NUconnections creates a space for faculty from all four campuses to meet and interact along with business leaders and policymakers. The event will feature a panel discussion hosted by Susan M. Fritz, executive vice president and provost and dean of the Graduate College at the University of Nebraska. Her opening remarks will provide context and insight into the development of the four interdisciplinary institutes. Fritz will engage the executive directors to describe more specifically their institute's desire to cross academic disciplines, how they engage with faculty, and their ideas for the future. The directors:

Robert Hinson, National Strategic Research Institute

Peter G. McCornick, Water for Food Global Institute

Samuel J. Meisels, Buffett Early Childhood Institute

Charles P. Schroeder, Rural Futures Institute

New faculty and those unfamiliar with the university-wide institutes who are interested in engaging in collaborative efforts are encouraged to attend to stimulate conversation and ideas. Breakfast and coffee will be provided.