Published Thursday, December 5th, 2024
The award was given by the Mid-America Economic Development Council. Northeast Nebraska Growing Together’s efforts stood out among programs across 13 states.
Northeast Nebraska Growing Together powered by Aksarben has been named the winner in the Workforce & Talent (Large Division) category for the Mid-America Economic Development Council’s 2024 Annual Economic Development Awards on Dec. 5 in Columbus, Ohio. Wayne State College plays an integral role in the Growing Together initiative through its Career Scholars program.
The award celebrates innovative initiatives that attract new talent, strengthen workforce skills, and encourage the retention of young professionals. Northeast Nebraska Growing Together’s efforts stood out among programs across 13 states, highlighting our region's commitment to building a strong and vibrant workforce.
“We extend our gratitude to the City of Norfolk for championing the work of Northeast Nebraska Growing Together,” said Executive Director Angie Stenger. Stenger and Dr. Marysz Rames, president of Wayne State College, accepted the award on behalf of Northeast Nebraska Growing Together. “This achievement reflects the strength and dedication of everyone working to foster talent and workforce innovation in our region,” Stenger said.
Wayne State’s Career Scholars cooperative education program combines classroom education with real work experience for college credit. At its core, the Career Scholars Program supports workforce and economic development in Nebraska.
Students’ journeys as cooperative education scholars begin their freshman year at Wayne State. During their time here, career scholars participate in career readiness activities, including business site visits and job shadowing, all while learning the fundamentals of professional practice. After three years on campus at Wayne State, students complete their senior year while living in Norfolk or Grand Island, Nebraska, where they’ll be hired and mentored by one of our participating business cohorts. Students earn 18 credit hours while working 30-40 hours per week at a paid job using skills relevant to their degree.
“I am so proud of the recognition for the Growing Together initiative,” said Rames. “Aksarben, the state of Nebraska, the city of Norfolk, our business partners, and our faculty and staff have worked well together to ensure that this innovative program makes a difference for the future of Nebraska’s workforce and provides an affordable pathway to relevant and in-demand degrees for our students.”
Learn more about Wayne State’s Career Scholars program at www.wsc.edu/career-scholars.