York University’s New President is Focused on Community

In November 2024, Tim Westbrook visited York County for the first time with his wife, Anessa. He had learned about an opening at York University and wanted to see what the college and county had to offer. This visit would be the first step toward a new chapter in their lives.

“We were complete outsiders, but once we got on campus and started meeting people, we felt the community spirit,” says Westbrook. “I started looking closer at York County, and I was impressed by the arts district, chamber events, and economic development happening around the region. I could see myself getting plugged into everything going on.”

Westbrook accepted the role of York University president in early 2025, moved to the area in May, and began work in July. He is taking steps to make Nebraska home and further the vision and efforts of everyone at the university. 

York University Wants to Be Your University  

York University is a private liberal arts college that supports 425 undergraduate and 175 graduate students. It offers 45 areas of study and a student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1. York University stands out because of its national (and international) attraction. Students from 20 states and 35 countries attend York University, and 98% of all students receive some form of financial aid.

“Any accredited college in the United States will give you a good enough degree to get a job, but schools come in all shapes and sizes,” says Westbrook. “When you attend a big college, you are one person in a large group of people. When you attend a smaller college, like York University, you can have a bigger impact on campus.”

The small campus makes it easier to find community, because students know each other. There are also educational advantages to small class sizes. Professors can provide individualized attention when students need help. They assume mentorship roles and provide additional guidance to ensure each learner understands the material.

York University also supports non-traditional students, like adults returning for their degrees or changing career paths. There are ample online courses available for those who need them.

“We want to make it easy for people to think of York University as Your University,” says Westbrook. “We want to attract local high school students and strive to keep our tuition affordable to support the residents of York County.” 

York University is Investing in Talent Retention

York University plays an important role in talent attraction and retention in the region. Local high school students don’t have to leave to earn their degrees and can stay in York after graduation. With 70% of the student body coming from outside of Nebraska, York University brings new people to the county and has the potential to supply the workforce with educated graduates who are ready to work.  

“We’re trying to bring people to the Midwest and want them to find jobs here,” says Westbrook. “It’s important to me that students who enroll at York University find opportunities in the area.”

The university already has programs in place to connect students with local employers if they want to remain in York County after graduation. Westbrook specifically praises the efforts of Tree Burks, head coach of the men’s basketball team, for his efforts to bring more job fairs to campus. York University students participate in mock interviews, complete resume reviews, and have access to a suit closet so they can find appropriate interview attire. This spring, Burks stepped into the role of Director of Student Success and Career Support.

Westbrook’s goal in the coming year is to further engage alumni and connect them with current students. He believes the university already has a strong relationship with businesses, but there is always room for growth.  

The York Experience Helps With Talent Attraction

Keeping students in York County after graduation (and attracting new residents like the Westbrooks) is easy with a community like York. Westbrook enjoyed all of the events happening throughout the local communities, from farmers' markets to festivals and concerts, and saw his future here. He envisioned a life where he and his family could attend events and feel welcome joining various community groups.

The massive amounts of gunpowder used annually in York County also helps.  

“I have never seen a 4th of July quite like this one,” says Westbrook. “The scale of the fireworks was astounding. It was a fun surprise and a great way to start our lives here.”  

When other people visit York County, they can feel that same connection and excitement about living here. A good first impression goes a long way. 

Learn More About Life in York County

People choose where they want to live and raise their families based on factors like the cost of living and work opportunities. However, there are also quality of life factors like hobby organizations, things to do, and local events. While York County checks most of the boxes for technical reasons to live somewhere, the events and people invested in the community are outstanding and will help the region grow for decades to come.

The are plenty of ways to discover York County and call Nebraska home. From enrolling at York University to exploring career opportunities in the area, you can find your place here. Learn about the benefits of living in York County and how to become a resident. We can’t wait to welcome you into the fold and celebrate everything you have to offer.