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The NE Chamber Foundation has announced the members of its new Leadership Nebraska class. This year’s class is the 14th in the program’s history.
Leadership Nebraska was founded in 2006 to identify current and emerging leaders throughout the state, enhance their leadership skills and deepen their knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing Nebraska. Participants have been selected from across the state and possess varied backgrounds and diverse talents. All candidates have demonstrated an abiding interest in Nebraska and its future. The nine-month program covers a broad range of key Nebraska issues including economic development, workforce and education, agriculture and environment, health care, education, government and policy development. “If we’re going to compete and win in the race for new families, talent, innovation and community development over the next five to 10 years, we need strong, informed and connected leaders to help us go the distance,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber President. “We’re pleased to welcome such a high-caliber group, from across the state, into the program.” Following are the Nebraskans selected to participate in Leadership Nebraska’s Class XIV, along with the class member’s employer. AURORA: Brett Mitchell, Fontel, Inc. BLAIR: Jordan Rishel, Washington County Chamber of Commerce CRETE: Dr. Jennifer Bossard, Doane University COLUMBUS: Dawson Brunswick, Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce FALLS CITY: Lucas Froeschl, Falls City Economic Development Growth Enterprise GERING: Jennifer Sibal, Gering Public Schools GRAND ISLAND: Lisa Albers, Anesthesia Group of Grand Island Lori Schuppan, Chief Industries, Inc. Lynne Werner, First National Bank (FNBO) IMPERIAL: Eric Exum, Pinnacle Bank KEARNEY: Michael Christen, University of Nebraska at Kearney Trevor Lee, Economic Development Council of Buffalo County John Lowe, State of Nebraska LINCOLN: Matthew Kasik, Region V Services Brandon Malleck, Black Hills Energy John McNally, Nebraska Public Power District Holley Salmi, NE Chamber Abbi Swatsworth, OutNebraska NORFOLK: Candace Schmidt, Norfolk Public Schools NORTH PLATTE: Jacob Rissler, Mid-Plains Community College OMAHA: Sydnie Carraher, The Nebraska Perinatal Quality Improvement Collaborative Brenda Christensen, SHARE Omaha Veronica Doga, UNO-Nebraska Business Development Center Ryan Gerdts, Omaha Public Power District Cynthia Gubbels, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska Patrick Hoefener, Medica Kara O’Connor, Edward Jones Patricia Thraen, Peter Kiewit Foundation PAPILLION: Mark Stursma, City of Papillion WAYNE: Brittany Webber, State Nebraska Bank & Trust After graduation participants join a network of 320 alumni committed to lifelong learning and community engagement. Leadership Nebraska is the NE Chamber Foundation’s cornerstone program. The NE Chamber Foundation is focused on meeting the needs of current business, community and state leaders, as well as equipping Nebraska’s next generation of leaders with the experiences, information and research they need to turn big ideas into bold moves.
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The NE Chamber is teaming up with the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (NDED) to host a webinar that helps businesses and community leaders evaluate growth opportunities using the state’s mainline economic incentives program, ImagiNE Nebraska.
When: Wednesday, May 18 Noon – 1 p.m. CDT / 11 a.m. – Noon MDT Who: Jacquelyn Morrison, Incentives Division Administrator, NDED Tom Saltzman, Incentives Division Business Manager, NDED What: NDED leaders will provide an overview of the full suite of benefits ImagiNE Nebraska can offer, including:
Where: Zoom webinar Register at NEChamber.com In 2020, the NE Chamber led a coalition of business organizations and leaders to help modernize the state’s mainline economic incentive program. The streamlined and more flexible ImagiNE Nebraska program gives businesses of all sizes new opportunities to grow in Nebraska, including tiers geared toward both urban and rural manufacturers. It was passed in a broader tax relief and economic development package. A steadfast advocate for free enterprise, a competitive business climate and statewide economic growth, the NE Chamber is the state's only broad-based business and industry association. NDED is holding multiple information sessions across the state to help Nebraska businesses evaluate growth opportunities through ImagiNE Nebraska. WEDNESDAY, MAY 11, 9 A.M. – 3:30 P.M. CDT, COLUMBUS, NE WHAT: Nebraska manufacturing leaders meet with disruptive technology experts to discuss mapping out their Manufacturing 4.0 technology journey. The day includes sessions on:
Nebraska currently ranks 36th in research and development spending in the nation, with 60% automation potential yet to be realized. Manufacturing Nebraska’s Future is designed to help Nebraska manufacturers consider their options and build a plan for tech-enabled production that keeps them competitive nationally and globally in a tight labor market. WHEN: Wednesday, May 11, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. CDT WHERE: Central Community College, North Education Center, 4500-63rd Street, Columbus WHO: Manufacturing executives, plant managers, engineers and technicians, Women in Manufacturing - Nebraska Chapter and operational leaders in related logistics, processing and supplier sectors will be attending. RESERVE A MEDIA PASS IN ADVANCE: Conference passes will be available to members of the news media for those interested in covering the speakers or engaging with manufacturers. Please reserve your pass in advance by contacting Holley Salmi, NE Chamber, hsalmi@nechamber.com, 402-763-0007. LINCOLN – The NE Chamber and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business today announced that 2022 honorees will be inducted into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame at an NE Chamber banquet on May 2. Honorees include:
The Nebraska business Hall of Fame Banquet will be held Monday, May 2, with a 5 p.m. reception and 6 p.m. banquet, at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. To join in honoring these individuals and their families, register at web.nechamber.com/events or contact the NE Chamber at 402-474-4422. To sponsor, contact James Berringer at 402-474-4717 or jberringer@nechamber.com. “Our honorees this year really embody the ingenuity, determination and service to community and neighbor that characterize the Good Life,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber president. “Their personal drive and vision of growth have literally brought about game-changing opportunities in both their communities and the quality of life for others.” McCarthy, Sampson and Thesenvitz join a distinguished group of more than 120 business leaders whose work to grow their businesses in Nebraska have made a significant impact on the free enterprise system, Nebraska’s economy, overall job opportunities and quality of life in their communities. Candidates are nominated by individuals from the business community, business associations and academia. The program was established in 1992 by the NE Chamber and UNL College of Business. “Our three inductees are leaders in their industries and great examples for our students and other entrepreneurs who want to lead the future of business. Gloria, John and Mike also give back to their communities and the state through advocacy, service and support,” said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Dean of the UNL College of Business. “Celebrating the success of strong, civic-minded members of our business community means celebrating strong communities and decades of growth and good jobs,” Slone said. “They give us an example to which we can aspire.” The NE Chamber is the largest, statewide business association, proudly serving as the voice of Nebraska’s business community since 1912. The organization promotes and protects Nebraska’s free enterprise system by ensuring a competitive business climate, economic growth and greater prosperity for all Nebraskans. Learn more at nechamber.com.
NEBRASKA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME 2022 HONOREES MIKE MCCARTHY, McCarthy Capital, Omaha Mike McCarthy is the founder of McCarthy Capital, a private equity firm headquartered in Omaha since its founding in 1986. After moving to Omaha with his wife, Nancy, and four children, Mike and his co-founder, Rich Jarvis, opened an investment bank focused on funding small businesses. Mike also began a long career of community involvement, serving on the boards of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, the Omaha Community Foundation, United Way of the Midlands, the Omaha Zoological Society, Creighton University and other not-for-profit organizations. He currently serves as a board member of Lasting Hope Recovery Center and is chair of the Heritage Services board of directors. Mike also continues as an active Chairman of Bridges Trust, while serving on the boards of Peter Kiewit Sons’, Inc., Union Pacific Corporation, Election Systems & Software and McCarthy Group, LLC. Mike and Nancy were honored as United Way Citizens of the Year in 2012, and Mike was earlier inducted into the Omaha Business Hall of Fame in 2006. JOHN SAMPSON, Sampson Construction, Lincoln John has been the President and CEO of Sampson Construction since 1995. Under his leadership, Sampson Construction has completed over $3 billion in commercial building projects in Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas, Nevada and Illinois. Throughout his commercial construction career with Sampson, John has served in all types of project management and development roles. His day-to-day focus is to manage the assignment, deployment, and use of the firm’s resources at each of its five locations. As a result, he forms strong, ongoing relationships with project management teams, project owners, subcontractors, and community leaders. These relationships allow Sampson Construction to stay on the leading edge of the market and continue to deliver high-quality construction services across the Midwest. GLORIA THESENVITZ, Nova-Tech, Inc., Grand Island Gloria Thesenvitz is founder and board chair for Nova-Tech, Inc., a nationally recognized provider of custom aseptic fill manufacturing services and private label IV fluids to the animal health industry throughout the United States and Canada. In 2011, the site transfer of manufacturing into a new plant located in the Platte Valley Industrial Tract in Grand Island laid the foundation for three additions, each bringing significant growth through growing production and technical capabilities. A strong advocate for education, quality jobs, women entrepreneurs and rural Nebraska, Gloria has reinvested her talents, time and resources serving on multiple community and state boards. Gloria is the recipient of the Governor’s Bioscience Award and the Grand Island Independent’s Woman of the Year in 2017. LINCOLN – A statewide coalition of chambers and economic developers Thursday thanked state leaders for adopting plans that direct nearly $700 million in one-time, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and budget funds to initiatives that aid economic recovery by attracting and retaining talent, building communities and supply chain, and creating new opportunities for all Nebraskans Bryan Slone, president, NE Chamber “Today is a good day for the Good Life. From committee hearings to floor debate, state senators have been committed to delivering game-changing investments with federal ARPA funds that truly enhance the quality of life in communities throughout the state and our ability to compete. Their plan contains many of our recommendations for post-pandemic economic recovery investments, including expanded job training and apprenticeships, workforce housing, community college workforce development resources, shovel-ready capital projects, and greater childcare capacity. These investments are key to positioning our communities and our businesses to compete and win the race for talent, new residents, and economic growth.” Walker Zulkoski, president, Nebraska Economic Developers Association “Nebraska businesses, communities, and workers were hit hard by the scope and duration of the pandemic. NEDA is pleased to see Nebraska's legislators prioritizing closing the gap on the state's housing shortage, workforce development, and economic recovery for our employers.” Jason Ball, president, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce “The Lincoln Chamber is thrilled to see these initiatives moved forward that will help grow our state through targeted investment, expansion of programming and transformational projects. This funding will have a profound impact on the continued development of our local economies and greatly enhance how our people and our businesses can grow together in Nebraska.” Derek Rusher, president, NE Chambers Association; president / CEO, Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce “As we near the end of the legislative session, we would like to extend our thanks to our senators who continue to prioritize the development of Nebraska’s workforce and infrastructure, both of which will strengthen our local communities. As we continue to navigate the major issues that are impacting Nebraska, we welcome these one-time, game-changing investments that will attract and retain talent, prepare future generations of workers, and grow our economy to build a more prosperous Nebraska.” David G. Brown, president and CEO, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce “Just like every community in Nebraska, Omaha is in a race to attract and retain talent with cutting-edge jobs. The competition is stiff. While we have certainly competed well for major projects, the opportunities knocking on our door today can bring monumental growth. The state’s commitment to investing in workforce, growing opportunities for our underrepresented communities, infrastructure, innovation and community building is critical to our ability to land the next generation of opportunities. Between thoughtful tax relief and a strategic recovery plan, legislators made a statement today that will definitely turn heads and bring deals, next-era jobs and new residents from all walks of life our way.” Between the ARPA funding package (LB1014 and LB1024) and the budget adjustment package (LB1011, LB1012, and LB1013), nearly $700 million will be invested in the following “Good Life Game Changer” priorities or similar initiatives through FY2024:
The budget adjustment package also allocates more than $200 million to enhance outdoor recreation across the state, adjusts Nebraska’s Business Innovation Act to spur additional investment, and expands the state’s high-skill, high-demand, high-wage (H3) career scholarship program. In January, the “Good Life Game Changer” coalition, comprised of the Nebraska Economic Developers Association, the NE Chamber, the NE Chambers Association, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, unveiled policy priorities to take advantage of once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunities and federal recovery funds to help Nebraskans, their communities, and their employers compete better globally over the coming decades. The proposals align with priority initiatives identified in the Blueprint Nebraska plan for economic growth through 2030. Learn more at nechamber.com. LINCOLN – NE Chamber President Bryan Slone offered the following comment on final passage of LB873, a bill offering significant income and property tax relief in phases through 2026.
The bill:
“A dynamic, growing economy with lots to do and cutting-edge job opportunities is critical to attracting and retaining more people in Nebraska, especially our talented, young generations entering the workforce,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber President. “You get less of what you tax, and Nebraskans need more right now – more in their pockets to support their families, more private investment, more innovation, more high-tech jobs. We appreciate the work of our state leaders in helping us build a game-changing strategy for growth.” Income tax relief was one of the priorities identified by the “Good Life Game Changer” coalition, comprised of the Nebraska Economic Developers Association, the NE Chamber, the NE Chambers Association, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, unveiled policy priorities to take advantage of once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunities that help Nebraskans, their communities, and their employers compete better globally over the coming decades. Learn more at nechamber.com.  LINCOLN – NE Chamber President Bryan Slone offered the following comment on second-round passage of LB873, a bill offering significant income and property tax relief in phases through 2026.
“The actions by the Legislature to take advantage of our good economic health and further advance the ball on income and property tax relief is essential and appreciated. Thank you for this leadership. “Nebraska’s income tax burdens in many respects have not been sufficiently competitive for years, and the competitive pressure is increasing as other states lower their rates to better attract residents, workforce, businesses and jobs. Our communities, our children, and our grandchildren deserve every opportunity we can give them to build their Good Life and their families right here. Controlling our tax burdens is important to that vision.” Income tax relief was one of the priorities identified by the “Good Life Game Changer” coalition, comprised of the Nebraska Economic Developers Association, the NE Chamber, the NE Chambers Association, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, unveiled policy priorities to take advantage of once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunities that help Nebraskans, their communities, and their employers compete better globally over the coming decades. Learn more at nechamber.com. LINCOLN – A statewide coalition of chambers and economic developers Wednesday recognized legislative leaders for advancing $391 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) recommendations out of committee that are key to attracting and retaining talent, building communities and supply chain, and creating new opportunities for all Nebraskans.
“Strong commitments to building workforce, communities, and infrastructure are among the critical-path items needed to remain competitive in attracting and retaining talent and families,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. Specifically, LB1014 contains provisions prioritized by the statewide “Good Life Game Changer” coalition in legislative priorities this year, including:
The ARPA package also allocates $210 million to help public and private sector organizations respond to the specific needs and opportunities facing Nebraskans disproportionately affected by the pandemic economy. A total of $150 million in grants will be targeted to organizations in North Omaha, South Omaha and qualified U.S. Census tracts across the state. A total of $60 million in the Site and Building Development Fund will support the North Omaha Industrial Park Project. These initiatives will help build quality of life and opportunity for the next generation of Nebraskans through additional investments in workforce, infrastructure, housing and relief, well aligned with Good Life Game Changer priorities. “The unprecedented impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have been felt in each of our communities. The changes in how we work, how we train employees and where we will need additional resources is equally challenging,” said Walker Zulkoski, president, Nebraska Economic Developers Association. “Through LB1014, the Legislature is making needed investments in incentive pay, college capital investments and workforce issues, such as apprenticeship and customized workforce training programs. These substantial one-time investments will prove their worth many years down the road.” The $391 million recommendations follow $145 million in biennial budget adjustments associated with Good Life Game Changer priorities, which recently gained first-round approval in the Legislature. In January, the “Good Life Game Changer” coalition, comprised of the Nebraska Economic Developers Association, the NE Chamber, the NE Chambers Association, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, unveiled policy priorities to take advantage of once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunities and federal recovery funds to help Nebraskans, their communities, and their employers compete better globally over the coming decades. The priorities align with priority initiatives identified in the Blueprint Nebraska plan for economic growth through 2030. Learn more at nechamber.com. Additional statements by coalition members Jason Ball, president, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce: “The Lincoln Chamber is proud to be part of the effort to strengthen our workforce, fund additional infrastructure and further enhance Nebraska communities.” Derek Rusher, president, NE Chambers Association; president / CEO Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce: “The investment in Nebraska’s workforce is a top priority for local chambers across the state. These recommendations will positively impact retaining and attracting talent and ultimately growing our communities.” David G. Brown, president and CEO, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce: “Nebraska is facing a once-in-a-generation chance to invest in our most important opportunities, and now is the time to seize it. We are grateful that the Legislature has recognized that talent, workforce and investing in our crucial infrastructure are such vital priorities and wholly support this Game Changer.” Chambers, economic developers back workforce, infrastructure provisions in budget proposal3/15/2022 LINCOLN – A statewide coalition of chambers and economic developers Tuesday recognized legislative leaders for advancing key budget recommendations out of committee that are key to attracting and retaining talent, building supply chain resilience and creating new opportunities for all Nebraskans.
“While these budget proposals are not final, this package could make a real impact on workforce and economic growth over the coming decade,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “They reflect a growing public policy focus on ensuring Nebraska’s competitiveness.” Specifically, the mainline budget adjustment bill (LB1011), funds transfer bill (LB1012), and cash reserve transfer bill (LB1013) contain provisions prioritized by the statewide “Good Life Game Changer” coalition in legislative priorities this year, including:
The budget adjustment package also allocates more than $200 million to enhance outdoor recreation across the state, adjusts the Nebraska’s Business Innovation Act to spur additional investment, and expands the state’s high-skill, high-demand, high-wage (H3) career scholarship program. “From infrastructure to workforce housing to job training – this proposed budget adjustment hits on many items facing communities of all sizes in their efforts to improve the economy and quality of life here in Nebraska,” said Walker Zulkoski, president, Nebraska Economic Developers Association. In January, the “Good Life Game Changer” coalition, comprised of the Nebraska Economic Developers Association, the NE Chamber, the NE Chambers Association, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, unveiled policy priorities to take advantage of once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunities and federal recovery funds to help Nebraskans, their communities, and their employers compete better globally over the coming decades. Learn more at nechamber.com.  LINCOLN – Twenty-eight Nebraska leaders were recognized with certificates and commemorative awards for completing Class XIII of Leadership Nebraska at a commencement ceremony held Thursday, March 3.
Graduates are current and emerging leaders from communities throughout Nebraska. The program enhances their leadership skills and deepens their knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing our state. Leadership Nebraska is dedicated to the development of informed leaders who understand issues, define problems, develop solutions and achieve positions of higher responsibility in Nebraska. “Strong leaders are critical to building thriving communities and a resilient, growing economy,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber president. “Today, we face more complex challenges than ever, but the opportunities before us are even greater. We are anxious to see how the members of Class XIII make their mark on our future.” The program includes six, two-day sessions held in various locations across Nebraska. Topic areas include: economic development; healthcare; agriculture; education; and government and policy. Leadership Nebraska Class XIII members who graduated March 3rd include: ALLIANCE: Mara Anderson, Alliance Recreation Center BLAIR: Matthew Reed, Great Plains Communications COLUMBUS: Heidi Elliot, Nebraska Public Power District HOLDREGE: Rochelle Jurgens, Central Nebraska Public Power & Irrigation District KEARNEY: Brenda Jensen, City of Kearney Kelly Kreger, Path for Growth Lisa Tschauner, University of Nebraska at Kearney LINCOLN: Macala Carter, Great Western Bank Ben Martens, U.S. Bank Nate McHargue, State Farm Bridgett Petzoldt, Black Hills Energy NELIGH: Lauren Sheridan-Simonsen, City of Neligh Economic Development NORFOLK: Dr. Tracy Kruse, Northeast Community College Andrea Libengood, Daycos, Inc. NORTH PLATTE: Chance Schilling, First National Bank of Omaha |
Media Contacts:Please email Holley Salmi at hsalmi@nechamber.com with your media requests or call 402.474.4612 Archives
May 2022
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