Civic Nebraska will celebrate a half-dozen Nebraskans on Oct. 16 whose efforts help create a more modern and robust democracy in the Cornhusker State.
The 2025 Strengthening Democracy Awards honorees include educators, advocates, students, and Nebraskans who demonstrate exceptional civic leadership and who embody Civic Nebraska’s vision of a collaborative civic society. The winners will be recognized from 5:30 to 8 pm at the Livestock Exchange Ballrooms, 4920 S. 30th St. in Omaha.
Tickets to the gala are available here. Nebraska State Poet Jewel Rodgers is the evening’s featured performer.
“Nebraskans are the true architects of our democracy. Their consistent, behind-the-scenes dedication is what keeps our communities connected and our institutions accountable,” said Nancy Petitto, Civic Nebraska’s executive director. “Strengthening Democracy Awards recognize and celebrate this quiet but essential labor of citizenship.”
Civic Nebraska’s 2025 Strengthening Democracy honorees are:
›› Community Builder
Laura Gamboa Urrego of Grand Island, for forging connections across Grand Island. Gamboa Urrego brings nonprofit leaders, public institutions, immigrant communities, and businesses together to foster welcoming, resilient civic engagement. She has led initiatives such as the Grand Island Welcoming Initiative and the 4th Street Business Improvement District, ensuring that belonging and investment reach every corner of her community.
›› Civic Catalyst
Nicolas Jaramillo of Omaha, for visionary leadership in creating platforms that amplify Latino voices and build community-driven institutions. From co-founding the Sí Se Puede Network to launching the Latino Golf Association, Jaramillo has mobilized storytelling, culture, and innovation into powerful tools for equity and generational opportunity.
›› Champion of Learning
Astrid Munn of Omaha, for her work as an immigration attorney, professor, and community leader. Munn shows that learning takes many forms and strengthens democracy. Whether guiding new Americans through the legal system, teaching future lawyers at the University of Nebraska College of Law, or sharing insights as a Civic Saturday fellow and stand-up comedian, Munn leverages knowledge into empowerment across every sphere she touches.
›› Young Civic Leader
Ella Fundus of Lincoln, for her service and commitment to empowering others, especially through her years of leadership with the Penguin Project at the Lincoln Community Playhouse. As a peer mentor turned director of artists and partners, Ella now guides dozens of youth with disabilities while also championing inclusion and civic participation on campus at Nebraska Wesleyan U. and across her community.
›› Jan Gradwohl Defender of Democracy Award
Jason Witmer of Lincoln, for his tireless advocacy on criminal law reform, voting rights restoration, and the rights of currently incarcerated Nebraskans. From helping secure the passage and defense of LB20 to casting his first-ever ballot in 2025, Witmer pairs policy advocacy with art, storytelling, and grassroots connection to expand democracy’s promise.
›› Adam Morfeld Founder’s Award
Leo Louis II of Omaha, for years of institution- and movement-building that have created lasting civic change in Omaha and beyond. From leading the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation to serving as the central voice in the national “MY OMAHA” documentary campaign, Louis has built enduring spaces for dialogue, healing, and community empowerment.
Rodgers, the Nebraska State Poet, will merge artistry with civic engagement throughout the evening, offering those in attendance an unforgettable experience that celebrates both literary creativity and democratic renewal. Rodgers made history earlier this year by becoming both the youngest State Poet in state history, as well as the first African American to hold the title.
