2025 BBB Torch Awards Event Program | Strictly Business

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SEPTEMBER 2025 Strictly Business

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ABOUT THE COVER

28th Annual BBB Torch Awards

There’s something inspiring happening at A View West Shores on Wednesday, September 24. The 28th Annual BBB Torch Awards Luncheon represents more than recognition; it’s a celebration of what makes our regional business community truly exceptional: the commitment to doing what’s right — even when no one is watching.

This year’s honorees tell a powerful story about our region. Eighteen businesses and nonprofits from Nebraska and Southwest Iowa are being recognized alongside winners from Kansas, Missouri and South Dakota, creating a tapestry of organizations that have made integrity the cornerstone of their operations. These aren’t companies that stumbled into ethical practices; they’ve deliberately chosen to build their foundations on trust, transparency and community responsibility.

The addition of a new Veteran-Owned Business category reflects something special about our entrepreneurial landscape. Our veteran business owners bring more than military experience to their enterprises; they carry forward values of service, accountability and commitment to something greater than themselves. Their success stories remind us that business leadership and community leadership often spring from the same source.

What’s remarkable about these Torch Award recipients is how they’ve proven that ethical leadership isn’t a luxury; it’s a practical approach that strengthens every aspect of business operations. When you treat employees with respect, they stay longer and contribute more. When you’re transparent with customers, they become advocates. When you operate with integrity, regulatory compliance becomes second nature rather than a burden.

Each of these organizations will advance to compete for the International Torch Awards for Ethics, carrying our region’s reputation for principled business practices to a global stage. That’s something worth celebrating, not just for the winners, but for all of us who call this region home.

The ripple effects extend far beyond individual companies. When ethical businesses thrive, they raise the bar for everyone. They create environments where fair dealing becomes the norm, where community investment is expected, and where success is measured not just in profit margins but in positive impact.

This lunc heon brings together leaders who understand that business success and community well-being aren’t separate goals; they’re interconnected outcomes of the same principled approach. It’s an opportunity to celebrate what’s already working well in our region and to learn from organizations that have found sustainable ways to put values into practice.

The concentration of purpose-driven leaders in one room creates something rare: a chance to see what’s possible when integrity guides decision-making.

These conversations matter because they remind us that our best business practices often emerge from our deepest community values.

Information about tickets and sponsorships is available at bbb.org/omahatorch.

This event isn’t just about celebrating success; it’s about recognizing the character of our regional business community and the leaders who continue to prove that doing good and doing well aren’t mutually exclusive.

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BUILDING A STRONGER BUSINESS COMMUNITY

T

he business world operates at breakneck speed, driven by relentless competition for market share, customer loyalty and profit maximization. In this high-stakes environment, the pressure to cut corners, expedite processes, and prioritize immediate gains over long-term principles can be overwhelming. Taking measured steps that occasionally slow the process down — pausing to ensure ethical alignment, consulting stakeholders, or choosing the harder but more principled path — isn’t always the popular decision. More often than not, it’s the road less traveled.

That is precisely why recognizing those that consistently choose integrity over expediency becomes not just important, but essential to the health of our entire economic ecosystem. The Better Business Bureau’s comprehensive awards portfolio exists to illuminate and celebrate the students, leaders, businesses and nonprofits that refuse to compromise their values, even when faced with difficult choices that could impact their bottom line.

Ethics transcend corporate buzzwords and compliance checklists.

They represent the fundamental framework for conducting fair, honest and sustainable business — the right way, every time, especially when circumstances make ethical choices challenging or costly.

In an era where consumer trust

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has become a scarce commodity and corporate scandals dominate headlines, ethical business practices serve as the bedrock upon which lasting success is built.

BBB Midwest Plains takes immense pride in serving as a driving force behind creating a more trustworthy and integrity-driven business landscape throughout its five-state region: Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Dakota. For more than a century, its mission has been unwavering: to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. This responsibility permeates every aspect of the organization, from its daily operations to its strategic initiatives.

It is embraced personally by each team member who understands the profound impact of their work on the broader business community.

The annual Torch Awards Luncheon serves as a signature moment when recognition, education and inspiration converge to honor those who exemplify the highest standards of business ethics.

This event has evolved into more than a ceremony. It has become a catalyst for ethical transformation across the region.

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BBB’s annual awards portfolio includes the Torch Awards for Ethics, Spark Awards, Torch Awards for Veteran-Owned Businesses and Students of Integrity Scholarships. It creates a systematic, multi-layered approach to identifying, celebrating and amplifying best practices in ethics. These programs serve critical dual purposes: recognizing students, leaders, and organizations that consistently prioritize integrity in their decision-making processes, while simultaneously establishing industry benchmarks that drive measurable ethical improvement across entire sectors.

The success of these awards programs depends heavily on the extraordinary dedication and generous support of dozens of local business, nonprofit and educational leaders across the Midwest, who serve as BBB’s independent judging panel. These volunteer judges — many of whom are former award recipients themselves — donated countless hours to meticulously evaluating entries and providing thoughtful, constructive feedback to every single applicant, a commitment that represents no small feat in today’s demanding business environment. This peer-to-peer recognition model creates a powerful legacy effect, as previous honorees literally “pass the torch” to emerging leaders, fostering a self-perpetuating cycle of ethical excellence.

Through this rigorous, collaborative process, BBB Midwest Plains is proud to present 30 exceptional businesses, 2 of which are veteran-led, 17 students, and

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one business leader for recognition at this year’s luncheon. This diverse group of honorees represents organizations and individuals who have successfully transformed ethics and integrity from abstract boardroom concepts into foundational, non-negotiable elements of their operational DNA, demonstrating that principled leadership is not just an aspiration, but an achievable business strategy that drives lasting success. These distinguished honorees carry stories that serve as powerful testimonials to the reality that ethical business practices and commercial success are not mutually exclusive; rather, they are complementary forces that, when properly aligned, create sustainable competitive advantages and lasting value.

Recognizing that ethical excellence should be accessible to all businesses regardless of size or resources, BBB maintains its commitment to inclusivity through its awards program structure.

There are no costs associated with applying for or earning these awards. This deliberate approach #PrintProudDigitalSmart

ensures that ethical practices are recognized and celebrated across the entire business spectrum, from early-stage organizations to established multinational corporations, creating a level playing field where character and integrity take precedence over organizational size or membership status.

This year’s exceptional honorees will be celebrated at the 28th annual BBB Torch Awards Luncheon on September 24 at A View West Shores in Waterloo, Nebraska. This gathering transcends traditional recognition ceremonies, serving as a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing, best practice dissemination, and collaborative learning among ethical business leaders throughout its five-state region.

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics program serves as a cornerstone initiative that reinforces and amplifies the critical role ethical leadership plays in maintaining consumer trust, fostering sustainable business growth, and creating resilient economic communities in

today’s increasingly complex and competitive marketplace. These awards cultivate a culture of integrity that drives measurable business outcomes while establishing the ethical standards that define thriving communities. From emerging student leaders to seasoned executives and established organizations, BBB remains committed to supporting all stakeholders who champion ethical principles — the fundamental values that form the bedrock of the prosperous, trustworthy communities we are proud to call home.

Through these efforts, BBB continues to build an enduring legacy of ethical excellence that will deliver tangible benefits to businesses and consumers for generations to come.

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WoodmenLife® is proud to be a Torch Award winner. Doing what’s right and operating with integrity are principles we’d never sacrifice.

For more than 135 years, WoodmenLife has been committed to providing financial stability and peace of mind. Our commitment extends beyond financial products; we donate time, money, and resources to help strengthen communities from the ground up.

Visit woodmenlife.org to learn more about how we work to build lasting legacies that benefit families, neighbors, and towns for generations to come.

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BBB TORCH AWARDS FOR ETHICS

This year’s honorees represent the full spectrum of American enterprise — from family-owned businesses and utility providers to billion-dollar organizations — united by their unwavering commitment to ethical leadership.

These organizations have implemented transformative initiatives that prove ethical practices drive tangible results: comprehensive employee volunteer programs that strengthen community ties, sustainable supply chain practices that reduce environmental impact while controlling costs, and customer-centric relationship strategies that build lasting loyalty and market differentiation.

Their stories demonstrate that ethical excellence isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s smart business strategy.

Organizations compete for the Torch Awards for Ethics within size-appropriate categories across BBB Midwest Plains’ five regional markets: Omaha and Southwest Iowa, Lincoln and Greater Nebraska, Kansas Plains, Kansas City and Western Missouri, and South Dakota. This structure allows businesses of all scales to compete on equal footing, recognizing that ethical leadership manifests differently across various organizational sizes and market contexts.

Omaha and Southwest Iowa

Lincoln and Greater Nebraska

Kansas City and Western Missouri

• Diapers 2 Diplomas Learning Center

• Credit Management Services, Inc.

• Basys

• Evodia Fragrances

• Custom Cooling & Heating, Inc.

• Gottsch’s Goo

• Empire Fence & Netting

• Metropolitan Utilities District

• Hampton Enterprises, Inc.

• NEI Global Relocation

• Wolfe Electric Company, Inc.

• OneWorld Community Health Centers, Inc.

Kansas Plains

South Dakota

• 060 Technology Solutions

• All About Travel, Inc.

• Groundworks

• Blue Light Investigations

• Yardcrafters, LLC

• ELBO Computing Resources, Inc.

• Open Door Mission • Radon Defense Midwest • Vision2Voice Healthcare Communications • White Castle Roofing • WoodmenLife

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TORCH AWARDS FOR VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESSES

Military service cultivates distinctive leadership qualities: integrity, accountability, and mission-driven excellence. Recognizing this unique perspective, BBB Midwest Plains launched the Torch Awards for VeteranOwned Businesses in 2025, establishing a dedicated platform to honor companies where military-trained leaders transform their service experience into entrepreneurial success.

This inaugural program maintained the BBB’s commitment to peer recognition, with veteran business leaders serving as judges to evaluate and select recipients. Two standout winners demonstrate the program’s mission: Semper Fido Mobile Pet Nail Trimming (Omaha, NE) and AList Professionals (Olathe, KS). Both organizations exemplify how military values seamlessly translate into exceptional business practices, operational excellence, and measurable community impact, proving that veteran-owned businesses bring unique strengths to today’s competitive marketplace.

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BBB SPARK AWARDS

The BBB Spark Awards, now in its third year, targets a critical business reality: the ethical foundations established during a company’s formative years often determine its long-term market trajectory. This program recognizes emerging business leaders who demonstrate exceptional ethical leadership precisely when competitive pressures and growth demands make such choices most challenging — and most defining.

Nathan Gallagher, owner of Building Dreams Renovations in Lees Summit, MO, earned the 2025 Spark Award by implementing transparency-first business practices. His approach demonstrates how ethical leadership during growth phases doesn’t just build customer loyalty — it establishes sustainable market positioning that drives long-term profitability and business resilience.

Congratulations to the

Torch AWARDS

for Ethics

SM

2025 WINNERS

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BBB STUDENTS OF INTEGRITY SCHOLARSHIPS

BBB invests more than $30,000 annually in its Students of Integrity Scholarship program, strategically targeting graduating high school seniors who demonstrate exceptional ethical leadership potential. The initiative prioritizes first-generation college students and those pursuing higher education within BBB’s five-state service territory, a deliberate investment in developing tomorrow’s principled business leaders within the regional market.

This approach supports emerging talent where it’s needed most while cultivating the next generation of ethical leaders who will drive economic growth across Midwestern communities. The program’s impact extends far beyond individual scholarships, creating a pipeline of integrity-driven professionals who will shape the future business landscape.

Scan the QR code to learn more.

The 2025 scholarship recipients represent the remarkable diversity and potential of regional talent.

These 17 students — selected from more than 670 applicants — hail from communities ranging from small towns of fewer than 1,000 residents to metropolitan areas exceeding 250,000. Their career aspirations span medical professions and business leadership, cybersecurity expertise and

nonprofit management. From Franklin, NE to Chester, SD, these students share a common passion: elevating their communities through ethical leadership.

BBB consulted with each student’s designated school counselor to gain deeper insights into each recipient’s character and potential, and their perspectives are featured below.

These young leaders represent the future of ethical leadership across the region.

BBB is honored to fuel their continued growth.

Lanyn Sisk Odessa High School, MO University of Missouri “Lanyn is a remarkable student whose presence has been a transformative force in our school community. She is an excellent leader who balances competitiveness with empathy and her detail-oriented nature combined with her creativity makes her an asset wherever she goes!” - Counselor Ashley R.

Paige Woods Stanberry R-II High School, MO Northwest Missouri State University “Paige is honest, dependable, responsible and simply delightful to have in one’s presence. Paige is ranked first in her class and she consistently performs well in and out of the classroom. She is a very hard worker and is extremely dedicated in all her activities. Her capabilities and potential are limitless.” - Counselor Karla M.

Alexis Cooper Moberly Senior High School, MO Missouri State University “Alexis is a natural born leader and looked up to by her peers. What sets her apart is not just talent but grit, she puts in the work, seeks feedback, and always pushes herself to do better.” - Counselor Melissa D.

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Gunner Lippold Falls City High School, NE Doane University “Gunner is a passionate and dedicated student that is willing to speak up for what he feels is right. I have no doubt that he will be successful in whatever he sets his mind to.” - Counselor Ethan S.

Justin Stephens Franklin Public High School, NE Fort Hays State University “I am honored to have Justin Stephens as one of my students.

Justin is a spirited student who is not afraid to go after what he is passionate about. Justin is someone who has big dreams for himself and wants to explore the world around him. I have confidence in Justin’s ability to conquer his ambitions. I am so proud of the growth I have seen in Justin this year, and I know that he will accomplish great things!” - Counselor Mercedes D.

Isabelle Arguello Lakeview High School, NE Bryan College of Health Sciences “Isabelle is a great example of what it means to be a Lakeview Viking. She greets everyone she sees in the hallway and asks how their day is going, she constantly has a smile on her face and has a positive outlook on life. She serves as a great role model for our underclassmen.” - Counselor Paige R.

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Ashley Guadarrama Garcia Crete High School, NE University of Nebraska-Omaha “Ashley is a compassionate individual who has navigated life challenges in a humble yet confident manner. Her ability to balance responsibility with self-care while developing strong problem solving and communication skills shows her dedication to not only her family but also to her personal growth. She is truly deserving of this honor for her commitment to setting boundaries while still supporting others and above all turning adversity into a success story.” - Counselor Dawn D.

Mario Priciliano Matson Garcia Wamego High School, KS Kansas State University “Mario has demonstrated remarkable growth, responsibility, and perseverance throughout the school year. He has shown a willingness to learn from mistakes and a determination to improve. Whether tackling difficult assignments or managing his time effectively, Mario follows through on his commitments.”

- Counselor Jessica B.

Kiyra Carpenter Eureka High School, KS Butler Community College “Kiyra is a hard working student. I can’t wait to see what she accomplishes in the future.” - Counselor Anna N.

Bridget Judd Olpe High School, KS University of Kansas “Bridget is passionate and does what she sets out to do.” - Counselor Amy C.

Lesly Vianey Sanchez-Herrera West Point Public Schools, NE University of Nebraska-Omaha “Lesly is truly deserving of this recognition. In addition to being a bright, hardworking student, she is also one of our most generous. If a volunteer is needed, whether to tutor a student or work at a community event, Lesly can be counted on to help. Lesly’s drive and passion will lead her to a future filled with success.” - Counselor Diana K.

Aubrie McDonald Westside High School, NE Nebraska Wesleyan University “Aubrie has separated herself from her peers with her tremendous work ethic and character. She strives every day to be the best version of herself, and this scholarship is a great example of her reaping the benefits of that.” - Counselor Zach M.

Arien Stalford Chester Area High School, SD Dakota State University “Arien is a kind, hard working, caring and well-mannered young man. He treats everyone with respect, and is always willing to help. He is such a great role model for younger students.”

- Counselor Julie E.

Riley Bouman White River High School, SD Sheridan College “Riley is an active student in the classroom and extracurricular activities. He is a good role model for the younger students, is always respectful and willing to lend a helping hand.” - Counselor Casey E.

Ecco Nagy Custer High School, SD Black Hills State University “Ecco is a bright and caring individual. She is genuine to her core, and she is a truly fantastic person. Her character radiates with all that she does, and I know her future is bright!” - Counselor Tiffany F.

Mya Heintzman Central High School, SD Concordia College “Mya is a hardworking, determined, self-less person. She does what is best for our school and community without hesitation.

She pushes herself and is going to do some amazing things in her future.” - Counselor Rylie S.

Ana Ventura-Mejia Fremont Senior High School, NE Midland University “Ana is one of the hardest workers I know. She values her education and works hard to be successful. She is involved in her community and school and is a great representative of Fremont High School and the Fremont community.”

- Counselor Dawn W.

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RISING CHAMPION AWARD

A

ndrew Ozaki, the Murrow Award-winning journalist who recently retired after four decades at KETV NewsWatch 7, has been named this year’s BBB Rising Champion. Throughout his distinguished career covering the Nebraska Legislature, governor’s office, agriculture, sports, and virtually every beat imaginable, Ozaki distinguished himself through prolific consumer protection reporting that directly safeguarded public interests while holding businesses and business leaders accountable to the highest ethical standards.

Over 40 years, Ozaki’s investigative journalism functioned as a critical market watchdog, systematically challenging companies that prioritized profit over ethical responsibility. His work empowered families to make informed purchasing decisions while simultaneously pressuring businesses to adopt more ethical practices. His work created a measurable deterrent effect — leaders knew that unethical behavior would face scrutiny and public accountability. Ozaki’s commitment to ethical journalism extended beyond professional obligations. So dedicated to serving the public interest, he famously arrived late to his own retirement party because he was completing a story. His coverage of natural disasters, including the devastating Hallam Tornado, exemplified his approach: comprehensive reporting that supported community recovery.

The Rising Champion Award, now in its second year, recognizes individuals who proactively protect consumers and strengthen community trust through unwavering ethical leadership.

resources that create vital marketplace knowledge. Workshops and materials help individuals recognize trustworthy businesses, understand their commercial rights and protections, and identify potential scams or deceptive practices before they result in financial losses.

COMMUNITY-MINDED PROGRAMMING OPPORTUNITIES BBB delivers strategic, yearround educational programs through its Education Foundation that help businesses build a sustainable competitive advantage through trust and ethical practices.

In today’s volatile marketplace, where consumer skepticism runs high and brand reputation can be

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destroyed overnight, these programs provide essential tools for both proactive reputation management and crisis prevention.

Each program translates ethical principles into practical business strategies that deliver measurable results. For consumers, BBB provides complementary educational

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Ready to strengthen your business foundation or enhance your consumer knowledge? Connect with BBB to explore customized speaking opportunities for your next corporate event, community gathering, or professional development session. Discover which educational program aligns with your specific objectives at bbb.org/mwpevents — where trust drives results.

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STAY INFORMED WITH THE BBB CONSUMER NEWSLETTER

Stay ahead of marketplace trends and threats with exclusive insights from BBB HOW SMART ARE YOU Midwest Plains. Its AS A SHOPPER monthly newsletter delivers strategic intelligence that protects your business interests and personal consumer decisions: early warnings on emerging scam tactics that target businesses and individuals, insider access to high-value networking events across its five-state region, updates on recognition programs that can enhance your competitive positioning, and expert analysis on marketplace developments that impact your bottom line.

Drawing from over a century of marketplace expertise and real-time data from its extensive business network, BBB provides the actionable intelligence you

need to navigate today’s complex commercial landscape. Whether you’re protecting your organization from fraud risks, seeking growth opportunities through ethical business practices, or making informed purchasing decisions, these monthly insights help you stay one step ahead.

Subscribe today for direct access to the marketplace intelligence that drives smarter business and consumer decisions — delivered monthly to your inbox.

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CONGRATS 2025 Torch Award Recipients

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CONGRATULATIONS to the 2025 Torch Award for Ethics Winners

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WE OPERATE WITH INTEGRITY

Each member of the M.U.D. team is an integral part of providing life essential services. Our words and actions demonstrate our commitment to truth, honesty and transparency and help to ensure our community trusts their public utility to do the right thing.

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