From new facilities to reconfigured wifi access, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is starting the fall semester with a host of new experiences for Huskers. To help you get a jumpstart on the new semester, here are a few of the major updates rolled out during the summer. Click each header to learn more.

Carson Center opens

The university is welcoming “wizards and pirates and magicians of the world” with the opening of the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts. Founded through a $20 million gift from the foundation of Nebraska alumnus and iconic talk show host Johnny Carson, the program is part of the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film in the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts. The inaugural class includes 33 students.

Honors on the move

After 27 years in Neihardt Hall, Nebraska’s Honors Program has moved to Knoll Residential Center. The program’s new digs feature a renovated pavilion area, three state-of-the-art classrooms, a café offering local, healthy treats like Goldenrod Pastries, and a “commuter kitchen” for students who live off-campus. The program also is welcoming its largest-ever cohort of more than 640 students — including 443 who will live on campus.

C.Y. Thompson renovations

The university has launched a $22.5 million redevelopment of C.Y. Thompson Library on East Campus. The project will reconfigure the entire building, adding a technology-laden and collaboration-friendly learning commons for students; numerous study spaces; coffee/snack bar; new home for the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program; and an anchor point for an ongoing upgrade to Legacy Plaza, a greenspace in the core of East Campus. The project has closed the library through the start of the spring 2021 semester.

Wifi switch

In mid-May, the university switched its wireless internet network to “eduroam,” replacing UNL-AIR and UNL-AIR-E. The update, which has rolled out across all University of Nebraska campuses, it easier for students, faculty and staff to access WiFi on each campus. Eduroam is also used by many other universities across the United States, including all Big Ten institutions.

Husker Hub remains in Pound Hall

Husker Hub, a one-stop office that allows students to handle the business of being a Husker, continues to be located in a temporary space in Pound Hall, Room 130. Resources available include the University Registrar, Scholarships and Financial Aid, Bursar, and Student Accounts. After renovations are complete, Husker Hub will move into the first floor of Canfield Administration Building.

New email for students

After a transition this summer, all students have been assigned @huskers.unl.edu addresses. The new addresses are the primary email for all students and official communication from the university. The change was made to improve overall service and resources for students.

Bike lanes on R Street

An update along R Street, between 12th and 16th streets, has introduced dedicated bike lanes, enhanced aesthetics and improved pedestrian safety. The project, designed by Ann Powers, a graduate student and university employee, was a collaboration between the university and City of Lincoln.

Husker Pantry moves

The Husker Pantry and Student Money Management programs have moved to the University Health Center. Formerly in the Nebraska Union, both student support options are now aligned with Student Affair’s Big Red Resilience and Well-being program. All are located near the patient parking lot on the north side of the health center. The pantry is in Room 123, while Big Red Resilience and Student Money Management are in Room 127.

Fitness Court ready for action

Campus Recreation has partnered with the National Fitness Campaign to install a new outdoor fitness facility at the corner of 17th and R streets. An official launch party is planned for 5 p.m. Aug. 27 at the site.

More Husker Heroes

All sandwich shops in university residence halls have been renamed Husker Heroes. The shops feature new items and salads. Sushi is also being offered at Husker Heroes in Abel Hall and residence hall convenience stories. Housing is also working with the Office of Sustainability to eliminate all plastic bags in residence hall convenience stores. Follow other updates from University Housing.