The Buffett Early Childhood Institute at the University of Nebraska has selected three doctoral students representing the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) and University of Nebraska-Lincoln for the 2025-26 Graduate Scholars program.
Since 2016, the Buffett Institute has invested more than $700,000 through its Graduate Scholars program to support the research of doctoral students from University of Nebraska campuses related to early childhood education and development.
The program awards one-year fellowships worth up to $25,000 to a maximum of four NU doctoral students every year.
2025-2026 Buffett Early Childhood Institute Graduate Scholars
- Colman Freel, University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Project Title: Cardiovascular Wellness from the Womb: Evaluating the Role of the Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Therapeutic Potential of Maresin-1 in Vascular Remodeling in Infants of Diabetic Mothers
- Mentors: Dr. Ann Anderson Berry, Paras Kumar Mishra
- Rebekah Rapoza, University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Project Title: Perinatal Health Disparities: Investigating the Influence of Maternal Socioeconomic Status on Placental Gene Regulation and Expression
- Mentor: Dr. Ann Anderson Berry
- Ali Shull, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- Project Title: Parents Under Pressure: Social Media’s Impact on Parent’s Mental Well Being
- Mentor: Carrie Clark
These students further the university’s research priorities by engaging in in-depth explorations of vital early childhood issues. The Graduate Scholars program fosters the growth of ambitious researchers by offering opportunities to communicate, network, and collaborate across campuses, breaking down silos and promoting cross-disciplinary work.
“Our three newest Graduate Scholars are a great example of tomorrow’s extraordinary, showcased today,” said Walter Gilliam, the executive director of the Buffett Early Childhood Institute. “The fellowship is proud to support the incredible research efforts of students and faculty at the University of Nebraska through its multidisciplinary approach. We are excited about the potential of Colman, Rebekah, and Ali’s promising research to enhance the lives of young children and families in Nebraska and beyond.”