Omaha University was founded in 1908, and was basically a 'Protestant movement for a non-sectarian university'. It began with leaders primarily from Presbyterian, Baptist, and Congregational church communities. These leaders agreed in 1908 to form a corporation to be known as the University of Omaha.

 

These leaders drew up Articles of Incorporation, which were filed in October of 1908. According to these articles, the purpose of the founding members was to 'establish a University for the promotion of sound learning and education, under such influences as will lead to the highest Christian character and citizenship, with the Bible as the supreme authority.' This higher education would be free of ecclesiastical controls, according to another article of confederation. (A History of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, 1908-1983, Proud Past-Exciting Future).

 

Catholic Campus Ministry at UNO began when different priests, like Fr. Val Peter, would say Mass for students, or give talks to students, faculty, and staff. Sr. Cynthia Hruby, ND, a 1972 UNO graduate, remembers when Fr.Charles Duster, a Columban priest, and Fr.Charles Swanson helped out at UNO. She recalls faith sharing groups, going to Mass, and some ecumenical group activities with Lutheran and Methodist students.

 

In 1980, Teresa Monaghen, AO, was asked by Archbishop Sheehan to help UNO students appropriate their faith. This began a long ministry for Teresa and the Oblates, as they hosted coffee houses, had Mass n' Munch, led bible studies, and had social and service activities available for students. Teresa was helped in her ministry by many priests, such as Fr.Dan Lenz, OSB. Some students who Teresa worked with are: Fr. Carl Zoucha, of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and Fr. Mark Bridgeman, of St.Bonaventure in Columbus, both UNO graduates who currently serve the archdiocese of Omaha .

 

In 1999, Marty Kalkowski began working for the Office of Relgious Formation for the Omaha Archdiocese. Part of Marty's work with young adults is at UNO with students, staff, and faculty. The Faith-Leadership Team was formed in 2001, and since then students have set agendas, planned events, welcomed other students, and furthered our mission to help all: appropriate their faith; form a faith community; educate for justice; form consciences according to the teaching of Jesus and our Church; develop leaders for the future; and facilitate personal development. I am grateful for the help of the Omaha Archdiocese, the Oblates, and many others in our collaboration to minister to UNO.