Skip to main content

News Home

NAECR celebrates 10 years of life-changing research across NU system

NAECR is celebrating its 10-year anniversary of supporting early childhood research and collaboration across the University of Nebraska system.

For 10 years, the Nebraska Academy for Early Childhood Research (NAECR) has advanced high-quality early childhood research and collaboration at the University of Nebraska.

Moving forward into the next 10 years and beyond, NAECR is focused on continuing to provide the tools, support and programs researchers need to ensure their work has the greatest impact on improving children’s lives.

Founded in 2015 and housed within the Nebraska Center for Research on Children, Youth, Families and Schools (CYFS), NAECR engages in, generates and supports interdisciplinary research to benefit young children and enhance the environments within which they learn and grow.

Over the past decade, NAECR has played a vital role in supporting cross-campus research that benefits Nebraska’s families and early childhood workforce while strengthening connections among the state’s practice, policy and research communities.

Since its inception, NAECR’s statewide reach and impact have grown steadily. Notable highlights and achievements include:

  • $52.9 million in funding awarded, supporting 130 early childhood research grants.
  • 77 faculty members across all University of Nebraska campuses contributing to the NAECR Researcher Network.
  • 25 faculty members participating in the NAECR Policy Fellows Program, in partnership with First Five Nebraska.
  • 40 graduate and undergraduate students engaging in NAECR research and other scholarly activities.
  • 56 conferences, events and workshops focused on sharing research and building connections.
  • 170 newsletters sharing research updates, findings and grant opportunities.

“We are deeply grateful to our many colleagues and partners who contribute to NAECR’s mission,” said Lisa Knoche, NAECR director and CYFS co-director. “Together, our efforts are making a real difference for Nebraska’s children, families, communities and early childhood workforce — not only today, but for generations to come.”

To celebrate its 10-year milestone, NAECR will host an informal, open house-style event Oct. 28 at Carolyn Pope Edwards Hall 227. The event is from 8:30-10 a.m., and will feature refreshments. The event is free, but registration is requested.

Learn more about NAECR’s history and key milestones.