The University of Nebraska–Lincoln hosted its annual Celebration of Service on Oct. 3, honoring nearly 900 employees who achieved five-year service milestones. The event, held at the Coliseum, reflected the university’s deep appreciation for the dedication of its faculty and staff.
"Regardless of whether you are celebrating your fifth year or sixth decade, your work matters to our students and to countless communities," said Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett during his recorded remarks. "Thank you for your tireless dedication to advancing the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's comprehensive, land-grant mission. And congratulations to each of you on achieving this significant milestone."
A highlight of the ceremony was the individual recognition of 15 remarkable Huskers who have contributed 45, 50, or even 60 years of service. These long-serving employees stood as symbols of enduring commitment to the university’s mission and student success.
The honorees included:
- 60 years — Bing Chen, electrical and computer engineering; Jerald Varner, electrical and computer engineering;
- 50 years — David Aikens, agricultural economics; David Boxler, Nebraska Extension; Carl Carlson, Nebraska Extension; Harvey Perlman, law; Donald Puckett, custodial services;
- 45 years — Barbara Berg, Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture; Susan Budler, landscape services; Karen Griffin, Office of the Chancellor; Raymond Hames, global integrative studies; Dean Krull, agronomy and horticulture; Larita Lang, computing; Joan Sampson, payroll services; and Rosalee Swartz, agricultural economics.
Emcee Rick Alloway, associate professor of broadcasting, guided the event as emcee, introducing each cohort with engaging historical reflections tied to their year of hire — bringing context, warmth and humor to the celebration.
More information about the Service Awards, including a complete list of honorees, is available here.
University Communication and Marketing also featured three employees ahead of the ceremony. Read about the impactful work of Carrie Herbel, Jamie Kabourek and Mark Vrtiska here.
Bing Chen waves to the crowd after receiving a standing ovation for serving 60 years with the university. Chen teaches electrical and computer engineering.Liz McCue | University Communication and Marketing
Staff and faculty celebrating employment anniversaries get barbecue sandwiches, chips and treats from the buffet line during the Celebration of Service on Oct. 3.
Susan Budler poses for a photo with Ben Lennander after receiving a plaque recognizing her 45 years of service to the university. Budler is operations manager for landscape services.
Larita Lang poses with Ben Lennander after receiving a vase recognizing her 45 years of service to the university. Lang is admin coordinator for the School of Computing.
Dave Aiken poses for a portrait with Ben Lennander. Aiken was recognized during the Celebration of Service for 50 years with the university. He is a professor of agricultural economics.
Donald Puckett poses for a photo with Ben Lennander after receiving a plaque celebrating his 50 years of service with the university. Throughout that time, Puckett has been a member of the custodial services team.
Bing Chen shakes hands with Ben Lennander during the Celebration of Service. Chen was recognized for 60 years with the university, as a professor of electrical and computer engineering.
Staff and faculty enjoy lunch in the Coliseum during the Celebration of Service event on Oct. 3.
