This year, 14 faculty and staff retired from the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts. These 14 faculty and staff members had a combined 465 years of service to Nebraska.
Below are short bios and quotes from their colleagues on their impact to the college, university and beyond.
David Bagby
Dean’s Office
Bagby was the Information Technology Services Manager. He began his career at Nebraska in 1985. Bagby helped students, faculty and staff use computers and multimedia technology in their studies, teaching, work, research and creative activity. He researched and recommended hardware and software and helped connect the people of our college with other technology resources available on campus.
“David Bagby has been a longstanding pillar to the faculty, staff, and students in our college. His kindness and attention to detail knows no bounds. He would drop everything at a moment’s notice if it meant class didn’t have to get cancelled (sorry, students!) Over the years, David has helped shape the technology we depend on every single day, sharing not just his expertise, but his patience and steady presence. He’s also been a true supporter of the arts, showing up, engaging, and genuinely enjoying all that our college has to offer. What we’ll miss most isn’t just what David did—it’s how he did it—always approachable, always willing to help, and always part of the fabric of this community. And finally, the Facilities team can breathe a sigh of relief, for David, the reporter, is retiring.” --Drew Davis, Systems Analyst and IT Operations
John Bailey
Glenn Korff School of Music
Bailey began teaching at Nebraska in 1986. He is the Richard H. Larson Distinguished Professor of Music (Flute) and a member of the Moran Woodwind Quintet. He is principal flutist with the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra. He is an active recitalist, lecturer and masterclass teacher. He has conducted the International Flute Orchestra on tour in Greece, Chile, China, Spain, Italy, Austria and Germany, among other countries. He was president of the National Flute Association in 2003-2004.
“John Bailey has been the most significant role model in my professional life since I arrived at UNL in 1994. His legendary reputation as a musician, teacher, and scholar was already evident, even during my interview process; I vividly recall the principal cellist of the Naples Philharmonic telling me, “You need to impress John Bailey—he is incredible.” I continually find myself thinking, “What would John Bailey do?” and aspire to be like him to this day. I am deeply grateful for the impact he has had—not only on my own career, but on the countless students and colleagues he has influenced throughout his 40-year tenure at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. John’s career is distinguished by artistry, scholarship, and service. As a co-founding member of the Moran Woodwind Quintet and as principal flutist of Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra, he brought distinction to UNL through performances of exceptional breadth and refinement. John is an inspiring educator and leader, having shaped generations of musicians, and his professional impact extends far beyond the stage. His leadership within organizations such as the National Flute Association and the College Music Society, along with his international conducting and teaching, reflects a deep commitment to advancing the musical community. Through his decades of dedication, John has elevated the artistic profile of UNL and inspired colleagues and students alike. His legacy will endure in the countless musicians he has mentored and the vibrant musical culture he helped to cultivate here in Nebraska and across the globe.” -- Diane Barger, the Ron and Carol Cope Professor of Music (Clarinet)
Karen Becker
Glenn Korff School of Music
Becker began teaching at Nebraska in 1995. Becker is Professor of Cello and area head for strings. She is a dedicated soloist, chamber musician and teacher. Her career has taken her around the world to places such as the Czech Republic, England, Korea, Mexico, Norway, Switzerland and throughout the U.S. She tours regularly as a soloist and chamber musician, particularly as cellist of the Concordia String Trio.
“When first meeting Professor Karen Becker, you are greeted by a bubbly, charismatic and dynamic person. She is outgoing and sincere. She has been a stronghold of string instrument teaching and performing not only at UNL, but in Lincoln, throughout Nebraska, across the country and abroad. Her professional resume speaks volumes. But what you will find out quickly when getting to know her is her fun-loving side. She rarely passes up an opportunity for a good pun or to share a laugh. Since her UNL appointment in 1995, Karen became involved in many things. She started and ran the UNL String Project for 26 years, directed the Lincoln Junior Youth Orchestra for 8 years, and has worked with youth groups across the United States. Her performing career has taken her around the world concertizing in Brazil, the Czech Republic, Great Britain, Mexico, Norway, Switzerland, South Korea and Vietnam. She has recorded four CDs in the last decade. Karen remains very active in the American String Teachers Association, serving as president of two state chapters, presenting at conferences and serving on national committees. She has been artist teacher for the Red Lodge Music Festival 25 years and recently taught in the International Cello Institute. This summer Karen will perform with the Buzzards Bay and Sunflower Music Festivals. She will continue her work as principal cellist of the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra. And, just when you least expect it, you just might hear her joyous laugh around the corner.” --David Neely, Professor of Violin
Brad Buffum
Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film
Buffum was the Production Manager in the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film. He began his career at Nebraska in 1997. He has stage managed more than 50 shows at the Nebraska Repertory Theatre and mentored student stage managers on countless others. He has also taught about 11,000 UNL Introduction to Theatre students. He is the recipient of the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival Gold Medallion for his contributions nationally and to Region V. In 2017, he was awarded the Lincoln Mayor’s Arts Award.
“To attempt to quantify Brad Buffum’s contributions to the School, Nebraska Repertory Theatre, the College, and the University would require nearly double his length of service—and even then, it would fall short. Over the course of nearly three decades, Brad has guided more than 7,500 Intro to Theatre students and stage managed upwards of 70 productions—alongside the innumerable moments, rooms, and processes shaped by his calm, steady hand. And yet, even these remarkable measures only begin to tell the story; his true impact lives in the generations of students, alumni, and colleagues whose work and sense of possibility have been shaped by his presence. Former Carson School Director Paul Steger perhaps said it best upon hearing of Brad’s retirement: ‘Brad was a key component of both the University Theatre and the Nebraska Rep producing teams. Always a problem solver, Brad was instrumental in the smooth running of every event, including 20 years as the coordinator of the International Thespians Festival. We never would have been able to complete the Temple building renovations on time without his insights and diligence.’ Happy trails, Brad—and deepest thanks from all of us.” --Hank Stratton, Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film Director and Executive Director of the Nebraska Repertory Theatre
Mark Clinton
Glenn Korff School of Music
Clinton began teaching at Nebraska in 1995. He is Professor of Piano. A critically acclaimed pianist, he has received accolades for his inspiring performances in venues around the world from Paris to Sydney to New York. His concert activities as a soloist, chamber musician and collaborative artist reflect his commitment to musical diversity and to a wide range of performing experiences. He is also in demand as an adjudicator at major national and international piano competitions and frequently works in masterclasses with outstanding young pianists from around the world. He is a Steinway artist and was inducted into the Steinway & Sons Teacher Hall of Fame in 2023.
“Throughout his more than 30 years at UNL, Mark has consistently shared his intelligent, interpretive engagement; technical brilliance; and consummate musicianship through dozens of piano recitals and performances, both locally and in major concert venues around the world. He has also recorded several critically acclaimed CDs and a documentary film score. However, regardless of his numerous achievements and accolades as an artist, I believe Mark’s true legacy lies in his impact as a profoundly transformative teacher of scores of students. To teach well is to touch the future, and in this respect, Mark’s work will continue to reverberate in the piano world for generations to come. I know I speak not only for myself, but also for the larger Glenn Korff School of Music community in thanking Mark for his outstanding contributions as an educator and musician, for his devoted service, and for his friendship. We wish our treasured colleague the best that life has to offer as he turns the page to begin a fresh, new chapter.” --Brenda Wristen, Professor of Piano and Piano Pedagogy
Todd Cuddy
Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film and Glenn Korff School of Music
Cuddy was Assistant to the Directors of the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film and Glenn Korff School of Music. He began his career at Nebraska in 1996. He loved the opportunity to see students learn and grow.
“Todd began his service to this school in 1996 and has served as Executive Assistant to ever director since. Over the course of nearly three decades, he has become a constant for this program: a steady hand, a trusted presence, and, for so many of us, the person who somehow always knew the answer, the process, the history or the path forward. There is scarcely an administrative detail, institutional memory, recruitment effort, onboarding process, alumni relationship, or day-to-day operation of this school that Todd has not influenced, shaped, or mastered. He has welcomed countless faculty, staff, students, and guests into this building and into this community with generosity, humor, patience and remarkable care. He has remained deeply connected to our alumni and has been instrumental in helping generations of students feel seen, supported, and guided through their time here.” -- Hank Stratton, Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film Director and Executive Director of the Nebraska Repertory Theatre
Richard Endacott
Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film
Endacott began teaching at Nebraska in 1999. He is Professor of Cinema and Screenwriting. As the founding member of the cinematic arts faculty at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Endacott is a prolific screenwriter, producer and director. In 1993, he teamed up with Dana Altman and Dan Mirvish to produce “Omaha: The Movie.” The Endacott-Altman relationship evolved into a business partnership and in 1994, they established North Sea Films, Inc. From 2001-2011 he produced and directed more than 30 titles in the Broadway Jr. and KIDS Collection series for Music Theatre International and Disney Theatricals. He produced two Carson School films, “Viper in the Grass” and “DIGS.” In 2013, his work appeared in film festivals with a feature he wrote, produced and co-directed titled “Laurence.” His short film, “Turn Over,” premiered at film festivals in 2025.
“For 27 years, Rick didn’t just teach film and screenwriting – he taught students how to see, to feel, to empathize with a narrative, and to find meaning in every frame. What began as his vision grew into a program that shaped countless voices, each carrying forward a piece of his passion, wisdom, and experience. His classroom was never just a place to learn, but a place to belong – to question, to create, and to discover. As his work shepherding a BFA into existence comes to a close, his legacy continues to roll on, projected through every life he’s touched. The impact of his leadership on the Emerging Media Arts degree is undeniable – without the foundation of the Film & New Media program, EMA would not exist. Through his vision, care, and tireless dedication, he brought unprecedented opportunity to the Johnny Carson School while shaping not only what the program is today, but what it will become tomorrow.” --Steve Kolbe, Associate Professor of Emerging Media Arts
Michael Hoff
School of Art, Art History & Design
Hoff began teaching at Nebraska in 1989. He is Professor of Art History. He specializes in Greek and Roman archaeology, and his research focuses on the history of Roman Athens and on archaeology of Asia Minor. He currently conducts research in Turkey, where from 1997 to 2004 he co-directed the architectural survey team of the Rough Cilicia Archaeological Survey Project and since 2005 has served as Project Director of the Antiochia ad Cragum Excavations on the south coast of Turkey. He has authored many articles in international journals and co-edited several books, including “The Romanization of Athens” (1998) and “Rough Cilicia: New Historical and Archaeological Approaches” (2013).
“Michael Hoff’s 37 years at UNL have left us immeasurably richer. That’s literally true. He has brought in over $1.1 million in research funds, as PI or co-PI. As director of the Antiochia ad Cragum archaeological site in Turkey for 25 years, he has uncovered pirate hoards, as well as mosaics, temples and a wealth of new information about the Roman empire through his 55 articles and three books on his discoveries there. He has enriched our state, bringing nearly 100 scholars to speak here, and given 80 public talks of his own at towns across it. And he has enriched the world by taking UNL students to Greece and Turkey, and then sending them to study and practice art history, archaeology and conservation at NYU, Emory, Johns Hopkins, Columbia, Ohio State, Howard, Nebraska Wesleyan, the Met, and the National Park Service. Michael Hoff has made hundreds of students fall in love with classical art and culture, as witnessed by his 10 college and university teaching and research awards. He has been a generous, warm and astute colleague, and a loyal fan of Big Red volleyball and football. We will miss him.” --Wendy Katz, Professor of Art History
William McMullen
Glenn Korff School of Music
McMullen began teaching at Nebraska in 1986. He is Professor of Oboe and principal oboe with the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra and oboist in the Moran Woodwind Quintet. He is a frequent recitalist throughout the United State with pianist Catherine Herbener. His book on English horn repertoire, “Soloistic English Horn Literature (1736-1984)” was published in 1994 by Pendragon Press. He was on the faculty of the Rocky Ridge Music Center summer music festival in Estes Park, Colorado, for 23 summers.
“My colleague William McMullen concludes an extraordinary 40-year career at UNL, marked by artistry, scholarship, and generosity of spirit. I have had the pleasure of relying on Bill’s impeccable concert A’s—both as principal oboist of Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra and in our work together in the Moran Quintet, which he co-founded 40 years ago. Thanks for those great A’s, Bill—they always made the rest of us sound better! Bill has distinguished himself as a performer of exceptional depth, appearing as soloist in major concertos by Strauss, Mozart, and Vaughan Williams. A dedicated chamber musician and recitalist, he has performed widely in the U.S. and abroad, including at the International Double Reed Society and College Music Society conferences. His collaborations with pianist Catherine Herbener and flutist Claudia Anderson have produced acclaimed recordings, while his scholarly work, Soloistic English Horn Literature (1736–1984), remains a valued resource. Equally remarkable has been Bill’s commitment to teaching. At UNL and through summer programs such as the Chamber Music Institute, Rocky Ridge Music Center, and Point Counterpoint, he has mentored generations of musicians with insight, patience, and encouragement. Beyond the classroom, his warmth, humor, and guidance have shaped our theory program, our weekly undergraduate student convocations, and countless personal and professional lives. From his studies at The Juilliard School to a career of international acclaim, Bill has exemplified excellence, generosity, and joy in music. His legacy will resonate through his students, colleagues, and all who have played and learned alongside him.” --Diane Barger, the Ron and Carol Cope Professor of Music (Clarinet)
Brian Moore
Glenn Korff School of Music
Moore began teaching at Nebraska in 1986. He is Professor of Music Education and Music Technology and served as the advisor for the music technology minor, which includes more than 90 students from across the campus. His special areas of interest include creativity, composition and instructional technology, and he continues to be active in the area of instructional software development with a focus on music education, composition and mobile devices. In 2013, he was recognized nationally as an Apple Distinguished Educator.
“Brian Moore contributed greatly to the quality and breadth of teaching offered to our undergraduate and graduate students. In his 40 years at UNL, he taught a wide range of courses in music education and beyond, including instrumental music methods, conducting, and music technology. His expertise in strings and orchestra, combined with his forward-looking embrace of technology, made him an especially versatile and innovative teacher. Brian’s creation of the music education course Music Composition Methods was a particularly notable contribution, blending creativity, pedagogy, and technology in ways that deeply enriched student learning. This course also extended beyond the classroom through meaningful field experiences and mentoring partnerships that connected UNL students with local schools. Brian’s contributions to UNL were equally distinguished in service and leadership. He served the Music Education Area in numerous important roles, including Area Chair, Coordinator of Music Field Experiences, advisor, and graduate supervisory committee chair. He also helped establish the Music Technology Minor and guided it for years. Just as important, Brian was known for being good-humored, easygoing, and always willing to help someone who wandered into his office needing impromptu tech support.” --Robert Woody, the Steinhart Foundation Distinguished Professor of Music Education
Clark Potter
Glenn Korff School of Music
Potter began teaching at Nebraska in 1996. He is Professor of Viola. Potter is the director of NEBratsche (the UNL viola ensemble) and is an active performer as a solo recitalist and chamber musician. He has conducted the Lincoln Youth Symphony since 2007. He is also a member of the Trans-Nebraska Players, a quintet comprised of faculty artists from across the state. In 2023, he received the Mayor’s Arts Award for Arts Education. In 2013 he received the Golden Baton Award for his dedication and work as a musician and citizen in Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra. In 2008, he was named the String Educator of the Year in Nebraska by the Nebraska chapter of the American String Teachers Association.
“Professor Potter’s accolades are indeed numerous. There are far too many to mention here. He joined the School of Music faculty in 1996 as Assistant Professor of Viola and Conducting. Since then, his accomplishments have been in everything strings. Clark’s national solo and chamber music recitals are simply too numerous to count. His many awards include: American String Teacher Association outstanding studio teacher of 2007, Outstanding String Educator in 2008. He received the Golden Baton Award from the Lincoln Symphony in 2013, and in 2023, he won a coveted Gladys Lux Arts Education Award as part of the Mayor’s Arts Awards. Professor Potter served as principal violist of the Lincoln Symphony for 26 years and has conducted the Youth Symphony since 2007. He worked for seven years with students and faculty from the Biological Systems Engineering program investigating and training breathing habits in string players and presented his findings at a notional ASTA conference. He is most proud of his personal edition of the J.S. Bach Six Cello Suites he edited for Solo Viola. But the one thing you will not find anywhere in his resumé is the mention of the untold number of students he has touched over his 39 years of academic teaching. You won’t find mention of the countless musicians he has worked with and befriended. And you will not find it written anywhere that he is one of the nicest and most sincere people you will meet. So yes, UNL can find a replacement for the viola position, but never for Professor Clark Potter.” --David Neely, Professor of Violin
Kathryn Schindler
Glenn Korff School of Music
Schindler was the Graduate Program Coordinator in the Glenn Korff School of Music. She began her career at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in 1998. Prior to joining the Glenn Korff School of Music, she was the graduate coordinator, events coordinator and web technician for the UNL Department of Entomology. She also previously worked in Agronomy and Horticulture for nine years as a distance education associate.
“Although Kathy Schindler served the Glenn Korff School of Music for just one year, her contribution to our school was profound. I had the privilege of working closely with Kathy every day, and I saw how quickly she became an essential part of our community. She brought experience, grace, and remarkable dedication to everything she did, but what stood out most was her extraordinary connection with students. Kathy had a way of making students feel known, supported, and cared for, and that quality strengthened our school in countless daily ways. She approached every task with professionalism, kindness, and quiet excellence, always keeping people at the center of her work. Across 28 years of service to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Kathy built a legacy of commitment and care. In her time with us, she made a marked and lasting difference, and her presence proved truly invaluable to the Glenn Korff School of Music.” --Rhonda Fuelberth, Professor of Music Education and Associate Director of the Glenn Korff School of Music
William Shomos
Glenn Korff School of Music
Shomos began teaching at Nebraska in 1994. He is the Richard H. Larson Distinguished Professor of Music (Voice) and Director of Opera. As Director of Opera, he has staged a variety of productions, ranging from traditional fare to new and modern works. Two of his most cherished projects have been the world premieres of Professor Tyler White’s two full-length operas, “The Gambler’s Son,” based on a novel by Nebraska author Mari Sandoz and the life of painter Robert Henri, and “O Pioneers!” based on Nebraska author Willa Cather’s novel of the same name. His productions of “Dead Man Walking,” “Cosi fan tutte” and “Street Scene” won first place in the National Opera Association’s Opera Production Competition. Thanks to the James C. and Rhonda Seacrest Tour Nebraska Opera Fund, UNL Opera traveled across the state between 2016-2026 bringing live opera to communities, including Friend, Ord, Wayne, Norfolk, Central City, Red Cloud, Scottsbluff, McCook and North Platte.
“When I think of Bill Shomos’ career, something he said in an area meeting immediately comes to mind: ‘I can make opera out of anything. Just let me know what I have.’ And time and time again, Bill proved this to be true. Whether it was three black boxes and a piano, an intricately costumed and staged work with full orchestra, or an opera on the lawn with the orchestra in a different room, Bill’s mission was to make opera happen at UNL. Opera for everyone—including thousands of 5th graders from Title One schools in Lincoln. His belief that opera was one of the most complete expressions of the human spirit influenced every decision he made and the many lives he touched in the process. Thank you, Bill, for the music, the laughter, the tears, the costumes, the sets, the stories, and the hugs. We will miss you.” --Jamie Reimer Seaman, the Richard H. Larsen Professor of Music and Voice Area Head
Darryl White
Glenn Korff School of Music
White began teaching at Nebraska in 1997. White is Associate Professor of Trumpet and Jazz Studies. He has appeared as a guest soloist with the Omaha Symphony, Lincoln Symphony Orchestra, Mesa Chamber Orchestra and Lake Forest Chamber Orchestra, among others, as well as performing with the University of Nebraska Faculty Brass Quintet, the University Faculty Jazz Quartet, and many other solo appearances and guest clinicians with college jazz bands and orchestras across the country. He recently received a 2026 Individual Arts Fellowship for Performing Arts from the Nebraska Arts Council.
“We honor the remarkable career and lasting legacy of Darryl White. He is a musician, educator, and community leader whose impact has reached far beyond the stage. Darryl has shaped generations of students through his artistry, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As our Trumpet professor for three decades, he not only possesses extraordinary performance credentials such as being a soloist with numerous orchestras and at the Kennedy Center, recordings on several record labels, and performing at a myriad of international festivals, but he also shares a deep dedication to teaching and outreach. His work with the University Speakers Bureau and First Generation Nebraska reflects a profound belief in access, opportunity, and the transformative power of education. Within the School of Music, Darryl’s presence has elevated both the artistic and human spirit of the community. His performances, multiple recordings, and collaborations have inspired colleagues and students alike, modeling a life where artistry and purpose are inseparable. Beyond campus, his service to Lincoln and the broader community demonstrates a life lived in generosity and compassion, with active engagement with organizations that support youth, the arts, and those in need. Without question, Darryl White’s legacy is not only in notes he played, but in the lives he changed.” --Alan Mattingly, Professor of Horn
