The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development is proud to announce the winner of this year’s first annual Pat Haverty Memorial Award—Rob Hanson, Co-Founder and CEO of Monolith Materials. The award was presented at LPED’s virtual Economic Development Breakfast on Thursday, May 27, which featured keynote speaker Cameron Smith, President and Co-Founder of Kodiak Cakes.

“Rob’s commitment to operate an environmentally responsible business, in addition to creating and maintaining jobs within our state has had a huge impact on both our workforce and our economy, having an economic impact exceeding $46 million,” said Wendy Birdsall, President of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development.

“Rob’s vision also positioned Monolith to become the driving force behind NPPD creating the largest renewable infrastructure within the state. Coupled with their proposed $1 billion OC2 expansion, the company is positioned to continue impacting the business landscape of our state’s economy for years to come,” Birdsall adds.

"The growth and vision that Rob has displayed for Monolith's continued expansion has created a strong relationship with LPED. Their contributions will continue to reap benefits to our workforce, local economy and surrounding area," says Luke Peltz, Vice President of LPED.

Pat Haverty passed away in September 2020 and he is deeply missed by family, friends and colleagues who had the pleasure of knowing him and working alongside him to grow Lincoln’s economy. 

Under Haverty’s leadership, LPED acquired millions of dollars in investments to drive Lincoln’s economic growth, resulting in numerous awards for Lincoln that recognized site development and number of total projects. He was also a huge supporter of the entrepreneurial community in Lincoln and was instrumental in the initial partnership with the University of Nebraska that funded the NMotion Accelerator, as well as the continued funding and support of the program as it exists today.

Each year, this impactful award will be presented at LPED’s Economic Development Breakfast for exemplifying the highest level of innovation, integrity and leadership in their drive to grow the economic development of Lincoln. The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development and the entire Lincoln community are both stronger as a result of Pat Haverty’s endless contributions and dedication to the growth of our city throughout the years. It is our honor to present this award annually in his name.