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Thank you, Adam

Today marks the end of an era at Civic Nebraska. We’re honoring and celebrating the remarkable journey and contributions of Adam Morfeld, our founding executive director, as he closes his 16-year tenure at the helm of our organization.

Adam built Civic Nebraska from the ground up and transformed it into a statewide force for civic engagement and democratic renewal. He founded the organization in 2008 – in his 10th-floor room in Harper Residence Hall with other University of Nebraska students – with a clear vision. Adam sought to strengthen our state’s democratic life by increasing civic participation and ensuring every Nebraskan has a voice. The result was a student organization called Nebraskans for Civic Reform.

In the years since, our organization has seen massive change. But Adam’s dedication to this ideal has never wavered. It’s led to countless groundbreaking initiatives, from enriching civic education in our schools to community organizing efforts that have empowered marginalized voices. Under Adam’s leadership, Civic Nebraska has grown in size, scope, and impact, touching countless lives and inspiring a new generation of engaged, active, and informed citizens.

Adam has tirelessly advocated for voting rights, civic education, and community engagement – work powered by a deep belief in the power of individuals to create change and a commitment to building bridges across communities. Whether championing legislative reforms, fostering partnerships with schools and community organizations, or mobilizing volunteers, Adam’s efforts have always been rooted in a belief that a vibrant democracy requires active participation from everyone.

As we bid farewell to Adam, we pledge to carry this work forward. Adam has laid a strong foundation, ensuring our organization thrives and grows well beyond his tenure – but more importantly, he has inspired many to take up the mantle of civic engagement and leadership. That’s the ultimate testament to the impact that one person’s vision and hard work can have on an entire state.

Adam, we wish you all the best. Your leadership, passion, and vision will be missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we carry forward our mission. Thank you for everything you’ve done with Civic Nebraska and for all Nebraskans. We’ll take it from here.

Civic Nebraska: a unique creation by a unique Nebraskan

I had the good fortune to serve as the deputy executive director and director of civic health for Civic Nebraska for nearly five years, working alongside Adam Morfeld each day. The organization, the work, and the people have all meant a great deal to me, both personally and professionally – and that impact would not have been possible but for the vision and fortitude of Adam Morfeld. 
 
For the past 16 years, Adam has seen the possibilities and potential in building up our democracy, and by extension, our communities, in this state. He forged partnerships, secured funding, and set a movement in motion to renew our collective commitment to democracy. Civic Nebraska is such a unique creation, with Adam’s impact woven throughout the organization. 
 
Working so closely together for years, I can tell you that Adam cares – truly, deeply cares – about the organization and the mission, but also the people who brought Civic Nebraska to what it is today.  I’ve watched him grow and develop from a student leader to a founder and executive director to an elected official, with incredible results and a legacy to be proud of. 
 
Congratulations on your next step, Adam. We appreciate all that you’ve built, and all that is yet to come. 
 
– Amanda Barker