Omaha philanthropist Mike Yanney recently was named the 118th king of Ak-Sar-Ben during the annual Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Coronation Ball.
The event raises scholarship money for students in need, which mirrors Yanney’s commitment to helping young and at-risk youth, while also making a difference in health care, education, the environment, the arts and business development.
A native of Kearney, Neb., Yanney is founder of America First Companies, now called Burlington Capital Group, and chairman of Building Healthy Futures, a non-profit organization that works to improve educational outcomes for children in poverty in Douglas and Sarpy counties.
His wife, Gail Walling Yanney, M.D., is a retired anesthesiologist and alum of the UNMC College of Medicine.
“Mike’s commitment to bettering the community and providing opportunities for the next generation to succeed are immeasurable,” said UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “He and Gail have been incredible supporters of this medical center and in helping us move from excellence to eminence. I am honored to work with this remarkable couple and congratulate them on this honor.”
The Yanneys are longtime supporters of UNMC. In addition to their co-chairmanship of the campus’ $500 million portion of the Campaign for Nebraska, Mike Yanney has tirelessly led efforts to raise private funds for the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center. The Yanneys also were among the principal donors for the new Harold M. and Beverly Maurer Center for Public Health at UNMC.
In 2013, the University of Nebraska honored the Yanneys with its highest award, the Regents Medal. In 2012, UNMC presented them with the Margre and Chuck Durham Spirit of Nebraska Award and in 2002 with the Distinguished Service Award.
Also on Saturday, Morgan Kristensen was crowned as the Ak-Sar-Ben queen. She is the daughter of Doug Kristensen, chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Kearney, and his wife, Terri Harder Kristensen.
Nobody has done more for Omaha than Mike Yanney. This is well deserved recognition for a true community leader.
Mr. Yanney has been a champion for those in poverty and the underserved in this community. He will ask how can he help you and really mean it. Strong and positive leadership!