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LINCOLN, NE — A new class of Nebraska leaders is ready to take the next step in shaping the future of the state. The NE Chamber Foundation proudly announces the members of Leadership Nebraska Class XVII—a diverse group of professionals selected from across the state to participate in its premier leadership development program. Leadership Nebraska, presented by Medica, was launched in 2006 with the goal of connecting emerging and established leaders, deepening their understanding of the state’s most pressing issues, and preparing them to make a broader impact in their communities and industries. Over a seven-month period, participants will take part in immersive sessions covering a wide range of topics including workforce and education, economic development, agriculture, health care, natural resources, and government policy. The program combines hands-on learning with meaningful dialogue, giving participants a deeper understanding of Nebraska and the tools to lead with purpose. “This year’s class reflects the strength, diversity, and dedication of Nebraska’s leaders,” said Todd Bingham, President of the NE Chamber. “These individuals are already making a difference in their communities, and Leadership Nebraska will amplify their ability to influence real change across the state. It’s exciting to see how this experience will shape their journeys and the impact they’ll have.” Upon completing the program, participants will join an alumni network of more than 400 leaders committed to continued growth, collaboration, and service to Nebraska. Following are the Nebraskans selected to participate in Leadership Nebraska’s Class XVII, along with the class member’s employer.
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Tech Nebraska today announced that Laurel Oetken, who has served as the organization’s Executive Director since its founding in 2023, will be stepping down on April 18th to pursue a new opportunity in Nebraska’s growing technology ecosystem. Over the past two years, Laurel successfully led the effort to build and transform Tech Nebraska from a bold idea into an effective and important statewide voice for technology. “Laurel has done amazing work positioning Tech Nebraska to be an impactful trade association for all technologists and tech-focused companies across the state of Nebraska and has been an effective advocate on technology topics that will influence state policy in the coming years,” said Chris Dill, CIO at Kiewit Corporation and Tech Nebraska Executive Committee Chair.
With Laurel’s departure, Tech Nebraska is opening a search today seeking a new Executive Director. This is a unique opportunity to step into a well-established and successful organization at a pivotal moment in the state’s technological evolution. The organization is well-funded, has an established advisory and governance structure, and is expanding its statewide membership. As a separate trade association affiliated with the NE Chamber, Tech Nebraska is also able to leverage the NE Chamber’s resources and statewide footprint in its networking events and advocacy efforts. In the past year, Tech Nebraska launched a highly successful Annual Tech Nebraska Summit, testified on several tech-forward bills at the Nebraska legislature, and built strong partnerships with leaders across business, government, and education, all while shaping key policy conversations that will define Nebraska’s economic future. The Executive Director position is a premier leadership role in the tech ecosystem in the state. Tech Nebraska invites visionary, hands-on leaders who are passionate about industry advocacy and building a stronger, more inclusive, tech ecosystem in the state of Nebraska to apply. To express interest in the Executive Director role, please apply here, via LinkedIn, or send your cover letter and resume to [email protected]. If you would like additional information, please feel free to make your request to the same email address. Tech Nebraska and the NE Chamber are equal-opportunity employers. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.  The Nebraska Chamber has officially welcomed Todd Bingham to the NE Chamber team to serve as President and CEO. In this role, Todd will provide strategic leadership and vision to further the Chamber’s mission of fostering a robust and dynamic business environment. Bingham will begin in mid-May.
“I’m pleased and excited that Todd Bingham will be the new President of the Nebraska Chamber,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “His strong connections across the country and the depth of his experience in urban and rural business development make him a great selection to champion the NE Chamber’s efforts and impact on the business climate throughout the state.” “Todd is a wonderful addition to the Nebraska Chamber, bringing backgrounds in public policy and manufacturing, two of the Chamber’s largest endeavors,” said Joel Russell, NE Chamber Board Chair. “We can’t wait for Todd to get started and make an impact on the statewide economy and business environment.” Before joining the Chamber, Bingham was the President and CEO of the Utah Manufacturers Association, a leading industry organization with a 120-year legacy of advancing Utah’s manufacturing sector. Under his leadership, the association provided critical resources, advocacy, and strategic initiatives to drive growth and prosperity for manufacturers across the state. With over 30 years of experience as a registered lobbyist, Bingham has been a key advocate for business and industry, specializing in governmental and regulatory affairs. He has served on numerous influential boards and councils, including the Governor’s Economic Council, the Utah Employers Council, and the OSHA Advisory Board. Additionally, he has contributed his expertise to the Utah Labor Commission’s Workers’ Compensation Advisory Council, the Unemployment Insurance Advisory Board, and the Rural Economic Development Board. Bingham also served as Chair of the Council of State Manufacturing Associations (COSMA) and is a current member of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), where he plays a pivotal role in shaping policy and advocating for the manufacturing industry at a national level. Prior to the Utah Manufacturers Association, Bingham served as President/CEO for the Utah Mining Association, Regional Director of Associated General Contractors of Utah, and VP of Public Policy for the Utah Farm Bureau Federation. He is the father to three wonderful sons and two incredible grandsons. Each year, the NE Chamber works with its members to analyze bills introduced throughout the Legislative Session to curate a slate of NE Chamber priority bills. The focus generally remains the same, favoring bills that address workforce, modernize our tax code and ensure business is affordable and competitive throughout the state and in relation to neighboring states. These bills further the mission of the NE Chamber and push Nebraska toward greater economic growth.
NE Chamber Policy Briefs capture a breakdown of these bills and can be found here. “Workforce development and embracing technology enablement of our core industries are at the top of the NE Chamber’s priority list because those are the most vital pieces in keeping Nebraska competitive with the rest of the country,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “These bills have Nebraska’s best economic interests at heart and advance our mission of being the best state to live and operate a business in.” Nebraska is one of the best places to own, operate and grow a business, but there’s always more work to be done. In last year’s legislative session, state lawmakers made progress in streamlining regulations and expanding accessibility and flexibility to childcare. This year, lawmakers have the means to close our statewide workforce gap and ensure Nebraska’s economic climate is appealing to current and future Nebraska business owners. “Our 2025 priorities, while broad, home in on the needs of our broader membership base while furthering the NE Chamber’s mission,” said Joel Russell, NE Chamber Board Chair. “These bills promote innovative initiatives, from energy to childcare and many more in between. With workforce development and a modernized tax code at the forefront of our mission, these priority bills are sure to strengthen our state’s economy even further.”  Leadership Nebraska proudly celebrates the achievements of 35 outstanding graduates from its Class XVI, who were honored during a commencement ceremony in Lincoln on Thursday, February 20. This special occasion recognized the commitment and contributions of leaders from across Nebraska as they received certificates and commemorative awards marking their successful completion of the program.
Leadership Nebraska is dedicated to developing informed and engaged leaders by strengthening their leadership skills and broadening their understanding of the opportunities and challenges shaping the state. Participants gain the ability to assess critical issues, craft innovative solutions, and make a meaningful impact on Nebraska’s future. “We are honored to welcome this exceptional group of leaders into the Leadership Nebraska alumni network,” said Bryan Slone, President of the NE Chamber. “These individuals exemplify the best of Nebraska—driving positive change in their organizations, communities, and across the state.” The program consists of six immersive sessions held in locations across Nebraska, covering key topics such as economic development, healthcare, agriculture, education, and government and policy. By experiencing firsthand the industries and communities that shape Nebraska, participants gain valuable insights and build strong connections with fellow leaders. The graduates of Leadership Nebraska Class XVI include: AURORA: Tammy Morris, Hamilton Community Foundation/Jim's U Save Pharmacy BATTLE CREEK: Angela Bessmer, Nucor Cold Finish BELLEVUE: Guadalupe Millan, All United Building Maintenance DENTON: Stacey Roach, Olsson GERING: Clinton Schleicher, ALLO Fiber GIBBON: Matthew Smallcomb, City of Gibbon GRAND ISLAND: Zachary Griess, Bosselman Enterprises HOLDREGE: Scott Dicke, Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District KEARNEY: Alexander Straatmann, University of Nebraska at Kearney LINCOLN: Jennifer Williams, American Communications Group, Inc. Julie Murray-Jensen, The Foundry Community Foundation Melissa Grovijohn, Pinnacle Bank Mitchell Clark, First Five Nebraska Nathan Clouse, General Excavating Tiffany Pusateri, Black Hills Energy OMAHA: Adam Steffen, Medica Candice Price, Home Team Auto Sales Christina Kahler, FNBO Dustin Marvel, OPPD Elise McHatton, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska Jordan Klute, Klute Julie Davis, Robert B. Daugherty Foundation Rachael Johnson, Ho-Chunk, Inc. Robert Bell, Robert M. Bell, P.C., L.L.O. Shalon Buffum, Metropolitan Utilities District Tierra Robinson, Nebraska Medicine Andrea Mausbach, Great Plains Communications OSCEOLA: Nicole Brumbaugh, Nebraska Public Power District PAPILLION: Ivy Svoboda, Nebraska Alliance of Child Advocacy Centers Michael DeBoer, Lamp Rynearson Michelle Andahl, City of Papillion Mynesha Spencer, All of Us Together Co. Javier Saldaña, Jr., Nebraska Department of Economic Development SIDNEY: Timothy Craig, Adams Industries WEST POINT: Vanessa McCain, Cuming County Economic Development These graduates join an esteemed network of nearly 400 Leadership Nebraska alumni, all committed to lifelong learning and service to Nebraska’s communities and industries.  NE Chamber President Bryan Slone recently welcomed Ryan Querry to the NE Chamber team. Querry will serve as Vice President of Membership Development, expanding the Chamber’s membership base and providing the best experience for members spanning the entire state.
“Ryan is adding immense depth to the NE Chamber team with his experience in sales and membership development,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “His commitment to the state of Nebraska and local businesses will continue to advance not only the NE Chamber, but the state as a whole.” An Omaha native, Ryan was raised in Louisville, KY and returned to Nebraska in high school. After attending York College to play soccer, he later graduated from Bellevue University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and a minor in Business Administration. In his 19-year career, Ryan spent time at a Berkshire Hathaway owned insurance company, the San Francisco 49ers, as Chief Revenue Officer at Werner Park, and ultimately founded his consulting firm, Great Plains Sponsorships. Most recently, Ryan served as the Vice President of Development at the Omaha Children’s Museum. Over the years, Ryan has sat on nonprofit boards and coached numerous teams that accomplished unprecedented sales results. The accomplishments he is most proud of are being married to his wife, Jen, and raising their two kids, Harper & Nash. In his spare time, Ryan loves watching his son play baseball and daughter take the stage as a performer. He's a diehard fan of the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Kentucky Wildcats basketball, and San Francisco 49ers. He treasures his time outdoors, whether on the golf course, by the water, or in his garage. LINCOLN, Nebraska — The NE Chamber Foundation celebrated the recipients of six $2,500 college tuition scholarships named in honor of past Nebraska Business Hall of Fame honorees. 2025 Hall of Fame scholarship winners include:
Students must be sophomores or juniors in a business-related field, show demonstrated leadership in extracurricular activities and maintain at least a 3.0 grade point-average to be considered. Since 1997, the NE Chamber Foundation has awarded over $267,000 in scholarships to more than 130 students across Nebraska. “These students represent the future of Nebraska business leaders, and we’re thrilled to be able to support them in their educational journey,” NE Chamber Foundation President Tera Norris said. “We look forward to welcoming these outstanding group of individuals who will soon have a tremendous impact on business in Nebraska.” The NE Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable and education foundation that expands economic growth and opportunity throughout Nebraska through game-changing nonpartisan research and initiatives. The NE Chamber Foundation also supports the future of Nebraska through the Leadership Nebraska program and college scholarships. The NE Chamber Foundation strives to be the leader in Nebraska in future-focused research and data and be a catalyst for positive change. Learn more at nechamber.com/foundation.
LINCOLN, Nebraska — The NE Chamber and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business inducted five honorees into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame, including:
These leaders were formally inducted into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame on Thursday, January 30. They join an esteemed group of over 140 Nebraska business leaders who have made a tremendous impact on the state’s economy, driven its competitiveness, and contributed significantly to the vitality of our free enterprise system. “The Nebraska Business Hall of Fame is the highest honor a business leader can receive in our state. These five Nebraskans have contributed greatly to the success and growth of Nebraska, making them among the most deserving.” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone at the Banquet. The program was established by the NE Chamber and UNL College of Business in 1992. Candidates are nominated by individuals from the business community, business associations and academia. Nominations for 2026 Hall of Fame honorees will open on February 10, 2025, on the nechamber.com website.
LINCOLN, Nebraska – Bryan Slone publicly announced today that he intends to step down as President/CEO of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry (“NE Chamber”) following the 109th Legislative Session in June of 2025. A search committee has begun a search process to identify his successor and has started accepting applications.
During his tenure, the NE Chamber has continued to serve as the “Voice of Business” in legislative and regulatory matters and policy-making processes. Slone noted that his time at the NE Chamber has been a “great personal privilege due to the incredible support of the membership, the very talented staff members on the chamber team, and the many unique opportunities for the organization to make a difference for Nebraska’s businesses and economic competitiveness.” Slone has worked with the NE Chamber Board since the latter portion of 2024 to ensure the best possible transition process as well as staying focused on the upcoming Legislative Session. Slone said: “We have in place an excellent team at the NE Chamber with a good strategic vision and capable young leaders who are developing into extraordinary Chamber executives. In addition, the NE Chamber Board is strong, cohesive, and engaged. This is a good time for the NE Chamber to make this kind of transition and I am very confident in the future of this organization.” Slone noted that he does not intend to retire but intends to pursue other significant professional opportunities. With Slone’s expected departure in June 2025, the NE Chamber Board has appointed a search committee and has begun a search for a new President & CEO of the NE Chamber. Interested parties may find more information at the NE Chamber website. Applicants should send any requests for additional information or letters of application and the applicant’s resume to the NE Chamber Search Committee at [email protected]. The NE Chamber is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status. ### Meg Hatfield Director of Marketing and Communications 1128 Lincoln Mall, Suite 302 Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 474-4422  NE Chamber leaders welcomed a new chair and 11 new members to its Board of Directors for 2025. Joel Russell, President & CEO of Millard Lumber in Omaha will serve as chair for the 2025 term.
“I’m thrilled to take part in the NE Chamber’s mission on a deeper level this year as the 2025 Board Chair,” Russell said. “Together, we’ll continue to make Nebraska the best place to own, operate and grow a business through enhancing legislative policies and connecting with business leaders across the state.” The following individuals begin their terms on the board this year. Brook Aken, Manager – Economic Development, Omaha Public Power District, Omaha Serving as Economic Development Chair Cameron Arch, Associate General Counsel, Compliance Officer and Corporate Secretary, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Nebraska, Omaha Serving as District 1 Representative Matthew Burke, Director – Commercial Banking, FNBO, Omaha Serving as Leadership Nebraska Chair Bob Caldwell, EVP/Chief Administrative Officer, NEBCO Inc., Lincoln Serving as District 2 Representative Rex Fisher, Senior Vice President, HDR, Omaha Serving as District 1 Representative Kyle Gilster, Office Managing Partner – Washington D.C., Husch Blackwell LLP, Omaha Serving as District 1 Representative Amber Holle, Executive Director, Falls City Chamber of Commerce, Falls City Serving as NE Chambers Association Chair Zac Holoch, President & CEO, Cornerstone Bank, York Serving as District 4 Representative Stephen Hornady, President, Hornady Manufacturing Company, Grand Island Serving as District 5 Representative Jim Nolan, Vice President, Communications & Government Affairs, Mutual of Omaha – United of Omaha, Omaha Serving as Appointed District 1 Director “Our board represents a broad spectrum of business leaders and organizations across the state, and we’re thrilled to add these 11 individuals to further enhance our statewide presence,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “Our board is vital in helping us deliver on our mission of ensuring Nebraska’s business climate stays competitive and offers economic growth to Nebraska businesses.” New board members are nominated by the current board and elected by the broader NE Chamber membership. Board members promote economic growth across the state and establish the association’s policies with input from members and 12 councils. |
Media Contacts:Please email Meg Hatfield at [email protected] with your media requests or call 531-278-1262 Archives
June 2025
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