An Evening in the Cloud Room

Honoring an individual or family who champions the education rights of children across Nebraska.

James Bankhead

James has dedicated his career to walking alongside young people and their families during some of the most difficult times in their lives. For the past twelve years, he has served as a Specialized Probation Officer with Douglas County Juvenile Probation. Before that, he worked with Nebraska Family Collaborative, supporting youth served by the Office of Juvenile Services (OJS), and earlier with KVC, working with delinquent youth.

What makes James stand out is not just his experience, but the heart he brings to his work. He is a tireless advocate for children, making sure they have access to the supports they need and deserve including education for all youth. James never stops pushing for what’s best for kids, and his unwavering commitment has changed countless lives.

Previous Winners:

2024: Mary Pat Coe, JD

2023: Dr. Carley Starling

Recognizing a community member or public servant committed to creating systemic changes in education, ensuring a more equitable future for all students.

Dr. Kenneth Zoucha

Dr. Kenneth Zoucha is a board-certified pediatrician and addiction medicine physician who serves as an associate professor in both the Department of Psychiatry and the Department of Pediatrics. He is Director of the Addiction Division and Program Director for the Addiction Medicine Fellowship. A recognized expert in substance use disorders among adolescents and young adults, Dr. Zoucha speaks regionally and nationally, serving on national committees focused on evidence-based prevention and treatment for this population.

His career includes 20 years as a general pediatrician in Hastings, Nebraska, followed by a second career serving youth involved with juvenile justice. He is the medical director for Radius Specialized Restorative Group Home and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a Distinguished Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Zoucha is most proud to be a grandfather to four grandkids (with another on the way), father to six children, and spouse to Julie. He enjoys digging in the dirt, watching volleyball, listening to music, and playing with his grandchildren.

Above all, Doctor Zoucha is a connector of resources and a champion for children. He understands a youth’s success requires multiple layers of support. He works tirelessly to ensure they have what they need to thrive, advocating for each child with genuine care, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to their future success.

Previous Winners:

2024: Chris Rodgers

2023: Sen. Terrell McKinney and Sen. Danielle Conrad

Celebrating a lawyer or legal entity that has made significant strides in protecting and advancing education rights.

Linsey Camplin, JD

Linsey is a passionate advocate who believes every child deserves the chance to stay in school and thrive. For many of the kids she represents, school is more than just a place to learn — it’s a safe and steady environment where they can count on a meal, connect with a caring adult, and have the chance to just be a kid.

In her work as a Guardian ad Litem, Linsey has seen firsthand how barriers like poverty, language differences, learning disabilities, or instability at home can create unfair obstacles for children. She knows that when students are kept out of the classroom or don’t receive the support they need, it can change the course of their lives. That is why she fights so hard to make sure kids have the tools, resources, and opportunities they deserve.

Linsey sees education as the key to success, and she approaches her work with an open heart and mind to ensure the best interests of youth are honored.

Previous Winners:

2024: Dennis Marks, JD

2023: University of Nebraska College of Law's Children's Justice Clinic