2026 award recipients take the field at Memorial Stadium during the Huskers Spring Game.
Five Nebraska educators were recognized with the Outstanding Nebraska Teacher Award as part of the Touchdown for Teachers (T4T) campaign at Nebraska’s Spring Football Game on Saturday, March 28. This award recognizes educators for their commitment to improving the lives of their students and community.
This is the fourth year Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) has partnered with Husker Athletics to recognize Nebraska’s teachers by encouraging community members to nominate the teachers in their community making an impact. In total, T4T received over 700 nominations from across the state for 2026.
This year’s Outstanding Nebraska Teacher Award recipients include:
- Shawn Carlson – South Sioux City High School
- Theresa Sampson – Wisner-Pilger Public Schools
- Megan Euler – Culler Middle School, Lincoln Public Schools
- Sara Forsgren – Fairbury Public Schools
- Dale Ritter – Alma Public Schools
Representatives from BCBSNE and Husker Athletics surprised each of Nebraska’s outstanding teachers with a special visit or a video message, followed by an award ceremony with their students to announce they had won the award. Each educator received a football signed by Huskers Head Coach Matt Rhule, a prize bag and tickets to the Spring Game.
“Teachers are the backbone of Nebraska’s future, and they give so much of themselves to their students,” said Cortney Ray, director of strategic accounts at BCBSNE. “We’re thrilled to recognize these standout educators and the meaningful work they champion every day.”
Recipients were honored on Tom Osborne Field at Memorial Stadium during the Huskers Spring Game.
Learn more about Touchdown for Teachers.
