Recognition Celebration 2025

Nearly 300 guests filled the Haymarket Lincoln Station for the annual Recognition Celebration on January 21st. Community supporters, mentors, mentees, and family members joined in to celebrate award winners, enjoy a delicious buffet from Valentino’s, and hear an inspiring message from former astronaut, Clay Anderson.

Clay Anderson, aka “Astro Clay,” is the only astronaut from Nebraska. He grew up in Ashland, attended school at Hastings College and Iowa State University, before joining NASA full-time. It took years of dedication working as a NASA engineer before (after the 15th time!) he was finally selected for astronaut training. At the Recognition Celebration, Clay inspired all in attendance to reach for the stars. Even though we all come from different circumstances, we can all achieve our dreams.