Fall 2026 Magazine
Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts
Welcome to the Fall 2026 issue of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts Magazine. This issue highlights the international experiences of our students, as well as highlighting faculty and alumni excellence.
COVER STORY
The world as their classroom
More than 60 Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts students spent their summer creating art, forging friendships and immersing themselves in cultures half a world away.
It’s part of a shifting global strategy for the college. Rather than focusing on recruiting international students through the Global Arts Academy, the college is expanding international experiences for current students.
FEATURES
Santiago Cal: Rooted in the in-between
School of Art, Art History & Design Professor Santiago Cal explores identity, displacement and the shared human experience through evocative sculptures that reflect what it means to live between cultures, places and a sense of belonging.
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All the world’s his stage: Jefferis’ creative career comes full circle
Alumnus Adam Jefferis has built a multifaceted career as an actor, director, educator and arts administrator, bringing his journey full circle as he returned to campus to share his experience and receive the Hixson-Lied College’s Alumni Achievement Award in Theatre and Film.
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Benson's lasting impact on music education recognized
Alumna Karen Benson has dedicated her career to inspiring music educators and enriching music education for generations of students, earning recognition for her last impact with the Hixson-Lied College’s Alumni Achievement Award in Music.
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Wachter builds community through art
Alumna Valery Wachter has spent her career using her artistic talents and community involvement to make the arts more accessible and strengthen connections between art and health care, earning the Hixson-Lied College’s Alumni Achievement Award in Art.
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Campus celebrates Carson’s 100th birthday
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln celebrated the 100th birthday of legendary entertainer and alumnus Johnny Carson, honoring his enduring legacy and transformative generosity to the university.
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Preparing students for entertainment’s future
The Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film is preparing students for careers in the evolving entertainment industry through hands-on learning, cutting-edge technology and connections with industry professionals.
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Emerging Media Arts students partner on Luminarium exhibition
Students in the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts partnered with Omaha’s Kiewit Luminarium to create an innovative exhibition that explores the intersection of science, religion and the search for meaning through immersive, technology-driven storytelling.
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Honoring our retiring faculty, staff
The Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts honors its retiring faculty and staff for their combined 465 years of service to the college and university.
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