News Release
(LINCOLN, Neb.) — Nebraska Treasurer Joey Spellerberg has announced the winners of the 2026 “Why I Want to Go to College” sweepstakes, sponsored by the State Treasurer’s Office and the Omaha Storm Chasers. Winners, all seventh- and eighth-grade students, were recognized at the May 3 Omaha Storm Chasers game at Werner Park in Papillion.
“Congratulations to all of the students who took the time to share their goals and aspirations,” said Treasurer Spellerberg, Trustee of the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST 529). “Whether it’s a four-year degree or hands-on career training, education remains one of the most important investments young people and their families can make. Setting goals early opens doors to lifelong opportunity.”
Three winners were chosen in each of Nebraska’s three congressional districts. Because NEST 529 is a national plan, three additional winners from outside Nebraska were also selected. Winners will receive contributions to NEST 529 college savings plans, ranging in value from $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second place, and $500 for third place.
Students were asked to reflect on the value of education and what they hope to achieve through higher education. The following students are the 2026 contest winners:
1st Congressional District – Nebraska
- First: Summer Korth, Humphrey
- Second: Hailey Schroeder, Columbus
- Third: Isabel Hernandez, Lincoln
2nd Congressional District – Nebraska
- First: Ashleigh Hopp, Springfield
- Second: Abby Lovely, Omaha
- Third: Paige Brabec, Omaha
3rd Congressional District – Nebraska
- First: Bentley McHargue, Central City
- Second: Jettlyn Pierson, Arcadia
- Third: Rowdie Lynch, Callaway
Out-of-State Winners
- First: Alexandria Danielle Hain, Fort Rucker, Ala.
- Second: Matthew Jones, Houston, Texas
- Third: Brecken Booth, Bloomington, Ill.
Managed by the State Treasurer’s Office, the NEST 529 program has grown to more than 306,000 tax-advantaged savings accounts holding nearly $8 billion in assets.
Nebraska offers an income tax deduction of up to $10,000 a year ($5,000 if married, filing separately) for contributions made by the account owner. Money invested in a NEST 529 account grows tax-deferred, and withdrawals are free from federal and Nebraska income taxes when used for qualified education expenses.
In April 2026, the Nebraska Legislature passed and Gov. Jim Pillen signed LB 748 to ensure NEST 529 accounts can be used for a wide range of post-secondary credential programs and professional certifications. Examples of recognized credential programs include electrical work, automotive repair, welding, manufacturing, HVAC, CDL training, forklift operation, health care, IT, carpentry, and construction. Learn more about NEST 529 at nest529.com.