Concordia Nebraska announces inaugural cohort in Solomon Scholars program

Concordia University, Nebraska launched the Solomon Scholars program this fall with its first cohort of nine students. Solomon Scholars is for students pursuing careers in computing, technology and problem-solving fields. Students accepted into this program receive mentorship, professional development opportunities, real-world experiences in computing, service projects and a close-knit scholarly community of like-minded individuals. 

“The inspiration [for the program] is the growing need for wisdom in computing vocations,” said Solomon Scholars Program Director and Assistant Professor of Computer Science Dr. Marcus Gubanyi. “We strive to grow in our vocations through community, service and mentorship.” 

The program offers scholars a variety of opportunities. Each scholar is paired with an experienced mentor, including Concordia faculty and industry professionals, and they meet regularly. This mentorship is meant to enhance the scholars’ vocational development in computing. 

“The inspiration [for the program] is the growing need for wisdom in computing vocations. We strive to grow in our vocations through community, service and mentorship.”

Students in the program participate in activities and events on and off campus, including field trips and guest presentations. In addition, scholars have the opportunity to serve the community with their knowledge and skill in computing. 

As the program continues to grow and evolve, Gubanyi hopes to expand to more than 20 scholars in the next few years and expand the mentor network to more than 30 participants. Thad Meyer, who serves on the board of Trinity Academy, has joined the Solomon Scholars program as an adjunct faculty member supporting the program and organizing academic seminars. Trinity Academy is a classical liberal arts high school on the campus of Concordia Nebraska. 

“The Solomon Scholars look forward to engaging in a wide range of activities this year, including traveling to conferences, competing in programming contests, hosting events on campus, gathering as a community to discuss current topics in computing and more,” said Gubanyi. 

The first Solomon Scholars cohort includes: 

Silas Curtis, senior, Worden, Illinois 

Calvin Gross, senior, St. Peters, Missouri 

David Marin, senior, Omaha, Nebraska 

Lawson Fairchild, junior, Roanoke, Indiana 

Noah Niederklein, junior, Pittsburg, Kansas 

Reagan Zierke, junior, Johnston, Iowa 

Ashton Hayes, sophomore, Bozeman, Montana 

Sophia Pickrel, freshman, Gretna, Nebraska

Jack Watts, freshman, Leroy, Michigan

Anyone who has been successfully admitted to Concordia University, Nebraska will be considered for Solomon Scholars by indicating their interest on the application. If you’ve already submitted your application but are interested in becoming a Solomon Scholar, please email solomonscholars@cune.edu.