University of Nebraska Omaha Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

The University of Nebraska Omaha has 7 executives leading key functions including finance, information technology, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, University of Nebraska Omaha provides comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering research and community engagement across Nebraska and beyond.

Leadership Roles at University of Nebraska Omaha

  • Chief Financial Officer - Milton Trabal
  • President - Thomas Anthone
  • President, Nu System - Ted Carter
  • President - Sandra Squires
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Bret Blackman
  • Team Captain - Chase Petersen
  • Board of Governors - Crystal Rhoades
  • Milton Trabal - Chief Financial Officer

    Milton Trabal, the Chief Financial Officer at University of Nebraska Omaha, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the institution. This leadership role involves managing budgets, overseeing financial planning, and ensuring the fiscal health of the university's diverse academic and research programs. Trabal's oversight extends to resource allocation, financial reporting, and compliance with all relevant financial regulations. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic guidance supports the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education and advancing research initiatives. Milton Trabal's expertise is critical in navigating the complex financial landscape of higher education, optimizing revenue streams, and controlling expenditures to maximize institutional impact and sustainability. This position requires meticulous attention to detail and a forward-thinking approach to financial management, directly contributing to the university's operational efficiency and long-term growth objectives.

    Thomas Anthone - President

    Thomas Anthone, the President at University of Nebraska Omaha, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. This pivotal role involves setting the vision for academic programs, research endeavors, and community engagement, ensuring alignment with the university's mission and values. Anthone's responsibilities include fostering a culture of academic excellence, promoting innovation, and advocating for the university's interests at local, state, and national levels. The President works closely with the Board of Governors and other senior leaders to guide institutional growth and development. Thomas Anthone's leadership is instrumental in shaping the university's future, enhancing its reputation, and ensuring its continued contribution to higher education and societal progress. This executive position demands a deep understanding of the educational landscape and a commitment to student success and faculty advancement.

    Ted Carter - President, Nu System

    Ted Carter, the President, Nu System at University of Nebraska Omaha, spearheads the strategic development and operational execution of the Nu System initiative. This leadership role focuses on advancing the university's technological infrastructure and digital service delivery, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance across all platforms. Carter's purview includes overseeing system upgrades, implementing new technological solutions, and managing the resources dedicated to the Nu System's ongoing enhancement. The President, Nu System collaborates with various university departments to ensure technology effectively supports academic, research, and administrative objectives. Ted Carter's expertise is vital in driving the evolution of the university's digital ecosystem, enhancing user experience, and maintaining a competitive edge in the higher education technology sector. This position is critical for the modernization and efficiency of the university's core operational systems.

    Sandra Squires - President

    Sandra Squires, the President at University of Nebraska Omaha, provides strategic leadership and vision for the institution's academic and operational endeavors. This executive role involves guiding the university's growth, fostering innovation in teaching and research, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational programs. Squires collaborates with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to advance the university's mission and enhance its standing within the higher education landscape. The President oversees all major university functions, including academic affairs, student services, and administrative operations, ensuring alignment with institutional goals. Sandra Squires's leadership is pivotal in navigating the complexities of modern higher education, promoting student success, and strengthening the university's impact on the community and beyond. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of educational policy and institutional management.

    Bret Blackman - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Bret Blackman, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at University of Nebraska Omaha, architects and executes the institution's comprehensive technology strategy. This executive leadership position encompasses the management of all IT infrastructure, systems, and digital services that support academic, research, and administrative functions. Blackman's responsibilities include driving innovation in technology adoption, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures, and enhancing the digital learning environment for students and faculty. The Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer oversees the development and implementation of IT policies, manages the IT budget, and leads a team of technology professionals dedicated to operational excellence. Bret Blackman's strategic vision is crucial for leveraging technology to advance the university's educational mission and operational efficiency across its Omaha campus and broader reach. This role ensures that the university remains at the forefront of technological advancements in higher education.
    Bret Blackman

    Chase Petersen - Team Captain

    Chase Petersen, the Team Captain at University of Nebraska Omaha, leads and motivates a specific student group or athletic team, fostering collaboration and driving performance. This role involves setting an example for peers, coordinating team activities, and ensuring effective communication among members and with coaching staff or faculty advisors. Petersen's responsibilities include promoting team spirit, organizing practice sessions or group projects, and representing the team's interests. The Team Captain's leadership is crucial for building cohesion, enhancing morale, and achieving collective goals within the designated team or organization. Chase Petersen's dedication to leadership contributes to the positive development and success of the student body and the university's extracurricular programs. This position cultivates essential leadership skills and a strong sense of responsibility among students.

    Crystal Rhoades - Board of Governors

    Crystal Rhoades, the Board of Governors at University of Nebraska Omaha, provides high-level governance and strategic oversight for the institution. This critical role involves participating in board meetings, reviewing institutional policies, and making key decisions that shape the university's direction and long-term objectives. Rhoades's contributions are essential for ensuring the university operates effectively, maintains its academic integrity, and fulfills its public mission. The Board of Governors works collectively to approve budgets, set tuition rates, and appoint senior leadership, including the President. Crystal Rhoades's commitment to governance supports the university's mission of providing quality education and advancing research. This position requires a deep understanding of institutional management and a dedication to the welfare and success of the university community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding University of Nebraska Omaha Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads University of Nebraska Omaha?
    University of Nebraska Omaha is led by Milton Trabal (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Thomas Anthone (President) and Ted Carter (President, Nu System).
    Who is part of University of Nebraska Omaha’s executive team?
    The executive team of University of Nebraska Omaha includes leaders such as Milton Trabal (Chief Financial Officer), Thomas Anthone (President), Ted Carter (President, Nu System) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does University of Nebraska Omaha have?
    University of Nebraska Omaha has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in University of Nebraska Omaha’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of University of Nebraska Omaha includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, President, Nu System, President, Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer.