Story 62 - Dr. Susan Fritz: Transforming NHRI as Program Director

Dr. Susan Fritz’s tenure as Director at the Nebraska Human Resources Institute (NHRI) from 1994 to 1998 was a period of transformative growth and significant achievements. Her leadership during these years was pivotal in advancing NHRI’s mission and enhancing its impact within the community. Dr. Fritz held a split appointment, with 80% of her time devoted to the Department of Agricultural Education and 20% to NHRI. She brought with her a strong research agenda, which encouraged the Board to focus on reinstituting the program’s research component. 

Leadership Aligned with NHRI’s Core Values

Dr. Fritz’ enthusiastic participation in NHRI retreats and activities underscored her commitment, ensuring that the institute’s values were both upheld and actively practiced. She reflects on this experience, saying, “I absolutely enjoyed participating in the retreats and activities. It was heartwarming to see the NHRI principles in action as I observed the counselors and counselees meaningfully interacting.”

Innovative Fundraising Efforts 

Responsibility for securing funding fell on Dr. Fritz, and she devoted her efforts to a wide array of workshops and seminars. Her work was conducted locally, both on and off the campus. She became a consultant for George Washington University in Washington, D.C. and the Ohio State University.  Her work resulted in significant levels of revenue for NHRRF. Her innovative fundraising strategies helped enhance NHRI’s financial stability and allowed the institute to broaden its reach and impact.

During Dr. Fritz’ tenure, the Nebraska Human Resources Research Foundation’s Endowment Fund was established at the University of Nebraska Foundation. The fund was made possible by a challenge grant from the Thomas C. Woods, Jr. family. 

Strategic Team Development

NHRI concepts continue to play a large role in Susan’s various leadership positions. When asked how NHRI concepts have influenced her many leadership roles, Dr. Fritz reflected, “I paid great attention to what motivated others. (In fact, leaders and followers’ motivations became my area of research.) Understanding what motivated others (and their ‘hot buttons’) helped me determine the best approach to successfully engaging them.” She highlighted that these insights into motivation and her careful attention to an individual's passions have been crucial in leading people effectively.

A Lasting Legacy

Dr. Fritz’ impact at NHRI extended beyond her direct contributions. Her time as Director laid a strong foundation for her future achievements, including her historic role as the first female interim President of the University of Nebraska, Executive Vice President and Provost, and chair of Women Investing in Nebraska. Her leadership at NHRI is remembered for its strategic vision, successful fundraising, and dedication to core values.

 2020-2022 Women Investing in Nebraska Leadership Team (L to R, Susan Fritz, Chair of WIN, Meg Lauerman Education Chair, Vanessa Denney Grants Chair, Morgan Holen Director of WIN)

Biography

Dr. Fritz is a 1979 graduate of UNL; she received her master’s degree in 1989 and her Ph.D. in 1993, both from UNL. In 2009, Dr. Fritz was inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement and is the recipient of numerous awards for teaching excellence. She completed a Fulbright Senior Specialist assignment at the University of Zagreb (Croatia), and served as a North Central Higher Learning Commission Consultant Evaluator, a Fulbright Evaluator, and a 1993 and 2012 Baldrige Examiner with the U.S. Department of Commerce.