Nebraska Public Media Receives Wordsender Award from Neihardt Foundation

Omaha, Nebraska — The John G. Neihardt Foundation announced that Nebraska Public Media is this year’s recipient of the Wordsender Award, recognizing its role in promoting the legacy of author John Neihardt.

Neihardt, renowned for the bestselling book “Black Elk Speaks,” was referred to by Black Elk as a “wordsender.” The Wordsender Award honors individuals or organizations that uphold Neihardt’s mission of enriching understanding and appreciation of literature.

Nebraska Public Media was selected for the award due to its previous interviews featuring Neihardt conducted by Ron Hull, which brought Neihardt’s work to a broader audience. “I think [Nebraska Public Media] is an important institution that deserves our support and recognition,” said Paul Hammel, Vice President of the Board of Directors.

Hammel emphasized the significance of supporting literary figures, especially in a challenging environment. He noted the overwhelming public support for Nebraska Public Media: “Hopefully we can reinforce how important it is to keep supporting them.”

The Neihardt Foundation’s press release praised Nebraska Public Media for its dedication to informing and enlightening audiences through programs like “Friday LIVE” and “Masterpiece Theater.” It highlighted the organization’s vital role in promoting literature and the humanities in Nebraska.

<p“Listener-supported media like Nebraska Public Media is even more important in today’s world, helping Americans and Nebraskans sort out what’s true and what isn’t,” the release stated.

Past recipients of the Wordsender Award include author Joe Jackson, board member Walt Duda, and the University of Nebraska Press.

The award will be given on November 9 during the annual “Laureate’s Feast” at the German-American Society in Omaha. Hammel, who organizes the event, mentioned that it serves as the foundation’s annual fundraiser through ticket sales and auctions.

For tickets or more information about the feast, contact the Neihardt State Historic Site at 402-648-3388 or visit their website.