The University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Architecture invites alumni, friends, colleagues and former students to join us in honoring the life and legacy of Robert L. “Bob” Hanna (Class of 1963).
Bob Hanna Celebration Gathering
June 11, 2026 | 3–5 p.m.
Architecture Hall, Gallery
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
You are invited to join other friends of Bob for a “Share, Show & Tell” gathering and to meet Bob’s family. Guests are encouraged to bring memories of Bob to share, along with examples of his artwork, to create an impromptu retrospective exhibition celebrating his life’s work and contributions to architecture.
This gathering reflects the College of Architecture’s remembrance of Robert L. Hanna, who died Jan. 4, 2026, at age 86. A Nebraska alumnus and former faculty member, Hanna taught at the college and remained deeply connected to the profession throughout his career.
Born Feb. 9, 1939, in Ewing, Nebraska, Bob graduated with honors from Grand Island High School before receiving the prestigious Leo A Daly Architectural Scholarship to attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree in 1963 and earned both AIA and NCARB accreditation, allowing him to practice architecture nationwide.
Throughout his career, Hanna collaborated with nationally recognized firms on major stadiums and sports complexes — projects he affectionately referred to as “sports palaces.” Beyond architecture, he was also a gifted watercolorist and preservation advocate. In 1971, he traveled across Nebraska documenting rural buildings and landscapes through watercolor sketches, later publishing Sketches of Nebraska and A Nebraska Portfolio.
In recognition of his contributions to the profession, Hanna received the AIA Nebraska Harry F. Cunningham Gold Medal for Architectural Excellence in 2005.
Bob’s career reflected a deep commitment to architecture as public service. His legacy of kindness, mentorship and passion for preserving the magnificent and irreplaceable structures that define the Plains continues to inspire the college, the profession and the communities he served.
Efforts are currently underway to permanently endow a scholarship in memory of Bob Hanna to support future generations of College of Architecture students.
To learn more about the Robert Hanna Scholarship and its mission, please visit: https://architecture.unl.edu/robert-hanna-scholarship.../
For information about making a contribution, please contact:
Cameron Andreesen
402-458-1100 | Mobile: 402-310-0271
cameron.andreesen@nufoundation.org
We hope you will join us as we celebrate Bob Hanna’s remarkable life, career and enduring impact on Nebraska architecture and design.
