Dean Tiffany Heng-Moss
College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
Q: What do you enjoy doing when you are not wearing your Dean hat?
A: Spending time with my family — frequently that involves doing something golf-related.
Q: How did your family become interested in golf?
A: My son started at age 3 when my husband placed a putter in his hands. My daughter came to golf later, but picked it up quickly and has since competed at the state high school tournament.
Q: What mental and/or physical benefits do you derive from participating in golf?
A: I am very competitive, so watching my kids compete in tournaments can be stressful. Running is my go-to for my health and wellbeing.
Q: If you were granted three wishes for your college what would those be?
1) My wish for the college is to be the place for all learners who are passionate and curious about food, energy, water and societal systems.
2) For the college to continue being a community where everyone challenges themselves and each other to thrive, grow and reach their fullest potential. Together, we will boldly shape the future and positively transform the lives of our learners, Nebraskans and global society.
3) To continue its positive trajectory for the next 150 years, to remain at the forefront of agriculture and natural resources teaching and learning, research and discovery, and extension and engagement to serve Nebraska and beyond.
Dean Richard Moberly
College of Law
Q: What do you enjoy doing when you are not wearing your Dean hat?
A: I try to do things that bring me joy. Those often focus on hobbies that are active, such as basketball, stand up paddleboarding, bike riding with my wife, pickleball. I would say golf, which I do play, but it does not really bring me joy, yet.
Q: How did you become interested in paddleboarding?
A: During the pandemic I was looking for an activity that I could do outside and that was distanced. Stand up paddleboarding was perfect — I got to be on the water, it was incredibly calming, and no one was around.
Q: Do others participate with you?
A: No. Part of the joy is just being on the water by myself. It gives me a chance to be reflective and let my mind wander.
Q: If you were granted three wishes for your college what would those be?
A: I already received one of those wishes when the Acklie Family provided the College with the largest gift in our history this summer — a gift that will be transformative. So, I feel like I am pressing my luck to wish for more. But, since you asked: I would wish (1) that our students pass the bar exam in record numbers; (2) that we continue to hire great new faculty as part of a generational change at the college; and (3) that our reunion weekend is packed with alumni so that they can see all of the tremendous changes going on at the College of Law.
Dean Shari Veil
College of Journalism and Mass Communications
Q: What do you enjoy doing when you are not wearing your Dean hat?
A: I enjoy running. Actually, I enjoy running road races and trail runs with friends. I do the training runs so I don’t look like a fool on race day.
Q: How did you become interested in that?
A: I had some friends who were putting together a marathon relay team. I agreed to do the 3-mile leg. Someone got hurt, and I agreed to do the 7-mile leg instead. Two weeks later I ran my first half marathon. I’ve run four marathons and 30+ half marathons since then. I’ve even captained a 200-mile, 12-person relay team — twice!
Q: Do others participate with you?
A: Yes! Everywhere I’ve lived, I’ve picked up a new running buddy or two. One of my sisters from North Dakota, a friend from Oklahoma and another friend from Kentucky are my most loyal running buddies. We’ve run New Orleans, Las Vegas, Lexington, Louisville, Fargo, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Fort Worth and now Lincoln together. We usually add in another adventure with our runs like hiking, kayaking, zip lining or rock climbing. It depends on whether we are doing a marathon or a half marathon and how much energy we have left after the race.
Q: What mental and/or physical benefits do you derive from participating in that activity?
A: Running helps me clear my mind, so I can focus on what’s ahead. It also gives me a boost of confidence. When I’ve knocked out a 7-mile run before even getting to campus, I feel like I can accomplish anything.
Q: If you were granted three wishes for your college what would those be?
1) For society to recognize a free press doesn’t come without a cost. If we want a free press, then we need to invest in it. A free press isn’t 100% government subsidized or a corporate mouthpiece; it is paid for and supported by a responsible, informed citizenry. Informed decision making is central to a democratic society, and a free press makes that possible.
2) For our students to find their calling or find our college isn’t for them early in their academic careers. The professions our graduates go into take commitment and a lot of grit. Our students who go all in and embrace every opportunity in our college are incredibly successful and have wonderful, fulfilling careers. But you’ve got to love it. Otherwise, why do it?
3) I’d wish for our alumni to know they are always welcome home. Our commitment to our students doesn’t end when they cross the stage to get their diploma. We don’t just want to help our graduates find their first job; we want to support them throughout their careers.