Torchbearers Celebration

Saturday, September 27, 2025

Cornhusker Marriott – 333 S 13th St, Lincoln, NE 68508

6:00 – 7:00 PM Social Hour

7:00 – 8:00 PM Dinner & Program

Tickets & Sponsorships:

Tickets are priced on a sliding scale to expand access and start at $40. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Please scroll down for full ticket information. Purchase here or mail checks to: Lancaster County Democratic Party, PO Box 83213, Lincoln, NE 68501

Why This Year Matters

We are living in a defining moment for our democracy. Extremist politicians are working to dismantle our freedoms — attacking voting rights, threatening public education, rolling back reproductive healthcare, and undermining our most basic democratic institutions. The Lancaster County Democratic Party is fighting every day to protect our rights and support candidates who will build a Nebraska that works for everyone.

This Torchbearers Celebration is more than a dinner — it’s a rallying point for our grassroots movement. Your support fuels our local organizing, lifts up Democratic candidates, and ensures we have the resources to win up and down the ballot in 2026.

2025 Torchbearer Honorees

This year, we are proud to honor six outstanding Democrats whose leadership and service have strengthened our communities and inspired the next generation:

Former State Senator Ken Haar – A tireless advocate for environmental protection and clean energy who championed Nebraska working families during his years in the Legislature and on the Lincoln City Council.

Former State Board of Education Member Patsy Koch-Johns – A lifelong educator and champion for inclusive, equitable public education who fought for every student to have access to quality public education in Nebraska.

Former Lincoln School Board Member Kathy Danek – A passionate leader recognized for her advocacy for all-day kindergarten and her commitment to strengthening Lincoln Public Schools for all teachers and students.

Former Lincoln School Board Member Don Mayhew – A strong advocate for academic excellence and innovation, celebrated for his insights into technology’s role in education and shaping the future of Lincoln’s schools.

Former Lincoln School Board Member Lanny Boswell (posthumously honored) – Remembered for his decades of service and dedication to Lincoln’s schools, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students.

Former Lower Platte South NRD Director Mike DeKalb (posthumously honored) – Celebrated for his steadfast stewardship of Nebraska’s natural resources and years of service to the community.

These honorees embody what it means to be a Torchbearer: leading with integrity, defending our Democratic values, and passing the torch to those who will carry our fight forward for generations to come.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Beacon of Democracy – $1,250

• 8 tickets with premium seating
• Option to have an honoree seated at your table
• Social media & event recognition

Champion for Change – $750

• 4 tickets
• Social media & event recognition

Advocate for the Future – $350

• 2 tickets
• Social media & event recognition

Tickets -

• Individual – $75
• Individual – $40

Lancaster County Monthly Sustaining Donors receive one complimentary ticket (must reserve via ActBlue form by September 18th).