Nebraska Treasurer Joey Spellerberg has announced the winners of the 2026 “Why I Want to Go to College” sweepstakes, sponsored by the State Treasurer’s Office and the Omaha Storm Chasers.

Winners, all seventh- and eighth-grade students, were recognized at the May 3 Omaha Storm Chasers game at Werner Park in Papillion.

Three winners were chosen in each of Nebraska’s three congressional districts. Because NEST 529 is a national plan, three additional winners from outside Nebraska were also selected.

Winners will receive contributions to NEST 529 college savings plans, ranging in value from $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second place, and $500 for third place.

Students were asked to reflect on the value of education and what they hope to achieve through higher education. The 2026 contest winners include: 3rd Congressional District, Rowdie Lynch of Callaway – third place.

Managed by the State Treasurer’s Office, the NEST 529 program has grown to more than 306,000 tax-advantaged savings accounts holding nearly $8 billion in assets.