Buckle has created a new scholarship and career
development program at the University of
Nebraska at Kearney.
A permanent endowment in the name of Buckle has been established
with a $150,000 gift to the University of Nebraska Foundation to provide annual
scholarship awards for students interested in careers related to computer
science or information technology.
Each year, two $3,000 scholarships will be awarded to students
in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems who meet certain
academic requirements. A scholarship will be awarded every year to an incoming
freshman, and a second scholarship will be awarded during the student's
sophomore year based on academic achievement.
John La Duke, dean of the College of Natural and Social
Sciences, expressed appreciation to Buckle's management and IT professionals
for supporting students.
"Our Department of Computer Science and Information Systems
faculty work very hard to not only train but also mentor students to be
professionals," La Duke said. "Buckle's interest in helping our students excel
is admirable, and we look forward to strengthening this interaction."
La Duke also lauded the company for starting a student
internship program and for hiring numerous computer science and information
systems graduates over the years. Buckle also offers its employees for
classroom presentations and gives students opportunities to visit the company's
headquarters and operations.
Dennis Nelson, president of Buckle, said, "Buckle recognizes
the importance of establishing a strong technical workforce in Nebraska. By
supporting the computer science program at UNK, Buckle hopes to encourage and
support the growth of that workforce and the development of future IT
professionals. Buckle's IT teams provide innovative solutions that impact all
functions of our business. So, naturally, we're excited to support the growth
and development of computer science students and strengthen our relationship
with UNK going forward."
The company is also involved with UNK's Computer Science and
Information Systems Advisory Council, which provides leadership and advice to
the department related to programs and student needs.
The endowment created by the company supports the
university's current fundraising initiative, the Campaign for Nebraska:
Unlimited Possibilities, and its goal to raise $50 million for UNK needs.
Increasing available student scholarships is a top campaign priority for the
university.
Courtesy- Campaign for Nebraska
