Story 38 - Stuart Award

James Stuart, Sr. is credited as the earliest investor in our program’s history. According to history, when Dr. William Hall approached Mr. Stuart about his idea for developing potential in young people, Mr. Stuart encouraged him to proceed. He predicted that “it might take a long time, maybe 20 years to see if this idea works.” 75 years later, NHRI continues to benefit from Mr. Stuart’s generosity, vision and leadership.

Announced at the 20th Anniversary, the 1969 Annual Meeting, the Board of Trustees created the Stuart Award to honor James Stuart, Sr., Lincoln businessman and civic leader who was instrumental in the founding of NHRI. Each year, the Stuart Award is presented to a graduating senior mentor who exemplifies outstanding leadership. 

James Stuart, Sr. was also the recipient of the first Talent Plus/William E. Hall Distinguished Alumni Award in 2003.

We are grateful to the generations of Stuart family members who have shared their time, talent and treasure to develop leaders since 1949. 

1970 - Connie Clifton Rath

1971 - Robert Starck

1972 - Roger Sawatzke

1973 - Mary Jo Hrdy Kaczzmarek

1974 - Debbie Patton Christenson

1975 - Barb Eaton Jensen

1976 - Rick Goble

1977 - Lewis May

1978 - Kathy Sigrist

1979 - Julie Romohr Sparks

1980 - Michael Phillips

1981 - Kathy Dodge-Clay

1982 - David Ditman

1983 - John Wells

1984 - Frank (Chip) Winter, III

1985 - Laura Williams Nielsen

1986 - Jill Kirchner Manchester

1987 - Mark Davidson

Stuart Award Honorees