Brhel, Wortmann Inducted as New Members
Leaders in agribusiness and higher education whose work has shaped Nebraska’s agricultural landscape were recognized March 27 at the annual banquet for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement.
David Briggs, president and CEO of Western Cooperative Company and CEO of Sustainable Beef, and Ronnie Green, chancellor emeritus of the university, were honored for lasting contributions to agriculture, rural communities and the state.
The event, held at the Nebraska East Union, also recognized 12 new members whose leadership spans production agriculture, extension, agribusiness and natural resources.
“The Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement exists to recognize individuals whose leadership and dedication have advanced agriculture for the benefit of our state and beyond,” said Mark Gustafson, president of the organization.
Leadership rooted in Nebraska agriculture
Briggs has led WESTCO since 2000, growing the cooperative into a diversified organization serving producers across western Nebraska and eastern Wyoming. Under his leadership, the company has expanded to 17 locations and more than 200 employees.
As CEO of Sustainable Beef in North Platte, he helped guide development of a $400 million beef processing facility that began operations in 2025. The project represents one of the most significant recent investments in Nebraska’s beef industry, strengthening market access and opportunities for producers across the region.
Green served as the university’s 20th chancellor from 2016 to 2023 and previously led the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources as Harlan Vice Chancellor.
An internationally recognized animal scientist, Green’s career spans academia, federal research and industry. His work in animal breeding and genomics, along with his leadership at Nebraska, has contributed to advancements in agricultural research, education and global engagement.
New Members Recognized for Statewide Impact
The hall inducted 12 new members representing a broad cross section of Nebraska agriculture. Listed alphabetically by community, they are:
- Belvidere: Gina Hudson
- Bridgeport: Kevin Hall, Tom Hayden
- Broken Bow: Jim Girardin Jr.
- Fullerton: Galen Frenzen
- Hartington: Edward Lammers
- Lakeside: Melody Benjamin
- Lincoln: Royce Schaneman, Charles Wortmann
- Minden: Duane Kristensen
- Mitchell: Peggy Wells
- York: Jenny (Rees) Brhel
Each inductee was recognized for leadership, innovation and long-term contributions that have strengthened Nebraska agriculture and rural communities.
Founded in 1916, the Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement honors individuals whose work has provided lasting benefit to agriculture in Nebraska. The organization preserves the history of agricultural progress while recognizing those who continue to shape its future.
The annual banquet brings together leaders from across the state to celebrate the people and partnerships that drive Nebraska agriculture forward.
