Dec. 9, 2024

University of Nebraska remembers Regent Emeritus Howard Hawks as champion of education and community

Contact: Cara Pesek carapesek@nebraska.edu 402-570-1585

The University of Nebraska mourns the passing of Howard L. Hawks, whose leadership and generosity has created a lasting legacy on the university system, the state of Nebraska and well beyond. Regent Emeritus Hawks, alongside his wife Rhonda, dedicated decades of leadership, philanthropy and service to advancing higher education, athletics and community well-being across Nebraska.

An alumnus of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business and the University of Nebraska at Omaha MBA program, Hawks championed the transformative power of education throughout his life. He served nearly two decades on the University’s Board of Regents, led fundraising efforts for several university initiatives and donated generously to projects spanning academics, health care and athletics across several campuses.

As a regent, Hawks prioritized fiscal responsibility and affordable access for students, demonstrating his belief that Nebraska’s economic vitality depended on a strong university system. During his 18 years on the board, he twice served as chairman. As a philanthropist, he and Rhonda supported projects across the NU system. Among them are Howard L. Hawks Hall and a business ethics and leadership chair for the UNL College of Business; Kiewit Hall for the UNL College of Engineering; the Hawks Championship Center and Hawks Field at Haymarket Park for Nebraska Athletics; Baxter Arena and the baseball and softball complex for Omaha Athletics; the renovation to the Durham Science Center for UNO; the Tim Hawks Chair in Cancer Prevention and Population Science in the UNMC College of Public Health; the Rhonda and Howard Hawks Movement Disorders Fellowship in the UNMC Department of Neurological Sciences; and the Sharing Clinic, a UNMC student-run clinic; as well as student scholarships.

Hawks also served on the executive committee for Campaign for Nebraska: Unlimited Possibilities, a fundraising campaign conducted from 2005-2014 that raised $1.8 billion in private support for the university.

The Hawks’ philanthropic commitment extended well beyond the university. Together, they supported initiatives addressing homelessness, mental health, education and the arts, while serving on the boards of numerous Omaha institutions. Hawks’ achievements in business also inspired generations; as the co-founder of Tenaska Energy, Inc., he grew the company into one of the nation’s largest independent energy providers, earning him membership in the Omaha and Nebraska Business Halls of Fame.

In recognition of their service, Rhonda and Howard Hawks were awarded the Regents Medal, the university’s highest honor, in 2023.

Following are statements on Howard Hawks’ passing from the senior leadership of the University of Nebraska:

“Howard Hawks was a visionary leader whose profound influence shaped the future of the University of Nebraska and impacted countless lives, both within our state and far beyond. His generosity, commitment to education and dedication to building stronger communities have left an indelible mark on our institution. My amazing friendship with Howard and Rhonda has been of profound impact and deeply appreciated. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Rhonda and the entire Hawks family.”

* University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D.

“Howard Hawks’ vision and commitment leave a lasting impact on the University of Nebraska, its alumni and its current and future students. His leadership sets an example for others who care about our state and university to follow. He will be deeply missed.”

* University of Nebraska Board of Regents Chairman Robert Schafer

“Howard Hawks exemplified what it means to lead with vision and heart. His dedication to students, passion for education and generous support transformed the University of Nebraska and reminds us of the enormous impact one person can have.”

* University of Nebraska Regent Tim Clare

“Howard Hawks was one of the best regents that I had the privilege of working with. He was a wise man, with great integrity and faith. Margene and I were privileged to call he and Rhonda our friends.”

* Former University of Nebraska Regent Bob Phares

“Howard Hawks was a pillar of the community. His passing leaves a void for all who loved and respected a man that gave so much to so many. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

* University of Nebraska—Lincoln Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett

“The UNMC community’s thoughts and sympathy go out to Rhonda and the Hawks family at the passing of Howard. He was a brilliant businessman, NU regent and philanthropist who had a positive and lasting impact on UNMC, the university as a whole and the entire state of Nebraska. His accomplishments and the effects of his generosity are too many to list, and he will be remembered as a person who worked tirelessly for the betterment of his community and the individuals within it.”

* University of Nebraska Medical Center Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, M.D.

“Howard Hawks exemplified the very essence of UNO’s Maverick Spirit through his unwavering dedication to enhancing our university and the Omaha community. He will forever be remembered for his remarkable business acumen and profound love for his community. His selfless service and enduring commitment to improving the lives of those around him will continue to inspire future generations of Mavericks to dream big and act boldly. Frank and I send our love to Rhonda and the Hawks family as the UNO community honors Howard’s memory.”

* University of Nebraska at Omaha Chancellor Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA

“Howard Hawks provided exemplary leadership, service and support for the University of Nebraska. Through his volunteer leadership and generous philanthropy, he had a profound impact. He will be greatly missed, and we send our sympathies to Rhonda and the entire Hawks family.”

* Brian F. Hastings, president and CEO, University of Nebraska Foundation

“Howard Hawks has been a cornerstone of Cornhusker Athletics and the University of Nebraska for several decades. Howard has impacted Nebraska in so many ways, from his generous philanthropic support to his service on the Board of Regents and as one of the most loyal Husker fans you could find. Howard’s impact at the University of Nebraska will be felt for generations to come. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all who knew and loved Howard.”

* University of Nebraska Director of Athletics Troy Dannen

“Howard Hawks stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of Omaha Athletics. The unprecedented success of our sports programs and the state-of-the-art facilities our fans, student-athletes and community enjoy today would not have been possible without his vision and generosity. He was a friend and mentor to many of us, and his legacy of engagement and support has forever shaped our organization. We are forever grateful for the incredible mark he has left on our university and will miss him dearly.”

* University of Nebraska at Omaha Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Adrian Dowell

“Howard Hawks profoundly impacted the lives of students, faculty and staff at the University of Nebraska through his remarkable generosity. His visionary support included the lead gift for the new home of the College of Business, Howard L. Hawks Hall, which leaves a legacy that will inspire generations to come. We will dearly miss Howard, and our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Rhonda and his extended family and friends."

* Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean and professor of finance at the University of Nebraska—Lincoln College of Business