Creating Connection and Hope Through MavForensics

By Lily Dohmen ’27

For students involved in the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s MavForensics program, competitive speech and debate is about more than winning. It is an opportunity to develop confidence, leadership skills and meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom.

Amanda VonGoodrich, co-director of the program, said donor support plays a vital role in making those opportunities possible.

“I think the fund has a tremendous impact on the MavForensics program overall, but two things come to mind: connection and hope,” VonGoodrich said.

One of the ways students experience that connection is through fundraising efforts such as UNO’s annual Wear Black, Give Back giving day.

Throughout the year, students work together to create campaigns, develop content and promote MavForensics across social media.

“Wear Black, Give Back and efforts to fundraise all year long bring the MavForensics students together in really inspiring ways,” VonGoodrich said.

The impact of donor support goes beyond building connections among students. It also provides hope for what is possible.

The impact of donor support goes beyond building connections among students. It also provides hope for what is possible.

Support from the UNO Forensics Development Fund provides access to travel opportunities, international competitions and quality competition supplies. These experiences allow students to challenge themselves, represent UNO on larger stages and continue their academic and professional development.

These opportunities help prepare students for success long after their time at UNO comes to an end.

“Travel to international competition and quality competition supplies provide access to experiences that shape professional excellence and academic development,” she said.

Through donor generosity, MavForensics students can build connections, develop valuable skills and pursue opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

“The students can dream big and hope for the best when financial barriers aren’t in the way,” VonGoodrich said.