Recipient Stories

Zoe graduated from the University of Nebraska Omaha in Summer 2024 with a degree in Multidisciplinary Studies. A dedicated student-athlete, she competed in cross country and track for four years, achieving the 5th fastest steeplechase time in UNO history during her junior year. Beginning as a walk-on, she earned her first scholarship that same year through hard work and perseverance.

Hannah studied Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Nebraska Omaha from Fall 2012 through Summer 2016 and was readmitted for Spring 2023. With 24 credits left to complete, she was working toward finishing her degree while currently living in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she works for a construction company.

Lamel was a Multidisciplinary Studies major at the University of Nebraska Omaha who first enrolled in Summer 2019. Having completed 94 credits, he had 14 credits to finish to graduate in Spring 2023 and 12 credits in Summer 2023. Based in Omaha, Nebraska, he is interested in pursuing a career as an EMT and is within the window to contribute to APR and GSR metrics.

Brahan is a first-generation college student who attended the University of Nebraska Omaha from Fall 2017 through Spring 2018, majoring in Multidisciplinary Studies. He had 9 credits left to complete at UNO. Currently based in Atlanta, Georgia, he is working in consulting and sales.

Mikhail is an international student from Gelendzhik, Russia, studying Cybersecurity with a minor in Computer Science at the University of Nebraska Omaha. He began his studies in Spring 2022 and has 30 credits remaining, with plans to graduate in Fall 2025. With an estimated $36,000 needed to complete his degree, Mikhail looks forward to pursuing a career as a Security Analyst.

Reagan is a first-generation college student from Houston, Texas, pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering at the University of Nebraska Omaha. She began her studies in Fall 2021 and, with only 13 credits remaining, is set to complete her degree and graduate in Fall 2025 with NGF support.

Arnezha is an international student from Warwick, Bermuda, and a first-generation college student. He began his studies at the University of Nebraska Omaha in Fall 2021, pursuing a degree in Multidisciplinary Studies. With only 15–18 credits remaining, he is on track to complete his undergraduate degree and graduate in Summer or Fall 2025 with NGF support.

Former UNO football star whose life took a challenging turn after a stroke. The NGF arrived with help
“My stroke has been life-changing; tasks that were once taken for granted are now obstacles. Basic life skills like walking, seeing, and using my dominant hand are now challenges. Sports taught me to persevere and compete; I continue to persevere and compete to get better daily, The Nebraska Greats have made daily challenges safer and easier. Thank you!” – Peter Coniglio

Rocco Gonnella, from Syracuse, NY is struggling from the effects of end-of-life issues including dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, and diabetes in addition to treatable but not curable throat cancer. He needs around the clock nursing care, transportation, and medication. The NGF grant will supplement his Medicare Benefits.

The NGF assisted Morse with prescription medication to address his diabetes that was not covered by his insurance.

Standout performer for the UNO Mavericks of 1984 that finished #2 in the nation. He also served in the US Navy as a fighter pilot until Pancreatic Cancer claimed him at the age of 55. The NGF supported Kiehn in his valiant fight.

One time NCAA record holder for receiving yards in a season, he was a 2 time All American for the Mavs. Finished with 152 career catches and 26 touchdowns. Played three seasons in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills and the Cleveland Browns. He passed away from complications from Cancer. The NGF supported his care in the last year of his life.