Kathie Olsen, for more than two decades one of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s most steadfast research champions, was honored for her role in helping nurture and build the university’s research enterprise. 

On June 11, the Office of Research and Innovation thanked her with a luncheon, awards and the testimony of several UNL faculty who said they learned from her. 

Olsen, a neuroscientist by training, has served in several leadership roles in the federal government, including deputy director and chief operating officer of the National Science Foundation from 2005-2009 and NASA’s chief scientist from 1999-2002. She also worked in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, the University of Notre Dame, the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities and numerous scientific advisory boards. She also founded KLO International LLC. 

Along the way, she “has been a tremendous friend of and advocate for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and its research enterprise,” said Nathan Meier, associate vice chancellor for research, capacity and competitiveness. That’s included more than 15 years as R&I’s primary NSF consultant.  

“Through her active engagement and mentorship, she has supported UNL researchers and helped elevate the university’s national competitiveness,” Meier added. 

Tisha Gilreath Mullen, director of proposal development, said Olsen was instrumental in developing UNL’s nationally known NSF CAREER Club. Since its inception, the program has led to 54 Faculty Early Career Development Program awards, significantly increasing the university’s success rate and placing UNL among the nation’s top institutions in early-career faculty funding in areas supported by NSF. 

Olsen was presented with an Admiralship in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska, conferred by Gov. Jim Pillen, and a Champion of Research Award from R&I, only the second person to receive that honor. 

“You’ve been such a friend to our office,” said Jen Nelson, vice chancellor of research and innovation. 

Several CAREER award winners praised Olsen, too, noting that her feedback was direct but supportive and helped set them up for success. 

Lucia Fernandez-Ballester, assistant professor of mechanical and materials engineering, told her, “I have never felt more cheered for. … I really appreciate having you in my corner.” 

Limei Zhang, Susan J. Rosowski Associate Professor of biochemistry, said the lessons she learned from Olsen have stayed with her throughout her career.  

Kevin Pitt, assistant professor of special education and communication disorders, said, “the first time I found out I was going to meet with you … I was a little scared. But you were really kind and really thoughtful.” 

When accepting the awards, Olsen praised her partners at UNL. 

“You are only as good as the people around you,” Olsen said. “It has been a privilege to work with such talented faculty and staff. Your success is what makes this work meaningful.” 

office of research and innovation