The University of Nebraska Board of Regents is considering the elimination of case-by-case approvals for alcohol sales at athletic events, potentially moving toward a more comprehensive approval system as soon as next year.
Next Friday, the regents will gather at the University of Nebraska at Kearney to discuss a broader approval process that would allow campuses to establish safety and management plans for alcohol sales at specific or all athletic events. Additionally, the board will review updates to its campaign-related policies and the progress of various athletic construction projects in Lincoln.
Potential Expansion of Alcohol Sales
In February 2022, the regents authorized alcohol sales at designated athletic events but required approval for each individual event or venue. A portion of the revenue from these sales will be allocated to alcohol safety education and services aimed at reducing alcohol abuse, although the exact percentage has not yet been determined.
“The University of Nebraska has carefully considered our approach to alcohol at athletic events,” stated NU President Jeffrey Gold. “I’m pleased to see that we can implement this safely and responsibly, benefiting our fans, student-athletes, and the institution as a whole.”
If approved, Husker Athletics plans to allow alcohol sales during the 2025-26 season, including at football and volleyball games.
Among the Big Ten universities, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln currently stands out for not permitting alcohol sales at football games.
Melissa Lee, a spokesperson for NU, indicated that the immediate plan is to expand alcohol sales to the Bob Devaney Sports Center and Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, but not at the University of Nebraska at Kearney or the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Huskers Athletic Director Troy Dannen emphasized that safety has been a priority during the two years of alcohol sales at UNL events, such as wrestling, baseball, and softball games, as well as during Volleyball Day in Memorial Stadium last year. They are now prepared to fully extend these sales to additional facilities.
“We are dedicated to providing a top-notch game-day experience and amenities at all our athletic venues,” Dannen remarked.
NU reports that there have been “no major alcohol-related incidents” at events held in Lincoln. Alcohol has also been sold for several years at UNO Maverick hockey games.
Past Comments from Regents on Alcohol Sales
Regents Jim Scheer of Norfolk, Kathy Wilmot of Beaver City, and Barbara Weitz of Omaha have historically opposed the expansion of alcohol sales.
Wilmot has consistently voiced her objections, arguing that alcohol does not enhance the experience for all fans, only for adults, and neglects the family-friendly atmosphere that some attendees prefer.
During Volleyball Day last year, Scheer joined Wilmot in opposing alcohol sales, expressing concern that many of the 80,000 ticket holders may not have been aware of the change after purchasing their tickets.
In April, NU partnered with NEBCO to permit alcohol sales at Haymarket Park in Lincoln for Husker softball and baseball games. Weitz supported Wilmot’s position, stating that the regents should move beyond a “piecemeal approach” to alcohol and review its related policies.
Scheer supported the proposal, noting that the sales would directly fund necessary capital improvements at the park.
Regent Rob Schafer of Beatrice, the board chair, has consistently highlighted the successful execution of events without issues, advocating for “treating adults like adults.”
Other Agenda Items
The agenda will also include various policy updates, including one that clarifies that no administrative officer within NU, such as campus chancellors, should engage directly or indirectly in regents’ campaigns. This policy would encompass attending, speaking at, organizing, or sponsoring campaign events for candidates.
Lee stated that these policy changes, which also include updates on disability accommodations, equal opportunity employment, and employee incentive programs, are part of a broader initiative initiated under former NU President Ted Carter aimed at reducing bureaucratic obstacles.
Additional agenda items include proposals to:
Increase the budget for the phased replacement of the Huskers’ outdoor track by nearly $10 million, a project initially approved in October 2019.
Consider a $6.2 million initiative for replacing and renovating the grass practice fields at the Huskers’ Osborne Legacy Complex to enhance soil health and maintenance for student-athlete safety.
Rename the north tower of Memorial Stadium from the Osborne Athletic Complex to the Cornhuskers Athletic Complex, since Osborne’s name has been transferred to the newly constructed football facility.
Approve Anne Barnes from the University of Nebraska Medical Center as the interim vice president and chief financial officer for NU. Current CFO Chris Kabourek, who served as interim president from January 1 to June 30, will resign on October 1. Barnes will also continue her role as UNMC’s vice chancellor for business, finance, and business development.
The regents will convene at 9 a.m. next Friday at UNK’s Regional Engagement Center, Room 120.
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