UNL Appoints Katherine Ankerson as Interim Chancellor

Ankerson takes over leadership of university following departure of previous chancellor

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The University of Nebraska Board of Regents has approved the appointment of Katherine Ankerson as the interim chancellor for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Ankerson, who previously served as the executive vice chancellor, will take over the role following the departure of former chancellor Rodney Bennett.

Why it matters

The appointment of an interim chancellor comes at a critical time for the university as it navigates a period of transition. Ankerson's collaborative leadership style and forward-looking approach are seen as key assets that can help guide UNL through this change.

The details

NU President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. named Ankerson as the interim chancellor after the departure of former chancellor Rodney Bennett, who had served in the role since mid-2023. On her first day, Ankerson addressed faculty, staff and students as the university moves forward.

  • Ankerson was appointed as interim chancellor on February 6, 2026.
  • Rodney Bennett served as UNL chancellor from mid-2023 until January 12, 2026.

The players

Katherine Ankerson

Ankerson previously served as the executive vice chancellor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and has been appointed as the interim chancellor.

Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D.

The president of the University of Nebraska system, who named Ankerson as the interim chancellor.

Rodney Bennett

The former chancellor of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, who served in the role from mid-2023 until January 12, 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Interim Chancellor Ankerson is the right leader for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln at this moment. She is extremely collaborative and forward-looking, and I have greatly enjoyed working with her over the past month. I look forward to seeing how the Lincoln campus moves forward and grows stronger under her leadership.”

— Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., President, University of Nebraska (1011now.com)

What’s next

The University of Nebraska Board of Regents will likely begin a search process for a permanent chancellor in the coming months.

The takeaway

The appointment of Katherine Ankerson as interim chancellor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln comes at a critical time for the university, as it navigates a period of transition. Ankerson's collaborative leadership style and forward-looking approach are seen as key assets that can help guide UNL through this change.