Nebraska State College System
LINCOLN – Governor Jim Pillen has appointed Daniella Akwanamnye of Chadron State, Lucas Hrabik of Peru State, and Mattie Kucera of Wayne State to serve as student trustees on the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges. They will serve a one-year term (2026-27 academic year) and represent the students of the State Colleges.
“The Board of Trustees values the insight and perspective our student leaders bring to the table. It is my honor, as Chair, to welcome our new Student Trustees and look forward to their contributions in strengthening our colleges and the student experience,” said Bob Engles, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges.
Daniella Kosiso Akwanamnye – Chadron State College Student Trustee
Akwanamnye, a junior at Chadron State College, is majoring in communication arts with a focus on journalism and public relations. She has served as a Student Senator, Editor in Chief of the student newspaper, “The Eagle”, a marketing and recruitment coordinator, and vice president of the International Club.
When discussing her role as Student Trustee in her application, Daniella said, “As a student trustee, I see my role as being the bridge between students and leadership, and advocating for a campus community where students feel a sense of belonging, access, and opportunity.”
Daniella is the daughter of John and Beatrice Akwanamnye of Aroma, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Lucas Hrabik – Peru State College Student Trustee
Hrabik, a junior at Peru State College, is majoring in secondary social science education with a minor in theatre. Lucas has served on the Student Senate (President, Vice President, & Freshman representative); One-Act Competition Director and Coordinator; Peru Theatre Company (President & Vice President); and Social Science Club/Phi Alpha Theta Vice President.
When discussing his appointment, Lucas stated, “Serving as Student Trustee is my way of giving back to the college that’s become my home, continuing to advocate for students, elevate their voices, and help shape decisions that strengthen both my campus and the State College System.”
Lucas is the son of Curt Hrabik and Dr. Cindy Janssen Hrabik of Louisville, Nebraska.
Mattie Kucera – Wayne State College Student Trustee
Kucera, a junior at Wayne State College, is an elementary education major with a minor in special education K-6. Mattie serves on Student Senate, Public Relations and Technology co-chair, and member of the Wildcat Academy of Leadership and Knowledge.
Mattie stated in her application, “As a Student Trustee, I work to represent my campus at the highest level, bringing forward student perspectives, contributing to thoughtful decision-making, and advocating for policies and initiatives that ensure students feel supported, heard, and empowered to succeed.”
Mattie is the daughter of Michael and Kris Kucera of Raymond, Nebraska.
