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UNK celebrated the completion of the new Nester Hall on September 8, 2008, with a joyous dedication event highlighted by the presence and participation of the central honoree, Dr. William R. Nester, after whom the buildings were named. The dedication of Nester Hall marked the completion of one of the largest construction projects in UNK's history, the Nester/Antelope Hall complex, concluding Phase I of UNK's comprehensive Residential Renewal program.

The tenure of Dr. William R. Nester as leader of Kearney State College and the University of Nebraska at Kearney will be remembered for the unprecedented progress that took form at all levels across campus- academically, in professional development, in service programs, and in the building of learning and living facilities. Hallmarks of his character and success, the leadership style and vision of Dr. Nester are what laid the foundation and assured the future of UNK for students, faculty, staff, and the Community of Kearney. It was the privilege of the University of Nebraska at Kearney to dedicate the new residential living and learning facility to the students of UNK - in honor of Dr. William R. Nester

This webpage has been created in honor of this historical event, and to give a flavor of the dedication event, and the wonderful new residence hall facilities, to those who could not be in attendance.

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If you are a prospective student and would like to obtain more information about living and studying at UNK, please click this link.

Kearney Hub Stories | Nester Hall Description | Nester in The Columns

1983
• Foundation’s $3 million Margin of Difference Campaign completed
• Ockinga Seminar Center dedicated
• $3.8 million addition to C.T. Ryan Library completed
• Nebraskan Student Union remodeled

1984
• Thomas Hall remodeling and addition completed
• Memorial Student Services Building remodeled
• Telecommunications Center named for Athena and Charles Mitchell
• Administration Building razed
• $1.1 million West Center renovation completed

1986
• Acquired Kearney Post Office for Museum of Nebraska Art
• Dedicated Peterson-Yanney Memorial Carillon Tower

1987
• Alumni House renovation project completed
• Memorial Columns dedicated at east entry and Class of 1916 Pillars
moved to the southeast entry of campus

1988
• World Affairs Conference reinstated

1989
• Enrollment topped 10,000
• Athletic teams joined NCAA Division II

1990
• Foundation’s $1.5 million Challenge Grant Campaign completed
• $10.7 million Health and Sports Center/Cushing Coliseum project completed

1991
• Kearney State College became the University of Nebraska at Kearney
• Funding secured for Copeland Hall addition
• $6.4 million residence hall project for Greek organizations completed

1992
• $3.7 million addition to the Museum of Nebraska Art finished
• Ron and Carol Cope Memorial Fountain dedicated
• Faculty grew in number to 325