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J’s Pumpkin Patch reopens in support of local families; pays homage to late cofounder
COZAD — Two years ago, Julie Griffis considered closing her pumpkin patch for good. She took a year off in 2025, and that fall, tragedy struck. Her husband, Steven Griffis, died Oct. 19, 2025.
Steven Griffis created the corn maze at J’s Pumpkin Patch. While Julie Griffis hid items in the maze for guests to find, Steven Grffis crafted the trails they explored. He was a constant supporter of hers and the co-founder of the patch.
This year, Julie Griffis wanted to reopen the patch to honor the work she and her husband had done together over the past 30 years and continue providing an affordable opportunity for local families to enjoy the outdoors in the fall.
The winter after Steven Griffis’s death, Julie Griffis approached her neighbors and renters, Erika and Stephen Hanna, about partnering to reopen J’s Pumpkin Patch. The Hannas, farmers and avid autumn enthusiasts, readily agreed.
Julie Griffis, left, with Stephen and Erika Hanna by a photo booth opportunity at J’s Pumpkin Patch. This fall marks the reopening of the patch following the death of Steven Griffis in 2025. The patch caters to young children and their families.
“I went over to their house and wanted to see if they were interested in helping. They have young, strong kids and you need that. It’s a lot of work. So, I approached them and they offered to help plant, cultivate and help with the weeds,” Julie Griffis said.
Stephen Hanna joked that although he is the farmer responsible for helping plant the pumpkins and Indian corn, he regularly catches Julie Griffis in the patch weeding.
“I’ve always loved pumpkins and I wanted to make sure they were still available,” Erika Hanna said of why she and her husband chose to help reopen the patch. “We also think it would be a good project for our kids, who are getting into high school, to do as FFA projects. So, on the weekends when we’re open they are going to help man it and do the sales. They’ll also help people pick pumpkins.
“And they’ve been a great help. It gets harder when you get a little older. And they were able to do a lot more mechanical things with the weeds and stuff, instead of doing it by hand. There’s not a lot you can spray out there for weeds. With pumpkins you have to be careful,” Julie Griffis said.
Julie Griffis and her late husband were inspired to start J’s Pumpkin Patch after seeing how expensive pumpkin patches in cities could be. They wanted to provide an affordable place for local families, with activities geared toward children in elementary school and younger.
“I wanted to make something that was reasonable for people. That didn’t cost an arm and a leg. We’re small, so it was mainly for the little ones. We didn’t have the big rides or anything, but it was safer and they (the families) were thrilled that they didn’t have to go a couple hours out of town and pay a big admission,” Julie Griffis said.
“I think the more activities we can bring to town for little kids or just kids in general is better,” Erika Hanna added. “Even as an adult my favorite part is going out there and finding unique pumpkins and special ones. We like giving that to the families to be able to do here in town.”
With that mission in mind, Julie Griffis and the Hannas simplified this year’s activities. They decided not to offer a corn maze. Although they might bring it back in the future, Julie Griffis said "this did not feel like the right year."
Families can enjoy pumpkin picking, a photo booth, autumn-themed decorations and two special challenges.
Children can take on the Scale the Bale challenge by climbing to the top of three hay bales lined up on the farm. Those who reach the top receive a free mini pumpkin.
Visitors eager for a hunt can search the farm for six skeletons Julie Griffis has hidden. Those who find all six also win a mini pumpkin. The hunt is similar to those Griffis and her late husband offered in the corn maze, where they hid cardboard cutouts of popular movie characters for families to find.
Julie Griffis said her favorite part of running the patch has been watching Dawson County children choose pumpkins she might not have picked herself and bring them up with big smiles. Some children have even returned to show her pictures of what they made with their pumpkins.
Pumpkins were previously priced by weight, but Julie Griffis said that required more labor. To simplify sales this year, she and the Hannas decided to price pumpkins by size.
Gourds are three for $1. Mini pumpkins are $1 each, small pumpkins are $3, medium pumpkins are $5 and large pumpkins are $10. Prices are based on the closest size category. Indian corn also is available for purchase. Admission is free.
Although J’s Pumpkin Patch usually opens in October, it opened early this year for the last weekend in September. Families can visit from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays throughout October.
Julie Griffis and the Hannas encourage visitors to bring boots and prepare for mud and fun, as recent rain has left puddles on the farm.
“It’s a good opportunity to come out with your family, go out for a walk in the pumpkin patch, enjoy the day and see what you can find,” Stephen Hanna said.
Erika Hanna added that the patch gives people an opportunity to visit the countryside and play in the dirt.
“There’s just something about fall. It feels good. It’s harvest time, all your work is almost done and it’s so colorful,” Julie Griffis said.
J’s Pumpkin Patch is located northeast of Cozad at 76472 Road 422.
Around Town
The Around Town section of the Clipper-Herald is to notify the public of upcoming events and to publicize pertinent information from individuals, groups or service organizations.
LEXINGTON HAPPENINGS
Night Out with CASA presents Beth Bauer, the safety and EVS manager at Gothenburg Health Thursday, Oct. 8 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Central Community College in Lexington.
Let's Celebrate 5 Years! Dawson County Cancer Care Fund survivor and caregiver recognition Saturday, Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 4-H Cafe Building at the Dawson County Fairgrounds. 10 a.m. - garage sale and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. - vegetable beef soup and sloppy joe free will donation.
The Lexington Life Chain - One Hour of Prayer for the Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, Oct. 4 from 2-3 p.m. at Seventh and Jackson St.
ESL Conversation Club the first Saturday of October and November at 10 a.m. at the Lexington Public Library. Registration required.
Lexington Area Christian Women's Connection presents Song in My Heart Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 11:30 a.m. at Kirk's. Speaker is Lisa Story of Wausa. Reservations and cancellations by noon on Monday, Oct. 19. Call Sheri Giesbrecht at 308-320-0952 or Jonelle Lans at 308-325-8270. Cancellations are essential.
Humanities Nebraska Pioneer Women of Nebraska series: "Myths of Women's Madness on the Plains" Tuesday, Oct. 6 at 6 p.m., "Diaries and Letters of Early Nebraska Settlers" Thursday, Oct. 8 at 6 p.m., and "Maria Rodaway: Prairie Pioneer" Thursday, Oct. 20 at 6 p.m. at the Lexington Public Library.
Lexington Homecoming Parade Friday, Oct. 16 at 2 p.m.
Countryman Associates, P.C., is hosting a Farmer Appreciation BBQ Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 709 E. Pacific St. Call 308-324-2398 for more information.
Safe and Spooky Trunk or Treat at 1001 N. Washington St. from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 27.
Community Trunk or Treat Wednesday, Oct. 28 from 4:30-6 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran, 205 E. Seventh St., parking lot. (Weather permitting, will be moved inside if necessary).
Veterans Trunk and Treat Friday, Oct. 30 from 5-7 p.m. at Veterans Pavilion at Kirkpatrick Memorial Park.
GriefShare Support Group meetings will be held on Thursdays until to Nov. 19 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at First United Methodist Church (201 E. Eighth St.). Enter at the east sliding doors. For information contact Luann McBride at 308-325-4148 or by email: luannmcbride@hotmail.com
Parkview Baptist Church holds a food pantry every third Saturday of the month at the Refuge Building (1105 Park St.) in Lexington.
The Dawson County History Museum is hosting “Coffee with Carol” the first Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon.
The Lexington Lions Club meets at 7 p.m. every fourth Monday of the month at the Lexington Grand Generation Center.
Lexington Rotary Club meets the first and third Tuesday of the month at Dawson County Annex Building at noon. For more information or to join call 308-325-7006.
The Dawson County Democrats meet at 4 p.m. the first Sunday of each month at the Los Jalapeños Restaurant.
American Legion in Lexington meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles.
WIC Clinic Sites, Dawson County: Lexington – Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska Building, 931 W. Seventh St., Tuesday through Thursday the first 4 full weeks for each month.
RYDE Transit — Public Transportation is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To schedule a ride in Dawson County or Lexington call 308-324-3670. Public Transportation is easy to ride and open to everyone.
COZAD HAPPENINGS
Medicare 101 Q&A session Wednesday, Oct. 14 from 6-7 p.m. at the Cozad Grand Generation Center.
Dine In/Drive Thru Burger Night Thursday, Oct. 8 from 5-6:30 p.m. at Cozad Grand Generation Center. Free grocery bag with goodies.
The Wilson Public Library partnered with Haymaker Creative District for a Wing Walk Saturday, Oct. 10 at 10 a.m. A craft will follow at the library from 11 a.m. to noon.
Monthly Coffee Chats: Chat with Physical Therapist Brett Kollars Thursday, Oct. 15 at 9:30 a.m. at the Cozad Grand Generation Center. Free coffee and cinnamon rolls for the first 12 attendees.
Maker Market is held every Tuesday until Oct. 20 from 5-7 p.m. at the Green Space, east of 222 Hardware.
Spook Night in downtown Cozad Monday, Oct. 26 from 5-7 p.m.
First Annual Norm Valenzuela Wing Fest Sunday, Oct. 18 from 2-5 p.m. on Meridian Street between Big E's and Meridian Tap House. Spicy wing challenge, wing eating competition, games and wing and beer specials.
The Writing Society meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Wilson Public Library. Open to all writers of all levels and genres.
Blood Pressure Clinic at the Cozad Grand Generation Center the third Tuesday of every month at 11 a.m.
The Cozad Grand Generation Center has Home Delivered Meals to the Community Monday — Friday. If you would like to receive Home Delivered Meals or would like to pick up a Curbside Meal at 410 W. Ninth St. from 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m., please call us at 308-784-2747 by 9:30 a.m. that morning, so we can arrange everything for your convenience.
The Cozad Grand Generation Center Bus is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. To schedule a ride in Cozad call 308-784-2747.
GOTHENBURG HAPPENINGS
Thankful Run 5k Saturday, Nov. 21 from 8:30-10 a.m. at the YMCA at Gothenburg Health. Fee: $25 for adults and $15 for kids. Register by Nov. 21.
Our Lady of Good Counsel annual turkey dinner Sunday, Oct. 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the parish center. Contact: Miranda Reiman at 605-695-1678.
AREA HAPPENINGS
52nd Annual Bertrand Craft Show Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bertrand Public School and Bertrand Community Building.
ON THE BIG SCREEN
LEXINGTON
Majestic Theatre, 615 N. Washington St.
Ticket Pricing: Adult $6, Students/Senior Citizens $5, Child $4
SHOWTIMES:
"Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom" (PG) - Oct. 2-4, 7; Friday/Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday at 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m.
COZAD
Fox Theater, 100 E. Eighth St.
Ticket Pricing: Adult $9, Student/Seniors/Military $8, 5 and under $6.50, Matinee (all ages) $6.50
SHOWTIMES:
"Forgotten Island" (PG) - Sept. 29 - Oct. 8; Tuesday-Thursday at 7:10 p.m., Friday at 7:10 p.m., Saturday/Sunday at 4:10 and 7:10 p.m. and Monday-Thursday at 7:10 p.m.
"Heart of the Beast" (PG-13) - Sept. 29 - Oct. 8; Tuesday-Thursday at 7:20 p.m., Friday at 7:20 p.m., Saturday/Sunday at 4:20 and 7:20 p.m. and Monday-Thursday at 7:20 p.m.
"Verity" (R) - Oct. 2-8; Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday/Sunday at 4 and 7 p.m. and Monday-Thursday at 7 p.m.
GOTHENBURG
Sun Theatre, 404 10th St.
Ticket Pricing: Adult $5, Child (12 and under) $3, Senior Citizen $4
SHOWTIMES:
"Runner" (PG-13) - Oct. 2-4; Friday/Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m.
"Angel and the Badman" (PG-13) - Oct. 9-11; Friday/Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m.
PUBLIC LIBRARIES
The Lexington Public Library hours are: Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m. — 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m., Sunday: Closed. Watch for lots of fun programs and activities this summer. Also, we are continuing curbside services; call the library at 308-324-2151 for information.
Novel Stitchers meets on Tuesdays from 3-5 p.m. in the Board Room of the Library.
Storytime meets at the Library on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
The Wilson Public Library normal hours are: Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m. — 6 p.m., Friday: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m. and Saturday: 9 a.m. — 1 p.m. Public and private meetings have resumed, with 24-hour notice appreciated. Limits to how many attendees based upon room need, what equipment is available and other restrictions can be found by calling us at 308-784-2019 or stopping at the front desk. Normal policies about room rental can be found under Policies at wilsonpubliclibrary.org.
LEXINGTON GRAND GENERATION CENTER
The exercise room is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
MONDAY
10 a.m. - Frog
12:45 p.m. - I've Got It
TUESDAY
8 a.m. - PEO
12:45 p.m. - Pool
1 p.m. - Bunco
1 p.m. - Bridge
2:30 p.m. - Hot Cookies
WEDNESDAY
8 a.m. - Miracle Ear
12:45 p.m. - Cards
1 p.m. - Frog
THURSDAY
12:45 p.m. - Farkle
12:45 p.m. - Pool
FRIDAY
Noon - Birthday Dinner
12:45 p.m. - Cards
1 p.m. - Frog
LEXINGTON GRAND GENERATION CENTER MENU
Homemade bread every day. Choice of skim, 2% or chocolate milk. No reservations are needed except for large groups. Serving time: 11:30 a.m. Please call 308-324-2498 by 10 a.m. for delivery or carryout meals.
MONDAY
Hamburger on Bun, Onion Rings, Baked Beans, Pears
TUESDAY
Teriyaki Chicken, Wild Rice, Broccoli, Cold Veggie Salad, Applesauce
WEDNESDAY
Pork Fritter with Gravy, Red Diced Potatoes, Peas, Peaches
THURSDAY
Cook's Choice Casserole, Fresh Yams, Lima Beans, Pineapple
FRIDAY
Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes with Gravy, Corn, Fresh Fruit, Dinner Roll, Dessert
COZAD GRAND GENERATION CENTER
When Cozad schools are closed due to inclement weather, the center will also be closed. Check KRVN or the TV for weather related closings.
MONDAY
10 a.m. - Free Groceries
1 p.m. - Pitch
5 p.m. - ESL Class
TUESDAY
Noon - Rotary
1 p.m. - Bridge
1:15 p.m. - Foot Clinic
5 p.m. - ESL Class
WEDNESDAY
10 a.m. - Free Groceries
12:30 p.m. - Pinochle
THURSDAY
1 p.m. - Tai Chi
5 p.m. - Evening Meal
COZAD GRAND GENERATION CENTER MENU
Salad Bar is available daily with meals served from 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m.
MONDAY
Hamburger Bake, Hominy, Peaches, Cake
TUESDAY
Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, Cranberries, Dressing, Green Beans, 7-Up Salad, Ice Cream
WEDNESDAY
Chili, Egg Salad Sandwich, Veggie Sticks, Red Applesauce, Dessert
THURSDAY
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, Corn, Cookie Salad, Pears
FRIDAY
Goulash, Garlic Bread, Peas, Apricots, Rice Krispie Bars
FARNAM SENIOR CENTER
The center will be closed on Fridays until further notice. When Eustis-Farnam Schools are closed due to the weather, the Senior Center will also be closed. Call ahead by 9:30 a.m. to get a meal 308-569-2359.
MONDAY
Beef Lasagna, Carrots, Broccoli Salad, Pineapple, Garlic Bread
TUESDAY
Oven Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Peas, Peaches, Dinner Roll
WEDNESDAY
Beef Tacos, Lettuce Salad, Diced Potatoes, Pears
THURSDAY
Beef and Noodles, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Fruit Cocktail, Dinner Roll
GOSPER COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
All meals are served with vegetables, fruit and a sweet item. All meals are subject to change without notice. Please call by 10 a.m. for your reservation 308-785-2500. Suggested meal price is $8 for 60 and above and $9 for under 60.
MONDAY
Pork Medallions
TUESDAY
Tater Tot Casserole
WEDNESDAY
Fried Chicken
THURSDAY
Cheesy Cowboy Soup
FRIDAY
Chicken and Noodles
ORGANIZATIONS
It Works Group: AA meetings are held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. at 303 E. Sixth St., in Lexington.
First Christian Church NA: meets Sundays at 7 p.m., Tuesdays at 8 p.m. 1206 N. Erie St., in Lexington.
Westside Group: AA/NA: open meeting on Monday and Friday nights from 7-8 p.m. Meetings are held at Grace Lutheran Church, 105 E. 17th St., Lexington, use the south door.
Women's Group: meets every Tuesday from 7-8 p.m. on the second floor lounge at the Dawson County Courthouse (700 N. Washington St.)
Celebrate Recovery: Meetings at 7 p.m. on Fridays at Parkview Baptist Church’s Refuge Building (1105 Park St., Lexington) Contact: 308-324-4410.
Four Roads Group AA: meetings are held on Tuesdays from noon to 1 p.m., Fridays from 7-8 p.m. and Sundays from 7 p.m. at 1801 W. 18th St., in Lexington.
Grupo Lexington AA (Spanish Speaking): open meetings on Saturdays from 8-9 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to noon at 114 W. 6th St. in Lexington.
Group Nueva Vida Lexington (Spanish Speaking): open meetings on Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays at 11 a.m. at 114 W. Eighth St., in Lexington.
Full of Grace: Meetings from 6-7 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Nazarene Church at 919 H St., in Cozad.
Southview Group: Meetings from 8-9 p.m. on Wednesdays at 1804 Papio Lane in Cozad.
SMART Recovery meets at St. Peter’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, 905 East 13th St., Tuesdays and Thursdays 7-8:30 p.m., Saturdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Sumner AA Group: meets Sundays and Tuesdays from 8-9 p.m. at 205 E. Fifth Avenue, in Sumner. For more information call 308-325-5827.
Bertrand Thurs Night Group: Meetings from 8-9 p.m. on Thursdays at Hope Lutheran Church, 74094 Road 436 in Smithfield. Call 308-785-3567 or 308-472-3376.
Odie Group AA/NA: meetings at 8 p.m. on Sundays in Elwood at 501 Calvert Avenue.
Pony Express Group AA: meetings are held from 7:30-8:30 p.m. on Mondays at the Gothenburg Evangelical Free Church (515 18th St.) in Gothenburg.
Thirsty Thursday by the Cemetery: Meetings held on Thursdays from 7-8 p.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church (2002 27th St.) in Gothenburg.
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group meetings are held the second Thursday each month at 2 p.m. at Lexington Regional Health Center (1201 N. Erie St., Lexington). For more information contact Dixie Menke at 308-325-5350.
Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska Immunization Clinic, first and third Mondays every month: Open 10 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m. by appointment at 931 W. Seventh St., Lexington. Previous vaccination records required. Contact 308-325-3436 or 308-325-3169.
Dawson/Gosper County CASA: seeking Volunteers. CASA Volunteers are everyday people from all walks of life, who advocate through the court system in the interests of children. Contact 308-324-7364.
News
Top Story Spotlight
Lexington honored as Community of the Year
Lexington has been named Community of the Year by the Nebraska Diplomats in recognition of its recovery efforts following the Tyson plant closure.
The honor comes as community members continue to debate whether local government is doing enough to help those affected. Some have criticized the city’s response, while others have expressed sympathy for the challenges officials face.
City Manager Joe Pepplitsch said he remains proud of the community and its efforts to recover.
That pride grew when he learned Lexington had been selected for the award.
The Community of the Year honor recognizes Nebraska communities that demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation and a commitment to economic growth, resilience and quality of life.
Lexington did not apply for the award, and city officials were unaware the community was under consideration.
“I was surprised, but found reassurance that the steps we are taking to reset following the Tyson closure are recognized and applauded by Nebraska’s largest economic development organization,” Pepplitsch said.
According to Pepplitsch, Lexington was selected in “recognition of our recovery efforts since 11-21-2025, actions taken by all to assist impacted individuals and efforts to create employment opportunity moving forward.”
“Lexington is on a viable path to recovery. The opportunities in front of us may appear unfamiliar, but this community will adapt and overcome,” he said.
The Nebraska Diplomats, Nebraska Department of Economic Development and Gov. Pillen presented the honor to Lexington on Sept. 28.
In a Facebook post, the department praised Lexington’s response to the closure, highlighting the city’s agreement with Tyson to acquire key assets, to attract private investment, create jobs and encourage long-term industrial revitalization. The post also recognized efforts by the city and local entities to connect displaced workers with employment opportunities and assistance.
“Throughout the recovery process, the community’s attitude has been marked by strength, togetherness, and an unwavering belief that Lexington’s best days are ahead!” the department wrote.
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Top Story Spotlight Topical
Lexington native Nikki Sonthana leads UNK Cheer team as head captain
Nikki Sonthana is leading the UNK cheer team as head captain this year.
Nikki Sonthana, Lexington native, is a senior at UNK studying early childhood education and is the head captain of the Loper Cheer team.
KEARNEY — As Loper fans fill the stands during homecoming week, Nikki Sonthana will be in a familiar spot — on the sidelines, cheering on the blue and gold.
The University of Nebraska at Kearney senior is leading the cheer team as head captain this year, a role that puts her passion for athletics and the Lopers front and center.
“It means a lot to me to represent UNK and be part of such a great community,” she said. “I am proud to wear the blue and gold and show my support for our school and athletes. Being a Loper has given me so many memories and opportunities. It’s something I will always be proud of.”
Sonthana started cheering as a sophomore at Lexington High School, where she was also a team captain and part of the Class B state runner-up squad in game day and tumbling.
Over the past seven years, the sport has become an important part of her life.
“The best part is the bonds you build with your teammates, being able to serve as a role model for the younger generation and spreading school spirit," Sonthana said. “I love being part of a team that supports one another and brings so much energy to our Loper community.”
That team-first approach is one of the qualities UNK head cheer coach Randi Todd values most.
“Nikki is the kind of person who leads by example,” Todd said. “She is dependable, hardworking and willing to put in the effort necessary to help the team improve. She brings a positive attitude to practices and performances and has the ability to encourage those around her, even when things get challenging.
"She cares about the success of the team as a whole.”
Sonthana also brings stability to a competitive program that continues to develop its identity. She’s someone her teammates can trust to communicate effectively, keep the group focused and provide direction when needed, according to Todd.
Sonthana approaches the captain role with that same emphasis on her teammates.
“I want them to learn to believe in themselves and not be afraid to step outside their comfort zone,” she said. “I also want them to understand how important it is to support one another, work hard and enjoy every moment, because these years go by so quickly.”
UNK cheerleaders perform at football, volleyball and basketball games, but that’s only part of the commitment. They also participate in events such as Blue Gold Welcome, the lipsync contest and homecoming parade while training for national competitions.
The Lopers are currently preparing for their second consecutive appearance at NCA College Nationals in Daytona Beach, Florida, next spring.
Sonthana has grown alongside the program. Once more quiet and reserved, she credits cheer with helping her become more comfortable speaking up and taking on leadership responsibilities.
“It has really helped me grow into a better version of myself,” she said.
That confidence carries over to another important part of her UNK experience.
Sonthana is studying early childhood education, with plans to begin her teaching career in Nebraska after graduation. She’s also participated in America Reads since her freshman year, working with young children in a preschool setting while preparing for her future in the classroom.
Whether she’s teaching a lesson, leading her teammates or cheering from the sidelines, Sonthana wants to be someone others can look to for encouragement and support.
That’s exactly what Todd sees in her head captain.
“What makes Nikki a strong head captain is that she understands that leadership isn’t about being the loudest person in the room or simply having a title,” Todd said. “She has the ability to hold her teammates accountable while still making them feel supported.”
Why did you choose UNK?
I chose UNK because I love the environment and the sense of community here. Being close to home was also a big plus because I can visit my family on the weekends. UNK also has a great teaching program, which made it a great fit for me. Looking back on my years here, I feel that UNK has helped me grow both personally and professionally and prepared me to become a positive role model for my future students.
How would you describe the feeling of being on the sidelines during a Loper game?
I love the atmosphere that our Loper fans create and how much support they show us throughout the game. They are always so appreciative of the stunts we perform during timeouts and quarters, along with the cheers we do. It makes being on the sidelines even more special and shows how much of a community we have here at UNK.
What’s a moment with UNK cheer you know you’ll remember years from now?
Cheering at Memorial Stadium during Volleyball Day in Nebraska my freshman year. It was such an amazing experience. Being able to cheer in a setting like that is something I know I will remember for years to come.
What song instantly gets you ready for game day?
Honestly, any song from Morgan Wallen.
If you weren’t a cheerleader, what other activity would you want to try?
I would probably want to try volleyball. I have always enjoyed being around the sport and it would be fun to experience it from a different perspective and challenge myself in a new way.
How would your teammates describe you as a captain?
I think my teammates would describe me as someone who is supportive, passionate and always willing to help. I want everyone to feel comfortable coming to me, whether they need encouragement, advice or just someone to talk to. I also try to lead by example and bring a positive attitude to the team.
What have your teammates taught you?
My teammates have taught me to lead with confidence and always give my best, even when things get challenging. They have pushed me to grow, encouraged me along the way and shown me the importance of having people around you who believe in you. I am grateful for the friendships I have made and the positive impact my teammates have had on me throughout my time at UNK.
What’s your favorite Loper tradition?
I have so many favorites! Some of them are Blue Gold Showcase, homecoming week and the spring concert. I love how these traditions bring everyone together and make being a Loper such a fun experience.
When you eventually cheer at your final game for UNK, what do you think you’ll miss most?
I think I will miss the people and the memories the most. Being able to spend so much time with my teammates, cheer on our athletes and be part of the Loper community has made these years so special. I know it will be hard to say goodbye to something that has been such a big part of my life.
