The Board of Regents is pleased to present a KUDOS award to Joe Brownell, Executive Director of the Military and Veteran Success Center (MVSC) and Military Relations at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Since joining UNL in 2018, Joe has demonstrated visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to military-connected students. Under his guidance, the MVSC has expanded partnerships with the Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs, Nebraska National Guard, Offutt Air Force Base, and the Lincoln Community Foundation, enhancing access to vital services and scholarships.
Joe’s efforts have led to a 10% increase in benefits certifications and the creation of a Veteran Welcome Center at Offutt, exemplifying UNL’s land-grant mission. His leadership has also strengthened ROTC integration, improved student retention and graduation rates, and fostered a culture of excellence grounded in five pillars: educational access, academic support, student services, career services, and outreach.
In the past year alone, over 4,300 students visited the Military and Veteran Success Center, and 1,500 records were certified—clear evidence of Joe’s impact.
Joe is not only a strategic leader but a servant leader-- collaborative, compassionate, and deeply committed to student success. Matt Hammons, Assistant Vice President, and Director of Federal Relations has said, “Joe is my go-to guy for any military related question”.
Joining Joe today is his spouse, Kim Brownell. Please, join me in thanking Joe Brownell for his dedication to the needs of current military students, and military veterans and the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.