Nominations Open for the 2026 Nelson Excellence in Teaching Awards
Posted January 7, 2026
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2026 Nelson Family Foundation Excellence in Teaching Awards, an annual program that recognizes outstanding educators who make a meaningful difference in the lives of students.
Community members are encouraged to take a few moments to nominate a Lewis Central educator or counselor, past or present, who has had a positive impact on a child’s education. This may include someone who has influenced the life of your child, a child about whom you care, or an educator you have personally observed making a difference in education.
To be eligible, nominees must have a minimum of two years of experience as a certified teacher or counselor.
All nominations must be submitted electronically through the Omaha Community Foundation’s website. The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, February 6, 2026.
This is a meaningful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the dedication, passion, and commitment of the educators who support and inspire Lewis Central students every day. Community participation is encouraged.
Past Lewis Central Recipients
2025
- Tyler Friedrichsen, Kreft Primary School
- Kristin Longmeyer, Titan Hill Intermediate School
2024
- Tara Cavanagh, Titan Hill Intermediate School
- Emily Schwery, Kreft Primary School
2023
- Kevin Palu, Lewis Central High School
- Julie Ruzicka, Kreft Primary School
2022
- Susan Drustrup, Titan Hill Intermediate School
- Nathan Van Zante, Lewis Central Middle School
2021
- Taylor Lund, Kreft Primary School
- Corrie Wohlers, Lewis Central Middle School
2019
- Stephanie Donner, Titan Hill Intermediate School
2018
- Brett Ford, Lewis Central High School
- Belinda Jacoby, Titan Hill Intermediate School
2017
- Joan Goeser, Titan Hill Intermediate School
2016
- Ann Nun, Kreft Primary
- Christine Sutherland, Kreft Primary
2015
- Anne Benson, Kreft Primary School
2014
- Gina Johnson, Titan Hill Intermediate School
- Trudy Kimble, Lewis Central Middle School
- Heidi White, Kreft Primary School
2013
- Amy Higginbotham, Kreft Primary
- Jennifer Stroup, Titan Hill Intermediate School
2012
- Heather Nano, Kreft Primary School
- Elizabeth Smith, Kreft Primary School
2011
- Lee Dwyer, Kreft Primary School
- Joe Vinchattle, Lewis Central High School
2010
- Laurie (Nielsen) West, Lewis Central High School
- Alison Toman, Kreft Primary School
2008
- John Drake, Lewis Central High School
- Linda Hahn, Kreft Elementary
