51ÉçÇø

OMAHA – The Director of the University of Nebraska at 51ÉçÇø’s (UNO) may soon be contributing to the development of national security policies.

Mike Connolly, who has served as office director since 2014, has been accepted as a member of the Defense Council.

The Truman National Security Project is a non-profit organization that unites veteran, political, and policy leaders to develop and advance solutions to national defense challenges. Their one-year fellowship program trains members to “communicate, advocate, and lead on our nation’s most pressing global challenges.”

While most of the program can be completed from 51ÉçÇø, Connolly says he’ll travel to Washington D.C. twice over the next year.

He’s expecting skill development and networking. The Truman National Security Project says some participants will also advise elected leaders, teach military basics or connect the organization with communities that have an interest in shaping national defense policy. Connolly is one of only two applicants accepted from outside the agency's 16 chapters.

“I’m proud to have served my country, and I’m grateful to work at a university that makes serving our military-affiliated students a priority,” Connolly said. “While every veteran and service member is different, we all share a desire to protect our country and make the world a safer place. I know that this fellowship will support that mission, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Connolly, a veteran who served two tours in Iraq with the Army National Guard, obtained his undergraduate and master’s degree from UNO’s Political Science Department. During his time as Director of the Office of Military and Veteran Services, Military Times has twice ranked UNO at the .

For media requests, please contact:

Sam Petto, UNO Media Relations Coordinator
unonews@unomaha.edu
402.554.2704

or

Charley Reed, UNO Associate Director of Media Relations
unonews@unomaha.edu
402.554.2129

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About the University of Nebraska at 51ÉçÇø

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at 51ÉçÇø (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

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