Another shake up for University of Nebraska leadership.
After 27 years at Nebraska’s largest higher education institution, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and former Interim President of the NU system, Chris Kabourek, submitted his resignation in a letter to current President Jeffrey Gold on Monday.
In his letter shared with KLIN News, Kabourek said he’s “made the difficult but necessary decision” to resign from NU effective October 1, 2024.
“I believe the timing now feels appropriate for me to step aside,” said the University’s finance leader. “With a solid plan in place to eliminate the biennial budget deficit… I am confident in the University’s financial strength.”
During Kabourek’s six month stint as NU President, he oversaw the Athletic Departments transition to new Athletic Director Troy Dannen, following former director Trev Albert’s sudden departure back in March.
“(Dannen) has built a strong team and strategy to ensure Husker athletics remains competitive in the rapidly evolving landscape of college sports,” said Kabourek. “I am especially proud of welcoming the first cohort of Presidential Scholars to our campuses.”
“In reflecting on my time in this role, I have asked myself whether I, after serving over half my life at the University, have become too comfortable. Is it time for me to get uncomfortable again? Over time, I’ve found clarity-the answer to that question is yes,” he continued.
Kabourek will remain available to help transition incoming interim CFO Anne Barnes, who currently serves as vice chancellor for business and finance at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
“I am confident that the Business and Finance team, which has already demonstrated excellence during my time as Interim President, will continue to manage day-to-day operations seamlessly,” he said.
A native of David City, Nebraska, Kabourek signed his resignation letter saying “…serving my alma mater has been the honor of a lifetime, and I will always be cheering for the University’s continued success.”