1988 Distinguished Nebraskans Award Recipient Durward B. “Woody” Varner Beginning in 1970, Woody Varner led the University of Nebraska system for seven years, and served as both chancellor and president, before becoming its chief fundraiser for the next decade. As a fundraiser, the foundation raised $52 million, more than twice its goal. Varner led the drive for construction of the Lied Center for Performing Arts by securing a pledge of $10 million from the Lied Foundation’s trustee, Christina Hixson; he later served as the Center’s director. For his efforts, the Omaha World-Herald named him its Midlands Man of the Year in 1976. Back to list

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