Leadership Nebraska Announces New Class

LINCOLN, Nebraska – The Nebraska Chamber Foundation announces 36 members of the new Leadership Nebraska class, marking the 18th year in the program’s history.

Leadership Nebraska, presented by Medica, was established in 2006 to identify and develop current and emerging leaders across the state. The program strengthens participants’ leadership skills while providing a deeper understanding of the opportunities, challenges, and issues shaping Nebraska’s future.

The members of Class XVIII were selected from communities throughout Nebraska and represent a wide range of industries, professions, backgrounds, and experiences. Each participant has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership, community engagement and the continued growth and success of Nebraska.

Over eight months in 2026-27, participants will explore key issues impacting the state, including economic development, workforce and education, agriculture and natural resources, health care, public policy, and community development. Through immersive experiences, statewide travel, and conversations with Nebraska leaders, participants will gain valuable insights into the people, industries, and communities that drive Nebraska forward.

“The Nebraska Chamber is excited to welcome the 18th Leadership Nebraska class,” said Matt Williams, interim president of the NE Chamber. “These individuals represent some of the brightest and most engaged leaders from across our state. They bring diverse experiences, fresh perspectives, and a shared commitment to making Nebraska stronger. Through Leadership Nebraska, they will have the opportunity to learn from one another, explore the challenges and opportunities facing our state, and build relationships that will last a lifetime.”

Williams added, “Every time I visit a Nebraska community, I am reminded that our greatest asset is our people. The success of our businesses, communities, and state depends on leaders who are willing to step forward, collaborate, and think boldly about the future. I am excited to see how this class grows through the program and the impact they will have in their communities, organizations, and across Nebraska for years to come, joining a network of more than 450 Leadership Nebraska alumni who continue to make a difference every day.”
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The following individuals have been selected to participate in Leadership Nebraska Class XVIII, along with the class members’ employers:

AURORA:
Jannelle Seim, Hamilton Telecommunications
 
BLAIR:
David Chase, Black Hills Energy
 
FALLS CITY:
Kelly Bletscher, Great West, LLC
 
GORDON:
Valerie Beel, Valerie Enterprises
 
GRAND ISLAND:
Elizabeth Frerichs, Chief Industries, Inc.
Lindsey Jurgens, Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity
Jeffry Palik, Olsson
 
KEARNEY:
Bradley Green, University of Nebraska at Kearney
Curtis Ott, Pinnacle Bank
Sarah Sawin, City of Kearney
Sarah Worthing, Great Plains Communications
 
LINCOLN:
Jeffrey Bernecker, Hausmann Construction
Erin Dobesh, Davis Design
Ashlee Harms, TMCO, Inc.
Erin Moran, Humanities Nebraska
Phillip O'Donnell, Nebraska Public Power District
Rachel Sissel, Early Futures Partnership
Christine Widman, Nebraska Hospital Association
 
NORFOLK:
Danelle McKeown, Daycos
 
OMAHA:
Ashley Carroll, CHI Health
Christine Cottrell, Lindsay
Julie Dierberger, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Dale Ervin, FNBO
Phillip Friedrich, Northwestern Mutual
Holly Kovy, Blue Cross Blue Shield NE
Angela Miller, BookLoop
Timothy Moore, Medica
LaTerra Patterson, Comfort Squad
Melissa Polito, Metropolitan Utilities District
Travis Schwartz, Meridian Business
K.D. Thompson, The FIDO Foundation
Benjamin Tiffany, Bankers Trust Company
Yesenia Valenzuela, DLR Group
Lexi Weisbeck, Hawkins Construction Company
 
PAPILLION:
Jeremy Jensen, City of Papillion
 
YORK:
Kiley Palmertree, Klute, Inc.
 
After graduating in Spring 2027, participants will join a network of over 450 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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