Gail and Michael Yanney

There are few who would disagree with one noted Omaha philanthropist who once stated that Gail and Michael Yanney are among “our town’s greatest citizens.” Throughout the years, the Yanneys have been deeply committed to the Omaha community and, particularly, to the success of its youth.

Gail, a respected anesthesiologist, graduated from the UNMC College of Medicine where she later was a clinical instructor. After retiring, she served as executive director of the Clarkson Foundation and on the Board of Directors of The Nebraska Medical Center hospital.

Michael, a graduate of Kearney State Teachers College (now the University of Nebraska at Kearney), is an accomplished investment banker. In 1984, he founded what is now Burlington Capital Group LLC, a company which manages public investment funds. He continues to serve as chairman emeritus.

The Yanneys believe that success is not measured in what is collected but in what is given. They have given their time, energy and resources to numerous civic and community initiatives ranging from the arts to health to education, and beyond. For example, Gail serves on the Advisory Board of the Eppley Cancer Institute, and Michael is former chairman of the Joslyn Art Museum Board of Governors.

For more than 20 years, the Yanneys have focused on assisting disadvantaged students. In 1986, they founded what is known today as The Partnership for Our Kids, a mentoring and scholarship program for at-risk youth in the Greater Omaha area. Michael also currently serves as president of the Building Bright Futures Executive Board.

Today, the couple serves as co-chairs of the University of Nebraska Foundation’s Campaign for Nebraska UNMC Committee. Under their leadership, UNMC seeks to raise $500 million to meet high-priority campus needs.