inspire: celebrating women’s leadership S11
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2025 Kearney Hub www.kearneyhub.com
Finalists
Excellence in Small Business
Elizabeth “Liz” Klingelhoefer is a Shareholder and attorney at Jacobsen Orr Law Firm in Kearney, Nebraska, where she focuses primarily on litigation. Liz earned dual degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice, with Honors, from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in 2010. She went on to graduate with Sterling (highest) Honors from the University of South Dakota School of Law in 2015. During law school, Liz served as Editor-in-Chief of the South Dakota Law Review, competed internationally with the trial team, and tutored fellow students. Following graduation, she clerked for Federal Judge Roberto Lange in Pierre, South Dakota, before joining Jacobsen Orr in 2016. Deeply committed to her profession and community, Liz serves on the Amherst Public School Board of Education and the Board of the Nebraska Defense Counsel Association, which honored her with its Rising Star Award in 2023. She is a past president of Kearney/Buffalo County CASA, where she served for six years, and a graduate of both the Nebraska State Bar Leadership Academy and Leadership Kearney. Liz has also mentored students
Sponsored by:
Nicole Mailahn Shareholder Jacobsen Orr Law Firm
Elizabeth Klingelhoefer Attorney Jacobsen Orr Law Firm
through the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s Gold Torch Society and coordinated regional High School Mock Trial competitions for the Nebraska State Bar Foundation. Liz enjoys supporting young lawyers at her firm, offering guidance on balancing professional excellence, civic engagement, and family life. She lives in Amherst with her husband, Adam, and their two sons, Jace and Joel, and is active with the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce LEADS Blue group.
Nicole Mailahn is a shareholder at Jacobsen Orr Lindstrom & Holbrook, PC, LLO, where she brings a wealth of legal expertise, leadership, and dedication to both her clients and colleagues. A graduate of the Nebraska State Bar Association Leadership Academy (2008–2009) and Leadership Kearney Class #16, Nicole is deeply committed to fostering growth within the legal profession. She formally mentors two associates and provides informal guidance to all members of her firm, in addition to working closely with college and law school interns, giving them real-world experience through hearings, client meetings, and practical legal insights. Nicole’s passion for community service is equally strong. She currently serves on the United Way Board of Directors and the Kearney Park & Recreation Advisory Board, and remains an active member of the Gamma Phi Beta Local Alumni Chapter. Her previous leadership roles include serving on the boards of the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), S.A.F.E. Center, and the Kearney Competitive Girls Softball Association, as well as serving as a recruitment advisor and House Corporation Board Member for Gamma Phi Beta. She is also an alumna of the University of Nebraska at Kearney Gold Torch Society. At Jacobsen Orr, Nicole played a key role in helping the firm achieve recognition as the 2024 Outstanding Business of the Year, highlighting her leadership and dedication to excellence. Outside of her professional and community commitments, Nicole enjoys a variety of hobbies including reading, pickleball, and golf. She recently retired from recreational volleyball—a sport she still fondly remembers— and is a passionate fan of Husker volleyball. Nicole treasures time with her husband, Brad, and their two children, Tristan, a senior at UNL, and Paige, a sophomore at UNL, balancing a busy professional life with family, community, and personal interests.
Stacy Schwartz is the Executive Director of The Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, where she leads daily operations, public outreach, fundraising, and strategic initiatives to strengthen educational programs, deepen community connections, boost visitation, and preserve the Archway’s rich history. Under her leadership, the Archway earned the 2025 ABA National Best of the Best Award in Culture and appeared on the cover of Bus Tour Magazine. A member of the Nebraska Travel Association, Kearney Cultural Partners, the Nebraska State Historical Society, and Humanities Nebraska, Stacy also supports career exploration in tourism. Before joining the Archway, she owned a successful home décor business and served with the Downtown Kearney Business Association; she continues to mentor small businesses on growth and resilience. Stacy began at the Archway as Marketing and Events Coordinator and, within a year, accepted the Executive Director role. Her patience, openness, and willingness
Stacy Schwartz Executive Director The Great Platte River Road Archway
to listen have cultivated a collaborative workplace. Drawing on her entrepreneurial background, she brings valuable citywide connections and a clear understanding of how to achieve success. A champion of partnerships, Stacy has positioned the Archway as a sought-after venue for tours, conferences, weddings, and community celebrations. She helps host events such as YMCA runs and Fishing with First Responders, ensuring the Archway remains a vibrant hub for learning and gathering. A devoted mother of three sons, Stacy embodies energy, creativity, and commitment— qualities that make her a powerful advocate for history, community, and small-business excellence.
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