September 24, 2026
Czech President Petr Pavel Visits the University of Nebraska—Lincoln
11:00 a.m. - noon, Kimball Recital Hall
The University of Nebraska—Lincoln is honored to welcome His Excellency Petr Pavel, President of the Czech Republic, to campus for a special visit and conversation with Interim Chancellor Katherine S. Ankerson and President of the University of Nebraska System, Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold. President Pavel's visit is a celebration of the educational exchange, enduring friendship, and transatlantic partnership between Nebraska and the Czech Republic—a relationship grounded in shared history, cultural heritage, and generations of connections that have bound our communities together for more than a century.
From the Czech immigrants who helped shape the people, communities, and traditions of Nebraska to the partnerships and exchanges that continue to connect Nebraska and the Czech Republic today, this enduring relationship reflects the strength of the ties that span the Atlantic. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is proud to be part of this history and to advance opportunities for continued collaboration, understanding, and friendship between our two nations.
Program:
Welcome and Introductions
Interim Chancellor Katherine S. Ankerson
President of the University of Nebraska System, Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold
Remarks
His Excellency Petr Pavel, President of the Czech Republic
Conversation
His Excellency Petr Pavel, President of the Czech Republic
Interim Chancellor Katherine S. Ankerson
President of the University of Nebraska System, Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold
The conversation will feature a moderated question-and-answer discussion focused on the enduring relationship between Nebraska and the Czech Republic, the importance of cultural and educational exchange, and the enduring strength of transatlantic ties.
Thursday, September 24, 2026
11:00 a.m. - noon
Kimball Recital Hall
1113 "R" Street, Lincoln, NE, 68588
Reservations are required for entry. Doors will open at 10:30 a.m. See security information below.
Limited seating in Kimball Recital Hall is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ticket availability will end when all available seats have been reserved or at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026, whichever occurs first.
For those unable to attend in person, the event will be event will be livestreamed on this page. The livestream will begin at 11:00 a.m.
For questions about accessibility or to request reasonable accommodations for this event, please contact Annette Wetzel at awetzel1@unl.edu. A minimum of two weeks advance notice is preferred to assist us in coordinating accommodation requests.
Biography
President Pavel has many years of military experience spanning from 1983 to 2018, ascending from a Special Purpose Airborne Reconnaissance Platoon Leader to the Chief of the General Staff of the Czech Armed Forces. Notably, he chaired the NATO Military Committee from 2015 to 2018, further solidifying his expertise and leadership within the international defence community. Throughout his career, he led various positions, such as the Commander of Special Forces Brigade or the Deputy Military Representative of the Czech Republic to the EU.
After retiring from the army, President Pavel continued his dedication to public service, engaging in civil society initiatives and as a freelance lecturer on defense, security, and international relations. In 2022, as an independent candidate nominated by the citizens and supported by a central-right coalition government, he announced his candidacy for the presidential election, which he won in January 2023. Subsequently, in March 2023, he was inaugurated as the 4th President of the Czech Republic.
Arrival & Security Information
To ensure a safe and secure experience for all guests, attendees are encouraged to arrive early and allow additional time for security screening upon arrival. Doors will open for the event at 10 a.m.
Clear Bag Policy
In accordance with established University of Nebraska security protocols, the Memorial Stadium clear bag policy will be in effect for this event.
To help ensure a safe and secure environment, guests may bring ONE of the following into the venue:
- One bag that is clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and does not exceed 12" x 12" x 6".
- One gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
- One small clutch purse or wallet 4.5" x 6.5" (about the size of your hand) or smaller, without a handle or straps. This can be taken into the venue inside one of the clear plastic bags
Note that backpacks are NOT permitted inside the venue. Guests are encouraged to review the clear bag requirements before arriving and to limit personal belongings whenever possible to help facilitate an efficient security screening process.
Parking
Paid parking is available at city of Lincoln Park & Go garages and at metered street parking locations throughout downtown Lincoln, near the University of Nebraska—Lincoln campus.
Recommended parking garages:
- Que Place Garage — 1111 Q Street, Lincoln, NE 68508
Approximately a 4-minute walk
- Larson Building & Garage — 1317 Q St, Lincoln, NE 68508
Approximately a 5-minute walk
- Market Place Garage — 925 Q Street, Lincoln, NE 68508
Approximately a 6-minute walk
For additional parking options and information, please visit the City of Lincoln's Park & Go website.
Due to ongoing construction on “O” Street downtown and in the 13th and “Q” Street vicinity and limited on-street parking availability in the area, guests are highly encouraged to plan and allow additional time for parking, arrival, and security protocols.