Spellerberg Announces ‘Why I Want to Go to College’ Sweepstakes Winners
(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.
###
About the State Treasurer’s Office: The Nebraska State Treasurer serves as the state’s chief financial officer and is responsible for the safekeeping and management of Nebraska’s public funds. The office administers the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST 529) and the Enable Savings Plan; manages and returns unclaimed property; collects and disburses child support payments; and promotes transparency in state spending. Learn more at treasurer.nebraska.gov, or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.
About NEST 529
NEST 529 is a tax-advantaged 529 education savings plan and provides four plans to help make saving for college simple and affordable: NEST Direct College Savings Plan, NEST Advisor College Savings Plan, Bloomwell 529 Education Savings Plan, and State Farm 529 Savings Plan. The Nebraska State Treasurer serves as Program Trustee. Union Bank and Trust Company serves as Program Manager, and all investments are approved by the Nebraska Investment Council. Families nationwide are saving for college using Nebraska’s 529 Education Savings Plans, which have over 300,000 accounts. Visit NEST529.com and treasurer.nebraska.gov for more information.
About Union Bank and Trust Company
Founded in 1917 with more than 50 years of family ownership, Union Bank and Trust Company offers complete banking, lending, investment, and trust services. The bank has 38 full-service and loan production offices in Nebraska and Kansas. It is the third-largest privately owned bank in Nebraska, with bank assets of $9 billion and trust assets of $45.5 billion as of Dec. 31, 2025. Voters have chosen Union Bank and Trust Company as Best Bank, Best Work Environment, and Best Financial Planner in Lincoln for 14 years running.