Fall 2025 Magazine

Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts

Welcome to the Fall 2025 issue of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts Magazine. This edition highlights creativity, leadership, legacy and the people shaping the future of the arts at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Read our feature stories below or download the entire magazine. 

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COVER STORY

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Light, creativity abound in new music building

The Glenn Korff School of Music has a new home this fall at 10th and Q streets. The $81 million, 103,000-square-feet, state-of-the-art facility opened in May, began holding classes this fall and will keep the historic Westbrook Music Building name.

It replaces the former Westbrook Music Building at 11th and R streets, which opened in 1967.

“It’s an incredible mix of positive emotions,” said Glenn Korff School of Music Director Felix Olschofka. “On one hand, there’s deep satisfaction in seeing this long and complex journey come to life. So many people—faculty, staff, students, architects, construction crews and campus leadership—invested time, energy and vision into this project. Walking through the finished space now, hearing music in the halls and seeing students settle into their new creative home is deeply moving.”

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FEATURES

Art history alum champions Nebraska artists as curator at MONA

Art History alumna Karissa Johnson’s curatorial vision brings focus to Nebraska artists at Museum of Nebraska Art.

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Karissa Johnson at MONA

Music business education pioneer Donald Gorder returns for Alumni Masters Week

Music alumnus reflects on his founding of the music business program at Berklee College of Music.

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Donald Gorder (center) with UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett and Nebraska Alumni Association Executive Director Shelley Zaborowski

Ted Hunter: Conservator of Arms

Art history alum Hunter preserves arms and armor at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

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Ted Hunter

Viglucci leads through music

Music alum Viglucci serves as Commander of the U.S. Army School of Music.

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Richard Viglucci

Hensley succeeds so hard

Theatre alum Hensley creates #IMOMSOHARD to inspire women through humor.

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Kristin Hensley

Pete Pinnell continues his influence in ceramics in retirement

Pinnell’s impact on ceramics continues to shape the field long after his retirement.

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Pete Pinnell

Ace of bass: Hans Sturm retires from Korff School

Renowned bassist Sturm retires after 14 years of mentoring students and elevating musical excellence in the Glenn Korff School of Music.

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Hans Sturm in performance