Cecil Hicks, Jr., Associate Vice Chancellor of Diversity, Equity, Access and Inclusion, has announced that he will be stepping down from his current position to become the chief talent officer for the Omaha Public Schools district. “I am truly thankful and forever indebted to Cecil for his leadership in two of the most essential areas that impact the health of our campus,” Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., said. “While I know UNO is losing a true champion for our campus, I am excited for all that he will be able to accomplish as a continued university partner in his role with one of our strongest community assets, the Omaha Public Schools.”
In July 2020, Hicks was named the university’s first Associate Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, Access and Inclusion (DEAI), following six years as Director of Human Resources. In his role as associate vice chancellor, Hicks oversaw important discussions on UNO’s Strategic Investment in Social Justice, Inequality, Race and Class.
“I am so greatful for the opportunity to serve this campus and support the mission of access to exceptional education for everyone,” Hicks said. “I am excited for what the future holds in continuing that mission for OPS, making sure students are supported at all stages of their academic lives, and continuing as a strong partner for UNO. Once a Maverick, always a Maverick.”
Hicks joined UNO in 2014 following an extensive career in both human resource management and diversity initiatives. This includes serving as Director of Human Resources for Lincoln Financial Group, Director of Recruiting and Diversity for Woodmen of the World and Director of Human Resources for the City of Omaha, as well as leadership roles on Omaha community organizations including Humanities Nebraska, Inclusive Communities, the Omaha Public Schools Foundation, Urban League of Nebraska, Kids Can, United Way of the Midlands, CASA for Douglas County, the Lauritzen Botanical Garden Board, Leadership Omaha and ICAN.
During his time at UNO, Hicks has led and provided administrative support on a variety of key campus initiatives including the Staff Advisory Council Professional Development Fund, RESPECT Engagement Survey, Re-Imaging U, Durango Discounts, UNO’s Smoke and Tobacco Policy and more.
