Administration
The 1960s was a time of growth and change not only for the physical landscape of the University, but also its budget: “The University of Nebraska budget was increased because of the inescapable enrollment pressures and the expanded level of federal funds available to institutions of higher education” (Sawyer 218). The hope of the University was that with increased funding, they could rapidly expand their research programs. Because of the limited state funding available, and the University’s desire to improve their research programs, the Board of Regents approved a rise in student fees in September of 1961 (Sawyer 219). “At many other state universities, similar, but not uniform tuition increases were also ordered by governing boards. A national move shifted “the distribution of responsibility, for the revenue side of the schools budget from the State to the students and their families” (Sawyer 221). This shift in funding responsibilities—from the government and University to the students and their families created the model for attending a University that students who currently attend are familiar with.
Since the Gustavson administration the basic administrative structure hadn’t changed. However, with the enrollment growth and improvement or research and service programs, the administrative structure needed to be changed. “In August 1962, Chancellor Clifford M. Hardin presented to the Board of Regents a proposal for the reorganization of the University administration.” The regents approved the plan, which included the creation of three vice chancellorships. Adam C. Breckenridge became the vice chancellor and the dean of the faculties. Joseph Soshnik became the vice chancellor for businesses and finances, and Roy G. Holly was appointed vice chancellor for graduate studies (Sawyer 223).
The end of an era came in the late 1960s; Chancellor Hardin’s administration ended in 1968 after President Richard M. Nixon appointed him as the Secretary of Agriculture. “During the fifties and sixties, Chancellor Hardin had sought to convince the people of Nebraska that their state University held the key to the improvement of both the standard of living and the quality of life in Nebraska. His success in this effort was apparent in the budget increases made possible by the strong support given the University by Governors Morison and Tiemann, and by the state legislature” (Sawyer 226).