Honors Andrew Rayburn as Farmworker of the Year and Central Community College as Partner of the Year
Hastings, NE – Proteus, Inc. celebrated the hard work and dedication of Nebraska’s farmworkers on August 20th at the inaugural Nebraska Farmworker Recognition Luncheon. The event, held at the YWCA in Hastings, honored Andrew Rayburn as the Farmworker of the Year and Central Community College (CCC) as the Partner of the Year. CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall accepted the award on behalf of the college.
The luncheon brought together community members, supporters, and partners to recognize the vital contributions farmworkers make to the agricultural industry and the broader community. Proteus, Inc., which provides education assistance and job training to farmworkers in Nebraska, hosted the event as part of its ongoing commitment to empowering farmworkers and supporting their success.
Proteus, Inc. operates the National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP), a U.S. Department of Labor initiative that helps farmworkers pursue training programs by eliminating barriers to education and employment. Through NFJP, Proteus offers a range of services, including financial assistance for tuition, transportation, and other expenses, enabling farmworkers to access the training they need to advance their careers. The program also helps offset costs for employers who provide on-the-job training, fostering opportunities for farmworkers to gain valuable skills while earning a living.
Andrew Rayburn’s story is particularly inspiring. As a participant in the National Farmworker Jobs Program at Proteus, he leveraged the resources and training provided to advance his career. Today, he is giving back to the community as a trainer at Central Community College, where he helps others gain the skills they need to succeed.Â
Jody Stutzman, Regional Director for Western Nebraska, expressed her pride in the day’s honorees: “Andrew Rayburn exemplifies the grit and determination of Nebraska’s farmworkers. His hard work not only improves life for himself but also uplifts those around him. Central Community College has been an invaluable partner in our efforts to provide education and training opportunities to farmworkers, and we are thrilled to recognize their contributions today.”Â
Jennifer Lewis, Regional Director for the Eastern portion of the state echoed the positive sentiments. “Today’s luncheon is not just about recognition—it’s about showcasing the resilience and strength of Nebraska’s farmworkers.”
Daniel Zinnel, CEO of Proteus, Inc., emphasized the importance of recognizing farmworkers’ efforts: “Farmworkers are the backbone of our agricultural community, and their contributions often go unnoticed. Today, we celebrate their dedication and resilience. We are honored to work alongside partners like Central Community College, who share our commitment to empowering farmworkers and helping them build better futures for themselves and their families.”
Proteus, Inc. looks forward to continuing its work in Nebraska, providing vital services and support to farmworkers and ensuring their contributions are recognized and valued.
For more information about Proteus, Inc. and its programs, please visit www.proteusinc.net
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