The NE Chamber Foundation has announced the members of its new Leadership Nebraska class. This year’s class is the 15th 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. “We are excited and pleased to welcome this incredibly talented group to our statewide leadership program,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber President. “If we’re going to truly compete and solve our workforce challenges by growing communities that excel at supporting young families, talent, innovation and community development over the next decade, the next generation of strong and informed leaders like this group will be necessary to achieve those goals.” Following are the Nebraskans selected to participate in Leadership Nebraska’s Class XV, along with the class member’s employer. AUBURN: Crystal Dunekacke, City of Auburn AURORA: Adam Jurgens, Hamilton Telecommunications BLAIR: Kelli Vondra, Great Plains Communications COLUMBUS: David Mazankowski, Nebraska Public Power District Brett Rains, Columbus Credit Services DESHLER: Julie Deepe, Midwest Bank ELMWOOD: Jenna Roberts, Pinnacle Bank-Elmwood GRAND ISLAND: Shane Labenz, CMBA Architects HASTINGS: Jason Davis, Central Community College HEMINGFORD: Gina Jespersen, Hemingford Public Schools HOLDREGE: Alex Linden, Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District KEARNEY: Lauren Brandt, City of Kearney Kristen Majocha, University of Nebraska at Kearney Doug Sutko, FNBO LINCOLN: Katie Bass, First Five Nebraska Stacy Clouse, Olsson Lee Ann Heflebower, Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence David Sharp, Hexagon Agility Courtney Wittstruck, Nebraska Community College Association NORTH PLATTE: Cassie Condon, North Platte Area Chamber & Development OMAHA: Kyleigh Austin, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska Patrick Burke, Viterra Cristina Castro – Matukewicz, Wells Fargo Beth Coffman, Omaha Public Power District Rosalee Higgs, Nonprofit Association of the Midlands Itzel Lopez, AIM Tami Soper, Boys Town Michaela Valentin, Omaha Public Power District PAPILLION: Jennifer Peters, Black Hills Energy Amber Powers, City of Papillion After graduation participants join a network of 330 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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Thirty Nebraska leaders were recognized with certificates and commemorative awards for completing Class XIV of Leadership Nebraska at a commencement ceremony held Thursday, February 9, in Lincoln.
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 make strong communities,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber president. “We are pleased to add the talents and drive of Class XIV to those of the larger network of Leadership Nebraska alumni across the state. These 355 individuals are in the field every day making decisions and accelerating growth in their organizations, communities and state. We are proud of their passion for the Good Life.” 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 XIV members who graduated Thursday include: AURORA: Brett Mitchell, Fontel, Inc. BLAIR: Jordan Rishel, Washington County Community Foundation 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 For more information on the NE Chamber Foundation’s Leadership Nebraska, please contact the NE Chamber at (402) 474-4422 or visit www.leadershipnebraska.com. Today, Tech Nebraska, a new organization created to cultivate Nebraska’s tech community and drive collaboration, growth and policy for Nebraska businesses, announced its search for an executive director.
The Executive Director of Tech Nebraska will provide strategic leadership for the organization and has primary responsibility to support growth, sustainability and global competitiveness of Nebraska’s technology-based economy through advocacy, collaboration and education. With an eye to educating, connecting, influencing and building Nebraska’s technology community statewide, the Executive Director of Tech Nebraska is a key player in driving innovation and growth. Tech Nebraska’s mission is to strengthen the state’s position as a leader in the future of technology and innovation, advocating for tech-forward public policies and developing a diverse, talented workforce. The organization announced its formation in December, and is in the process of building capacity, with senior level information and technology officers helping to create the founding board. The next phase will include growing statewide membership. “If Nebraska is going to compete and win in today’s global economy, we must prioritize tech transformation in our key sectors – manufacturing, agriculture, financial services, transportation and logistics,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber President. “In Tech Nebraska, the on-the-ground CIOs and CTOs in this race will help guide our statewide strategy.” In March, an initial group of Tech Nebraska members met to discuss the organizational formation and solidify initial goals:
"Technology impacts companies across Nebraska, and there isn’t another industry that touches every company in the same way that technology does,” said Chris Dill, chief information officer at Kiewit. “Tech Nebraska will enable businesses in Nebraska to collaborate and partner, and thus not only be competitive in the technology ecosystem, but become leaders.” The search for an executive director is underway and the job description is available. Tech Nebraska is also actively recruiting new members. Companies interested in engaging their chief information and technology officers may contact the NE Chamber for more information at [email protected] , by calling 402-474-4422, or at technologynebraska.com. LINCOLN, Nebraska — March 23, 2023 — Applications are now being accepted for the NE Chamber Foundation’s Leadership Nebraska, the statewide leadership program that prepares Nebraskans who want to play a key role in helping their community and state thrive.
Applications must be received in the NE Chamber office on or before May 1, 2023. Applications can be completed online and submitted, e-mailed or mailed. Leadership Nebraska is beginning its 15th year. Its mission is to identify, educate, connect, inspire and engage Nebraska’s current and emerging leaders for the well-being of the state of Nebraska. The program focuses on leadership development and broadening understanding and engagement on issues and opportunities facing our state. Participants gain in-depth knowledge that helps them define challenges, develop solutions and achieve positions of higher responsibility. Class members are selected from different regions of the state, with different backgrounds and diverse talents. Applicants must have demonstrated community and professional leadership experiences, as well as an abiding interest in Nebraska and its future. The nine-month program consists of six sessions, each of which lasts two and a half days. The sessions cover a broad range of key Nebraska issues – such as economic development, health care, education, agriculture, government and policy. “Strong leaders are the heart of our communities and businesses,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber president. “We must equip our next generation of leaders with the experiences, information and connections they need to generate big ideas and make bold moves that push Nebraska forward.” Leadership Nebraska’s next class will begin with an orientation retreat in June at Lied Lodge in Nebraska City. Other sessions will be held in August, September, October, November and January across the state. A commencement ceremony will be held in Lincoln in February 2024. The application form and all session dates are posted at www.leadershipnebraska.com. Tuition for the 2023-2024 class is $3,750, which includes all meals and lodging. Individuals not sponsored by an organization or employer may be eligible for a scholarship, based on financial need. Additional sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, please contact NE Chamber Foundation President Tera Norris at the NE Chamber, 402-937-9262. The NE Chamber Foundation builds a stronger future for Nebraska by driving nonpartisan research on issues important to businesses, providing regular analytics on the state economy and business climate, and building partnerships to leverage connections between business, education and all Nebraskans. It is a 501(c)3 charitable and educational organization. Learn more at nechamber.com/foundation LINCOLN, Nebraska — March 14, 2023 — Business, elected, and education leaders, including students, spotlighted a growing need to prioritize workforce training, talent recruitment and retention initiatives in community and state economic development work. The group gathered Tuesday in the Nebraska Capitol to recognize Workforce Week, March 12 – 18, as proclaimed by Governor Jim Pillen.
“Keeping and attracting talent in our businesses and families in our communities are quickly becoming the most important issues we can address in the coming decade,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “About 50,000 to 80,000 jobs have been going unfilled over the past two years. As you can see from the team assembled today, we’re taking action.” Nebraska has the highest workforce participation rate among all U.S. states at 69.9% and the third-lowest unemployment rates at 2.6%. “We have great jobs for thousands of graduating and new Nebraskans in our communities today,” said Nebraska Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly. “Working together, in public, private, and education partnerships, we can build a bright future for our children.” “Our workforce is our people – our state’s most valuable resource. A continued focus on workforce development is about helping Nebraskans achieve their dreams by connecting them to the great high-wage jobs that can help them live, work, and raise a family right here in the Good Life,” added U.S. Rep. Mike Flood (R-NE). The initiatives featured by the NE Chamber, and legislative and education partners today include:
In addition to the team assembled at the Nebraska Capitol Tuesday, more than 60 local chambers across the state are highlighting initiatives they and their members are taking on to meet workforce needs. The NE Chamber is the largest statewide business and industry association, proudly serving its members since 1912. It is where members of the business community gather to help make Nebraska the best place to own, operate and grow a business. Focused on delivering economic and workforce growth and a competitive business climate, members also gain a network of engaged, connected business leaders across the state. In 2023, the NE Chamber launched priorities to “Accelerate Our State”, with specific initiatives outlined to address workforce, modernize taxes and drive innovation. Learn more at nechamber.com. Additional Statements from Workforce Week Partners Loren Lippincott, Nebraska Senator, District 34 “Nebraska is the only state that doesn’t provide state funding towards Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. That’s why I’ve introduced LB610, a bill that appropriates funds to the Department of Education for Perkins CTE programs. Students from Scottsbluff to Syracuse stand to benefit from these investments. In just a few short years, they’ll be our manufacturers, educators, doctors, nurses, farmers, and business owners. Let’s make sure they’re ready.” Kathleen Kauth, Nebraska Senator, District 31 “In a state with a tight labor market and plenty of remote-capable jobs, our businesses are looking out of state to expand the hiring pool. Yet, Nebraska is one of just five states that collects income taxes from these workers – even if they never set foot in Nebraska. LB416 would fix that.” Matt Gotschall, President, Central Community College President "Nebraska community colleges are excited about the several workforce related bills addressing manufacturing modernization, housing rehabilitation and infrastructure improvements because that means more job opportunities for our students that support the communities we serve.” Heath Mello, Vice President, External Relations, University of Nebraska “With 11,000 new graduates every year and world-class research and education programs, the University of Nebraska plays a crucial role in building a highly skilled workforce for our state. We are fully committed to working closely with our public and private partners to solve this urgent challenge and ensure a prosperous future for Nebraska.” ![]() LINCOLN, Nebraska — March 8, 2023 — NE Chamber President Bryan Slone today announced Tera Norris has joined the NE Chamber team. Norris will serve as President of the NE Chamber Foundation, leading the nonprofit’s work to expand economic opportunity in Nebraska through nonpartisan research and leadership development initiatives focused on the core drivers of economic prosperity. “Tera’s experience is a perfect match for the leadership, energy and passion our activist members demonstrate daily and what they seek in NE Chamber initiatives,” Slone said. “She has a proven record of harnessing unique expertise and partnerships to deliver results that far exceed expectations. We’re pleased to welcome her to the team.” A Peru native, Norris served as President of Junior Achievement (JA) of Lincoln since 2010, strengthening the organization’s impact and partnerships in a 10-county region. More than 700 volunteers helped power significant program growth in schools during her tenure. Her track record of successful partnerships with business leaders, educators, donors and foundations were also instrumental in helping grow programs in Beatrice, Seward, Grand Island and Kearney, among others. Prior to JA, Norris served as sales and marketing specialist at BKD LLP, and director of events at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. She earned her Bachelor of Arts and Journalism degrees at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln and currently resides with her family in Lincoln. The NE Chamber Foundation will build a stronger future for Nebraska by driving research on issues important to businesses, providing regular analytics on the Nebraska economy and business climate, and building partnerships to leverage connections between business, education and Nebraskans. It is a 501(c)3 charitable and educational organization. Learn more at nechamber.com/foundation. The NE Chamber is the largest, statewide business and industry association, proudly serving its members since 1912. It is where members of the business community gather to help make Nebraska the best place to own, operate and grow a business. Focused on delivering economic and workforce growth and a competitive business climate, members also gain a network of engaged, connected business leaders across the state. Learn more at nechamber.com.
WHAT: Nebraska business leaders were inducted into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame at a recognition banquet on February 2. The Nebraska Business Hall of Fame was established in 1992 by the NE Chamber and UNL College of Business. Nominations are solicited annually from the business community, business associations and academia.
HONOREES: Mildred “Millie” Brown, Omaha Star (posthumous) Jim Clifton & Jane Miller, Gallup of Omaha Ralph & Beverly Holzfaster Family, Agribusiness / Community Development of Paxton Anthony “Tony” Messineo, Jr., Valentino’s of Lincoln Wilfred “Dick” Tegtmeier, Encore Mfg. Co. of Beatrice (posthumous) Biographies VIDEO LINKS: Videos provided below feature the video presentation at the banquet, as well as footage of the award presentation and acceptance remarks. Please contact Holley Salmi if a different format is needed. Brown: https://youtu.be/CsJFhTZJgUM Clifton & Miller: https://youtu.be/sfm1cFCW1Ew Holzfasters: https://youtu.be/jPUjg9LHuWs Messineo: https://youtu.be/OzM4DnqASUo&t Tegtmeier: https://youtu.be/bmzVVsRFoEo The NE Chamber is the largest, statewide business association, proudly serving its members since 1912. It is where members of the business community gather to help make Nebraska the best place to own, operate and grow a business. Focused on delivering economic and workforce growth and a competitive business climate, members also gain a network of experienced, connected business leaders across the state. Learn more at nechamber.com. NE Chamber leaders welcomed a new chair and 17 new members to its Board of Directors at its annual meeting last week. Ryan Parker, President & CEO of Endicott Clay Products Co. of Fairbury will serve as chair for the 2023 term.
“I’m excited to get going this year and help find new ways to accelerate our state,” Parker said. “Workforce, tax modernization and statewide innovation are front and center for our members. We are focused on addressing these challenges and unleashing economic growth.” The following individuals began their terms on the board this year.
“Our board is made up of individuals with a track record of leadership, both in their companies and in their communities, and a passion for the Good Life,” NE Chamber President Bryan Slone said. “We’re fortunate that they are volunteering their time and talent to help keep our businesses competitive and growing.” 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. The NE Chamber is the largest, statewide business association, proudly serving its members since 1912. It is where members of the business community gather to help make Nebraska the best place to own, operate and grow a business. Focused on delivering economic and workforce growth and a competitive business climate, members also gain a network of experienced, connected business leaders across the state. Learn more at nechamber.com. From left: NE Chamber President Bryan Slone; Whitney Schwisow, Beatrice; Ryann Haburchack, Ewing; Emalie Wightman, Omaha; Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen; Tommy Pugsley, Omaha; and Brogan Jones, Allen. Not pictured: Jerry Brito-Mendoza, Omaha LINCOLN, Nebraska — The NE Chamber recently announced the recipients of six, $2,000 scholarships named for past Nebraska Business Hall of Fame honorees.
2023 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 $238,000 in scholarships to 119 students across Nebraska. “Nebraska has long been a state with pioneering business leaders, and they are committed to helping pave the way for young, aspiring minds,” NE Chamber President Bryan Slone said. “It’s wonderful to bring these young intellectuals in to connect with the larger business community.” The scholarship winners were recognized at the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Banquet on February 2 in Lincoln. At the banquet, the following business leaders were inducted into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame: Dick Tegtmeier of Encore Manufacturing Co. in Beatrice; Tony Messineo of Valentino’s in Lincoln; Mildred Brown of The Omaha Star in Omaha; Ralph and Beverly Holzfaster family in agribusiness/community development in Paxton; and Jim Clifton and Jane Miller of Gallup in Omaha. The NE Chamber is the largest, statewide business and industry association, proudly serving its members since 1912. It is where members of the business community gather to help make Nebraska the best place to own, operate and grow a business. Focused on delivering economic and workforce growth and a competitive business climate, members also gain a network of engaged, connected business leaders across the state. Learn more at nechamber.com. LINCOLN, Nebraska — January 12, 2023 — The NE Chamber and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business today announced the 2023 inductees into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame, including: • Mildred “Millie” Brown, Omaha Star (posthumous); • Jim Clifton & Jane Miller, Gallup of Omaha; • Ralph & Beverly Holzfaster Family, Agribusiness / Community Development of Paxton; • Anthony “Tony” Messineo, Jr., Valentino’s of Lincoln; and • Wilfred “Dick” Tegtmeier, Encore Mfg. Co. of Beatrice (posthumous). These leaders will officially be inducted at the NE Chamber Annual Meeting and Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Banquet Thursday, February 2, at a 5:30 p.m. reception and 6:30 p.m. banquet held 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 [email protected]. “This year’s honorees embody the vision, grit and community loyalty often ingrained in our boldest-thinking Nebraskans,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone. “The impact each of them has had on our communities, quality of life, and state reputation and identity is awe-inspiring.” These individuals join a distinguished group of more than 130 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. “We are excited to recognize and salute the accomplishments of the 2023 Nebraska Business Hall of Fame honorees whose contributions to Nebraska’s economy and business environment are broad and far reaching. This group includes entrepreneurs, exceptional business leaders and highly engaged citizens who made a tremendous impact on the state,” said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Dean of the UNL College of Business. 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. ![]() MILDRED “MILLIE” BROWN, Omaha Star, Omaha (awarded posthumously) Mildred Brown was the owner, publisher and editor of the Omaha Star, the nation’s longest-operating, Black-owned newspaper run by a woman. Launched in 1938, the newspaper helped steer Omahans through racial segregation, the 1960s civil rights movement and additional racial unrest through the early 1970s. Her coverage of civil rights and riots earned her commendations from President Lyndon B. Johnson. The Star featured positive news about the Black community, celebrating family stories, role models and accomplishments. Readers were encouraged to vote and run for office. Brown died in 1989, but her legacy lives on. Today, the Omaha Star is the only remaining African American newspaper in Omaha and the only one still printed in Nebraska. The biweekly publication is available by print or digital subscription with a circulation of about 30,000 in 48 states. ![]() JIM CLIFTON, Gallup, Omaha Jim Clifton is chairman of Gallup, a global analytics and advice firm. Under his leadership as CEO from 1988 to 2022, Gallup expanded to a worldwide organization with 30 offices in 20 countries and regions. He created The Gallup Path, a metric-based economic model that establishes the linkages among human nature in the workplace, customer engagement and business outcomes. It is used in performance management systems in more than 500 companies worldwide. The Gallup World Poll, another of his innovations, gives the world’s 7 billion citizens a voice on virtually all key global issues. In addition to authoring four bestselling books and several articles on global leadership, he serves on many national boards. The Clifton Foundation and Gallup were essential in establishing the Don Clifton Strengths Institute at the University of Nebraska, which supports early identification and accelerated development of thousands of gifted entrepreneurs and future business builders in Nebraska. ![]() JANE MILLER, Gallup, Omaha Jane Miller is retired president and chief operating officer of Gallup. In that role, she oversaw worldwide operations, ensuring all systems, resources and – and most importantly – people were in place and aligned to achieve organizational goals across all client servicing and market direct functions. She is committed to creating strong communities that begin with strong workplaces, as evidenced by her leadership as a director or trustee for Peter Kiewit Foundation, TeamMates Mentoring, Kiewit Luminarium, Omaha Zoological Society, Nebraska Medicine and the University of Nebraska Foundation, in addition to serving on several boards in the past. Miller was the recipient of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Women in Leadership Award and was inducted into the organization’s Business Hall of Fame in 2017. ![]() RALPH AND BEVERLY HOLZFASTER FAMILY, Agribusiness / Community Development, Paxton Ralph and Beverly Holzfaster began their early agricultural careers in custom harvesting and proving new stubble mulch practices on dry land wheat, which led to a stint farming in British Columbia. Embracing pivot irrigation technology in 1969, Ralph opened a Lindsay Manufacturing dealership in Ogallala. His ongoing commitment to advancing agriculture, economic development and ethanol opportunities is evident in his service on several boards over the years, including Nebraska Ethanol Authority & Development Board, Nebraska Public Power District, Keith County Economic Development Board and Foundation and Mid-Plains Community College Foundation, as well serving on boards for private ethanol and bioenergy companies. The Holzfaster family co-hosted the Cattleman’s Ball in 2013, and remain active locally, statewide and nationally in agriculture, economic development, housing and tourism initiatives, including managing Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge. ![]() ANTHONY “TONY” MESSINEO, JR., Valentino’s, Lincoln In 1972, Anthony Messineo and his brother, Ron, purchased Valentino’s, a pizza business started in the Campus Fruit Market near University of Nebraska – Lincoln’s East Campus. The 60-seat restaurant was small, but the takeout pizza business quickly boomed. Today, Valentino’s employs more than 500 Nebraskans at 40 locations and ships frozen pizza nationally and internationally, in addition to offering its popular sauces and frozen pizza in Nebraska grocery stores. As the official pizza of the Huskers, Valentino’s sells over 22,000 slices per home football game. An active philanthropist, Messineo contributes time and talent to Cedar’s Home for Children, Catholic Social Services, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Lincoln Public Schools’ High Five program, and TeamMates, among others. He has received several honors, including Restauranteur of the Year twice and Rotarian of the Year, and was inducted into the Omaha Hospitality Hall of Fame. ![]() WILFRED “DICK” TEGTMEIER, Encore Mfg. Co., Beatrice (awarded posthumously) A pioneer in the lawn mower industry, Wilfred Tegtmeier turned sketches drawn in his basement into two successful businesses, eventually employing more than 600 Nebraskans and giving Beatrice the unofficial title of “Lawn Mower Capital of the World”. He designed his first line of lawn mowers at Kees Manufacturing in the 1970s before starting Exmark Manufacturing with partners in 1983 and launching a new line. In 1988, he formed a new mower company, Encore Manufacturing, which grew quickly. Both companies remain major drivers of Beatrice’s economy. Exmark is now a division of Toro Company. Encore was sold to China-based World Lawn Power Equipment on the condition that the facility continue operating in Beatrice. Tegtmeier was active in St. Paul Lutheran Church, Beatrice Optimists, Gage County Economic Development and Nebraska Diplomats, in addition to representing Nebraska on several trade missions. He died in 2013. |
Media Contacts:Please email Meg Hatfield at [email protected] with your media requests or call 531-278-1262 Archives
February 2025
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