Engagement with current and potential donors
Credit: University of Nebraska Foundation
The University of Nebraska Foundation is engaged with individuals and corporate leaders nationwide who have an interest in sustainable agriculture, and works to raise awareness about DWFI's work in Nebraska and internationally. DWFI was represented at the Wall Street Journal Global Food Forum in June 2023 in Chicago, where leaders in agriculture, venture capital and consumer packaged goods discussed the future of the food industry and the global agricultural economy.
In Nebraska, the institute's work is inspiring donors who want to make an impact. An Omaha, Nebraska donor was moved by concerns about the impact of agriculture on water quality to make a $10,000 gift to the University of Nebraska Foundation to support research in this area. In 2023, two Fremont, Neb. area donors committed donations worth $20,000 to the Nebraska Water Center to support its water testing capabilities. The gift will assist with data mapping to inform future decision making.
Multiple sponsors and exhibitors partnered with the institute to produce the Water for Food Global Conference, including irrigation equipment manufacturers, Nebraska ag commodities organizations, engineering firms, and government agencies. Their support helped the institute reach a global audience.
NU Foundation’s “Only In Nebraska” campaign
The University of Nebraska is seeking significant new investment in water security research and teaching as part of an ambitious new campaign. The University of Nebraska Foundation in late 2022 launched the public phase of its historic "Only in Nebraska" campaign, a $3 billion, multi-year, comprehensive fundraising effort. Campaign goals include support for DWFI's vision of a food and water secure world. Philanthropic gifts to the campaign will help DWFI conduct groundbreaking research in water and food security, prepare the next generation of water leaders, and share worldwide about effective techniques to sustainably manage water and increase food security.
DWFI Distinguished Fellow E. Robert Meaney represents DWFI on a campaign leadership committee that is building support for the university's work in agriculture and natural resources. Meaney's career in international business included leading Valmont Industries' international operations and global development for 18 years. He is an advocate for using precision irrigation and integrated water resources management techniques to grow more food with less pressure on natural resources. The committee met in May 2023 at Nebraska Innovation Campus during the Water for Food Global Conference, with Meaney sharing about the institute's mission, impact and goals.
DWFI welcomes contributions and participation from individuals and organizations who want to make an impact through the campaign.
Related Articles
DWFI staff receive well-deserved recognition
Ishani Lal, a double MS student in Agricultural Economics and Agronomy working with the DWFI policy team, is one of the winners of the 2022 E3 program.
NWC external review commends strong leadership, synergy with DWFI
In 2022, the Nebraska Water Center (NWC) underwent its 5-year programmatic review to improve the program’s effectiveness and quality in alignment with the University’s strategic plans.
Advocates for NU learn more about DWFI’s work at trustees event
In October 2022 during the Nebraska Water Center’s conference in Kearney, Neb., the University of Nebraska Foundation and DWFI organized a panel presentation for Foundation trustees from Central Nebraska.
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