Larissa Kaz, a senior from Jim Falls, Wisconsin, took home Best of Show for her ceramics piece, “Seed Pod,” at the 2026 Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation/Lincoln Industries Student Art Show. She was one of five students from the College who captured awards at the annual show.
Steven Johnson, a sophomore from Crete, Nebraska, received first place in 3D for his clay piece “Love as Strong as Stone.”
Sam Daeges, a first year student from Omaha, Nebraska, was awarded second in 3D with his glass piece “Winded Chaos,” while Eleanor Waldon, a first year student from Montrose, Colorado, received Honorable Mention in the same category for her clay piece “Blinded by Imperfection.”
Vinnie Nunnenkamp, a first year student from Hastings, Nebraska, received Connie’s Award, which is given by one of the event’s organizers, for the painting “Cardinal’s Rest.”
About 100 works by students from CINCF’s 13 member colleges and universities were chosen for the show.
The awards ceremony was held April 16 at the College of Saint Mary in Omaha. Around 100 guests attended, including a multitude of student artists and their family members, collegiate art instructors, and CINCF college presidents and directors.
CINCF represents Nebraska’s leading independent colleges and universities. Its mission is to help raise funds and awareness so everyone understands the economic and personal impact these institutions have on our state and our students. For more information about CINCF, please visit cincfoundation.org.
Hastings College is a four-year residential college that focuses on student academic and extracurricular achievement. Founded in 1882, the College is dedicated to student success and service to the community. Discover more at hastings.edu.