About Hanna
I was raised in Lincoln and attended the Science Focus Program (Zoo School). I went to undergrad at UNL obtaining my bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management (HRTM). After graduating I went to work for the YMCA of Lincoln as a community learning center program director. I joined UNL as the conservation education coordinator with the Nebraska Forest Service in 2016. I enjoy spending time outdoors, so I am always looking for excuses to do so. My favorite book of 2021 is “The Second Rebel” by Linden A. Lewis. I am always ready to give a book, podcast, or TV/move recommendation, even when people don’t ask.
What is your position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I am the executive director of the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum.
What drew you to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I was drawn to UNL because I knew I could make a difference working with the Nebraska Forest Service. Also, UNL is my alma mater so returning to East Campus felt like coming home.
What aspect of working in an education setting do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy the opportunities for partnerships. These opportunities don’t exist outside of an educational setting and in the private sector some of the partnerships could be viewed as risky. Since, as an educational institution, our overarching goal is the pursuit of learning. We can try something different and take risks in the name of learning. I really relish the opportunities that provides.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
My greatest professional achievement has to be the success of Forest Fest in 2019. I worked with an amazing team to take an event that normally attracted about 100 people and turned it into an amazing family-friendly fall event with nearly 1,000 people in attendance. I am very proud of the work we did, and I know we provided families with a fun, low-stress night in the forest and that’s what I love to do. I look forward to helping repeat the success when we are back to in-person, large gatherings.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
For most of my childhood I was determined to become a veterinarian. It only took CHEM 109 my freshman year at UNL to change my mind, and I’m quite happy I did change my mind.
What is your life like outside of work?
My life outside of work includes a lot of gardening, reading, time with my husband and pets and restoring my nearly 100-year-old home. I read avidly for pleasure and as I work to complete my Master of Public Administration degree at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. My dog, Alastor, is named after a Harry Potter character thanks to his two different colored eyes. My husband, Matthew, and I working to restore our old home in preparation for its 100th birthday in 2023. Matthew also works for UNL at the Lied Center, so we spend a lot of time going to a variety of performances there and at venues all over the Midwest. My favorites are Broadway and dance.