OMAHA, Neb. — Who better than a current student to know what students on a college campus need? That is the logic behind a new candidate for the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.

Drew Leisy, the current student body president at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, announced that he is running for the University of Nebraska Board of Regents in District 4.

The seat is currently vacant pending an appointee from Gov. Jim Pillen and a special election later this year. Leisy is entering the race with the backing of Regent Barbara Weitz.

“The University of Nebraska Board of Regents deserves leadership that listens, engages and puts people first,” Leisy said. “Across the country, higher education is facing unprecedented challenges, and our own university system is experiencing political pressure, budget cuts and decisions made without the voices of those who feel the impact most.”

Leisy’s campaign will focus on making higher education more affordable for Nebraskans, investing in well-being, fair compensation and the resources needed to strengthen the university system, while protecting academic programs and ensuring accountability. 

Leisy was born and raised in Bridgeport and graduated from Bridgeport High School. His mother was a first-generation college student, and he recalls sitting at the kitchen table doing homework alongside her. Those moments shaped his belief that education opens doors and creates opportunities, and reinforced his view that higher education should be accessible and affordable for every Nebraskan who wishes to pursue it.

Leisy is currently a junior at UNO, majoring in business administration with concentrations in management and leadership and real estate.