About the three-volume series
Nebraska is at a tipping point. Nebraska today faces significant challenges calling for fresh thinking and innovative solutions.
This is where “Better Nebraska” comes in.
We explore different facets of our state, from its vast agricultural landscapes to dynamic urban centers, from educational institutions to businesses, and from the potential of youth to the experience of our seniors.
Many of the ideas offer a way to address our state’s challenges and are designed to be implemented at minimal, incremental cost (As someone recently pointed out to me, EVERY SINGLE idea that has some merit and costs very little to try, should be tried!). This isn’t just about change for the sake of change, but about building a Better Nebraska—a Nebraska that is economically dynamic, environmentally sustainable, culturally vibrant, and inclusive for all residents.
Nebraska is at a tipping point. Nebraska today faces significant challenges calling for fresh thinking and innovative solutions. The good news is there is no shortage of good ideas. Many, many Nebraskans have great ideas that could produce a better future. Yet, too often, these great ideas remain unimplemented due to perceived obstacles. These obstacles may relate to potential costs, lack of acceptance by the status quo, or even a simple lack of awareness.
I was born in Nebraska and grew up in Chicago and Minneapolis. Both sets of my grandparents lived in Nebraska, one set was rural (Elba, NE on a 640-acre farm) and one urban (Omaha, my grandfather worked for the railroad). Visiting Nebraska meant
experiencing these two contrasting realities – rural and urban – each possessing its own unique experience.
I attended two great Nebraska universities: The University of Nebraska for undergraduate work and Creighton University for graduate work.
“Better Nebraska” is my attempt to gather and disseminate the great ideas I have heard over time.
