Athletic Staff Inspire Student-Athletes

Proud letterwinner alums Kenny Wilhite (1992) and Jami Kubik-Hagedorn (1998) enjoyed sharing life perspective, leadership advice and career insights at the most recent Inner Circle meeting. The Inner Circle is a group of junior and senior student-athletes who have demonstrated excellent leadership qualities.

Wilhite is the current Assistant Director of Player Personnel for the Nebraska Football team. A standout defensive back for the Huskers in the 90’s under Coach Tom Osborne, Wilhite played professionally in the Canadian Football League before beginning his career in collegiate coaching and administration. “When I had the chance to come to Nebraska, there was no hesitation. I am honored to represent my alma mater and do so with passion every day.” Added Wilhite, “Nebraska is a very special place. They stuck with me, developed me in all areas and in the end I became a college graduate and a man with the confidence to succeed.”

Wilhite, who hails from St. Louis, instilled several messages with the current Husker leaders, “Believe in yourself and be relentless in working toward a common goal. Your competitiveness and determination will allow you to succeed,” remarked Wilhite. Kubik-Hagedorn, the current Director of Business Enterprises for Nebraska Athletics, was a standout basketball scholar-athlete from 1994-1998. The Cambridge native has earned both her bachelor’s and master’s in accountancy from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

For Kubik, she has relied upon several principles to thrive in her post-athletic career. “Teamwork and getting along well with co-workers is crucial.  Communication skills and the ability to persevere will also give you an edge day in day out,” added Kubik. Both Wilhite and Kubik-Hagedorn enjoyed interacting with Husker student-athlete leaders. Said Wilhite, “I have a ton of respect for these student-athlete leaders and it is nice to share my background and experiences to hopefully help them out.”