On March 28, 1977, The Gateway reported that both a new University Library book return drop box and a campus fire hydrant were found missing and presumed stolen from the UNO campus. The book return, valued at around $200, was one of four being tested for use on campus. Because of this supposed theft, the decision was made to sink drop boxes in concrete, as they were used frequently enough to warrant permanent installation. As for the hydrant, no value was reported. However, Mike Kallman, director of plant operations, suggested a possible use for the stolen item. He was quoted as saying: "I hear some people think it's cute to get them chrome plated and put them in their living room."

Date: March 28, 1977
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On May 14, 1971, The Gateway reported that Greg Knudsen, UNO Student Senate vice president, was to travel to Yugoslavia during the summer. A double major in speech and broadcasting and political science, Knudsen planned to stay with a host family for four weeks and submerge himself in the culture of Yugoslavia. Although one member of his host family spoke English, Knudsen was expected to know enough Serbo-Croatian to communicate with locals. Expenses for this trip were paid for by The Experiment in International Living. In turn, Knudsen agreed to speak about his experiences to Omaha-area organizations and schools.

Date: May 14, 1971
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On April 2, 1993, The Gateway reported on the success of the recent UNO Conference for Romance Writers and Readers. Event organizer Mary Macchietto, a university program development specialist, had the idea for the conference following a similar event she had attended for Mystery aficionados. According to Macchietto, many fans of romantic fiction felt that they were looked down upon by the rest of the literary world, and the UNO conference studied this genre from a scholarly point of view. The conference keynote speaker was best-selling romance author Jill Marie Landis.

Date: April 2, 1993
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

Chemistry 101. In 1956, two students conduct experiments in the ASH Chemistry Laboratory

The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Jan. 6, 1967, The Gateway reported that Municipal University of Omaha physics instructor Charles Sedlacek had been invited to participate in the Iowa Visiting Scientist Program at the University of Iowa. This program offered high school students the opportunity to attend lectures and demonstrations about science, as well as take part in discussions about potential science careers. Sedlacek said he looked forward to the program and was excited to experience science education at the high school level.

Date: Jan. 6, 1967
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Jan. 8, 1943, The Gateway reported that the University of Omaha Art Department had purchased a lithograph press. The lithograph could imprint designs, words and pictures onto metal. Art department head Berthe Koch hoped the new press would help the university train lithographers for war needs. Although the press was more than 50 years old, Koch told The Gateway it was in excellent condition.

Date: Jan. 8, 1943
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Jan. 15, 1960, The Gateway reported that effective Feb. 1, the Douglas County welfare director was to become an Omaha University (OU) associate professor of sociology. Phillip H. Vogt, who had taught in the OU College of Adult Education before the war, was excited about his new job and had worked extensively with members of the department of sociology through the years.

Date: Jan. 15, 1960
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Jan. 26, 1972, The Gateway announced that Norman E. Borlaug, the recipient of the 1970 Nobel Peace Prize, was scheduled to speak at UNO in early February. Dr. Borlaug was honored for his research examining what types of wheat could help eliminate world hunger. His presentation, titled "Problems of Population - Food, Production, Ecology," was free and open to the public.

Date: Jan. 26, 1972
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Feb. 6, 1974, The Gateway published an article on the Free University program. Through this program, UNO students could sign up for a number of free, on-campus courses that were not traditionally offered, including Magic and Witchcraft, Human Sexuality, Principles of Flight and Auto Mechanics for the Liberated Woman. Steve Seline from the UNO Academic Resources Center said Free University was an entirely flexible program whose philosophy was to "benefit the student."

Date: Feb. 6, 1974
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Feb. 4, 1972, The Gateway reported that many federal work study students who had surpassed their maximum number of allotted hours would soon be dropped from the program due to a lack of federal funding. According to Don Roddy, director of UNO Financial Aid, "students working during Christmas vacation depleted our budget for this academic year."

Date: Feb. 4, 1972
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives Date:

On Feb. 16, 1983, The Gateway announced that the UNO Women's Resource Center (WRC) was offering a series of free seminars and discussion groups on self-esteem and assertiveness that semester in the student center. In addition to occasional seminars, the center maintained a library of information about women's issues and offered private counseling to those in need. WRC assistant director Rachel Powers described the center as "a port in the storm," a place where both men and women could go to "take refuge from campus lines and crowds."

Date: Feb. 6, 1983
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Feb. 27, 1974, The Gateway announced that the Feminist Symposium would begin that morning in the student center with speeches by former Democratic National Committee Chair Jean Westwood and Texas Congressperson Sissy Farenthold. Westwood was scheduled to speak on "Feminist Politics" and Farenthold on "The Role of Men in Society." The symposium, which continued through March 4, was sponsored by the UNO Student Programming Organization.

Date: Feb. 27, 1974
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On March 5, 1991, The Gateway interviewed Psychiatrist Todd Hendrickson of the University of Nebraska Medical Center about the effects of the Gulf War on the home front. Dr. Hendrickson believed that, although the war was mostly over, people at home needed to vent the anxiety that they had suffered during the conflict. The last thing people should do was not talk about the conflict. According to Dr. Hendrickson, people should keep themselves busy, "rally together and support the cause, and stick with the troops. "

Date: March 5, 1991
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

A four-day "charm school" was organized and presented by the Women's Athletic Association March 17-20 on campus. For 1936 University of Omaha coeds only, a series of lectures and question-and-answer sessions dominated the first three days. Topics discussed included the history and proper usage of makeup and hairstyling, proper poise and posture, the art of hostessing and women in the field of business. On the fourth day, a style show was presented to the university community for an admission fee of 10 cents. This presentation included clothing modeling, talent demonstrations and musical selections.

Date: March 17, 1936
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

In March of 1968, The Gateway reported that it had received several comments from students complaining about the noise level in the Eugene C. Eppley Library. Some students complained that the library was far too loud and that silence should be demanded. According to then head librarian Ellen Lord, the library was "not quiet enough" but "should not be a tomb." She assured The Gateway that there were quiet spaces within the library, as well as areas like the East Reading Room, where students could study together and discuss issues.

Date: March 22, 1968
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On March 28, 1977, The Gateway reported that both a new University Library book return drop box and a campus fire hydrant were found missing and presumed stolen from the UNO campus. The book return, valued at around $200, was one of four being tested for use on campus. Because of this supposed theft, the decision was made to sink drop boxes in concrete, as they were used frequently enough to warrant permanent installation. As for the hydrant, no value was reported. However, Mike Kallman, director of plant operations, suggested a possible use for the stolen item. He was quoted as saying: "I hear some people think it's cute to get them chrome plated and put them in their living room."

Date: March 28, 1977
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On July 13, 1984, The Gateway reported that UNO students David Dechant and John Hicks co-wrote a play entitled "The Unlikely Undertaking." The play had recently been published by the Chicago-based Dramatic Publishing Company, the second largest publisher of theatrical materials. A funeral home serves as the play's setting, and the action begins when the owner, who wishes to impress an influential visitor, cremates the wrong body.

Date: July 13, 1984
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On April 14, 1972, The Gateway reported that Joseph F. Brooks, national minister for economic planning and development for the black separatist Republic of New Africa, would be speaking at UNO April 18. As reported in The Gateway, the Republic of New Africa was founded in Detroit, and its members believed that "land should be acquired for black people to create a nation." The lecture was sponsored by the Black Liberators for Action on Campus.

Date: April 14, 1972 Source: The Gateway Compiled by University Library Archives

On April 14, 1971, The Gateway reported that the Kinks had cancelled their April 17 Omaha Civic Auditorium rock concert due to the illness of lead singer Rick Davies. The UNO Student Activities Association, sponsor of the event, planned to bill the Kinks for expenses incurred promoting the concert. It was hoped that with the money saved from the Kinks cancellation another concert could be organized in the near future, perhaps highlighting Van Morrison or Kool & the Gang.

Date: April 14, 1971
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On April 30, 1982, The Gateway reported on the success of "Freebody", a 145-pound concrete canoe constructed by UNO engineering students to compete in the 8th annual concrete canoe race held in Manhattan, KS. Eleven other schools took part in the competition, including the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. "Freebody" came in first in the women's and sixth in the men's competitions. The concrete canoe races were sponsored by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Date: April 30, 1982
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On April 25, 1980, The Gateway reported on UNO Earth Day '80 activities. Displays in the Milo Bail Student Center included those prepared by the Nebraska Solar Office, the UNO Passive Solar Research Group, the Sierra Club and the Audubon Society. The event also included several speakers concerned with conservation and alternative energy sources. UNO Earth Day '80 festivities were just some of many held throughout the nation to advertise "the continuing need for organized efforts to improve the environmental quality of this planet and enhance its natural resources."

Date: April 25, 1980
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

In mid-May of 1967, Harry Reynolds, director of the University of Omaha Urban Studies Center, attended a two-day conference in Cleveland, Ohio. The meeting was devoted to the study of urban violence and was sponsored by the Ford Foundation and the American Political Science Association. Participants in the conference included 30 scholars of American urban administration and politics.

Date: May 20, 1967
Source: Faculty Staff Bulletin
Compiled by University Library Archives

On May 24, 1974, "topping out" ceremonies were held for a new classroom office building, now known as Roskens Hall. For several days prior to the event, the final steel beam in the building's construction had been placed on a walkway near the structure. The beam had been painted white, and felt tip pens were available for those who wished write a message or sign their names. Following brief remarks by UNO Chancellor Ronald Roskens, the beam was hoisted to the top of the framework of the building and set into place. The master of ceremonies for this event was William Muse, dean of the UNO College of Business Administration.

Date: May 24, 1974
Source: The Weekly Communicator
Compiled by University Library Archives

The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) acknowledged UNO Chancellor Ronald W. Roskens, a UNI graduate, with an achievement award during the school's spring commencement ceremonies. The award was presented to Dr. Roskens by the UNI Alumni organization for "outstanding leadership in the profession of the alumnus, bringing credit to the alumnus and the university."

Date: May 29, 1973
Source: The Weekly Communicator
Compiled by University Library Archives

On June 7, 1974, The Weekly Communicator reported that William Gaines, interim dean of international affairs at UNO, would leave the university to become president of the Institute of European Studies in Chicago. The Institute encourages American university students to study abroad during their junior year and operates seven study centers in six countries in Europe. Dean Gaines was scheduled to begin his new duties on September 1.

Date: June 7, 1974
Source: The Weekly Communicator
Compiled by University Library Archives

On June 13, 1977, The Gateway reported that the UNO daycare center began operation with seven children. The center, with a capacity of 30 children, was located at the First Christian Church, 6630 Dodge St. The center featured a fenced-in playground, learning facilities, and a combination of a hot lunch and two snacks daily. Funding for the daycare center was provided from student fund B fees and the College of Home Economics. An educational grant from the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) funded the salaries of one head teacher and three assistant teachers. This allowed the center to charge $7 per day when the cost per child was actually $9.35.

Date: June 13, 1977
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On July 1, 1966, The Faculty Staff Bulletin reported that the University of Omaha was hosting the first annual art competition for metropolitan area graduating high school seniors through the end of July in Room 313 of the Milo Bail Student Center. Thirty pieces of art were on display, including sculpture, paintings and ceramics.

Date: July 1, 1966
Source: The Faculty Staff Bulletin
Compiled by University Library Archives

On July 3, 1970, The Faculty Staff Bulletin reported that Charles Jones and John Else from the UNO Sociology Department were sponsors of the Danner Memorial Children's Center in Omaha. This "creative children's care and learning center" provided an environment where young people between the ages of three and six could interact with other children and teachers of varying backgrounds and ethnicities. Plans called for the center to operate from September to May.

Date: July 3, 1970
Source: The Faculty Staff Bulletin
Compiled by University Library Archives

On March 8, 1957, The Gateway reported that a 1942 University of Omaha alum was working hard to bring American art and literature to Cuba. Francis Donahue was employed as the American cultural attaché at the U. S. Embassy in Cuba. OU professor Christobal Espinosa had kept in contact with Donahue and reported to The Gateway that the OU Spanish major had written pamphlets in Spanish about famous American writers that hopefully would be used in schools throughout Cuba.

Date: March 8, 1957
Source: That You May Know
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On July 23, 1971, the Faculty Staff Bulletin reported that an upcoming program for public school personnel from Nebraska and Western Iowa was designed to examine problems associated with school desegregation. The program, "An Institute to Deal with Educational Problems Occasioned by Desegregation and the Need for Multi-Cultural Education," was scheduled to run from July 26 through Aug. 20 at the UNO Center for Urban Education, 3805 North 16th St., in Omaha. The institute was supported by a $98,000 federal grant and was directed by Walter M. Calinger, assistant professor of education at UNO.

Date: July 13, 1984
Source: Faculty Staff Bulletin
Compiled by University Library Archives

The first Omaha School for Presbyterian Pastors was held July 17-24, 1957, at the Eppley Conference Center at the University of Omaha. Sponsored in part by the Council on Theological Education of the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A., this program brought together pastors from 11 Midwestern states to discuss relevant theological issues. Faculty for this special course of study included scholars from the University of Chicago, the Western Theological Seminary and the Board of National Missions. Attendance at the event was strictly by invitation only, and visiting pastors were housed at the Sheraton-Fontenelle in downtown Omaha. Financial support to participants was provided by the Omaha Seminary, and a special library of selected religious resource texts was made accessible to the pastors for the duration of their stay.

Date: July 27, 1957 Source: Cupola Columns Compiled by University Library Archives

On Aug. 2, 1974, the Weekly Communicator reported that Don Leahy, Ak-Sar-Ben Coliseum activities director, had been named the new UNO director of athletics. Former UNO Athletic Director Clyde Biggers had recently left UNO for a position at the University of Richmond. Leahy previously had been the head football coach and athletic director at Omaha Creighton Prep.

Date: Aug. 2, 1974
Source: The Weekly Communicator
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Aug. 7, 1987, The Gateway reported that UNO had made significant improvements in its health care services. A new, part-time medical doctor was hired to work a combination of morning and afternoon hours four days a week. In addition, a new student health insurance plan was initiated. This plan required students to be seen at the school health center before an outside referral was made. These steps, along with the hiring of a registered nurse six months prior, made the UNO Student Health Center a more flexible and effective option for students.

Date: Aug. 7, 1987
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Aug. 13, 1976 the Weekly Communicator reported on efforts by the UNO Music Department to organize a Choir Union. Plans for fall and spring performances included The Creation by Haydn and Requiem by Berlioz. The Choral Union would "perform the major choral repertoire with orchestral accompaniment," and rehearsals were scheduled to begin August 30 and continue every Monday evening.

Date: Aug. 13, 1976
Source: Weekly Communicator
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Aug. 26, 1994, The Gateway reported on the new UNO Criminal Justice doctorate program. The fourteen students enrolled in the program were required to complete 90 additional credit hours after receiving their bachelor's degree. Vince Webb, chairperson of the UNO Criminal Justice Department, was very optimistic as the program began: "We're feeling really comfortable and hope to recruit a variety of students and expect great things from them."

Date: Aug. 26, 1994
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Aug. 29, 1974, The Gateway announced that UNO was to serve as a training site for five senior members of the Afghanistan government. Three of these government officials were from the Afghan Ministry of Education and the others were from the Ministry of Planning. UNO was selected to host these Afghan officials by the United States Agency for International Development. According to Christian L. Jung, UNO Afghanistan Studies and Research program director, the visitors would attend workshops and courses in public administration and management.

Date: Aug. 29, 1974
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Sept. 3, 1982, The Weekly Communicator reported that the Dance Theatre of Harlem was scheduled to perform later that month at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Omaha. The UNO Student Programming Organization, performing artists/Omaha, the UNO College of Fine Arts and the Milo Bail Student Center sponsored the performance. Members of the UNO community who purchased tickets for this event were invited to a reception following the performance where they could meet the dancers. The Dance Theatre of Harlem was also scheduled to teach a master class in ethnic class in the UNO Health, Physical Education and Recreation dance lab.

Date: Sept. 3, 1982
Source: The Weekly Communicator
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Sept. 15, 1986, This Week announced that Russell Smith had been named director of the Center for Applied Urban Research (CAUR) in the UNO College of Public Affairs and Community Service (CPACS). Dr. Smith, who had been director of the Governmental Research Bureau at the University of South Dakota, planned to emphasize policy-relevant research and outreach to local government and economic development groups. CPACS Dean David Hinton commented on Dr. Smith's appointment at UNO, saying, "He brings considerable experience and talent to CAUR, and we anticipate a broader role for the center with his attention."

Date: Sept. 15, 1986
Source: This Week
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Sept. 22, 1967, The Gateway reported that KYNE-TV, Channel 26 had recently hired two University of Omaha graduates: James Cox as production/traffic manager and Virginia Thomas as producer/director. The newspaper also announced that a TV Classroom series titled "American School Systems" would air on KYNE-TV on Monday evenings that fall.

Date: Sept. 15, 1986 ,br/> Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Sept. 24, 1971, The Gateway reported that Irwin Schlass had been hired as a new instructor in the UNO Drama Department. Schlass had received his B.A. from the City College of New York and his M.A. from the University of Denver, where had had specialized in directing. Prior to arriving at UNO, he taught a directing seminar at the Colorado State Penitentiary. According to Schlass he had enjoyed working with the inmates: "There are a lot of creative people in prison. They have an innate sense of conflict. Conflict is the essence of drama."

Date: Sept. 24, 1971
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Oct. 4, 1988, The Gateway reported that Lorie Fridell, a professor of criminal justice at UNO, had been appointed to the Omaha Police Policy Advisory Committee. Dr. Fridell's first official committee meeting was Sept. 21, and she told Gateway reporters that she planned to focus her efforts on policies concerning suspect pursuit and use of firearms to detain suspects.

Date: Oct. 4, 1988
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Oct. 15, 1937, The Gateway reported that the University of Omaha library was so overstocked with books that space for students was becoming sparse. There was room for optimism, however, because construction of the new campus building at 60th and Dodge was well under way. The new library, on the first and second floors of the northeast wing, provided more than double the current space for study and reading, as well as sufficient shelving space for the thousands of volumes currently located in off-site storage.

Date: Oct. 15, 1937
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Oct. 15, 1971, The Gateway reported that Pulitzer Prize-winning author N. Scott Momaday was scheduled to lecture at the University of Nebraska at Omaha Oct. 18. Dr. Momaday, a Kiowa Indian, spent his formative years on a Kiowa reservation and received the 1969 Pulitzer Prize for fiction for House Made of Dawn. Momaday's UNO speech, titled "The American Indian in Modern Society," was scheduled for the Eppley Conference Center auditorium.

Date: Oct. 15, 1971
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Oct. 25, 1943, The Gateway reported that the University of Omaha (OU) and the United States office of Education were offering 23 tuition-free war training classes on campus that semester. Nine of these classes had never before been offered, including engineering and drafting for women, wood technology and food dehydration. According to OU Applied Arts & Sciences Dean Carl Helmstadter, all of these courses were designed to "provide college level training in needed occupations today for men and women whose contribution to the war effort can be increased by short, intensive courses." These classes were fully funded by the government and were offered both days and evenings every few weeks to accommodate student schedules.

Date: Oct. 22-28, 1943
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Nov. 1, 1950, The Gateway reminded the University of Omaha community that the World Affairs Institute would continue the following evening with a talk in the auditorium by political scientist Eric Kollman, titled "Germany in the Perspective of History." Dr. Kollman was a graduate of the University of Vienna and had recently taught at the University of Michigan and the University of Chicago.

Date: Nov. 1, 1950
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Nov. 8, 1968, The Gateway encouraged readers to attend a free all-Beethoven piano concert by pianist Alfred Brendel in the Administration Building auditorium. Brendel had received wide acclaim for his Beethoven recordings and had played with the Montreal Symphony, the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Brendel's visit to the University of Omaha was sponsored by the Friends of Music, an organization which raises funds to bring such concerts to campus.

Date: Nov. 8, 1968
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Nov. 14, 1968, The Gateway, reported that first-year University of Omaha (OU) students were expected to dazzle students and faculty at the Freshman Talent show that morning in the auditorium. A variety of musical acts were planned, including a solo, a duet, a pianist, and even an accordion. The event had also scheduled dance numbers by Chi Omega and Zeta Tau Alpha sororities. The talent show was sponsored by the OU student council and the officers of the freshman class. Classes were not dismissed for the event.

Date: Nov. 14, 1968
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Nov. 20, 1971, the Faculty Staff Bulletin reported that students from UNO, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) and Nebraska Wesleyan University teamed together to stage a kidnapping of Omaha Mayor Eugene Leahy. The mayor was taken to the UNO Student Center Ballroom, where he was held for "ransom" to help raise money for Meyer Children's Rehabilitation Institute. Students from Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity and Sigma Kappa sorority took collections throughout the Omaha area to free the mayor.

Date: Nov. 20, 1971
Source: Source: Faculty
Staff Bulletin Compiled by University Library Archives

On Dec. 2, 1988, The Gateway reported that the second annual "Dickens in the Market" was host to a special feature created by the UNO chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers. Ten members of the organization were arranged into teams of two to grace five buildings in the downtown Omaha Old Market area with window displays. The owners of the stores supplied the necessary materials or gave the students a budget for the display. The top three windows were awarded cash prizes - with the winner receiving $200, second place receiving $100 and third place receiving $50. Half of the money won was required to be donated to the chapter. "We think this will be good advertising for the chapter and a way to raise money for doing the Symphony Showcase in the spring," said Jennifer Johnson, a UNO senior majoring in interior design.

Date: Dec. 2, 1988
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

The Performing Arts Center Recital Hall hosted the first Midwest production of the opera "Yehu" Dec. 3, 1975, under the direction of Robert Ruetz, professor of music at UNO. To broaden the appeal of the opera, there were both an evening and matinee performance. The matinee showing was designed to interest children. Admission to the evening performance was free to UNO students and $1.50 for the general public, but there was a 50-cent charge for the matinee.

Date: Dec. 3, 1975
Source: The Weekly Communicator
Compiled by University Library Archives

The Dec. 10, 1971, The Gateway reported that the Catholic, Lutheran, and United Protestant Campus Ministries were to hold a weekend retreat Jan. 7-9. Those who attended would participate in exercises that focused on building community, introspection and making decisions within everyday life. Although the majority of retreat attendees would be university students, the event would be open to the public, as well. The location of the retreat was the O' Donnell Center near Hummel Park in Omaha and it was sponsored by the University Religious Center.

Date: Dec. 10, 1971
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

In December 1956, the University of Omaha (OU) faculty/staff newsletter reported that a special university club was gaining new members rapidly. The "One Thousand Club" admitted only those students who were able to increase their reading speed to 1,000 words per minute through a course titled Reading Improvement. Those who passed the 1,000-word mark were given an inscribed pin and had their name displayed on an honor roll. A special timing machine was used to judge reading speed, and the average rate of improvement by the end of the course was 117 percent. OU Professor Harry W. Johnson said one of his students improved her reading speed an incredible 400 percent - from 557 to 2,800 words per minute.

Date: December 1956
Source: That You May Know
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Jan. 9, 1951 The Gateway facetiously recommended draft-dodging techniques for those concerned about being drafted into the Korean War. Advice included: "develop back trouble" because such pains were very difficult to prove or disprove. Although flat feet were also a possibility, the military had acquired supports for flat-footed soldiers crafted from steel. A criminal record was helpful, as well, because: "the services aren't too interested in sticky-fingered boys with ignition jumpers in their pockets." The Gateway admitted, however, that the most effective and only fail-safe way to avoid the draft was to enlist in armed service of your choice.

Date: Jan. 9, 1951
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

The Jan. 18, 1967, edition of The Gateway reported that Alpha Xi Delta sorority had set Jan. 31 as the date for their annual Devil Dance, which would include the crowning of king Satan. The dance was scheduled from 9 p.m. to midnight at the Holiday Inn and would begin following a pre-party from 7 to 9 p.m. exclusively for Alpha Xi members and their dates. Dress for the Devil Dance was semi-formal and "The Shomen Combo" provided music.

Date: Jan. 18, 1967
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Jan. 21, 1972, The Gateway announced that the latest renovations to the Milo Bail Student Center would soon be completed. Renovation plans were drawn up by the Space Utilizations Committee and the main objective was to find the best use for the space left by the relocation of the Bookstore. Committee members considered several suggestions from members of the university community for the best use of this space and the results included a student services area, a coffee house, a record store, a gift-boutique and a TV lounge area.

Date: Jan. 21, 1972
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by University Library Archives

On Jan. 29, 1982, Helen Hudson - an Australian-born professional singer and song writer - performed at UNO. Hudson's concert took place in the Student Center Ballroom and included country, cabaret, modern and folk music. The UNO Student Programming Organization sponsored the free event, which was held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and encouraged the audience to bring lunches.

Date: Jan. 29, 1982
Source: The Weekly Communicator
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

In early February of 1968, The Gateway reported that University of Omaha administrators had updated the school dress code with less restrictive policies. The change was retroactive to Jan. 1. A Gateway editorial stated the change was "excellent news and demonstrated that the Student Senate had some influence as a pressure group."

Date: February 1968
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On Feb. 4, 1983, The Gateway reported that UNO drama students had agreed to perform criminal re-enactments for the KETV production "Crime Stoppers." Robert Welk, assistant professor of dramatic arts, was responsible for choosing student actors for each role based on suspect and victim descriptions, acting ability and student schedules. Although the students received no financial compensation for their work, "The university always gains with good public relations," Welk said. According to Omaha Police Department spokesperson Dennis Pekula, "Crime Stoppers" was responsible for the recovery of $140,805 in stolen property over the past year.

Date: Feb. 4, 1983
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On Feb. 12, 1988, a story appeared in The Gateway, detailing "How to Buy Art", a new UNO College of Continuing Studies non-credit course. The three-session class was taught by Thomas Majeski, professor of art at UNO, and Myriel Hiner, a local independent art agent. The cost was $45 per person, and was held Tuesday nights in the UNO Art Gallery. Although the purchase of art as an investment was covered, the instructors thought it more important to discuss "how and where to buy art and what is good vs. what is bad." The idea was to expose students to art fundamentals and increase their art literacy so they may determine what types and styles of art they prefer. As Hiner stated: "if a piece of artwork is purchased, it should be enjoyed."

Date: Feb. 12, 1988
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

The Feb. 18, 1938, issue of The Gateway reported that a fire had started in a janitor's room in the basement of Joslyn Hall during the previous week's Monday night classes. University of Omaha students and Omaha firefighters attempted to put out the fire while some on-lookers jokingly cried out: "Let 'er burn!" Although damages were not mentioned in the article, given the "apparent unconcern of people strolling through the smoke-filled halls," the newspaper guessed that they were probably minimal. It was also reported that last Tuesday's morning students were still greeted with a smoky odor hanging in the air.

Date: Feb. 18, 1938
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

The March 1951 issue of That You May Know reported that Edward H. Winter, a prominent ceramics artist spoke at a university convocation regarding "Fine Arts and Business." Winter encouraged art students to become a part of their community instead of hermits confined to their studios. He also asserted that artists who wished to start in the Omaha area had as much a chance of becoming famous as if they moved to New York. His enamel on metal work had been showcased in 43 European and American museums. Winter's message to local artists was encouraging: "The artist of today is designing steamships, planes, buses and trains. There is a great future in this profession."

Date: March 1951
Source: That You May Know
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On July 17, 1970, The Gateway reported that Barbara Coffey was selected by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents as assistant dean of UNO Student Personnel, thus making her the university's first African-American administrator. Coffey suggested that UNO follow up with students in African-American schools after their initial college bound counseling and hoped that the university would look in African-American neighborhoods for scholars and not just athletes.

Date: July 17, 1970
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On March 14, 1973, The Gateway reported on the activities of the University Swing Choir. For many years, as the University Chamber Choir, the group had sung "stuffy stuff" and choir director John Bohrer thought a new look was in order. Last fall, the group's repertoire began to include more popular numbers like "Hello Dolly," "It Had to be You" and "Rain Drops Keep Fallin.'" Choir costumes had been updated, as well, and included polka-dot shirts complimented by white pants for the men and red-ruffled body shirts along with black palazzo pants for the women. The UNO Swing Choir had recently performed for the Nebraska Legislature, the NU Board of Regents and the Ak-Sar-Ben Scholarship Banquet.

Date: March 14, 1973
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

The March 1961 issue of That You May Know reported that the University of Omaha (OU) faculty recital group planned to present an evening of music March 19 by Philip Bezanson, a professor of music at Iowa State University. Professor Bezanson planned to conduct the faculty recital group himself, which included OU staff members James Taggart, James Peterson, James Price, Helena Bell and Mildred Slocum. The recital was free of charge and was scheduled to be held in the student center at 7 p.m.

Date: March 1961
Source: That You May Know
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

The March 1949 issue of That You May Know reported that Chi Omega, a nationally recognized sorority, wished to pledge 45 students from the local University of Omaha (OU) chapter of Pi Omega. This was the university's "first affiliation with national social sororities," and OU President Milo Bail optimistically predicted that more national Greek organizations would arrive on campus by the fall semester. The official induction of young women into Chi Omega was scheduled to take place on campus April 1.

Date: March 1949
Source: That You May Know
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

Date: March 1949 Source: That You May Know Compiled by Criss Library Archives

Date: April 1959
Source: That You May Know
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On Tuesday, April 13, 1982, The Gateway reported that a group of UNO students met in the Milo Bail Student Center to discuss ways of halting the creation and use of nuclear weapons. The group, loosely known as UNO Freeze, took motivation from U. S. Senate Joint Resolution 163, sponsored by Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.), which called for a halt to the arms race with the Soviet Union. Besides working with similar city, state and national movements, UNO Freeze planned an educational campaign. This campaign included a discussion by a panel of UNO instructors on the topic "The Effect of Nuclear Arms on Society."

Date: April 13, 1982
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On April 15, 1966, The Gateway reported that prominent Harvard Professor of Psychology Burrus F. Skinner was the keynote speaker at the annual University of Omaha Honors Convocation, held on campus at the Eppley Conference Center. The topic of Skinner's convocation address was "Utopia Now?," which focused on his book Walden Two and the theories behind Utopian societies. Declared OU's "Distinguished Visiting Professor for 1965-66," Dr. Skinner had spent the previous four days presenting various lectures to students, faculty and members of the Omaha community.

Date: April 15, 1966
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

In late April 1950, the University of Omaha (OU) Board of Regents approved the creation of the College of Education. The new college combined the departments of Education, Physical Education for Women and Physical Education for Men. Increases in enrollment and greater demand for qualified teachers prompted the action. The new college was to coordinate all activities pertaining to the primary, secondary, physical and special education fields. Majors in all of the above areas worked towards a B.S. in education. Dr. Frank H. Gorman, head of the OU Department of Education since 1948, was named the first dean of the OU College of Education.

Date: April 1950
Source: That You May Know
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On April 29, 1946, The Gateway reported that the University of Omaha (OU) had presented producer David O. Selznick's 1940 academy award winning film, "Rebecca," with a citation for Outstanding Motion Picture Achievement. "Rebecca" was directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starred Laurence Olivier and Joan Fontaine. OU President Rowland Haynes presented the award to Laura Wells, a representative of Selznick, at an off-campus luncheon attended by numerous radio and newspaper reporters. Due to intense local public support for "Rebecca," Selznick's office had announced that the film would be re-played April 26 in downtown Omaha at the Orpheum Theater.

Date: April 29, 1946
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On May 8, 1953, The Gateway reported that a new department and major field of study, library sciences, was now being offered through the University of Omaha (OU) College of Education. OU librarian Ellen Lord headed the new department, which also included two assistant professors - Frank Gibson and Kilbourne Janacek. Library sciences was a 24-credit-hour major and was designed to prepare librarians for placement in either elementary or secondary schools.

Date: May 8, 1953
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

The Gateway reported with a tremendous "spirit of exuberance," the first annual University of Omaha Ma-ie Day was celebrated on May 16, 1935. Ma-ie Day events included athletic competitions, a concert by the College Club Orchestra, and the performance of a show titled "Pass the Bucks," which was a "howling success." The highlight of the festivities was the crowning of Eleanor Larson as Attira I, the first Ma-ie Day Princess. As The Gateway also reported, when the initial Ma-ie Day celebrations were completed another University of Omaha tradition had been established.

Date: May 16, 1935
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

In May of 1949, That You May Know announced that upcoming June commencement ceremonies would be held outdoors, just north of Arts and Sciences Hall. Graduation festivities were to begin May 26 with "Senior Class Day" and scheduled activities included the class speech, the awarding of leadership certificates, the presentation of the class gift to University of Omaha President Milo Bail, a tree planting ceremony and the senior luncheon.

Date: May 1949
Source: That You May Know
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

The May 1966 issue of the University of Omaha College of Continuing Studies News announced that brief training courses for local police and firefighters were scheduled that spring. The courses were made possible through grants to the OU Department of Law Enforcement and Corrections and were under the supervision of department chair Gaylon Kuchel. Police were offered a one-week basic course and a two-week advanced course with Omaha law enforcement officers, judges and lawyers serving as faculty. A short, intensive course was developed for firefighters so those completing the course could return to their original locations and offer regional training sessions in "basic firemanship." Certificates of completion were awarded upon successful fulfillment of all course requirements.

Date: May 1966
Source: College of Continuing Studies News
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

At the June 5, 1950, commencement ceremony, the University of Omaha (OU) awarded 341 degrees. This number, combined with the estimated 100 degrees to be awarded later that summer, was expected to bring the grand total of degrees granted during the lifetime of OU to more than 3,200. Approximately 1,500 students had graduated during the 12 years the university had been located at the Elmwood Park location. The 1948, 1949 and 1950 classes produced 996 graduates, about the same number that had been graduated in the first 20 years of the university.

Date: June 5, 1950
Source: That You May Know
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

In mid-June of 1960, Cupola Columns announced that applications were being accepted for a special "science institute" being held during the upcoming fall semester. The National Science Foundation provided a $16,850 grant to pay the tuition and travel expenses for 60 regional high school science and math teachers to take one of three Omaha University College of Adult Education courses. The courses, worth six semester hours of college credit each, focused on modern developments in the fields of biology, physical science and math. To be considered for this institute, applicants had to have a bachelor's degree and at least one year of teaching experience.

Date: June 1960
Source: Cupola Columns
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On Friday, June 24, 1994, The Gateway reported that 50 UNO students planned to volunteer their time June 25 to help the Siena House, a women and children's shelter, and the Francis House, a men's shelter, merge to form the Siena/Francis House at 17th and Nicholas streets in Omaha. The new facility featured 80 beds and a larger kitchen with more seating. Sherry Kennedy Brownrigg, a UNO graduate and president of the Siena/Francis House, was the emcee of the opening ceremonies for the new facility.

Date: June 24, 1994
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

In July of 1987, UNO alumnus Stephen Roberts was presented with an opportunity to display his artwork at the Joslyn Art Museum. The 1979 graduate, a realist artist with subjects ranging from life-sized nudes to still life paintings of fruit, earned a living through the sale of his paintings. His work also appeared in a New York gallery. According to Roberts, "Omaha is not a great place to sell art." However, he doubted that he would ever be able to move to New York City, America's art hotspot.

Date: July 10, 1987
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives

On July 11, 1986, The Gateway reported that two UNO students 1st Lt. Jan Harrington and Sgt. Laura Mruz became part of the first all-female flight crew in the Army National Guard. The soldiers served in the 24th Medical Air Ambulance Company. Mruz was a secondary education major with hopes of becoming a teacher and had no plans to leave the National Guard. Harrington planned to graduate from UNO with a bachelor's degree in general studies with a concentration in political science and also planned to continue to serve in the National Guard.

Date: July 11, 1986
Source: The Gateway
Compiled by Criss Library Archives