As I step into the role of President, I do so with a deep sense of gratitude, responsibility, and pride. I am a fifth-generation Nebraskan, and this state is more than a place on a map to me—it is where my roots run deep. I am mindful that the story of Nebraska began with generations of Native nations whose cultures, traditions, and deep relationships with the land shaped its earliest identity. Their legacy is an essential part of Nebraska’s story, and it continues to guide how we understand and honor this place today. 

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To be a Nebraskan is, in many ways, to be a pioneer—but that spirit did not begin with westward expansion. It lives in the ingenuity and resilience of the Indigenous peoples who first called this land home, who navigated its rivers and plains, built communities, and sustained rich cultural traditions across generations. It carried forward with those who later arrived, stepping into uncertainty with courage and determination to build new lives. And it remains alive today in all who are willing to explore new paths, challenge assumptions, and shape a better future. 

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From that pioneer spirit, Nebraskans know courage takes many forms: the courage to preserve traditions, the courage to build something new, and the courage to listen, learn, and grow together. 

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The NEBRASKAland Foundation exists to honor and elevate the rich tapestry of our state—our social, historical, cultural, educational, and economic heritage. That tapestry is strongest when all threads are recognized and respected. We celebrate the pioneers of the past, while also recognizing the innovators and changemakers shaping Nebraska today. 

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I am especially excited about the future we are building together. Nebraska continues to evolve, and with that evolution comes opportunity—the chance to lead, to innovate, and to explore new ideas with the same determination that has defined this land for generations. The frontier may look different today, but the fortitude it requires remains the same: a willingness to move forward with purpose, respect, and hope. 

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Whether you are a lifelong Nebraskan, a new resident, or someone who simply holds a connection to this remarkable state, I invite you to join us. Together, we can carry forward a spirit of stewardship and discovery—honoring those who came before us while bravely stepping into what comes next. 

 

With gratitude and optimism, 

Jennifer Creager 

President, NEBRASKAland Foundation