Starting in fall 2018, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Department of Athletics will fund a new scholarship program for students at the university.

Nebraska Chancellor Ronnie Green and Director of Athletics Shawn Eichorst announced the plan, known as Husker Scholars, at Aug. 11’s meeting of the Board of Regents.

Chancellor Ronnie Green

“In addition to being another example of Husker Athletics’ continued focus on the academic mission of the university, this scholarship program will help keep a University of Nebraska-Lincoln education affordable and accessible. That is our highest priority,” Green said. “Through the establishment of this scholarship fund, Husker Athletics continues to help educate the next generation of leaders who contribute to our state.”

Nebraska Athletics will contribute $5 million annually for scholarships for University of Nebraska-Lincoln students who do not participate in intercollegiate athletics. The investment is in addition to the department’s ongoing support for other academic and student programs at the university – it is one of only a handful of intercollegiate athletics programs in the nation that operates in the black without benefit of state or university subsidies.

Director of Athletics Shawn Eichorst

Eichorst said the new program is made possible by the Huskers’ dedicated fan base and partners whose support makes Nebraska one of the premier athletic programs in the country.

“By establishing the Husker Scholars program, we are thanking Husker fans and partners for their loyalty as we re-invest in the state of Nebraska,” he said.

The specifics of the scholarship – including criteria for those who wish to apply – will be defined in time for the application process for the 2018-19 academic year, Green said.