The Board of Regents is pleased to recognize JODI HOLT, Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment at the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a KUDOS award.
Since joining UNK in February 2021, Jodi has—to quote colleagues—“hit the ground running.” She has overseen rapid change, particularly in the hiring and training of new recruiters, developed new strategies for campus visits and events, and worked closely with Communications and Marketing and the Office of Financial Aid to more effectively communicate and nurture relationships with prospective students. She has maintained a clear focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion; prioritized transfer student enrollment and enrollment technology; and ignited campuswide initiatives to improve experiences for prospective and continuing students and their families with her energy and enthusiasm. Jodi’s team has pioneered efforts and expanded access through bilingual tours, special events, and materials for campus guests. The data demonstrates her success… Last fall, UNK recorded the highest increase among Nebraska colleges in first-time freshmen—16 percent, including a 70% increase in out-of-state freshmen.
Jodi is originally from North Platte where she graduated from St. Patrick’s High School, then earned her bachelor’s degree at Nebraska Wesleyan. Her commitment to the University of Nebraska dates back to 2003 when she began working at UNL and where she later earned her master’s degree in Educational Psychology. “I have been working in higher education for nearly two decades and can’t imagine doing anything else,” Jodi says. Most recently the accomplishment she is most proud is the increase in UNK enrollment this past fall as noted above—and looking forward there is more growth to come. No doubt she has and continues to positively impact hundreds of students by helping them reach their potential as college graduates.
Our congratulations to Jodi Holt. Her commitment to students and the University, her innovative leadership and spirit of teamwork, and her notable accomplishments have earned her this recognition. We also wish to welcome Jodi’s husband, Tim Holt, who is with us today.