University of Nebraska Release
The search for the next University of Nebraska at Kearney chancellor is advancing, with officials reviewing applications and preparing for candidate interviews.
A national search, led by a 17-member search committee and supported by the executive search firm CarterBaldwin, is entering the interview phase, with candidates expected to meet with the search team in March. A priority candidate will be named afterward, followed by a 30-day public vetting period as required by state law. This timing is structured to have the new chancellor in place before the start of the fall 2025 semester in August.
As the process moves forward, university leaders are encouraged by the quality of applicants.
“The search has yielded an exceptionally strong pool of candidates, and we have been impressed with the level of interest in this opportunity,” said University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “We are pleased with the depth of experience demonstrated by the applicants. UNK is in a position of strength, and I am confident we will identify a leader well-prepared to guide UNK into the future.”
The priority deadline for applications was Jan. 31, but submissions will continue to be accepted until a new chancellor is appointed. The names of all candidates remain confidential, and no public interviews will be held. During the public review period, UNK students, faculty, staff, and community members will have opportunities to engage with the priority candidate and provide feedback before the University of Nebraska Board of Regents votes on the appointment.
The next chancellor will succeed Doug Kristensen, who retired in 2024 after serving in the role for 22 years. Charlie Bicak, a longtime educator and UNK alum, has served as interim chancellor since June 2024.
The search committee, convened by David Jackson, interim executive vice president and provost of the University of Nebraska System, includes representatives from across the university, including chancellors from the other NU campuses.
“We are committed to finding a leader who understands UNK’s strengths and opportunities,” Jackson said. “This is an exciting time for the university. We’re looking for someone who can lead with vision, foster innovation and strengthen UNK’s impact.”