Breakout Sessions and Speakers, Lunch Panel Announced for 2026 Governor’s Summit in Kearney
LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen invites Nebraskans to register for the 2026 Governor’s Summit, featuring keynote speakers Ben Sasse and Fred Hoiberg. The event will take place September 28-29 at the Younes Conference Center North in Kearney. Breakout session topics and speakers—along with a lunch panel—have been announced for Tuesday, Sept. 29, the main day of the event. Breakout session information is listed on the Governor’s Summit agenda at www.govsummit.nebraska.gov/agenda.
This year, the Governor’s Summit will feature three breakout tracks:
(1) Why Nebraska’s Workforce Is Growing
(2) Feeding & Fueling Nebraska’s Ag and Manufacturing Future
(3) Investing in the Next Generation of Nebraskans
Over lunch, Dr. Josie Schafer, director of the Center for Public Affairs Research at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, will present evidence of encouraging trends in Nebraska’s workforce and population growth. She will also lead a panel discussion featuring young professionals who have decided to stay in Nebraska following graduation from an in-state college. The panel will provide insight on the compelling reasons why young Nebraskans are increasingly choosing to start their careers in the Good Life.
The 2026 Governor’s Summit kicks off on Monday afternoon, Sept. 28, with an update on the 6 Regions, One Nebraska initiative. The Governor’s Office, Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, and Nebraska Department of Economic Development co-launched the initiative in 2024 to encourage cooperation, rather than competition, among neighboring communities. Over the past two years, each region has undertaken projects, supported by state and philanthropic funding, to tackle issues like housing affordability and childcare availability.
On Monday evening, the Nebraska Diplomats will host their annual awards banquet at the Governor’s Summit. Gov. Pillen will provide remarks and present awards to individuals, businesses, and communities who have made significant contributions to the state’s growth.
Former Midland University president and U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a native Nebraskan, will headline Tuesday morning’s session at the Summit. Participants will then attend breakout sessions, both before and after lunch, on various topics related to workforce development, agriculture and manufacturing, and creating opportunities for young Nebraskans. Fred Hoiberg, head coach of the Husker men’s basketball team, will keynote the Summit’s afternoon session on Tuesday.
This year’s Governor’s Summit will coincide with the second annual Youth Summit for high school students and recent graduates. The Youth Summit is designed to connect students with rewarding career opportunities in Nebraska. Attendees will meet one-on-one with colleges and employers, gaining privileged access to internships, scholarships, and career opportunities available within the state.
To view the Governor’s Summit agenda and to register, go to www.govsummit.nebraska.gov.
More information about the Youth Summit is available at www.govsummit.nebraska.gov/youth.