KEARNEY – Successful entrepreneurs from across the state were recognized April 22 during an awards ceremony at Discovery Hall on the University of Nebraska at Kearney campus.
Hosted by UNK’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Rural Development, the Light It Up Awards celebrate the vision, innovation and hard work of entrepreneurs and advocates who are making a difference in Kearney and throughout greater Nebraska.
“Entrepreneurs work incredibly hard and often do not receive the recognition they deserve. Also, many outstanding resource providers are within the entrepreneurship ecosystem, and these advocates work tirelessly to support the dreams of Nebraska’s entrepreneurs. The Center for Entrepreneurship and Rural Development recognizes the importance of celebrating the achievements of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship advocates,” said Director Sara Bennett.
Award winners, with comments from their nominations, are:
Student Entrepreneurs
Alexis Bernthal of Boulder, Colorado – TheraText
“She demonstrates the true spirit of entrepreneurship – always learning, always evolving, always working toward her goal. She is the embodiment of innovation, collaboration and energy. I can confidently say she is an absolute star on the rise. We are so fortunate to have a young entrepreneur like her on campus.”
Klayton Pagel of Maxwell – TheraText and Your Vision
“He is an intelligent, hard worker who is not afraid of problems. He is a gifted problem-solver who always wants to do more. Balancing a fully loaded work and school schedule, he makes time to build software and infrastructure projects that go a long way.”
Emerging Entrepreneur
Drew Aldinger – Raven Tech LLC, a Kearney-based provider of security and IT services
“He has turned a local business into a growing company that now serves 18 states with top-tier cybersecurity and security solutions. He’s a problem-solver, a builder, and someone who genuinely wants to make a difference. He isn’t just growing a business – he’s creating a lasting impact.”
Excellence in Entrepreneurship
Dusty Birge – Fast Forward, a Kearney-based startup that uses vehicle cameras and computer vision to automate the inspection of utility power lines. The UNK graduate has grown the business to 12 employees and more than $2 million in revenue in three years.
“He is one of the most impactful mentors I have ever seen. His awareness of how to engage socially paired with his drive to solve problems goes unmatched. He is constantly willing to help students, the community and the university. Even when he is busy, he makes time for others. He is an example of what a strong entrepreneur should be.”
Entrepreneurship Advocate
Alisha Juelfs – Energizing Entrepreneurial Ecosystems (E3), a Cheyenne County initiative that provides resources for entrepreneurs at all stages, from startup to expansion to succession planning
“She has been a direct catalyst in empowering local entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth in the region. Her passion, dedication and tireless efforts make her a truly deserving candidate for this recognition. She plays a pivotal role in assisting entrepreneurs by connecting them with essential resources to start, sustain and scale their businesses. She embodies the spirit of an entrepreneurial advocate – her impact is not only measured in numbers, but in the stories of those she has helped achieve their dreams.”
Alumni Entrepreneur
Alexi Wellman – Altaba, an independent, closed-end management investment company
“She is a 1992 graduate of UNK with a degree in business administration and accounting and has built an exceptional career at the intersection of finance, investment, entrepreneurship and corporate leadership. She brings a rare combination of financial expertise, strategic insight and deep commitment to fostering entrepreneurship. Beyond her technical expertise, she is a champion for the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nebraska, consistently offering her time, mentorship and network to support the next generation of business leaders. Her impact is tangible.”
