Matt Blomstedt has stepped into a new role as interim vice chancellor for external relations at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. This change, effective January 12, was announced by Interim Chancellor Katherine S. Ankerson.
Blomstedt will also keep his position as associate vice president for government relations and chief lobbyist for the University of Nebraska system. In this role, he connects with state and federal officials and collaborates with teams across different university campuses. His goal is to strengthen relationships with public officials and provide advice on government matters.
“Matt’s background in education policy and government will be a big advantage for UNL,” Ankerson noted. His skills in relationship-building and understanding complex public issues will help the university meet its goals.
With a rich history in education, Blomstedt was Nebraska’s commissioner of education from 2014 to 2023. In this role, he managed the state’s public education system and led key policy initiatives. Before that, he worked at Foresight Law + Policy in Washington, D.C., and held important positions with various educational organizations.
Blomstedt has strong academic credentials, with a bachelor’s in political science, a master’s in community and regional planning, and a doctorate in educational leadership, all from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
As a lifelong Nebraskan, he hails from Palisade and currently resides in Central City with his wife, Angela, and their five children, who range from high school to recent college graduate.
This moment comes during a significant time for education in the U.S. A recent study from the National Center for Education Statistics found that around 76% of high school graduates are now pursuing higher education, demonstrating an increasing emphasis on education. Expert opinions suggest that strong leadership, like Blomstedt’s, could help shape policies that respond to these educational trends and challenges, ensuring that institutions remain aligned with the needs of students and communities.
Blomstedt’s appointment could be crucial as universities navigate the complexities of modern educational demands and policies. His insights into the state’s educational landscape may drive more effective collaboration between the university and legislative bodies, ultimately enhancing the quality of education in Nebraska.
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