The inaugural class of The Apiary, a statewide initiative designed to strengthen Nebraska’s democracy from the ground up, was announced today by Civic Nebraska. Eighteen emerging leaders from communities across the state have been selected to form the first cohort, which begins its yearlong program this month.

The Apiary draws inspiration from the connective, collaborative nature of a beehive, a place where individual strengths combine to create collective resilience. The program brings together Nebraskans with diverse experiences to deepen civic engagement, grow leadership skills, and lead projects that address real challenges in their hometowns.

“Our first Apiary cohort represents a remarkable span of perspectives, talents, and commitments,” said Clara Wilson, Civic Nebraska’s director of Voting Rights Initiatives. “Each fellow is rooted in their community and motivated to build stronger, more connected civic life. We’re eager to support their growth and to help foster the impact they will make across the state.”

Throughout the coming year, fellows will explore local and statewide policy, strengthen civic leadership practices, and collaborate on community-centered initiatives. Monthly gatherings – virtual and in-person – will provide space for them to share ideas, learn together, and build a durable statewide network. 

“Strong community organizations are essential to a modern and robust democracy, and The Apiary exists to support the advocates, organizers, and community-builders who make those organizations thrive,” said Chris Morton, Civic Action program manager for Civic Nebraska. “This cohort brings together people who already make a difference in their hometowns and gives them space to grow, connect, and lead.”

“Their collective energy has the potential to strengthen communities across Nebraska for years to come.”

The 2025-26 Apiary fellows are:

›› Noah Hauke, an international student in Lincoln, focused on strengthening support for immigrant and refugee communities. Drawing from his own newcomer experience, he works to improve access to civic and community resources for others.

›› Manny Macedo, a two-spirit Tupinambá leader, scholar, and community organizer based in Lincoln. As executive director of Indigenous Foodways, they advance food sovereignty, land-based education, and culturally grounded community spaces.

›› Amanda Irions, a communication instructor at Doane University who researches how faith shapes people’s climate-related beliefs and behaviors. She brings an academic lens to understanding how values influence public engagement.

›› Paulissa Kipp, an artist, author, Certified Peer Specialist, and disability rights advocate whose work centers accessibility, cross-disability experience, and community empowerment. She is known for clear-eyed advocacy, public education, and fostering meaningful change.

›› Whitney Hansen, an award-winning teacher, poetry coach, community organizer, fundraiser, and activist from Omaha.

›› Ashley Scott, a community member dedicated to civic engagement and leadership development. She contributes a grounded, service-oriented perspective to the cohort.

›› Melanie Davis, a disability advocate with a political science background and extensive leadership experience on local, state, and national boards. She focuses on education, mentorship, and policy change informed by lived experience.

›› Marissa Vallecillo, a community organizer and youth advocate from Omaha. A co-founder of Youth Elect, she supports emerging leaders, mutual aid efforts, and youth-led political engagement across the city.

›› Matthew Rowland, a staff member at The Bay in Lincoln and a political science graduate from the University of Nebraska. Originally from Rapid City, he is passionate about advocacy and community-building in Nebraska.

›› Guadalupe “Lupita” Ayala Montanez, a DOJ-accredited representative with the Multicultural Coalition in Grand Island. Originally from Zacatecas, México, she supports immigrant families through legal navigation, community resources, and civic education.

›› Dana Wockenfuss, an advocate and community leader from Norfolk, focused on equity, family well-being, early childhood policy, and food access. She brings lived-experience expertise and broad statewide engagement to her civic work.

›› Amanda Moritz, the incoming housing director at the Grand Island Economic Development Corporation. With more than 20 years of experience in finance, sales, and nonprofit work, she is committed to building strong relationships and stronger communities.

›› Alba Gonzalez, a community member who believes in the power of every voice. She works to uplift people’s strengths and ignite positive change with the resources at hand.

›› Caroline McDonald, a student leader at the University of Nebraska, is studying business, law, and computer science. A state champion debater and advocate for equitable technology, she focuses on ethical tech policy, cybersecurity, and reducing digital bias.

›› Muatasim Osman, a Sudanese community leader in Grand Island with experience in veterinary science, humanitarian work, logistics, and civic organizing. He is the president of the Sudanese Assimilation Group in Grand Island and is active in local volunteer efforts.

›› Jessica Vihstadt, a political science and criminal justice student at the University of Nebraska, is on the pre-law track. She is passionate about civic engagement and public service.

›› Thanishka Inti, A senior at Elkhorn South High School and co-founder of Positive Action for Civic Engagement (PACE), a youth-led legislative advocacy group. She is committed to helping young people understand policy and build civic power.

›› Nyabuoy Chan, the owner of Buay Cleaning Services and the Women’s & Elders Program Manager at the Asian Community & Cultural Center in Lincoln. Originally from South Sudan, she brings a strong ethic of hard work, service, and community leadership.

Additionally, the fellows will be mentored by Laura Gamboa Urrego, the director of community engagement at the Stuhr Museum in Grand Island. Raised in Nebraska and originally from Bogotá, Colombia, she leads cultural programming, immigrant support efforts, and collaborative community partnerships.

With the inaugural cohort, The Apiary invests in a new generation of community-rooted leaders ready to build trust, bridge divides, and strengthen democratic life across Nebraska.