Middleton & Koch Named To 1868 Foundation Board of Directors

Grand Island, NE – The Board of Trustees for the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation appointed two individuals to serve a three-year term on its Board of Directors, bringing the total number of Board Members to eleven.

The Board of Trustees for the 1868 Foundation unanimously re-appointed Tom Middleton, of Grand Island, and inducted Kevin Koch, of Omaha, to serve a three-year term on the 1868 Foundation Board of Directors.

“Both Tom and Kevin bring diverse expertise, a deep commitment to our mission, and a shared enthusiasm for fostering growth and innovation within the 1868 Foundation,” said Terry Galloway, Chairman of the 1868 Foundation Board of Directors “Their leadership will be instrumental in guiding us as we continue to support and improve one of Nebraska’s most treasured events, the Nebraska State Fair.”

“We are excited to welcome new members to the Board of Directors of the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation,” said Lindsey Koepke, Executive Director. “Their expertise and deep ties to our community will help us continue our mission of enhancing and preserving the legacy of the Nebraska State Fair.”

The 1868 Foundation also honored Steve White of Grand Island with the 2025 Lifetime Friend of the Fair Award. “The stories that Steve has told about the state fair, and the things that happen behind the scenes, you can’t make that stuff up. He really does such an incredible job bringing the fair to life.” Koepke shared about this year’s winner. “We’re so proud of him for having all those great years and talking about agriculture; teaching people about agriculture. I know in my heart of hearts that he will always be a lifetime supporter of the Nebraska State Fair.”

Additionally, the 1868 Foundation also presented Jeff and Susan Koch of Grand Island with the 2025 Excellence in 1868 Society Award for their dedication to the 1868 Foundation and their volunteer commitments to the Fair. “Their desire to leave a lasting gift to support the future of the 1868 foundation brings us so much joy and happiness,” said Koepke. “It is both an honor and a privilege to recognize the Koch Family for their selflessness, their generosity, and their belief in maintaining a successful state fair for years to come.”