Featured Tigers is a monthly series wherein the spotlight shines on a few students, alumni, faculty and staff from our Crete, Lincoln and Omaha campus locations. These individuals stand out in the best way — as talented and driven leaders.

View all Featured Tigers here.
 

Lora Ives ’24
Lora Ives appreciated the individualized approach to ¹ú²ú¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ’s Master of Arts in Leadership program.

What is your name and graduation year? 
Lora Ives, 2024

What was your major or degree program?
Master of Arts in Leadership

Tell us a little about what you've done since graduating. What is your current role? Where are you working?
I am continuing my role as assistant director of continuing education at Southeast Community College

How do you feel ¹ú²ú¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ prepared you for your career?
¹ú²ú¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ has given me the confidence and skills to be an authentic leader. I have been able to use my skills acquired from ¹ú²ú¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ like coaching, strategic planning, communication, and understanding leadership through crisis and change in my current job.

What do you consider the best part of your ¹ú²ú¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ experience?
The faculty are amazing! I learned so much and felt like they cared about me as an individual and encouraged my growth. I did not feel like a number at ¹ú²ú¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ and looked forward to attending class.

What is something you're proud of accomplishing or achieving while at ¹ú²ú¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ? What are you proud of accomplishing or achieving in your career?
The developing leaders capstone was an incredible experience. I was able to take a deep dive into my leadership core values and how I can make a positive impact in my community.

Who has been/is a major influence or role model for you from ¹ú²ú¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ? How have they helped you?
Dr. Dana Miller was an major influence on my ¹ú²ú¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ experience. I was fortunate to take her Emotional Intelligence and Diversity course early in my master's program. She has influenced how I want to show up as a leader through her example. She leads with authenticity and kindness and found a way to connect with each of us on an individual level.

What advice would you give to current students?
Do not be afraid to ask for help. You may be speaking up for others as well who are too afraid to ask. No matter when you start your college career, you deserve an education and your needs are important.

What's something you like about yourself that other people may not know?
I am proud that I care about others and I have learned to appreciate my determination.