The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources will host a special CASNR Celebration at the Lincoln County Fair on Saturday, July 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Ag Activities Center on the fairgrounds.
The event is open to incoming first-year CASNR students, rising juniors and seniors, FFA and 4-H members, CASNR faculty and ambassadors, area alumni, Extension leadership and supporters of agricultural education. Guests are invited to share a scoop of UNL Dairy Store ice cream to celebrate CASNR and enjoy a casual gathering to learn more about opportunities in agriculture, natural resources and environmental sciences at the university.
The event also reflects a broader effort by UNL to connect with students in rural Nebraska and support their transition into college. It is part of a statewide initiative led by Greg Fritz, who was recently named to a new, first-of-its-kind role that links Nebraska Extension directly with UNL admissions and recruitment.
“This collaboration allows us to build deeper connections with students through trusted Extension and 4-H partnerships across Nebraska,” said Fritz, who leads college and career readiness for Nebraska Extension, 4-H Youth Development and the Office of Admissions. “It’s about showing students from rural communities that there’s a place for them at Nebraska — and that we’re passionate about helping them build promising and productive lives post high school.”
The Lincoln County Fair serves as the pilot location for this recruitment approach, with hopes of expanding similar events to other county fairs and rural communities in the coming year.
“We’re excited to welcome our newest class of CASNR Huskers and build relationships with students from this region who are exploring their futures,” said Tom Burkey, interim dean of CASNR. “Whether students want to pursue animal science, agribusiness, environmental stewardship or plant genetics, they’ll find a home in CASNR.”
Representatives from CASNR, Nebraska Extension, Nebraska Alumni Association and the Office of Admissions will be in attendance to answer questions, celebrate new students, and share more about scholarships, degree programs and career pathways.
To learn more about the college, visit casnr.unl.edu.
