The Carter "Cap" Peterson Family was named the first Family of the Year award in Fall 2025.
Wayne State College and the Wayne State Foundation are proud to announce the Carter “Cap” Peterson Family of Wayne, Neb., as the recipients of the inaugural 2025 Family of the Year Award. This honor celebrates a family who embodies the true spirit of the “Wildcat Family” through active student involvement, engagement with the College and community, and a legacy of multi-generational connections to Wayne State.
The Peterson family’s story at Wayne State began with siblings Cap Peterson ’72 and Marcia (Peterson) Gray, ’67. Marcia married the late Jim Gray, also a ‘67 graduate. Jim played football for the Wildcats. Together, they embodied a tradition of Wildcat pride.
Cap and his late wife, Nana, also treasured their Wayne State experiences and encouraged their children to follow in their footsteps. Their daughter, Sara (Peterson) Hinsley, has continued the family tradition through her daughter, Ruby Hinsley, a current freshman majoring in Counseling and a member of the Aristocats dance team.
“I have made so many new friends, and I am just enjoying college life so much,” said Ruby Hinsley. “My grandparents always talked about how wonderful it was for Wayne to have a college, and I agree. I have always loved Wayne, and I am enjoying being a part of WSC.”
Cap and Nana’s son, Matthew Peterson ’97, graduated with a degree in Sports Broadcasting and remains a proud Wildcat alumnus. Today, his son Calvin Peterson, a sophomore majoring in Sports Management, continues the family’s legacy as a member of the Wildcat baseball team.
Beyond these family ties, Cap Peterson remains a dedicated leader and advocate for the College. He currently serves as a Wayne State College Trustee, sits on the Foundation’s Executive Board, and is a member of the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees. His leadership reflects the Petersons’ deep-rooted commitment to WSC’s success. Cap is also a proud leader and advocate within the community of Wayne, serving on various community boards. He is the president of Northeast Nebraska Insurance Agency and was named the 2005 National Professional Insurance Agent of the Year. Cap has made the city of Wayne and Wayne State College his top priority in promoting progress.
“Receiving this award is humbling for my family, and we are proud to continue to support such a special place,” said Cap Peterson.
The Family of the Year recipient is selected from a pool of nominated families and announced during Family Weekend. To be eligible, at least one family member must be a currently enrolled student. Additional criteria include active student involvement in at least one student organization, family engagement with the College and community, and a demonstrated legacy of multi-generational involvement with Wayne State.
“We’re honored to celebrate the Peterson Family, and we thank them for their remarkable and lasting contributions to the Wayne State community,” said Dr. Bob Machovsky, CEO of the Wayne State Foundation.
Learn more about the Family of the Year Award.