The Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (EAS) is asking students, alumni, faculty, and community members to speak up about its impact as the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Academic Planning Committee reviews the department’s future.
For decades, EAS has been at the heart of Nebraska’s scientific discovery and workforce development. Faculty lead groundbreaking research and hands-on training that directly support the state’s most pressing needs, from weather forecasting to energy and resource exploration. Their work not only advances the University of Nebraska system’s strategic priorities–it safeguards the future of the communities it serves.
The department also offers opportunities found nowhere else in the state. EAS houses Nebraska’s only meteorology program that qualifies graduates to work for the National Weather Service. It awards the state’s only graduate degrees in Earth and atmospheric sciences, and its geology major provides the sole path to becoming a Licensed Professional Geologist in Nebraska. Students learn from faculty who bring real-world experience from industry, preparing them for critical roles in energy development and strategic minerals exploration.
The results speak volumes. EAS students earn prestigious national and international fellowships. More than 92% of alumni are working successfully in their field or pursuing advanced degrees–contributing expertise to state and federal agencies and beyond. Faculty regularly share their knowledge with the public, appear in the media as trusted experts, and help lead environmental initiatives across campus.
Now, the department is inviting stories that highlight this impact. Alumni, students, faculty, and community members can submit their perspectives through the Academic Planning Committee’s feedback form, a survey, or even an audio or video message.
More details, including links to share input, are available on the EAS Budget Information webpage.
