The University of Nebraska Foundation has announced a $1 million pledge from Michael B. Jones to create an endowed chair in art at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO).

Part of UNO’s $3 billion fundraising campaign, the gift will establish the Michael Bruce Jones, MD, Chair in the School of the Arts. Pending approval, Amy Millicent Morris, director of the School of the Arts and professor of art history, will be named the inaugural recipient.

Jones, who has served as a gastroenterologist in Omaha for four decades and helped establish Midwest Gastrointestinal Associates PC in 2005. He also is an art enthusiast, and his donation of hundreds of pieces by the late Omaha artist Bill Hammon led to this latest gift.

“The future of the arts in Nebraska and across the region depends on the success of our students,” said Morris. “By elevating the profile of art and art history and providing students with innovative concentrations and opportunities to exhibit, intern, study abroad, and engage with the regional art community, they will have the necessary tools and skills to pursue a career in the arts.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/guruXOOX)