Office of the Vice Chancellor

Zeleny has been a member of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s senior administrative team as Chief of Staff and Associate to the Chancellor since January 2018. Prior to that, he served as associate vice chancellor for research and economic development. 

Zeleny, originally from Exeter, Nebraska, worked for more than 20 years in the Office of Research and Economic Development, assisting with the university’s research growth and expanding its economic development mission. He is active in several community organizations and boards and has served on and led many university committees and initiatives. 

A Nebraska U alumnus, Zeleny earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1994, and a Master of Business Administration in 1996. 

Nebraska’s vice chancellor for business and finance is UNL’s chief business officer and reports to the chancellor. The position is responsible for oversight and administration of the university’s $1.2 billion operating budget in conformity with university policy and state and federal laws. The position serves as UNL’s chief financial and operating officer and pursues operational excellence, innovation and efficiency across all business services, university police, parking, human resources, the university’s physical facilities, and related operational units. 

The position serves on the chancellor’s executive leadership team and is a member of the chancellor’s extended cabinet.