Visit Nebraska Presents Frontline Employee Awards

PRESS RELEASE

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Ben Jones at 402-326-9941, or [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LINCOLN, Neb. – (May 8, 2026) – As part of National Travel & Tourism Week, Visit Nebraska honored 9 people with Outstanding Frontline Employee awards. The winners were nominated by local communities and tourism partners across the state and go above and beyond to welcome visitors and promote the pride and hospitality that define Nebraska.

Below are the 2026 winners:

Peyton Mooney - Gering - A server at The Mixing Bowl Cafe, Peyton is recognized for making sure every guest feels welcome. Her enthusiasm, quick with and genuine friendliness shine through even during the busiest mornings, and she takes pride in providing positive energy and attentive service to encourage guests to return. Her attitude and example make it easy for people to recommend both The Mixing Bowl Cafe and Gering to their friends and family.

Samantha Montante - Lincoln - Samantha has helped elevate the Lincoln Airport as both a travel hub and a community-centered destination. Her innovative programming, strategic customer experience initiatives and deep commitment to public engagement have enhanced passenger experience, confidence and customer service. Her leadership and community impact are an asset for the tourism community.

Whitney Hensley - Fort Robinson - Whitney has had a major impact on the Trailside Museum at Fort Robinson since her arrival in 2024, including opening the child-focused hands-on Encounter Center, helping renovate the building and engaging with visitors while highlighting other area attractions. Guest feedback on Whitney is extremely positive, with many remarking that she is the person who made their visit special.

Dakota Empfield - Kearney - As ticket office manager and hospitality coordinator at the Merryman Performing Arts Center, Dakota leaves a large impact for everyone he interacts with, including visitors who travel to meet him just so they can meet the friendly person they spoke to over the phone. Dakota offers expert assistance and welcome to guests and ensures everyone has a positive experience in Kearney.

Ben Heusinkvelt - Nebraska City - As Grounds Manager and Orchard Manager at Arbor Day Farm, Ben connects tourism and agriculture for guests with entusiasm, knowledge and pride. He provides guests with a rich experience through a mix of apple tours and tastings and has a passion for mixing storytelling and science. His leadership, hospitality, approachability and commitment to excellence help keep Arbor Day Farm a beautiful place to visit.

Carson Dalland - Grand Island - As senior operations manager for Heartland Events Center, Carson is the epitome of effort and professional courtesy. He coordinates every show, concert, trade show, sporting event and conference and ensures every event runs smoothly and safely while managing building and staff. He handles every job with competence, from management to emptying trash cans and has an impact on those around him.

Sharon Hambek - Seward - Described as a "logistics wizard," Sharon wears many hats as a volunteer at the Nebraska National Guard Museum. She plays a key role in running events at the museum and also works as a docent and shares additional tourism information at the museum..

Carol Farmer - Omaha - Carol has thrived as Admissions Specialist at the Durham Museum and connects with visitors from the moment they walk in. She draws out stories from guests and always sees the person behind the visitor. She treats every interaction as a milestone worth celebrating and offers heart-centered service to everyone.

Justus Kucera - Fort Calhoun - Justus has been recognized by many as elevating service and hospitality at Too Far North Wine Bar. He provides personalized service and attention to detail and remembers customer preferences well. His professionalism and enthusiasm are an asset to the area's tourism scene.

Established in 1983 by U.S. Travel Association, National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and travel’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, inspiring new businesses and elevating the quality of life for Americans every day.

Established in 1983 by U.S. Travel Association, National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and travel’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, inspiring new businesses and elevating the quality of life for Americans every day.

For more information about travel, events and unique destinations in Nebraska, order your free travel guide today at VisitNebraska.com. Then stay connected with Nebraska Tourism on our Visit Nebraska Facebook page, on X, on Pinterest, on Instagram and on YouTube.

The mission of the Nebraska Tourism Commission is to expand Nebraska’s dynamic and diverse travel industry making it more viable by creating awareness, attracting increased visitors which results in greater tourism revenue and economic gain throughout the state. To learn more, go to VisitNebraska.com.