October 27, 2025

University of Nebraska Omaha Renames College of Business

Omaha, October 27, 2025

The University of Nebraska Omaha has renamed its College of Business in honor of a significant $10 million donation from alumni Thomas and Joyce Moorehead. This transformative gift aims to enhance scholarships, recruit new faculty, and establish an entrepreneurship center for student development. The naming ceremony was attended by over 500 students and faculty, highlighting the couple’s influence on the local entrepreneurial landscape. This initiative reinforces UNO’s strategic vision to strengthen its business and STEM programs, benefiting both students and the broader Omaha economy.

Omaha, NE – University of Nebraska Omaha Renames College of Business Following Landmark $10 Million Donation

Omaha, NE – In a transformative moment for higher education, the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) renamed its College of Business today in recognition of a substantial $10 million donation from alumni donors Thomas and Joyce Moorehead. The gift will directly support scholarships for students, the hiring of new faculty members, and the establishment of a dedicated entrepreneurship center aimed at fostering innovative business ideas. This development underscores UNO’s growing emphasis on business education and positions the institution as a key player in regional economic development.

The announcement took place during a well-attended campus ceremony, where UNO Chancellor Jennifer Standley described the donors as influential figures in the community. More than 500 students and faculty members gathered to witness the event, which highlighted the couple’s long-standing ties to Omaha’s entrepreneurial scene. Thomas and Joyce Moorehead, both successful local business owners, have demonstrated a strong dedication to equipping future professionals with the tools to tackle modern business obstacles.

Details of the Donation and Its Immediate Impact

The $10 million pledge marks a significant boost to UNO’s academic offerings. Funds allocated for scholarships will ease financial burdens for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in business-related fields, potentially increasing access to higher education for diverse applicants. The hiring of additional faculty will allow for smaller class sizes and more specialized courses, enhancing the quality of instruction across programs.

Central to the donation is the creation of the new entrepreneurship center, which will serve as a hub for students to develop startups, access mentorship, and collaborate on real-world projects. This facility is expected to integrate with existing business curricula, blending practical experience with theoretical learning. Planning for the center includes modern resources like incubation spaces and networking opportunities with industry partners.

The renaming of the college to honor the Mooreheads reflects their enduring contributions to UNO and the broader Omaha area. This gesture not only acknowledges their philanthropy but also inspires ongoing support from other alumni and donors. The ceremony featured formal proceedings, including the unveiling of new signage and discussions on the center’s future role in student success.

Broader Context and Community Response

This donation arrives on the heels of UNO’s most successful fundraising period to date, which has elevated the university’s standing among Midwest institutions. The influx of resources aligns seamlessly with UNO’s multi-year strategic plan, which prioritizes advancements in STEM and business programs. By bolstering these areas, UNO aims to address workforce demands in Nebraska and beyond, preparing graduates for careers in a competitive global market.

Students expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities ahead, pointing to improved career prospects and hands-on learning experiences that the donation will enable. Local business leaders have welcomed the initiative, forecasting positive ripple effects for Omaha’s economy through increased innovation and job creation. The center’s focus on entrepreneurship could lead to new ventures originating from campus, strengthening ties between academia and the private sector.

Future Plans and Regional Implications

Groundbreaking for the expanded facilities associated with the entrepreneurship center is slated for next spring, with completion targeted to coincide with the academic year. Community organizations are already exploring potential partnerships that could amplify the center’s reach, such as joint workshops and funding programs for emerging businesses. These collaborations promise to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem for startups in Omaha, drawing talent and investment to the region.

The Mooreheads’ involvement extends their legacy of community service, which has previously included support for educational and civic causes. Their donation serves as a model for how private philanthropy can drive public good, particularly in underserved areas of business education. As UNO moves forward, this gift will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of countless students, fostering a new wave of leaders equipped to navigate economic challenges.

Overall, the renaming and the accompanying investments represent a pivotal chapter for UNO. By channeling resources into scholarships, faculty development, and innovative facilities, the university is not only honoring its benefactors but also investing in the long-term vitality of Omaha and Nebraska. This event highlights the power of alumni engagement in elevating educational institutions to new heights of excellence and impact.

In summary, the $10 million commitment from Thomas and Joyce Moorehead will fund essential enhancements to UNO’s College of Business, including student support and a cutting-edge entrepreneurship center. The campus ceremony marked the official renaming, attended by a large crowd of stakeholders. Following a banner year in fundraising, this gift reinforces UNO’s strategic goals in business and STEM education. Local reactions emphasize the anticipated economic benefits, with construction set to begin soon. Through these efforts, UNO solidifies its role as a catalyst for innovation in the Midwest, ensuring its programs remain responsive to evolving industry needs.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the $10 million donation to the University of Nebraska Omaha?

The $10 million donation from alumni donors Thomas and Joyce Moorehead will fund scholarships for students, the hiring of new faculty members, and the establishment of a dedicated entrepreneurship center.

Who are Thomas and Joyce Moorehead?

Thomas and Joyce Moorehead are successful Omaha entrepreneurs and alumni donors who have demonstrated a strong dedication to equipping future professionals with tools to tackle modern business obstacles.

What was the setting of the renaming ceremony at UNO?

The renaming ceremony took place during a campus event attended by over 500 students and faculty, where UNO Chancellor Jennifer Standley described the donors as influential figures in the community.

How does this donation fit into UNO’s broader goals?

This donation arrives on the heels of UNO’s most successful fundraising period to date, which has elevated the university’s standing among Midwest institutions, and aligns with UNO’s multi-year strategic plan that prioritizes advancements in STEM and business programs.

What are the future plans for the entrepreneurship center?

Groundbreaking for the expanded facilities associated with the entrepreneurship center is slated for next spring, with community organizations exploring potential partnerships to amplify its reach.

Key Features of the Donation

Feature	Description
Donation Amount	$10 million from Thomas and Joyce Moorehead
Scholarships	Funding to support student financial needs in business programs
Faculty Hires	Resources for recruiting new educators to enhance teaching quality
Entrepreneurship Center	New facility for startup development, mentorship, and industry collaboration
Strategic Alignment	Supports UNO’s focus on STEM and business program advancements
Timeline	Groundbreaking next spring; follows record fundraising year