The University of Nebraska systems have partnered together in the search for a permanent chancellor to serve at UNK in replacement of former Chancellor Douglas Kristensen. Charles Bicak is serving as interim chancellor, while David Jackson, interim vice president and provost for the University of Nebraska, is gathering a committee of students and staff to begin the search.
Chancellor Kristensen led UNK for 22 years.
“Chancellor Kristensen is a one-of-a-kind man who left big shoes to fill,” said Melissa Lee, a UNL spokesperson. “You don’t get that kind of leadership every day.”
Kristensen began his role in the UNK chancellor position in July 2002. He was the longest-serving chancellor in the history of the University of Nebraska, as well as the longest-served leader of all colleges and universities in the state. In April of 2023, he notified the university system president, Charles Gold, of his plans to retire.
Bicak was hired in June to fill the role of interim chancellor. He was approached in April with the idea.
“I felt obligated to accept this role because of how good this university has been to me over the years, while also having the desire to do the best I can on behalf of UNK,” Bicak said.
In the past four months of Bicak serving as interim chancellor, he has continued initiatives he was previously involved in, such as focusing on the expansion of the UNMC presence with the construction of the second building and creating relationships with the healthcare system through UNK in the future.
Jackson chairs the search. On Oct. 4, the search committee met for the first time to create a plan on finding a permanent chancellor. The first task is to set up listening sessions with students, faculty and staff to understand the qualities, skills and tools necessary for this university system.
“We’re looking for someone who will build the next chapter for UNK through creating opportunities for students in rural Nebraska,” Lee said.
After the listening sessions, the committee will develop a job description to nominate and vet candidates. While there is no set timeline on when the permanent chancellor role will be filled, Lee asks for patience from students as Bicak will continue with the stability of this university.
“My hope is that the university finds a chancellor who leads in an empathetic fashion with a sense of determination, clear vision, high innate intelligence and good nature,” Charles Bicak said. “Until then, I will focus on the four key pillars (academic quality, access and success for all students, quality faculty and staff, and wise use of resources) of what UNK is built on.”
Students will be able to get involved with the listening sessions. Lee asked students to check their email in the coming weeks for more information on how to share their voices.
“Student voice is the most important thing in this process,” Melissa Lee said. “We value your opinions and assure you that every submission will be listened to.”
