Pia Nielsen, MS

Pia Nielsen serves as the Program Manager of Engagement at the National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) at the University of Nebraska, a Department of Defense-designated University Affiliated Research Center sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command.

In her role, Pia drives strategic engagement initiatives with and for University of Nebraska faculty across its four campuses to foster collaboration and innovation that align with NSRI's research portfolio. She oversees the planning and execution of campaigns, events and communications designed to strengthen connections among NSRI researchers and NU faculty, primarily through the NSRI Fellows Program. Enhancing understanding of shared capabilities and advancing opportunities for impactful research partnerships can lead to mission success for the institute and the entire university system.

Pia brings more than a decade of experience in leadership development, academic instruction and strategic operations. She previously served as chief executive officer of a leadership and team development organization based in Omaha, Nebraska, where she led transformative initiatives for business leaders and teams. Prior to that, she served as an instructor at the University of Tulsa and as a corporate director of education, where she refined her expertise in training, strategic communication and program management.

Pia holds a master’s degree in international studies and a bachelor’s in advertising, both from Oklahoma State University. She has achieved ABD status for a doctorate in curriculum studies. Her academic background, combined with her global perspective, is shaped by diverse international experiences, including studying at James Cook University in Australia, interning at the United Nations in Geneva, facilitating leadership camps in Sierra Leone and teaching in Puebla, Mexico. Having traveled to six continents, Pia brings a unique ability to foster collaboration and engagement — skills that are central to her work at NSRI.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Pia volunteers as a Key Support Liaison at Offutt Air Force Base, where she supports military families and serves as a vital communication link with leadership during airmen deployments. Her husband is a Major in the U.S. Air Force, and together they enjoy exploring the outdoors with their two dogs.