Raise the Bar

On August 26 from 5–7 p.m., ERC invites you to Raise the Bar at Brickway Brewery & Distillery in Omaha for an evening of community, celebration, and meaningful change. Toast to inclusion with 504 Reserve Whiskey and ERC merchandise from RAYGUN, both available for purchase at the event, with proceeds supporting ERC's work. Join us as we present the Debora Basler Wisneski Inclusive Innovation in Education Award to a Nebraska educator who embodies compassion, courageous leadership, and the belief that every child belongs. Free admission. 21+ welcome.

RSVP HERE

Debora Basler Wisneski Inclusive Innovation in Education Award

This award is presented annually to a Nebraska educator who embodies the spirit of Dr. Debora Basler Wisneski, a bold educator demonstrating compassionate and courageous leadership, who builds belonging through innovation in the classroom and beyond.

2026 Award Winner: Kayla Dunlap

2025 Award Winner: Dr. Meribeth Jackson

Dr. Debora Basler Wisneski is a distinguished leader in early childhood education whose work has reshaped how communities and classrooms nurture every child’s right to learn. As the John T. Langan Community Chair in Early Childhood Education at the University of Nebraska Omaha, she has earned national recognition for her pioneering scholarship on play-based learning, equity-centered curriculum, and collaborative research initiatives that advance social justice in early education.

For six years she served as founding board president of Education Rights Counsel, guiding the ERC's growth with tenacity, integrity, and a passionate belief that every child deserves a voice in their education. Under her leadership, ERC forged powerful partnerships and developed pioneering strategies to protect educational rights statewide. The Debora Basler Wisneski Inclusive Innovation in Education Award celebrates her legacy—each year honoring a Nebraska educator who, like Dr. Wisneski, leads with compassion and courage, building belonging through innovation in the classroom and beyond.

Visit our Google Photos gallery of the 2025 event.