50 Over 50 Nebraska 2025 Honorees in Community

Stephanie Bradley
Oct 14
18 min read

Celebrating Nebraska’s 50 Over 50 Honorees in Community

Nebraska is home to compassionate leaders who bring people together, strengthen neighborhoods, and create lasting impact through service and connection. The 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Awards, presented and powered by The Bloc, celebrates these extraordinary individuals whose dedication to community has helped shape our state’s identity.

This week, we shine a spotlight on our Community Category honorees—leaders who embody generosity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to making Nebraska a better place for all. Join us as we celebrate their stories, their impact, and the remarkable ways they continue to build community across our great state.

2025 50 Over 50 NE Awards Event Details:

Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha Downtown Old Market, 555 South 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68102

Community Category Honoree Spotlights

Each of these honorees has left an enduring mark on Nebraska’s communities—bringing people together, uplifting others, and creating positive change where it’s needed most. We at The Bloc extend our heartfelt thanks to them all for their compassion, leadership, and service. Stay tuned each week as we continue highlighting the 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska honorees, category by category.

Meet the Bloc's 2025 50 Over 50 NE Community Honorees

Mayor John Ewing Jr. - Mayor of Omaha, Nebraskas

Mayor John Ewing Jr. is a proud son of Omaha, born and raised on the city’s north side. He knows firsthand the life-changing impact of affordable housing—at age 15, his parents purchased their first home in North Omaha, where his initials remain etched in the cement to this day. Decades later, his parents still live in that same home.

The oldest of three children, Mayor Ewing is the husband of Dr. Viv Ewing and the proud father of two wonderful daughters and a grandson. A graduate of Omaha Northwest High School, he went on to earn two degrees from the University of Nebraska at Omaha: a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Business, and a Master of Science in Urban Studies. Mayor Ewing served the Omaha Police Department with distinction for 25 years, retiring in 2006 at the rank of Deputy Chief.

That same year, he began a new chapter of public service when he was elected Douglas County Treasurer, a role he held for 18 years after being re-elected four times. He is also an associate minister at Salem Baptist Church, where his faith continues to guide his leadership and service. On June 9, 2025, John Ewing Jr. was sworn in as the 52nd Mayor of Omaha. Deeply rooted in the community that raised him, he is committed to advancing key initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and enhance the quality of life for all who call Omaha home.

As a 50 Over 50 Nebraska Honoree in the Community category, and the 2025 winner of the 50 Over 50 NE Lifetime Achievement Award, John Ewing Jr. is recognized for his decades-long commitment to improving lives, strengthening neighborhoods, and building lasting connections across Omaha. His career exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, heart, and vision.

Dr. Mary Hawkins - President, Bellevue University

Since 2009, Dr. Mary Hawkins has served as President of Bellevue University, guiding the institution through transformative growth in enrollment, program innovation, and national recognition. A visionary in adult and military education, she has positioned Bellevue as a leader in serving non-traditional learners, preparing students for meaningful careers and civic engagement.

Under her leadership, Bellevue University has received honors from Money, Newsweek, and Military Friendly^®, reflecting its commitment to excellence and student success. Dr. Hawkins has also forged key partnerships with the Mexican Consulate and Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, expanding access for Hispanic communities through scholarships and international collaboration.

She pioneered Bellevue’s applied learning model, empowering students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. This approach equips graduates with practical skills and experience, ensuring they can thrive in dynamic workplaces while contributing to their communities.

Equity and inclusion are central to Dr. Hawkins’ mission. She advocates for working mothers, military spouses, and underserved populations, ensuring students balancing education with life responsibilities have the support and resources they need to succeed. Her work demonstrates that higher education can be both accessible and transformative, opening doors for learners who might otherwise face barriers.

Dr. Hawkins holds a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her accomplishments have been recognized with the Ohtli Award, as well as honors from Diverse: Issues in Higher Education, Guild Education, and multiple civic organizations, underscoring her impact in education and the broader community.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Dr. Mary Hawkins exemplifies visionary leadership, innovation, and dedication to service. Through her work at Bellevue University, she has strengthened Nebraska’s educational landscape, empowered countless learners, and created pathways that expand opportunity for students and communities across the state.

Dr. Helene Lohman - Professor, Creighton University

For more than three decades, Dr. Helene Lohman has dedicated her career to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals through her work in Creighton University’s Occupational Therapy Department. Since joining the faculty in 1988, she has earned tenure and the rank of Professor in 2010, reflecting her enduring commitment to excellence in education and scholarship.

Dr. Lohman holds a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) from Creighton University, a Master’s in Health Education, and a Gerontology certificate from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, as well as a B.S. in Occupational Therapy from Colorado State University. Her expertise spans geriatric practice, hand therapy, public policy, interprofessional education, and service learning, giving her students a well-rounded and deeply practical foundation for their careers.

Her doctoral rotations included public policy, occupation-based practice with older adults, and case management, and she has completed specialized training in online engagement, geriatric group leadership, and accreditation evaluation. Prior to entering academia, Dr. Lohman worked as a therapist and healthcare manager, bringing real-world experience into the classroom and enriching her students’ learning with applied knowledge.

A recognized leader in her field, Dr. Lohman holds certifications from NBCOT and memberships in leading professional organizations. She has authored over 50 book chapters and nearly 100 scholarly articles, contributing significantly to occupational therapy education and research. She has co-authored and edited multiple textbooks, including the nationally recognized “Introduction to Orthotics”, and her work continues to influence healthcare education nationally.

A Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association (FAOTA) and recipient of numerous teaching awards, Dr. Lohman has educated hundreds of students who now serve communities throughout Nebraska and beyond. Her commitment to healthcare advocacy is equally evident in her extensive community service, demonstrating a lifelong dedication to improving the health and well-being of those she serves.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Dr. Helene Lohman exemplifies leadership, scholarship, and service. Through decades of teaching, mentorship, and advocacy, she has strengthened Nebraska’s healthcare workforce, empowered students to make a difference, and left an enduring impact on communities across the state.

Karim Khayati - Board of Directors, American Muslim Institute

Karim Khayati has spent decades building a stronger, more inclusive Omaha through leadership, collaboration, and service. As co-founder and current Board President of the American Muslim Institute (AMI) and a former board member of the Tri-Faith Initiative of Omaha, Khayati has dedicated his life to fostering understanding, dialogue, and connection across diverse communities.

Originally from Tunisia, Khayati earned his Bachelor of Science degree from IHEC Carthage before moving to the United States in 1998. He continued his education at Creighton University, completing an MBA, and is also a graduate of Leadership Omaha, Class 35. Since settling in Omaha, he and his wife, Olfa, have raised four children, making the city both home and a place for meaningful community impact.

Professionally, Khayati is an accomplished information technology leader with extensive experience in software development across industries including transportation, agribusiness, and finance. His technical expertise is matched by a dedication to collaboration, innovation, and solutions that bring people together. Throughout his career and volunteer leadership, Khayati has consistently demonstrated that community-building is not just about initiatives, but about creating environments where diversity, equity, and inclusion are realized in everyday practice.

At the American Muslim Institute, Khayati has helped create programs and initiatives that strengthen civic engagement, promote interfaith dialogue, and offer educational and social opportunities for Omaha residents. Through his work with the Tri-Faith Initiative, he has furthered collaboration between religious and cultural communities, advancing understanding and unity across Omaha’s diverse population.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Karim Khayati exemplifies the values of service, leadership, and inclusivity. His dedication to building bridges and fostering opportunities has left an enduring impact on Omaha, helping to make the city a more welcoming, connected, and vibrant community.

Karim’s story demonstrates the power of visionary leadership, the importance of collaboration across differences, and the lasting influence one individual can have in shaping a city’s social fabric.

Mildred Hodges-Lemon - Longtime Leader in Education

Ms. Mildred “Millie” Hodges Lemon is a cherished Omaha leader whose life has been defined by education, mentorship, and unwavering service to her community. As one of the first African American students at Nebraska Wesleyan University and among the state’s first African American female Spanish teachers and school counselors, Ms. Lemon broke barriers and paved the way for generations of students and educators.

Over her remarkable 45-year career in education, Ms. Lemon taught not only Spanish but also vital life lessons in integrity, resilience, and compassion. Her classrooms were spaces where students learned to value knowledge, community, and personal growth. Beyond academics, she nurtured curiosity, encouraged leadership, and inspired her students to pursue their goals with determination and grace.

Even in retirement, Ms. Lemon remains deeply engaged in Omaha life. She is active in her church, participates in her alumni community, and continues to mentor former students. Her impact extends far beyond the classroom; she has shaped countless lives, guiding young people toward meaningful careers, ethical leadership, and community involvement.

Ms. Lemon’s quiet generosity is exemplified by a scholarship she founded to support college students, encouraging recipients not only to succeed but to “pay it forward” in service to others. This initiative reflects her lifelong commitment to fostering opportunity and lifting others up.

Her personal resilience is equally inspiring. During her husband’s battle with ALS, she provided steadfast care while continuing to serve her community, demonstrating strength, dedication, and selflessness. Those who know Ms. Lemon often describe her as a role model whose compassion, wisdom, and integrity leave a lasting impression.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Mildred “Millie” Hodges Lemon embodies leadership, perseverance, and service. Her legacy in education, mentorship, and philanthropy has enriched Omaha for decades, and her influence continues to ripple through the lives of students, families, and community members alike.

Through a lifetime of dedication, Ms. Lemon demonstrates the profound impact one individual can have on a community—showing that true leadership is measured not just in achievements, but in the inspiration and opportunities one creates for others.

Senator Margo Juarez - Nebraska State Senator, District 5

State Senator Margo Juarez is a groundbreaking public servant whose leadership is reshaping Nebraska’s political and civic landscape. Representing District 5 in the Nebraska Legislature, she is the first Latina elected to the unicameral legislature, bringing both historic representation and a fierce commitment to equity, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Throughout her tenure, Senator Juarez has championed policies that uplift working families, immigrants, youth, and small business owners, ensuring that voices often overlooked are heard and valued in the halls of government. Her approach to leadership blends lived experience with policy insight and cultural fluency, demonstrating that meaningful change arises from both legislation and genuine connection with the community.

But Senator Juarez’s impact extends well beyond the chamber. She is deeply engaged in the neighborhoods she represents, regularly visiting classrooms, youth-led startups, and community events to inspire and mentor the next generation of leaders. Her presence in these spaces reflects a belief that leadership is not only about lawmaking but about building trust, fostering engagement, and empowering others to create opportunity.

Bold, compassionate, and grounded in service, Senator Juarez has earned a reputation as a legislator who listens, acts, and leads with integrity. She models how public service can be both effective and empathetic, balancing policy priorities with an unwavering commitment to community.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Senator Margo Juarez exemplifies what it means to combine historic achievement with tangible impact. Her work demonstrates the power of representation, the importance of advocacy, and the transformative potential of connecting with the people you serve.

Senator Juarez’s story is one of courage, dedication, and inspiration. By breaking barriers, amplifying underrepresented voices, and mentoring future leaders, she is not only shaping Nebraska’s policies but also cultivating a more inclusive, equitable, and empowered community—one voice at a time.

Terrence Mackey - Youth and Family Engagement Specialist

Terrence Mackey, widely known as T-Mack or Coach T-Mack, has devoted over 30 years to mentoring, coaching, and empowering youth in Omaha—especially in North Omaha, where he was born and raised. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to building trust, fostering opportunity, and guiding young people toward success both on and off the field.

Currently, Mackey serves as the Youth and Family Engagement Specialist for North Omaha with the Omaha Police Department, where he works to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community. In this role, he mentors at-risk youth, connects families with essential resources, and creates programs that promote safety, growth, and resilience.

As Head Football Coach at Omaha Central High School, Mackey is recognized for his motivational and relationship-driven coaching style, emphasizing character development alongside athletic performance. Previously, he coached at Benson High School and the North Omaha Boys & Girls Club, where he began volunteering in the early 1980s. A proud alumnus of the Boys & Girls Club himself, he later served as Director of the Late Night Teen Program, guiding countless teens toward opportunity and purpose.

Mackey also dedicated 15 years to the Douglas County Youth Center, working with at-risk youth and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to mentorship and advocacy. Throughout his career, his mantra has remained clear: “If you change one life, you’ve done your job.”

A graduate of Bellevue University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration and a proud Benson High School alumnus, Mackey exemplifies the values of education, service, and community leadership. He balances his professional commitments with a rich family life as a devoted husband, father of three, and grandfather of four, remaining actively engaged in their lives.

A lifelong member of Salem Baptist Church, Mackey continues to seek every opportunity to use his experience, skills, and education to make a difference in the lives of Omaha youth. His decades of mentorship, coaching, and community service have left an indelible mark, making him a pillar of support, guidance, and inspiration in North Omaha.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Terrence “T-Mack” Mackey embodies dedication, compassion, and transformative leadership, proving that one committed life can positively impact countless others in a community.

Councilmember Pete Festersen - Omaha City Councilmember

City Councilman Pete Festersen has spent decades shaping Omaha’s future through public service, civic leadership, and community engagement. First elected to the Omaha City Council in 2009, Festersen has been re-elected to a fifth four-year term in 2025 and has served multiple terms as President of the Omaha City Council, demonstrating the trust and respect he has earned from both colleagues and constituents.

Born and raised in Omaha, Festersen earned his undergraduate degree from Connecticut College and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he also received a UNO Citation for Alumni Achievement. His education laid the foundation for a career dedicated to thoughtful governance and civic impact.

In addition to his role on the City Council, Festersen serves as Vice President of Public Affairs for CHI Health, one of Omaha’s largest employers. His professional experience also includes senior positions with the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, the Peter Kiewit Foundation, and as Deputy Chief of Staff to Mayor Mike Fahey, providing him with a wealth of expertise in public policy, community development, and organizational leadership.

Festersen has contributed extensively to civic life through his service on numerous boards and commissions, earning recognition as an Elected Official of the Year by the American Society of Public Administration. His commitment to community goes beyond policy and administration; he brings a personal passion for mentorship, engagement, and public collaboration to every role he undertakes.

Outside of public service, Festersen is deeply connected to his family and personal interests. He and his wife, Paige, a preschool teacher, are raising two daughters, Anna and Caroline. A former state champion in soccer and curling, he enjoys racing sailboats and maintains a lifelong love of music, playing drums in a local rock band. These personal pursuits reflect his energy, creativity, and commitment to a balanced, engaged life.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Pete Festersen exemplifies leadership, dedication, and civic responsibility. Through decades of public service, professional achievement, and community involvement, he has left an enduring mark on Omaha, demonstrating how vision, expertise, and compassion can shape a city and inspire its residents.

Congressman Don Bacon - Congressman, U.S. House of Representatives

Congressman Don Bacon exemplifies a lifetime of service, leadership, and dedication to his country and community. Growing up on a farm in Illinois, Bacon learned early the values of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance, principles that would guide his distinguished career in both military and public service.

He earned a Political Science degree from Northern Illinois University in 1984 and began a nearly 30-year career in the U.S. Air Force in 1985, retiring as a Brigadier General. Specializing in electronic warfare, intelligence, and reconnaissance, Bacon held multiple leadership positions, including Wing Commander at Ramstein Air Base in Germany and Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, and deployed four times to the Middle East. His military service earned him numerous honors, including the Distinguished Service Medal, two Bronze Stars, and two Legions of Merit, reflecting his strategic expertise, courage, and commitment to mission and team.

Bacon furthered his education with master’s degrees from the University of Phoenix and the National War College, equipping him with advanced leadership and strategic planning skills. Following his retirement from active duty in 2014, he continued serving the community by advising military organizations and teaching leadership at Bellevue University, sharing his experience and guiding the next generation of leaders.

In 2016, Bacon was elected to represent Nebraska’s Second Congressional District, where he serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Agriculture Committee. In Congress, he draws on his extensive military background and deep understanding of Nebraska’s communities to advocate for veterans, national security, agricultural development, and local families.

Bacon and his wife, Angie, are proud parents of four children and grandparents to eight grandchildren, highlighting the importance of family alongside a lifetime of public service.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Congressman Don Bacon embodies leadership, dedication, and the impact of a life devoted to service. From his early days on the farm to his distinguished military career and ongoing work in Congress, Bacon demonstrates how commitment, integrity, and vision can leave a lasting mark on Nebraska and the nation.

Patrick Bloomingdale - Chief Administrative Officer at Douglas County, Nebraska

Patrick Bloomingdale has dedicated his career to public service and effective governance in Douglas County, Nebraska, building decades of experience in county administration and law. Beginning as a Law Clerk, Patrick’s expertise and leadership have propelled him through roles in county government, culminating in current position as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), a role he has held since February 2013.

As Chief Administrative Officer, Patrick oversees the implementation of policy directives from the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, manages administrative staff and department directors, and ensures smooth operations across county government. His role requires strategic planning, leadership, and a deep understanding of the legal, financial, and operational aspects of county administration.

Before serving as CAO, Patrick was the Deputy County Administrator for over ten years, assisting with all facets of county management, including labor relations and risk management. His comprehensive experience in both administrative and legal functions has been essential in guiding Douglas County’s operations and maintaining efficient, accountable governance.

Patrick’s career also includes service as an Administrative Specialist and a Deputy County Attorney in the civil division, representing Douglas County in legal matters. His foundation in law and public service is strengthened by a Juris Doctor degree from Creighton University School of Law, where he was active in the Phi Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity and received the Amjur Award in Pretrial Litigation. Patrick also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Speech Communication from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where they were a member of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity.

Through his extensive experience, Patrick has played a vital role in shaping Douglas County’s policies and operations, demonstrating a commitment to service, integrity, and community impact. His leadership ensures that county programs and initiatives operate efficiently, transparently, and in alignment with the needs of residents.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Patrick exemplifies dedication, expertise, and public service. His career reflects the importance of thoughtful governance, strategic leadership, and a lifelong commitment to serving the people of Nebraska, making a lasting difference in Douglas County and beyond.

Pastor James Hart - Lead Pastor at Eagle's Nest Worship Center

Pastor Hart has spent over 40 years in ministry, building a legacy of leadership, compassion, and global outreach rooted in a rich family tradition of service. Raised in Brazil, where his parents served as missionaries for 38 years, he developed a heart for ministry and a passion for spreading hope and faith across communities worldwide.

Today, Pastor Hart leads Eagle’s Nest Worship Center in Omaha, Nebraska, alongside his wife, Dr. Elictia Hart. Under his guidance, the church has become a place of refuge, encouragement, and celebration, welcoming individuals from all walks of life. Known for his bold yet compassionate leadership, Pastor Hart oversees churches around the world and is a sought-after speaker at international conferences, sharing messages of healing, restoration, and freedom.

Pastor Hart’s ministry is marked by authenticity and service, with a focus on bringing hope to the brokenhearted and strength to the body of Christ. His personal and professional philosophy is captured in the guiding message of Eagle’s Nest Worship Center: “Wounded, but not Conquered.” This mantra reflects his belief in resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of faith.

Through decades of service, Pastor Hart has touched countless lives—offering guidance, mentorship, and inspiration to individuals, families, and leaders in churches worldwide. His leadership emphasizes not only spiritual growth but also community impact, fostering environments where people are empowered to overcome challenges and thrive.

As a 2025 50 Over 50 Nebraska Community honoree, Pastor Hart exemplifies dedication, courage, and unwavering commitment to service. His decades-long ministry demonstrates how faith, leadership, and compassion can create lasting change—both locally in Omaha and globally across the communities he serves.

Pastor Hart’s work reminds us that true leadership is not measured solely by numbers or reach, but by the lives touched, hope restored, and communities strengthened. Through his ministry, he continues to inspire others to live with purpose, serve with compassion, and rise above adversity, leaving an enduring legacy of faith, love, and service.

Terrence M. Coleman - Director of Finance and Human Resources, Omaha 100 CDFI

Terrence M. Coleman serves as Director of Finance and Human Resources on the Omaha 100 CDFI Leadership Team, bringing a deep commitment to community growth, empowerment, and opportunity. With over 25 years of experience in finance, human resources, and organizational development, Terrence has devoted his career to helping both people and organizations reach their fullest potential.

From 2016 to 2025, Terrence served with distinction at the Urban League of Nebraska, most recently as Vice President of Human Resources, following nearly eight years as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Operations. In these roles, he helped shape the organization’s infrastructure, championed workforce development, and secured resources that supported countless individuals and families. His work was driven not only by strategic vision but by genuine care for the people and communities served.

Before his tenure at the Urban League, Terrence worked as a Business Loan Officer with the Nebraska Enterprise Fund (NEF), where he provided entrepreneurs—especially those historically underserved—with access to capital, financial literacy, and business support. Earlier in his career, as Chief Operations Officer at NeighborWorks Omaha, he oversaw programs that promoted affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, and economic self-sufficiency.

Terrence also channels his entrepreneurial spirit through his consulting firm, Friends-R-Us Network LLC, which has delivered financial literacy, business plan development, and computer skills training to aspiring business owners. Through this work, he has helped individuals turn ideas into action, securing grants like those from the eBay Foundation to bring vital resources to local communities.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and shaped by his years in New Orleans, Louisiana, Terrence’s journey has always centered around service and leadership. He believes deeply in giving back and strengthening the communities that raised him. His many civic and professional contributions include leadership roles with the Centris Federal Credit Union Supervisory Committee, North Omaha Contractors Alliance, Great Plains Black History Museum, City of Omaha Personnel Board, and Human Resources Association of the Midlands (HRAM), among others. He is also a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., One Hundred Black Men of Omaha, Leadership Omaha Class 45, Nonprofit Executive Institute Cohort 17, and Inclusive Communities LeadDIVERSITY Cohort 5.

Terrence holds a Bachelor of Science from Xavier University of Louisiana and an MBA from the University of New Orleans, and in 2025, he earned his Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).

Throughout his career, Terrence has been guided by a simple but powerful belief — that when we invest in people, we invest in possibility. His leadership is defined by compassion, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to helping others build the lives and communities they deserve.

Celebrate the Impact of Nebraska’s Community Leaders

The 50 Over 50 Nebraska Awards, proudly presented by The Bloc, Inc., celebrates leaders who make a lasting impact on Nebraska communities. As a Nebraska-based nonprofit, The Bloc is dedicated to strengthening local communities through service, mentorship, and recognition programs, supporting youth, seniors, and families across the state. Since its founding in 2020, The Bloc has launched initiatives like the 20 Under 20 NE Awards and the 50 Over 50 NE Awards, honoring community changemakers and civic leaders who inspire others and drive positive social impact.

Rooted in a mission of community development, leadership, and humanitarian service, The Bloc empowers individuals and organizations to thrive while building a stronger, more connected Nebraska. Programs such as the Bloc Youth Ambassador Committee and the Personal Board of Directors Program provide practical tools, mentorship, and opportunities for community members to engage, lead, and give back, creating meaningful and measurable impact across the state.

More than just an awards ceremony, the 50 Over 50 Nebraska Awards highlights the exceptional contributions of leaders in the Community category, honoring those who dedicate their lives to improving neighborhoods, mentoring the next generation, and strengthening civic engagement. These honorees have left an indelible mark on Nebraska, fostering collaboration, equity, and opportunity while inspiring others to serve.

As we wrap up this year’s Community category highlights, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of Nebraska’s top community leaders. Their dedication, vision, and compassion showcase the power of community-driven leadership to create lasting change. Join us in recognizing these trailblazers and honoring their ongoing efforts to build stronger, healthier, and more vibrant communities across Nebraska.