demand for cybersecurity and IT careers and it’s never too early to gain the skills used in these potential future jobs,” said Rausch. “Our camp will use hands-on activities aligned to the CyberPatriot program that many students may be familiar with from their high school's or organization’s CyberPatriot club.”

“Throughout the week, students will learn how to securely configure Windows and Linux computers and finish up the camp by competing in a cyber defense competition against students from other CyberPatriot camps,” Rausch went on. “It’s going to be an exciting week.”

The Cyber Camp is free, making cybersecurity education accessible to all. However, spots are limited, so students should RSVP to reserve a seat.

After signing up, students will receive confirmation of their enrollment status. For more information, email bucybercenter@bellevue.edu.

This week we highlight our senior science student Emma Stock, who’s about to graduate this Spring with her Biology bachelor’s degree with a minor in chemistry!

Emma is currently finishing up her thesis with research on the genetics and genomics of endangered Shoal Chub (Macrhybopsis). She has been sequencing DNA from environmentally collected fish samples that have been preserved, with the purpose of performing a detailed phylogenetic and ecological study of these species. Since these samples have been preserved for several years, it is certainly a challenging task to obtain sufficient intact genomic DNA for Illumina high-throughput sequencing, but according to Emma, taking on these challenging subjects “helps build character”.

After many lengthy hours of DNA extraction from preserved native fish samples and library preps for genome sequencing, she successfully sequenced the complete mitochondrial genomes for three endangered Nebraska fish species. This will help with further preservation efforts and provide a better understanding of the evolution of these species. Besides her thesis project, Emma has also been working this past year as a lab research assistant on various soil and plant sequencing projects in the Bellevue University science labs. Emma is planning to present the results from her research at the Nebraska Academy of Sciences conference in April. 

In addition to her academic efforts, Emma also has had four successful years playing for the BU Women’s soccer team, where she functioned as team captain for the last year two years. Balancing academics and athletics can be challenging, but Emma has done a fantastic job of excelling in both!

Emma is continuing her education and passion for environmental science and has been accepted to the master's program in Environmental Studies at Evergreen State College. 

Team members placed in the following categories:

• Maria Pinedo, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an Emphasis in Finance, placed fifth in the Foundations of Management category and 2nd in the Organizational Behavior and Leadership category.
• Andres Valencia, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Sports Management with an Emphasis in Athletic Coaching, placed fourth in the Organizational Behavior and Leadership category. 
• Carlos Ortega, who is pursuing a Master of Science in Business Analytics, teamed up with Valencia to take second place in the Management Case Study and Finance Case study categories.

Dr. Laurel Mitchell, Program Director in Acquisition and Contract Management and Professor, served as the Bellevue University team advisor. 

“Participation in the FBLA-Collegiate competition is a valuable experience for Bellevue University students,” said Dr. Mitchell. “Recognition in the competition shines a light on the real-world business skills that students learn in class and lets students sharpen their leadership, communication and teamwork skills as they compete against their peers.”

The team also received an overall Award of Excellence for reactivating the University's FBLA-Collegiate chapter. 

The FBLA-Collegiate organization is committed to bridging the gap between future and present professionals through service, progress and education. 

The National FBLA-Collegiate competition will be held June 24-27, 2024 in Orlando, Florida. 

EJ Kim, an MBA student in the Bellevue University College of Business, has been recognized with the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) scholarship through the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). The scholarship was first announced in November 2023. 

Kim, who lives in Omaha, received a comprehensive package of benefits enabling them to study for and take the CMA exam at no cost. The CMA certification is considered the benchmark for management accountants, and certifies mastery of 12 core practice areas in the profession.

“The CMA scholarship is a sign of excellence recognized around the world," explained Professor Cynthia Nye, Professor in the Bellevue University College of Business. “We're so proud of Eojin and their academic accomplishments."

Kim also receives IMA membership for up to three years while pursuing completion of the CMA exam; entrance fees to the CMA program; exam support package, including an assessment tool that can help assess the content covered on the CMA exam; registration fees for the first attempt at both parts of the CMA exam; and comprehensive online materials for both exam parts.

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."

Bellevue University Career Services announced the 2024 Spring Virtual Career Fair set for Thursday, March 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. CT. This event is open to current Bellevue University students and alumni.

The career fair will be conducted online via Handshake, a mobile-compatible career fair platform.

Attendees must register to participate, with registration opening on Monday, March 11, at 10 a.m. CT. Sign-up is available here.

The event will feature companies such as CHI Health, Gallup, NRG Media, Omaha Public Schools and Veridian Credit Union. 

In preparation for the fair, registered participants can join the Career Fair Ready Workshop on March 12 from 5 to 6 p.m. CT, held online via Handshake. This workshop will provide insights into navigating virtual career fairs, expectations, and essential tips for success.

“The 2024 Spring Virtual Career Fair serves as a prime example of our commitment to facilitating meaningful connections and providing valuable resources for professional growth,” said BU career coach Terra Beethe.

For more information on the career fair visit https://www.bellevue.edu/student-support/career-services/career-fair. 

Additional workshops happening this spring include:

Discover Forage Workshop – Tuesday, March 26, 2024, 4-5 pm CT @ Handshake

Career Services will share an overview of Forage, an online platform that hosts free virtual experiences designed and delivered by leading companies. These self-paced modules simulate work undertaken during a traditional internship or graduate program; students can also develop their skills and gain an accurate understanding of work in practice. Register via Handshake @ https://bellevue.joinhandshake.com/events/1502316 Registration closes 3/25/24 at 12 pm CDT.

Strategies for Mitigating Scandal, Sabotage, and Social Media Risks Workshop – Wednesday, April 17, 2024 4-5 pm CT @ Handshake

Do you know if your social media is helping or sabotaging your image? In this workshop, you will learn how to create, clean up, and manage your online presence with social media tools, blogs, social audits, and other emerging tools. Register via Handshake @ https://bellevue.joinhandshake.com/events/1459775 Registration closes 4/16/24 at 12 pm CDT.

Internship FAQ Workshop – Tuesday, April 30th, 2024, 4-5 pm CT @ Handshake

Looking for an internship? Career Services will share their top 2 search sites and essential tips to get you on the right path to finding an internship! Register via Handshake @ https://bellevue.joinhandshake.com/events/1509041 Registration closes 4/29/24 at 12 pm CDT.

Filling out Job Applications Workshop – Wednesday, May 8^th, 2024, 12-1 pm CT @ Handshake

Career Services will share features on conducting online job searches, completing online applications, or applying through email. Register via Handshake @ https://bellevue.joinhandshake.com/edu/events/1508509 Registration closes 5/7/24 at 12 pm CDT.

Among the stories highlighted during the ceremony was Lance Stokes, an octogenarian with a wealth of academic accomplishments already to his name. Despite his age and extensive experience, Stokes felt compelled to pursue further education, enrolling in Bellevue University's Sustainability Management program. As a director at an environmental engineering firm in Michigan, Stokes sought to deepen his impact in his field, demonstrating that one is never too old to pursue new horizons. View his testimonial below.

Similarly inspiring was the journey of Jeanette Wachtel, who battled addiction for 25 years along with homelessness before finding solace in education. Recognizing the need for change in her life, Wachtel seized the opportunity to pursue her studies at Bellevue University, leveraging the flexibility of the institution's online programs to accommodate her everyday life. View her testimonial below.

For Charles Sisson, a transfer student from New York, Bellevue University's credit transfer process provided a smooth transition to his new academic home. With all his credits accepted, Sisson was able to seamlessly continue his education without the burden of starting over. View his testimonial below. 

Sheena Bartlett, a mother of three, persevered through various challenges while pursuing her degree. Bartlett credited Bellevue University's online program for its flexibility, enabling her to balance her studies with the demands of everyday life. View her testimonial below. 

With diplomas in hand, the class of 2024 embarks on new journeys, ready to make their mark on the world.

A Bellevue University Graphic Design graduate, Jason Hendrickson, has successfully published and illustrated his debut children's book, titled BOOK!

BOOK! is a 4th wall-breaking, interactive story picture book for people to read and share with kids to have fun.

In the book, actions taken by the reader affect the characters, who become aware that the reader is causing the ruckus. The story also shows off book construction terminology to teach kids the basics of publishing.

Hendrickson said his classes at Bellevue University are a contributor to preparing him for this moment. “Bellevue University gave me the opportunity to explore options that I wouldn’t have ever considered otherwise,” he said. 

“I have been writing stories and making ridiculous drawings ever since I was a kid,” said Hendrickson. “You never know where your education will take you.” 

BOOK! Is available for purchase on Amazon.

About the Author

Jason Hendrickson is an author and illustrator who currently resides in Northwest Indiana with his wife, children and pack of pets. He has been drawing as long as he could hold a crayon. While being an illustrator on a variety of other picture books throughout the year, this is his first take on authorship. Hendrickson graduated with a BA in Graphic Design from Bellevue University in 2021.

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. 

The award honors student veterans who made a positive difference at their school and in their community. 

“Being nominated and selected is an incredible honor. This nomination has been a gratifying recognition of my work, not just in my job but also in the prolific career of my peers who are also nominated,” said Arnett. 

Arnett, an Army veteran majoring in Psychology, currently serves as a student worker for the university Military and Veteran Services Center and supports the center by working with clients, leading and organizing events and providing tech support. Before she started her education at Bellevue University she served in the United States Army as an MOS 15R and maintained AH-64 helicopters.

When she is finished with her education Arnett plans to obtain her M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and pursue a career with the V.A. as a Substance Abuse Counselor.

“I love when our student veterans get recognized for the amazing work they do. Jocelyn lives beyond herself and is always giving her all to the MVSC and those in the community,” said Heather Carroll, Manager of the MVSC. 

When Arnett is not working at the MVSC or doing homework she can be found volunteering as a volleyball coach for the Bellevue Junior Sports Association. The program works with 3rd through 8th grade kids and allows Arnett to guide and support the children in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.

Arnett also volunteers as a mentor for the Douglas Veteran Treatment Court where she can provide advice, be a listening ear and show up for fellow veterans.

List of 2023 Honorees

Jocelyn Arnett, Bellevue University | Army (2007-2010)

Denton Beck, Mitchell Technical College | National Guard (2019-Present)

Eric Bemish, Whitworth University | Navy (1998-2020)

Jake Berens, East Tennessee State University | Marine Corps Reserve (2010-Present)

Boone Bramwell, Auburn University | Marine Corps (2017-2021)

Angelo Canty, Texas Southern University | Army (2008-2016)

Gabriela Castillo, University of Georgia | Army (2015-2022)

Devin Dashnaw, Georgia Southern University | Army (2015-2020)

Jeff Deickman, University of Colorado - Colorado Springs | Army (1996-2016)

Ralph Figueroa, California State University, San Bernardino | Army (1994-2006)

Katheryne Freeman, The University of Texas at Arlington | Army (2015-2021)

Lewis Green, The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga | Army (2013-2019)

Matt Hanna, York College of Pennsylvania | Air Force (2001-2021)

Michael Hendrickson, Western Illinois University | Army (1984-1998)

Elijas Illescas, CUNY - Queens College | Navy (2012-2017)

Tommy Ingram, Augusta Technical College | Army (1987-1996)

Michael Linde, University of Northern Iowa | Marine Corps (2008-2022)

Caleb Lindsay, Casper College | Army (2015-2018)

Andrew Maistros, Frostburg State University | Marine Corps (2006-2014)

Justin McEwen, University of California, Riverside | Air Force (2008-2017)

Sheila McNeil, Georgian Court University | National Guard (2002-2023)

James Miceli, University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth | Army (2018-2020)

John Morris, Bristol Community College | Air Force (2008-2016)

Darin Mydland, Montana State University | Coast Guard (2007-2021)

Sean Pentecost, Sonoma State University | Navy (2010-2018)

Millie Rivera, Florida Atlantic University | Army National Guard (2015-Present)

Casey Roberds, Oral Roberts University | Marine Corps (2015-2020)

Angela Roberts, University of Mississippi | Marine Corps (2014-2018)

De’Andre Robinson, University of North Texas at Dallas | Army (2017-2019)

Eulises Sanchez Negron, Florida National University | Army (2014-2019)

Tracy Santos, University of Rhode Island | Marine Corps (2013-2017), National Guard (2019-Present)

Brittany Woods, Arkansa State University | Marine Corps (2011-2015)

Bellevue University graduate student Brittany Keating recently competed in the Collegiate DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC), placing sixth in her category in the Business Research competition. 

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. 

The Business Research category in which Keating competed provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate business and marketing research skills needed by management personnel. 

Students work with an existing local business or organization to conduct business and marketing research about a specific topic with the ultimate goal of improving an area of the business.  

Keating created a proposal for her current employer, Walt Disney World, and shared her proposal with the judges.

“I felt that I had the background and insight that could help obtain the information that I needed for this proposal,” said Keating, who is enrolled in Bellevue University through the Disney Aspire program. Through the program, Disney pays 100% tuition up front for a variety of education programs including college degrees. Bellevue University is part of Guild’s academic network. 

Keating, who has competed in DECA since high school, went on to share just how challenging the competition is. 

“There were times that I received nearly perfect scores and did not make it to finals,” said Keating. 

DECA competition includes all types of educational levels and experiences. This year's competition had around 1,300 attendees and 20 teams.

Within Collegiate DECA there are about 25 different events involving individual case studies, team case studies and prepared business presentations. Keating said that due to the variety of work and educational backgrounds, the Business Research category is the most competitive aspect because you never know who you are up against. 

“You could do an amazing job, but someone just did it a little better,” Keating said. “It’s a very real-world experience.”

In high school competitions, Keating had placed in the top at district competitions, but she had not made it to state competition. In college, she placed at state, but never made it to the finals. After years of hard work she feels good about finally placing in the top 10.

“The competition is very real, but to make it on stage at the closing ceremony, that feeling is irreplaceable,” Keating said.

In addition to the competitions, Collegiate DECA provides opportunities for students to practice professional speaking, network, and obtain leadership experience. DECA has over 4,000 collegiate members and 197 chapters preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs.

The Bellevue University Cyber League team recently completed the 2023 National Cyber League (NCL) spring season and scored a top 50 national ranking.

The Bruins ranked number 45 out of 451 competing colleges and universities to land in the top 10% of teams nationally. This is the highest ranking the Bellevue University team has achieved out of 10 seasons of play.

NCL virtual competitions consist of pre-season games where students practice skills; individual games where students compete by themselves; and team games where students are placed on teams of up to seven individuals and compete as a group. 

“Joining Cyber League and being a part of the NCL was one of the best choices I made besides going back to school,” said Bellevue University student Natasha Jeter. “The knowledge and experience you gain on your own and with a team is invaluable. Not to mention it’s fun!”

NCL “Capture the Flag” style competitions award students flags, or points, for solving various cybersecurity challenges. Challenges fall into categories such as Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT), Cryptography, Password Cracking, Log Analysis, Network Traffic Analysis, Wireless Access Exploitation, Forensics, Scanning, Web Application Exploitation, and Enumeration & Exploitation.           

“My experience with NCL was amazing,” said Lisa Hubka, another member of the Bellevue University team. “I loved password cracking and OSINT! I set up my first virtual machine and learned to use so many of the tools that came with it.”                                                                                         

Each NCL season, every student’s progress and strengths are validated through individual scouting reports and team rankings, enabling employers and recruiters to easily determine the students’ fit for open positions.

According to Associate Professor Doug Rausch, Bellevue University’s team will compete in the Fall 2023 NCL and is looking for students interested in improving their cybersecurity skills in a hands-on, competitive environment. 

“We’re seeking both undergraduate and graduate students,” said Rausch, “and not just those pursuing a cybersecurity degree. This is a great way for students to develop and improve their cybersecurity skills and prepare for a future career.”

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).

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 Hert 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.”

• Audrey Sandfort, freshman, won the Silver Award
• Alexa Sidel, sophomore, won the Gold Award
• Andy Hughes, graduate student, won the Pinnacle Award

Bellevue University students have submitted work for consideration by AMA-Omaha for the past 19 years. 

"Participation in the AMA Pinnacle competition is a valuable experience for Bellevue University students,” Randa Zalman, Associate Professor of Marketing, said. “Acknowledgment in the competition highlights and reinforces the real-world marketing skills that are learned in class. Students gain positive exposure at one of the industry's highest-profile regional events and have the opportunity to showcase their talent in front of industry professionals who make recruiting and hiring decisions.” 

The AMA Omaha Pinnacle Awards recognize campaigns that emphasize creative strategies that have delivered proven measurable results.  Student entries were judged and scored with a point system by industry marketing professionals.

Lauren Jurek, a senior double majoring in Health Science and Public Health, has been named Bellevue University's 2022-2023 Student Employee of the Year. Jurek, who also plays for the Bruin Softball team, has worked in the Residence and Student Life office since fall of 2019. 

Jurek and 14 other student employees nominated for the award were recognized as part of Student Employee Appreciation Week, which ended April 14. The national recognition week highlights the contributions of student employees and the invaluable services they provided with enthusiasm, dedication and initiative. 

Judges scored the nominees anonymously across eight categories: community service, leadership, diversity and inclusion, technology and innovation, and critical thinking. 

Jurek's supervisor Alaina Smith, Sr. Director of Resident Student Initiatives, praised Jurek's contributions to the Residential Student Life office. "Lauren has become our ‘go to’ resource for event promotions through her artistic abilities in drawing on windows in the Durham and Student Center, as well as hanging posters around campus, using sidewalk chalk, and other fun methods.”

The nominees included: Bhuvaneshwari Seshadri, Computer Lab; Darryl Bennett Jr., College of Science and Technology; Enhe Liu, College of Science and Technology; Hongbo Zhang, International Student Services; John Cover Athletics; Lauren Jurek, Residence and Student Life; Leslie Etubo, Computer Lab; Makita Beck, Library; Millie Hopkisson, Athletics; Oumar Sissoko, College of Science and Technology; Tripp Skutt, College of Business; Truman Forey, Undergraduate Academic Advising; Xiaoxuan Wang and Xinghai Liu, and Zhuoyi Lian, International Student Services. 

The event will be held on the University’s main campus, in the Hitchcock Humanities Center, 1040 Bruin Blvd. Bellevue, Nebraska 68005. 

“Over the last several years, so many people were unable to travel due to the pandemic,” said Julie Verebely, Director of the Global Partnerships and head of international admissions. “This is an opportunity to bring the world back together and for everyone in the community to enjoy the diverse culture here at Bellevue University.”

Admission to the festival is free. Attendees will be able to enjoy a variety of entertainment, including:

• Zumba group
• Dragon Dance
• Nebraska Chinese performance
• Indian dance performance 
• Guatemalan performers 
• Native American-Omaha Tribe performance
• Mexican performers
• Bagpipes performance
• International traditional costume performance
• Other performances pending and may be added closer to event date

Attendees will also able to enjoy free global cuisine items from these local restaurants:

• Ono Pinay Kitchen (Filipino and Hawaiian food)
• Chaima’s African Cuisine (African)
• Curry-in-a-Hurry (Indian)
• China Buffet (Chinese)
• Abelardo’s (Mexican)

Bellevue University educates students from more than 20 different countries around the world. Some study and earn degrees online, and others learn on the University’s main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska. 

In the seven years Daniel Atkinson has worked at his local Walmart in Los Fresnos, Texas, he’s risen the ranks from overnight cashier to stocking team lead – and he plans to continue climbing the ladder.

“My goals with Walmart go beyond the store level,” said Atkinson, who is pursuing his business management degree online through Bellevue University. “I aim to become a market manager, regional manager or Home Office associate.”

Those aspirations are what inspired him to pursue a degree through Walmart’s Live Better U program, which helps the company’s associates earn key skills and degrees designed to grow their careers at Walmart. Under the program, Walmart covers the cost of tuition, books and fees, addressing one of the biggest hurdles that keep people from going to college.

Atkinson explained how Beth Konikoff is the lead professor for all his classes at Bellevue University and that he couldn’t ask for a better teacher.

“I can always email her for any help regarding assignments, and she has helped me improve as a leader and student since I started the program,” Atkinson said. “I cannot thank her enough and hope I can meet her once I visit the school.”

The reason Atkinson chose to enroll at Bellevue University is because the University is a member of the academic network created by Guild Education. Guild works with companies across the country, including Walmart, to manage their education benefits and help them upskill workers.  

For Atkinson, the partnership between Guild Education, Bellevue University and his employer helps him “improve at work and understand the business side of things.”

After he graduates with his bachelor’s degree in January 2023, Atkinson hopes to pursue a master’s degree in human resource strategic management from Bellevue University. Within the next two years, he also aims to become a store manager – a goal that’s aided by his recent promotion into Walmart’s new College2Career program.

The accelerated program gives participants a leg up in their career by involving them in classroom training, hands-on experiences and one-on-one mentoring with company leaders as they learn all things Walmart and train to become a store manager. At the end of College2Career, top performers are offered a management job referred to as emerging coach, the start of a pipeline to higher management positions.

Right now, the best part of Atkinson’s job at Walmart, he said, is teaching and developing fellow associates and working alongside them to accomplish the task at hand.

He gives special thanks to his Walmart mentor, Victor, who’s helping develop him as a better leader and learn how to think outside of the box, as well as his coach, Rafia, who instilled in him a high-performance mentality.

At Bellevue University, Atkinson gives all the credit to Professor Konikoff. And he’s excited to continue putting his education to work.

“My degree will open opportunities outside the store level and help me become an efficient leader,” he said.

Love led Olena Fleck to the U.S., and her experience here has ultimately led to a greater calling. Now, she’s looking to help refugees from  her home country adjust to life in America.

Making the Move to America

While visiting the U.S. during the summer of 2010, the native Ukrainian fell in love with an American. She still had two years of school left, but the couple decided they wanted to be together.

“We dated for two years back and forth. In the span of those two years, my husband flew to Ukraine to meet my family, and I flew to the U.S. to meet his,” she said. After graduating college, Fleck moved to Nebraska.

“Now I have been in the U.S. for over 10 years,” she said. “I am happily married to my husband, and we just celebrated our 10^th anniversary in May.”

Building on a Degree from Ukraine

Though Fleck earned a five-year teaching degree from University K.D. Ushinsckogo, she only completed six months of teaching before moving to the U.S. That didn’t stop her from continuing to learn, and she began taking ESL classes at the local community college shortly after arriving in the U.S.

Her next step was moving on to Bellevue University to complete an ESL endorsement.

“I chose Bellevue University because the courses were three months, not six months. In my opinion, it's a great timeline,” she said. “It is the same amount of knowledge, only in less time, and Bellevue University accepted many of my credits.”

This flexibility in scheduling is intentional. “Bellevue University offers a variety of scheduling opportunities for teacher education coursework that benefits prospective students who are seeking initial certification,” said Director of Teacher Education Susan Alford. “We offer our education core classes during the day, as well as in a track that runs on Thursday evenings, which helps those who are working during the day.”

Fleck also said the faculty and staff at Bellevue University have made her experience a great one.

“Every person at Bellevue University is helpful and very considerate,” Fleck said. “I would recommend Bellevue University because of its wide variety of options and educational opportunities.”

The Teacher Education Program strives to be service-oriented, Alford said. “Our faculty work one-on-one with each student through field experiences, course requirements and student teaching to make sure they are successful through each step of the program,” she said.

The program also recently expanded to include elementary education (grades K-6) and Middle Level education (grades 5-9), as well as Special Education and English as a Second Language (PreK-12) tracks.

“These are all areas of high teacher shortage, so we wanted to expand our program to include opportunities for more teacher certification pathways,” Alford said.

Helping Those Who Need it Most

During her classes at Bellevue University, Fleck brought unique perspectives based on her own experiences. Her goal now is to help others who are new to the United States.

 “Ukraine's educational system is slightly different than in the US. Therefore, by learning about ESL students and education, I can provide firsthand information,” Fleck said.

She’s taken on a role as a translator at a public school, and with the tragic events taking place in Ukraine, hopes she can help its refugees.

“I really want to become a translator for refugees, and the reason for it is the same as why I want to become an ESL teacher,” Fleck said. That reason is helping immigrants adjust to a completely different way of life.

“The hardest part of my move to the U.S. was adapting to the new world,” she said. “It was a different experience even going to the store. A simple example is that we can buy an item, and if we don't like it, we can return it…and there are so many more little things that are different between countries around the world.”

Alford hopes that the Teacher Education Program can help more students like Fleck move forward in their new lives.

“Olena Fleck is a good example of how Bellevue University can help diverse candidates find a pathway to become a teacher in Nebraska,” Alford said. “Each person has a unique background when they come to us, and we give them the extra help they may need to take their previous schooling and apply it to teacher education.”

• Tamala Shepherd won the Bronze Award for “Peloton Interactive Digital Brand Evaluation”
• Rod Felton won the Silver Award for “Nebraska State Fair Entertainment”
• Brian Pickering won the Pinnacle Award for “Impact of Financial Literacy Apps”

Bellevue University students have submitted work for consideration by AMA-Omaha for the past 18 years. 

"Participation in the AMA Pinnacle competition is a valuable experience for Bellevue University students,” Randa Zalman, Associate Professor of Marketing, said. “Acknowledgment in the competition highlights and reinforces the real-world marketing skills that are learned in class. Students gain positive exposure at one of the industry's highest-profile regional events and have the opportunity to showcase their talent in front of industry professionals who make recruiting and hiring decisions.” 

The AMA Omaha Pinnacle Awards recognize campaigns that emphasize creative strategies that have delivered proven measurable results.  Student entries were judged and scored with a point system by industry marketing professionals.

For a complete list of award winners, visit https://www.amaomaha.org/pinnacle-awards/. 

Among the graduates was Ashlea Rodriguez, student speaker, who graduated with her Master of Arts degree in Business and Professional Communication.  Rodriguez, is a U.S. Air Force veteran, a mother, a working adult learner, a first-generation college student. 

“The individual aspirations that our students have and that Bellevue University enables are truly remarkable,” said University President Dr. Mary Hawkins. “The students we serve best are those who, like Ashlea, have invested in themselves and are motivated to succeed at the next level.”

The commencement ceremony also featured comments from L. Javier Fernandez, President and CEO of Omaha Public Power District (OPPD).  OPPD is a publicly owned electric utility serving an estimated 853,000 people, more than any other electric utility in Nebraska.  Fernandez is also a member of the Bellevue University Board of Directors. 

Five students also received their doctoral degrees in a separate hooding ceremony at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, June 3, at the John B. Muller Administrative Services Building located on the campus of Bellevue University.  Alicia Stoermer Clark, Chief Executive Officer of the Seldin Company,, deliver comments at the ceremony. Clark is a  Bellevue University alumni and earned her Ph.D. in Human Capital Management.

According to University Registrar Colette Lewis, the University conferred 767 degrees from Jan. 1, 2022 through March 31, 2022. This includes 500 undergraduate degrees and 276 graduate degrees. Bellevue University now has nearly 60,000 graduates worldwide.

Bellevue University also host a Commencement Open House event on its main campus on Friday, June 4. For more information, visit https://www.bellevue.edu/student-support/graduation/before-ceremony#gradopenhouse 

The University streamed the commencement ceremony live so those who could not attend had an opportunity to see students receive their diplomas. Click here to watch the spring commencement ceremony. 

For the first time, students will have an opportunity to share their research or creative projects with other members of the Bellevue University community via a student conference. Both current and recently graduated residential and online students are encouraged to participate. Students can participate virtually or in person.

The conference is free to attend and open to all Bellevue University community members and representatives from area local businesses.

Information about Participation

Prospective symposium participants need to submit a presentation proposal abstract of 300 words or less of their work to an online submission portal by 5 p.m. on January 17, 2022. Symposium proposal abstracts will be reviewed by the Bellevue University Student Research and Creativity Symposium planning committee. Selected presenters will be notified of the acceptance of their presentation by Jan. 31, 2022. The first author noted on group submissions will be notified of the results of their presentation acceptance decision and will be responsible for communicating symposium acceptance results to their co-authors.

Research and creativity projects include, but are not limited to: empirical research, literature reviews, artistic works, prose, or book reports. Students must have a symposium faculty sponsor. Faculty sponsors help to ensure that students’ symposium materials meet the scientific, professional, legal, and ethical standards for research in their respective disciplines. For students who do not have a sponsor, one can be provided.

Information about Presentations

Presentations can be shared orally or as display pieces (e.g., research poster, art piece), virtually and/or on-campus. Oral presentations will be allotted ten minutes to provide information and five minutes to answer questions. Display pieces will be presented in poster session format. No templates for different presentation session types will be provided. Zoom links will be available to join students’ presentations.

All student presenters will receive participation certificates. Several awards will also be given for presentation quality. There will be a raffle drawing for student attendees and participants. Abstracts of selected submissions will be published in a special edition of the Bellwether.

A small reception with hors d’oeuvres will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. CST. Individuals interested in attending the symposium reception in person will need to RSVP. A link to RSVP to the symposium reception will be provided once it’s available. A link will also be provided for individuals interested in attending the symposium reception virtually.

For more information about the symposium or volunteer opportunities, contact the Symposium Chair Dr. Terissa Upchurch-Butler via email at tupchurchbutler@bellevue.edu. 

ACES is considered the premier organization dedicated to quality education and supervision of counselors in all work settings. According to ACES, graduate students play an especially important role in the organization and there are opportunities for graduate students to work with and learn from current faculty members and counseling professionals at conferences.

Dr. Erickson was also recognized with the Deanna Hawes Outstanding Mentoring Award. The award is presented bi-annually by the North Central ACES and honors an individual who exemplifies genuine, empathetic, accessible, reliable and culturally sensitive care and concern for others. Dr. Erickson was nominated by Khan-Snyder, who wrote: “Dr. Erickson has encouraged me to utilize my research and writing skills and my passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community, to submit presentations to several professional conferences and to submit a paper to a professional academic journal… Because of Dr. Erickson’s support, I feel confident in broadening my professional pursuits while I am still a master’s student.”

Khan-Snyder and Dr. Erickson also co-presented in September at the American Counseling Association of Iowa on “LGBTQIA+ Awareness: Inviting Safe Conversations and Building Inclusive Spaces.” Dr. Erickson added, “We hope to continue to spread the message of the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces at other workshops or conferences in the future.”

Bellevue University’s CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling helps students learn and develop the four key skills of a clinical mental health counselor -- assessment, case conceptualization, diagnosis and treatment planning. Students gain field experience through practicums, clinical internships near their homes, and on-campus residencies.

Peter Marlette has a busy schedule as General Manager of Union Omaha. In his role, Marlette oversees all business activities of the club, including selling and developing partnerships, managing the teams who sell tickets and managing and setting the budget for both the soccer and the corporate sides of the club.

So when it came to deciding on whether or not it was the right time to pursue a Master of Business Administration degree, flexibility was important to Marlette. He was thrilled to learn Bellevue University offered its MBA program 100% online.

“Being able to knock out my assignments during the random hours I have available on my schedule is really the only way that I was going to be able to pursue another degree,” Marlette said. “My admissions counselor and adviser have been helpful from the beginning, making getting started at Bellevue University that much easier.”

Marlette is currently pursuing his degree through a partnership between Bellevue University and the United Soccer League. As the league’s Official Education Partner, Bellevue University awards scholarships to players and provides tuition assistance across the entire USL ecosystem to club and league employees, as well as family members of staff, coaches, and players.

“I think anybody who qualifies in the USL should be seriously exploring this educational opportunity with Bellevue University,” Marlette said. “This is a great partnership and a phenomenal opportunity for League employees, whether they are players or front office staff, to pursue a degree they otherwise might not have been able to obtain themselves.”

Marlette joined Union Omaha in 2020 after relocating to Omaha with his wife, Sarah, and their dog, Sydney. Before joining Union Omaha, he worked for Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas, where he served as a business development account manager.

In 2019, Marlette received his master’s degree in Sports Management from the prestigious AISTS program in Lausanne, Switzerland. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Policy and Law from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, where he was a 2009 NSCAA (National Soccer Coaches Association of America) All-American, a 2009 NSCAA All-Region, a 2009 All-Conference, and a 2010 Team Captain.

Marlette holds two certifications from Barca Innovation Hub in Spain, one in Revenue Generation and Fan Engagement and one in Online Strategy, Branding, and Communications. He also holds several licenses from the Professional Football Scouts Association in England.

Marlette’s list of accomplishments is no doubt impressive, but he’s excited to have the opportunity to add to the list and pursue his MBA. He hopes other employees in the League will consider doing the same if they are interested in pursuing a degree.

“The partnership with Bellevue University allows not only players to pursue a degree, but employees in the League's clubs to advance their education, expand their skill set, boost their resume, and become more informed, better prepared employees of the League and its clubs,” Marlette said.

Simply save the backgrounds (see below) that you like, and then upload them into Zoom via these steps:

• Click the gear in the upper right to access settings
• Select virtual background
• Add image
• Select the image

Zoom virtual backgrounds have a hardware requirement in order to function. When following the steps above, you may get a message that your computer doesn’t meet the requirements; you can still click through and try virtual backgrounds, but your performance may vary. If you move a lot during meetings – or if a kid or dog comes into the frame during your call — meeting participants will notice breaks in the background. For best results, a green screen and uniform lighting are recommended.

For Zoom assistance, visit this support page: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/210707503-Virtual-Background or contact Nathan Kraft.

Happy Zooming!

Kim Ruengert was nervous about going back to school after 20 years, but says it was one of the most rewarding decisions of her life. Now, as the Bellevue University 2021 Spring Commencement Student Speaker, she’s encouraging fellow graduates and guests to take a chance on change. Though most of us are comfortable where we are, taking on new things shows what we can be capable of, she says. Ruengert is an example of this herself, working as a medical professional during the pandemic, while also earning her Master of Health Administration (MHA).

Going Back to College

After graduating from high school, Ruengert earned her bachelor’s degree in biology, followed by a bachelor’s degree in medical technology. Since then, she’s worked in hospital laboratories, working her way up to her current position as a laboratory manager at Memorial Community Hospital and Health System in Blair, Neb. Still, she felt something was missing. Continuing her education was the answer -- more specifically, continuing her education at Bellevue University.

“I had been contemplating going back to school to further my education and enhance my career. The opportunity presented itself when my employer promoted its partnership with Bellevue University,” she said. “I went to their website to see what they had to offer. They had two different degree programs that would work with my work and life schedule; the timing was perfect, and I knew it was meant to be.”

Earning a Master’s Degree, Working in Healthcare During a Pandemic

Ruengert completed her master’s degree online. “My experience could not have gone any smoother!” she said. “I was able to correspond with my instructors and classmates easily. The instructors for the MHA program wanted the students to succeed and provided feedback, as necessary.”

In the midst of the pandemic, she was able to continue her program without skipping a beat.

“Earning my degree during the pandemic was a blessing in disguise,” Ruengert said. “Since all my classes were already online, the pandemic allowed me to focus more on my studies. Everything was closed, and staying home to do classwork was easier to prioritize.”

COVID-19 also brought Ruengert invaluable experiences in her professional life. “We had to revamp how we cared for patients, making sure everyone was kept safe,” she said. “At times it was stressful, and we worked tirelessly to provide the necessary care to patients. It was a dramatic and continuously changing environment. The facility that I work at did an exceptional job to address our community's needs and keep the organization functioning.”

Though balancing work and school was at times challenging, Ruengert said shuffling her focus for a short time was worth it.

“The program lasted only 18 months, and my family and friends understood that work and school were my priorities during that time. They were very supportive of my decision to go back to school,” she said. “It was a small sacrifice to concentrate on school for the ultimate goal of earning a master's degree.

Looking Forward to the Future

A master’s degree is just the beginning of Ruengert’s efforts to seek out new challenges, starting with speaking at commencement. Program Director Dr. Mike Freel nominated her for the role.

“It was completely unexpected and an honor to be considered for such a grand opportunity,” she said. “Public speaking is outside my comfort zone, but I couldn't let my fears hold me back.”

In addition to inspiring others with her speech, she’s spreading the word about the benefits of the Bellevue University MHA program.

“I have already recommended the MHA program to one of my peers,” she said. “The cohort program was very well structured and well-paced for anyone who is working full time, raising a family and advancing their education. The tuition cost is reasonable, and reimbursement through my organization’s partnership with the University minimizes the out-of-pocket cost for a degree.”

Ruengert is looking forward to how her master’s degree will help her continue on her current career path.

“I already hold a management position at my healthcare organization, and the MHA degree enhances my knowledge, skills and abilities so I can contribute more to administration,” she said.

With a little more time available after graduating and with pandemic restrictions eased, she’s also looking forward to getting back to bowling, knitting, camping, and riding her motorcycle.

Click here to view her student speaker speech from commencement.

Among the graduates was Kimberly Ruengert, student speaker, who earned a Master of Healthcare Administration degree. 

Reungert, a Nebraska native, currently serves as Laboratory Manager at Memorial Community Hospital and Health System in Blair, Nebraska. 

The commencement ceremony, which began at 9:30 a.m., also featured Michael Cassling, CEO of Cassling and previous Chairman of the Bellevue University Board of Directors, as the spring commencement speaker. In addition to his role with Cassling, Cassling is also CEO of CQuence Health Group, a collective of top healthcare organizations formed in 2011 to provide shared services and strategic direction for partner companies.

Five students also received their doctoral degrees in a separate hooding ceremony held at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, June 4, at the John B. Muller Administrative Services Building located on the campus of Bellevue University. During this ceremony, Bellevue University awarded Caren “Carey” Beardmore Hamilton with an honorary Doctor of Commerce Degree for her many years of contributions to the business community. 

According to University Registrar Colette Lewis, the University conferred 954 degrees from Jan. 1, 2021 through March 31, 2021. This includes 667 undergraduate degrees and 287 master’s degrees. Bellevue University now has more than 57,000 graduates worldwide.

The University streamed the commencement ceremony live so those who couldn’t attend would have an opportunity to see students receive their diplomas. Click here to watch the spring commencement ceremony.

Between working two jobs and earning a bachelor’s degree with a double major, Jesse Ceballos doesn’t have a lot of spare time. However, he commits fully to everything he does, which recently earned him the honor of Bellevue University Student Employee of the Year.

 “Juggling two jobs, being a full-time student and tending to all other family and personal obligations has been an extremely challenging task,” he said. “I like to think that I am a person who fully commits to everything I do, so I had to learn how to manage my time and prioritize tasks even when everything was important to me.”

Ceballos, a first-generation college student who works in the University’s Scholarships & Grants Department, graduates this June with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Communication Studies with an emphasis in Mass Media.

“Luckily, I also had a great support system that helped me get through some hardships, encouraged me to keep going, and believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself.”

A Journey Full of Challenges, Rewards

Ceballos’s parents are originally from Mexico and moved to the United States seeking a better life. They were only able to complete the equivalent of an elementary-level education.

“They really stressed the importance of education as I grew up; however, It was not until now that I learned to value education, which makes this degree very important and special to me,” said Ceballos.

Being a first-generation college student was hard at first. “I was excited but scared to go to college. I had to learn the ropes by myself and did not have anyone in my family to turn to for help as I navigated the confusing roads of college admissions,” he said. “Although it was no easy task, I am proud of the experiences I have gone through and am pleased to break the cycle by being the first in my family to graduate with a bachelor's degree.”

Ceballos said the faculty and staff at Bellevue University played a large part in helping him face the challenges of earning a degree. ”Everyone I worked with and encountered was very supportive and was always willing to lend a hand. I can honestly say that I would not be who I am today without all the knowledge and wisdom I have taken from everyone I met during my time at Bellevue University.”

With two quite different majors, Ceballos took a combination of online and in-person courses. “This whole college experience has been great and rewarding,” he said. “It is difficult to pinpoint my favorite experience; however, I have very much enjoyed getting to work with many instructors and staff members that helped me grow academically and professionally, and have become mentor figures in my life.”

The Scholarship Experience Comes Full Circle

Ceballos chose Bellevue University because it was a smaller school that was close to home. That wasn’t the only factor, however. “Most importantly, I was offered multiple scholarships that would completely cover the cost of my degree,” he said.

Little did he know that by the time he graduated, he’d be helping students like himself who needed help covering the cost of a college degree. In his student employee role, he worked on a variety of tasks related to scholarships and grants, including handling all communications with external scholarship providers, researching opportunities and listing them online. He also helped match students with the right scholarships.

“One of my favorite tasks was executing multiple thank-you campaigns for the scholarship reviewers,” he said. “I very much enjoyed being part of a wonderful, supportive team, and as a scholarship student myself, I enjoyed learning about the work that goes on behind-the-scenes.”

Looking Toward the Future

Ceballos hasn’t decided exactly what his career path will look like, but with a broad education base, he will have many options.

“There are so many things I am interested in and would like to do that it is impossible for me just to pick one,” he said.

He’s interested in helping younger students reach their potential or working at a non-profit, as well as exploring public relations and social media marketing.

“I have also set a goal for myself to pursue a graduate degree, so that will also be in the works. No matter what path I take, I know I want to help others and strengthen my community.”

Like so many other people in the armed services, Bellevue University's Military Veteran Services Center Manager Heather Carroll felt that enlisting was like going into the family business.

"My dad was a Marine, my grandfather [on her mom's side] was a Marine, my dad's grandpa was in the Army, so you could say that it was in my blood," Carroll said. When it came time for her to join, the process took the first of many unexpected turns.

"Initially I thought about going into the Navy," Carroll said. "When I went in, the recruiter was on the phone with his girlfriend so I decided to walk next door and chat with the Air Force rep." By the time she got through talking to the recruiter, she was sold.

Carroll arrived at basic training with a guaranteed job as an air traffic controller. However, after an unfortunate accident on an obstacle course led to a torn meniscus in her knee, she had to pivot once more, this time to a position as a medic.

Carroll was responsible for onboarding and off-boarding wounded soldiers and civilians, making sure they were stabilized before sending them home or back out into the field.

"When I joined initially, it was just supposed to be for four years," Carroll said. "But I loved it so much that I ended up staying for 20."

When she retired from the service, Carroll believed she would continue to put her medical skills to good use by becoming a nurse, but years of hard work as a medic had taken their toll, making it hard for her to stand for long periods of time. That didn't stop her from wanting to help veterans heal, so she pivoted to psychology classes at Bellevue University. After splitting time between school and working for the university, Carroll took over as the Manager of the university's Military Veteran Services Center in 2019.

"Really anything veteran-related, we'll do," she said. "And if we don't do something right now, we'll look to connect veterans with someone who can help them."

The center handles everything from job placement to finding mental health services to ensuring that the military and military-adjacent student body — nearly 20 percent of Bellevue University's overall enrollment — are getting every benefit they are entitled to.

"They might come in with a laundry list of things and it's our job to give them the resources to help them achieve whatever they need," Carroll said.

It all takes place at the 6,000 square-foot freestanding center located at the western corner of the campus.

"It's a one-stop-shop so that they don't need to run all over town," Carroll said. "So far, we've been able to help over 5,000 veterans and that's why Bellevue University sets the standard when it comes to helping out veterans." And both Carroll and the Military Veteran Services Center are continuing to grow.

Carroll recently started her master's degree in industrial and organizational psychology.

"It takes a top-down look at an organization to see how people are working together," she said. "It ensures that everyone is in the type of situation where they work best."

In addition to helping those that walk through the door, Carroll is looking to bring a wider awareness of mental healthcare to campus.

To do so, Bellevue University is partnering with Region 6 Behavioral Healthcare — a Nebraska-based mental health organization — to offer mental health first aid classes to their staff and students.

The training, which involves two hours of online modules and five hours of in-class work, helps the participants recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health issues, de-escalate situations with people experiencing those symptoms, and connect them with the next level of care that they are going to need.

Ideally, Carroll hopes to offer the class to 10 new people each month until the entire community has undergone the training.

"I want everyone to be able to recognize this stuff in co-workers, friends, and family. It's just a great tool to help reduce the suicide rate," Carroll said. "If we can recognize these signs in behavior it will do wonders for our community. I think the sky's the limit!"

Our Military Veteran Services Center (MVSC) on Bellevue University’s main campus is dedicated to the Military and Veteran community with services and support offered both locally and globally. Visit us at the MVSC building on campus, or contact us at 1.866.676.3614 or mvsc@bellevue.edu to learn about the many services offered.

By visiting our page on Share Omaha, you can help support students by giving to the Bellevue University Foundation. Funds raised during Do Good Week will help fund scholarship opportunities. Use the optional donation code: DOGOODWEEK to indicate you are participating in this community event.

You can also support our residential students by purchasing some of the most requested items from our Amazon Wish List.

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