Leadership Nebraska Honors 35 Graduates

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.

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