UNMC Launches Search for New Chancellor: What It Means for Omaha Families

UNMC Embarks on Transformative Search for New Chancellor

The University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) has officially initiated its search for a new chancellor, and the process is being led with deliberate care. This search comes amidst ongoing changes and challenges in the university’s environment, particularly concerning its partnership with Nebraska Medicine.

The Significance of Leadership in Healthcare Education

Dr. Dele Davies has been serving as the interim chancellor for over a year following the promotion of Dr. Jeffrey Gold to university president. In a recent statement, Gold emphasized the importance of the upcoming selection, noting, "UNMC is a cornerstone of health care for our state, and its next leader must be deeply committed to advancing excellence in research, education, and patient care for the benefit of Nebraska and beyond." Given the chancellor's pivotal role in the integration of healthcare and education, the commitment to find the right leader reflects an understanding of the significant impact that UNMC has on local and broader health systems.

Community Involvement in the Search Process

The search committee comprises representatives from UNMC, Nebraska Medicine, other NU campuses, and community members, ensuring that a diverse range of voices will contribute to this important decision. Under the coordination of Interim NU Executive Vice President and Provost David Jackson, the committee is expected to first conduct an internal search to identify qualified candidates from within the university system before potentially broadening the search nationally. This inclusive approach aims to refine the selection process and ensures that community needs and perspectives are prioritized.

A New Era for UNMC: Expectations and Challenges

With the goal of appointing a permanent chancellor by year’s end, the future leader will need to address current challenges, including recent turmoil with Nebraska Medicine, which recently faced legal and financial obstacles. The university's decision to invest $800 million to buy out Clarkson Regional Health Services’ stake in Nebraska Medicine highlights both the commitment to strengthen this partnership and the underlying complexity of healthcare leadership.

Engaging the Public in the Vetting Process

Once a primary candidate is identified, they will be subjected to a 30-day public vetting period, engaging directly with students, faculty, staff, and the Omaha community. This phase allows for crucial dialogue that ensures transparency and fosters trust with the community that the new chancellor will serve.

Looking to the Future: The Role of the Chancellor

As community members—including homeowners, renters, and local entrepreneurs—wait for updates in the search process, it’s vital to reflect on what qualities the next chancellor should embody. Leading educational and research initiatives during a tumultuous time calls for a visionary leader who can navigate the complexities of healthcare and higher education while maintaining a strong connection with the Omaha community.

Conclusion: A Call for Community Engagement

As UNMC moves forward in identifying its next chancellor, it presents an opportunity for local stakeholders to engage. Community perspectives are invaluable in shaping a future that aligns with the needs of Omaha families and the surrounding areas. The selection of the next chancellor will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of healthcare education and services for years to come.