Story 9 - Dr. James P. O’Hanlon
NHRI’s Return to Teachers College
As Dean of the Teacher’s College, Dr. O’Hanlon played a key role in the return of NHRI in 2001. This strategic move aimed to secure resources and enhance funding opportunities through a partnership with the University of Nebraska Foundation. This collaboration allowed NHRI to expand its mission and leverage new opportunities for growth.
Early Connections and Influence
James (Jim) O’Hanlon’s journey in education was shaped by two pioneering figures in educational psychology: Dr. Hall and Dr. Clifton. While an undergraduate, Jim had Dr. Hall as his educational psychology professor. After graduating and teaching in Fremont, Jim returned to UNL for graduate studies, further deepening his connection with Hall and Clifton.
Dr. Hall fostered a group of men who were in education majors, a rarity at that time. Jim enjoyed his connection with this group. For a while, Hall's son Vernon was the student leader of this group.
“What Hall and Clifton said made sense to me and I wanted to be part of it. They viewed teaching as more than content. Teaching was how you develop people.”
As an undergraduate, Jim joined NHRRF as a member of Childs Project. As Hall and Clifton initiated informal projects to test their educational philosophies, Jim eagerly joined them. Their unconventional methods set them apart from traditional faculty. Their mentorship even influenced Jim's decision to pursue graduate work at The Ohio State University, where they also studied. Both Hall and Clifton served on Jim’s doctoral committee at Nebraska, further shaping his academic path.
Even after Hall and Clifton transitioned to business ventures, Jim maintained a relationship with them. When Clifton retired from Gallup, he enlisted Jim to co-author a book studying exemplary school principals. Though Clifton's commitments grew, Jim took the lead, successfully completing the project.
Reflecting on their mentorship, Jim acknowledged its enduring impact “My relationship with them had a lot of effect on how I viewed my work.” Their philosophy became integral to Jim’s educational vision.
Leadership at UNL
Dr. O’Hanlon’s career at UNL spanned several decades and encompassed a range of leadership roles. He joined UNL in 1966 as chairman of the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation and served as president of the Academic Senate. He went on to serve as dean of Teachers College, associate vice chancellor for Extended Education, and interim dean for multiple colleges, including Engineering, Architecture, and Journalism and Mass Communications. Additionally, he also was interim director for the Alumni Association. His ability to lead across disciplines underscored his adaptability and dedication to fostering growth within the university.
From 1982 to 1997, Dr. O’Hanlon represented UNL as the faculty athletics representative to the Big 8 (later Big 12) Conference, serving as chair in 1990. He also served on the NCAA Governing Council for four years, exemplifying his commitment to both academics and athletics.
A Lasting Impact
A recipient of the NU Foundation Distinguished Teaching Award in 1972, O’Hanlon was recognized early in his career for his exceptional teaching. His contributions also earned him the Distinguished Service Award from the Nebraska Alumni Association in 2012.
In 2014, UNL established the James P. O’Hanlon Academic Leadership Award, celebrating his extensive contributions to the university. Chancellor Ellen Weissinger expressed her gratitude, noting the countless faculty, staff, students, and families whose lives were enriched by O’Hanlon’s leadership.
Dr. O’Hanlon believes in people. He believes when the “right decisions are made” regarding people, everything improves.
Throughout his career, Dr. O’Hanlon exemplified the ideals of leadership. His relationship with Hall and Clifton laid the foundation for his approach to education. As a professor and administrator, he has made a tremendous impact on UNL and the broader educational community.