The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is marking the 100th birthday of Johnny Carson, one of its alumni, with a series of events and tributes. Carson was born on October 23, 1925, in Corning, Iowa, and grew up in Norfolk, Nebraska. He would have turned 100 this year. The university is recognizing his contributions as an entertainer and as a donor.
Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett said Carson’s impact goes beyond his career in entertainment. Carson’s donations have supported many students at the university. His first gift to the university was at age 44. Since then, Carson, his estate, and the Johnny Carson Foundation have given more than $50 million.
These funds have helped create the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts, the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film, and the university’s broadcasting program. Carson’s donations also supported renovations to the Lied Center for Performing Arts and the Temple Building. More than 400 Husker students have received support from these contributions…