Bill Would Allow Change to Nominate Coach Osborne to Nebraska Hall of Fame

LINCOLN, NE -- A bill brought on Governor Jim Pillen’s behalf would honor a Nebraskan considered by many to exemplify state public service, by his commitment to youth athletics, politics and volunteerism. 

LB 1159 updates current law that governs the nomination process for the Nebraska Hall of Fame. Currently, the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission may induct no more than one person every five years, following a structured nomination, review and public hearing process that spans the entire five-year period. Individuals may be considered at least 35 years following their death.

Under LB 1159, the Commission would be able to nominate one living person to be installed in the Nebraska Hall of Fame. Such a nomination would need to occur prior to January 1, 2027. The bill, introduced by Senator Dan Lonowski, describes the specific criteria of the person being named.

“It is no secret that this legislation would place Coach Tom Osborne permanently in the halls of the Nebraska Capitol,” said Gov. Pillen. “Our state is indebted to Coach and all the great things he has accomplished during his lifetime. It is time we recognize him appropriately and I’m very pleased that an overwhelming majority of the Legislature agrees and that a bi-partisan group is co-sponsoring this truly wonderful, unifying bill.”

Osborne was born and raised in Nebraska.  He began his athletic career in Hastings, where he played football, basketball, and track. From high school, he transferred to Hastings College and later went on to play in the NFL.

He continued his education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history, a master’s degree in educational psychology, and a doctorate. He won the hearts of many Nebraskans during his time coaching at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln where he played a key role in building the football program, leading Nebraska to three national titles in his 25 seasons.

Following his football career, Osborne turned to politics, representing the state’s 3rd Congressional District. He also launched the TeamMates Program, with his wife Nancy, which has impacted over 50,000 youth.

If passed, this legislation would supersede prerequisites for nomination used by the Hall of Fame Commission, but only for this one-time purpose.