*1.BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR:
Vote for the nominee you feel has made impactful contributions as a business professional in Keith County, either through their professional work, volunteerism, or the leadership/mentorship they provide.

Each of the following nominees has been recognized by someone in our community for making a positive difference in Keith County.

Where available, we’ve included statements submitted through the nomination forms. Even if a comment wasn’t provided, every nominee listed here has earned recognition for their hard work, dedication, and community spirit.(Required.)

Ryan Christensen, Adams Bank & Trust | Details from the nomination:
"As a commercial lender, this individual has helped my business along with several others I know made sound financial decisions. Because of Ryan, I have been able to grow my business, and I know he has the best interest of me and the community he serves in mind."

Sunny and Corey Crandall, Crandall Creek Golf Club | Details from the nomination:
"Sunny and Corey are always willing to open up their course for fundraisers, school events, working hard to provide a beautiful course for the public and an inviting club house. They are always thinking of the community, how to support the community and promote Keith County. "

Mandy Adams Hoover, Adams Bank & Trust | Details from the nomination:
"Mandy is very involved in the community. She is always there to help when needed. She always provides the greatest advice and ideas."

Morgan Delezene, Edward Jones | Details from the nominations:
"Morgan quietly serves as a major financial pillar for her community and local schools, often intentionally keeping her generosity completely anonymous."

"Excellent client contributions and very involved in the betterment of Keith County"

"Morgan is (according to her online website): Since 2017, Morgan has qualified to attend the Edward Jones annual Women's Conference, an honor reserved for the firm’s top 250 female financial advisors and in 2026 she is recognized as a Forbes | SHOOK Best-in-State Women Wealth Advisors for Nebraska. Plus I see that she supports everything related to Youth or activities....literally."

"Morgan does countless sponsorship opportunities in which many she does anonymously. To name a few: Kids Korner (donated enough to make sure the kids to had a full event) Girls on the Run Ogallala Public Schools Just to name a few."

Lana Shaw, Adams Bank & Trust | Details from the nomination:
"Marketing Director at Adams Bank and very involved in the community. She has sat on the KCCC as board president for 5 years and has accomplished a tremendous amount in that role. Strengthening relationships with Keith County, The City of Ogallala, KCAD, &Visitors Committee to name a few. She was the instrumental in creating the Tourism Director role. She has negotiated crucial contracts and leads a diverse board of directors, Tourism Director, and Membership Director. She has presented several times for KCAD and MPCC for their Progressive Business Group Series teaching others crucial marketing ideas. All of this and this year in May, she finished her Master Degree in Business Administration. Lana is one of the most dedicated business professionals I've ever met and through her servant leadership approach she has inspired me to step up and put more of my heart, time, and abilities into the the KCCC as well."

Ashton Simmerman, Keith County Attorney Office | Details from the nomination:
"Ashton Simmerman made an extraordinary impact during our community’s wildfire response. She helped coordinate volunteers, organize and purchase essential supplies, and ensure everyone knew their responsibilities while supporting firefighters and emergency response teams. Even going above and beyond her assigned duties, she helped arrange haircuts for firefighters who had been working tirelessly to keep our communities safe. Ashton demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, and a true spirit of service during a critical time. Her dedication, reliability, and willingness to do whatever was needed made a tremendous difference. She is an incredible asset to our community and a true example of what it means to serve others."

Kerri Schroeder, Head 2 Toe Salon - Boutique 410 | Details from the nominations:
"I would like to nominate Kerri Schroeder, owner of Head 2 Toe Salon and Boutique 410, for Business Professional of the Year. Kerri puts time and care into her own business while consistently creating opportunities for others to succeed. Her commitment shows in how she supports fellow business owners, encourages professional growth, and gives back to her community. At her salon, Kerri has created a place where beauty professionals can build their businesses and continue developing their skills. In August, the salon welcomed Anthony from California for continuing education with Sebastian. Kerri and her team took time away from their chairs to learn together, try new techniques, and build on their skills. She described that learning as an investment in what they bring back to their clients. That commitment benefits the professionals working alongside her and the community they serve. Kerri also opens her doors to other entrepreneurs. In December 2025, she hosted a Ladies Night Out Mini Pop-Up Vendor Event, bringing several businesses together at the salon. She promoted the participating vendors, encouraged people to shop, and invited others to join. Businesses included Always Kaffeinated, Weiss Hydration, permanent jewelry by Kristen Bottom, and Brewster Cake Pop Bites, among others. These opportunities give business owners a place to meet customers, introduce their products, and grow their visibility. Her support goes beyond a single event. When Always Kaffeinated was getting started with its truck and trailer, Kerri was among the early supporters encouraging them to set up at the salon. She sees opportunities to help other businesses and follows through with invitations, encouragement, and practical support. That same willingness to contribute extends throughout the community. Kerri played a significant role in the success of this year’s Ogallala Indian Summer Rendezvous, giving her time, ideas, and hands-on help. She shows up, takes responsibility, and helps turn plans into something people can enjoy together. What makes Kerri deserving of this recognition is the consistency of her actions. She keeps learning, makes room for others to grow, and contributes to the community while running her own business. Her leadership is visible in the opportunities she creates and the people she supports. For these reasons, I believe Kerri Schroeder is a deserving recipient of Business Professional of the Year."

"Kerri is truly a business woman who has grown her business. She has added a boutique and has 10 personnel to cover many different offerings to the community in clothing and hair/nails and toes services. She also goes to various craft fairs with her clothing trailer. Besides her business, she is a community supporter for many activities."

Brady Caskey, JBWC Accounting Firm | Details from the nomination:
"When it comes to helping the community or the kids fundraisers, Brady never hesitates to help support them. He works FT x100. He puts in so many hours at the office trying to pick apart someone’s taxes and get them the best return or lower their expected taxes. He then stays involved and helping his church and always welcomes everyone with a smile. He then sponsors either individually from his own pocket or sponsors through JBWC to show support to our youth. He travels all over to cheer on his kids and be the supportive father he can be. He always talks highly of others and never will you find him bad mouthing anyone or establishment. He believes everyone is trying their best."