LINCOLN, Neb. (KSNB) – A Grand Island leader has been named as one of the inductees into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame.
The Nebraska Chamber and University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business announced the 2026 inductees on Wednesday.
They are:
- DJ Eihusen, Chief Industries, Grand Island
- Rodrigo López, AmeriSphere Companies
- John E. Olsson, Olsson, Lincoln
Eihusen is the chairman and CEO for Chief Industries in Grand Island since 2010. He currently sits on several boards, including the Governor’s Agribusiness Roundtable, Five Points Bank Board, Grand Island Hospital Holding Board and EPIC Discovery Center among others.
Eihusen served on the board of Heartland United Way, where he and his wife served as the Campaign Chairs in 2021/22.
Read more about Eihusen and the other two inductees HERE.
These leaders will officially be inducted at the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Banquet Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel.
“These three honorees embody what it means to be in the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame,” said NE Chamber President and CEO Todd Bingham. “They’ve strengthened the state’s business climate, invested in their communities and fueled statewide economic growth for years. Our 2026 inductees are incredibly deserving of this elite, statewide honor.”
These individuals join a distinguished group of more than 140 business leaders whose work to grow their businesses in Nebraska has made a significant impact on Nebraska’s economy, overall job opportunities and quality of life in their communities. Candidates are nominated by individuals from the business community, business associations and academia.
The program was established in 1992 by the NE Chamber and UNL College of Business.
“We’re honored to recognize these exceptional leaders for the impact they’ve made across Nebraska,” said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean of the UNL College of Business. “Their success and generosity have inspired others, opened doors for the next generation and left a lasting mark on their community.”
To join in honoring these individuals and their families at the NE Chamber’s Hall of Fame Banquet, register here.
For companies interested in sponsoring the event, contact Ryan Querry at rquerry@nechamber.com.
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