Karen Wills has turned her passion for supporting students into a purpose at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

“Before graduating in December 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in community health education, I knew that I wanted to serve students and stay at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln,” Wills said.

In her 25 years as a university employee, Wills has taken on many roles — from interning at the University Health Center to supervising Social Activity Development. She found her home when she joined the University Program Council, a student organization that develops programs and events to enhance the campus community. Wills currently serves as the program coordinator for UPC.

“It is important for students to become involved and find their community at UNL either by joining a Recognized Student Organization related to their major or a club that provides an entertaining or educational outlet, or is just fun, such as UPC Nebraska,” Wills said. “Students will find a great support system with their peers and fellow members, learn transferable life skills, and make a connection with their faculty/staff adviser to get advice, guidance, and recommendation letters.”

Wills’ favorite part of the job is the people she works with each day. Specifically, she loves working directly with college students and watching them grow, develop and succeed.

“Although it sometimes feels like being in the movie, “Groundhog Day” since I interact with 18- to 22-year-old students every day,” Wills said. “No day is ever the same and I always look forward to coming to work.”

Wills urged the campus community to look for more UPC events and activities soon, including a partnership with the Association of Students of the University of Nebraska.

“UPC is working on a partnership with ASUN to produce a large-scale event based on years of feedback from UNL students. Stay tuned for more information,” Wills said.