For nearly five decades, the Foundation of the Nebraska Society of CPAs has been committed to nurturing the next generation of accounting professionals. What began in 1976 as a small but meaningful initiative has grown into one of the most impactful scholarship programs supporting Nebraska’s future CPAs. Our mission remains the same: empower students, strengthen the profession, and invest in the leaders who will shape the financial future of our communities.

This year, that mission came to life in a remarkable way. The Foundation awarded $127,100 in scholarships to 97 dedicated accounting students representing 14 colleges and universities across Nebraska. Each award—ranging from $1,000 to $3,000—helps talented students take a significant step toward reaching their educational and professional goals.

Supporting Students at Every Stage

For now, the 150-hour requirement continues to be a major milestone in the journey to becoming a CPA. To help students succeed, the Foundation has strategically directed support to help students meet this educational challenge. Of this year’s 97 scholarships:

• 22 scholarships went to students as they complete their 150-hour requirement.
• Four scholarships were awarded to students in honor of our 2025 Society award recipients.
• Two scholarships honored the legacies of former Society executives: Arnold Magnuson, who served the Society from 1958 to 1990, and Dan Vodvarka, who served from 1990 to 2018.
• 28 Pipeline Scholarships, made possible by the generosity of our members and firms, encouraged students to continue on the path to CPA.
• 41 General Accounting Scholarships supported students earlier in their college careers.

Celebrating Excellence

Congratulations to all 2025-2026 scholarship recipients! These students represent the talent, drive, and promise that fuel the future of the CPA profession. We are inspired by their accomplishments and excited for the contributions they will bring to Nebraska’s businesses and communities.

We also extend our appreciation to the state’s exceptional accounting faculty and administrators. Their mentorship, dedication, and commitment to excellence play a crucial role in preparing students for the rigor and responsibility that’s required of a career as a CPA.

Expanding Our Reach in 2026

Looking ahead, the Foundation has committed to broadening its scholarship outreach. Beginning with the 2026-2027 academic year, six scholarships will be offered specifically to students at Nebraska’s community colleges who plan to continue their accounting studies at a baccalaureate-granting institution in Nebraska.

This expansion strengthens the accounting pipeline by encouraging more students to progress toward advanced coursework, complete the remaining credit hours, and ultimately pursue CPA licensure. Reaching students earlier and supporting them as they plan their educational next steps helps ensure a stronger, more diverse future for the profession.

Join Us in Making a Positive Impact

You’ll find our 2025-2026 scholarship recipients featured on pages 22-25. These outstanding students represent the bright future of the accounting profession.

The success of our scholarship program is possible only because of the generosity and commitment of our members, firms, and supporters. If you haven’t already, I invite you to become a donor and help increase our impact. A contribution of any size helps propel a student toward completing their degree and, ultimately, joining the CPA ranks. You’ll see the annual Honor Roll of Donors in Issue 1 of 2026.

Visit www.nescpa.org/scholarships/donate to make a gift and help us continue supporting Nebraska’s accounting talent.