Lincoln, Neb. —The Nebraska Association of County Extension Boards (NACEB) recently celebrated their 2022 award winners at their annual business meeting and luncheon. Each year, NACEB awards individuals and businesses who exemplify service and support of Nebraska Extension and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
“NACEB is proud to award these individuals and businesses who have given so much of their time and energy to Nebraska Extension,” said Amanda Mogensen, NACEB president. "Each one of them exemplifies the significant advocacy actions for which these awards were designed."
NACEB works to communicate with and strengthen individual county Extension boards across Nebraska while also communicating, seeking counsel, and working in concert with Nebraska Extension, a division of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, providing advisory and advocacy on behalf of Nebraska Extension.
The winners of the 2022 awards are:
Outstanding Business
KCSR/KBPY Radio
Dennis Brown, owner, KCSR/KBPY with Amanda Mogensen, NACEB President and Dr. Charlie Stoltenow, Dean and Director, Nebraska Extension
KCSR/KBPY is the regional radio station for the Panhandle with a wide listenership in the tri-state area. The staff at KCSR/KBPY are adept interviewers, understanding agriculture and their community producing quality programming for their region. KCSR/KBPY is commended for its commitment to youth programming and enhancing community engagement. Throughout the year, KCSR/KBPY supports 4-H and Extension programming through sponsorship and radio time, allowing staff to share information about programming, events, educational opportunities, and the impact that Nebraska Extension is realizing. Thank you, KCSR/KBPY radio stations, for your exemplary contributions to panhandle communication and supporting Nebraska Extension programming.
Outstanding Advocate
Bruce Rickertsen - Dawson County
Bruce Rickertsen with Amanda Mogensen, NACEB President and Dr. Charlie Stoltenow, Dean and Director, Nebraska Extension
President and owner of Car-Bar Cattle Company, Bruce has served 50 years as a 4-H leader in one of the oldest clubs in Dawson County and leading the Ag Society as President. His 4-H club has volunteered to set up the fairgrounds for County Fair for as long as anyone remembers. Developing youth leadership skills, his club emphasizes public speaking, presentations, judging, and community service, with youth taking part in a wide variety of projects. Bruce has enjoyed seeing youth from his club succeed as State Champions in the 4-H Public Speaking Contest and the State Livestock and Meats Judging Contests. Thank you, Bruce, for 50 years of service to 4-H youth and the Dawson County community.
Outstanding Support Staff
Sandra Swanson - Platte County
Sandra Swanson with Amanda Mogensen, NACEB President and Dr. Charlie Stoltenow, Dean and Director, Nebraska Extension
For 23 years, Sandra has contributed to the success of the Platte County Extension office through organization and efficiency that has enabled her county to grow and succeed over the years. Sandra exemplifies current and past Extension professionals have had successful Extension careers. She supports the growth and opportunities others have by ensuring she is doing her job well and going above and beyond to make sure every last detail is taken care of. Her work positively impacts the program, youth, families, and staff. Thank you, Sandra, for 23 years of service to our Platte County Extension office's clients, staff, and community.
Outstanding Volunteer
Bill Riggs - Dawes County
Bill Riggs with Amanda Mogensen, NACEB President and Dr. Charlie Stoltenow, Dean and Director, Nebraska Extension
For 45 years, Bill has been a 4-H volunteer offering his time and contributions, including committee leadership, teaching educational sessions, and donating handmade door prizes. Dedicated to the craft of leatherworking, Bill shares his skills with youth, teaching the craft at workshops and in the afterschool programs. A true supporter of 4-H youth, Bill has also volunteered at the county fair horse show, served as a judge for various projects, and made prizes for the champion youth. Thank you, Bill, for 45 years of service to 4-H youth, parents, his community, and tireless support of the Nebraska Extension program.
Friend of Extension
Senator Tom Briese
Senator Tom Briese with Amanda Mogensen, NACEB President
The Friend of Extension Award recognizes our elected officials and their work to support the University and Extension within their respective counties and the State of Nebraska. Over the last six years, Tom has engaged with local educators, staff, and Board members. He takes the time to understand what programming is provided within Boone County and surrounding areas. While attending these meetings, he also takes the time to listen to the concerns and accomplishments happening within Boone County. His involvement at the county level provides the opportunity for local Extension stories to be heard at the State level. Thank you, Senator Tom Briese, for your support and investment in Nebraska Extension at the local and state levels.