The nine members of The World-Herald’s 2025 All State Academic Team plan to venture outside Nebraska, whether they’re headed to Brigham Young University to study engineering or Harvard to study neuroscience.
The Omaha World-Herald's 2025 All State Academic Team: From left: Lincoln East's Cheryl Zeng, Lincoln East's Sarah Cai, Seward's Benjamin Nottingham, Millard North's Ashritha Chiguluri, Omaha Brownell Talbot's Siri Doddapaneni, Millard North's Anuj Singh, Omaha Duchesne's Hannah Fernandes, Creighton Prep's Michael Ayoub and Omaha Marian's Mackenzie Reidy.
Three students will attend Northwestern University in Illinois, while two others will attend Notre Dame University in Indiana.
Several of the scholars said they’ll miss the community they’ve built at their high school but are also excited to explore somewhere new, whether their college is close to a big city or the mountains.
A few of the scholars plan to go into careers related to medicine, while others said they’re interested in the legal field or economics. Several said they hope to address inequities and support their community through their future careers.
The scholars also have surprising talents outside academics, whether that’s snowboarding or creating origami.
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Also check out The World-Herald's All Metro Academic team, All Eastern Academic team, All West-Central Academic team and honorable mentions.
MEET THE ALL STATE ACADEMIC TEAM
Michael Ayoub
Michael Ayoub of Creighton Prep
Omaha Creighton Prep: no rank out of 212; 36 ACT; National Merit Scholar
Parents: Nagi Ayoub, Jennifer Ayoub
College, planned degree: Notre Dame; neuroscience
Scholarships: National Merit; UNO presidential; UNL presidential; Creighton Magis; Baylor Distinction Award; USC National Merit
Why did you pick your college? I chose Notre Dame because I believe its strong emphasis on neuroscience and research will give me a firm foundation in science and set me up for my future beyond college. I also admire Notre Dame’s strong community rooted in the Catholic faith. The overwhelming sense of community can be felt by simply being on the campus is what truly swayed my decision-making.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years? I hope to be a practicing physician in a brain-related specialty as well as contributing to the scientific community, striving for a better understanding of the complex processes that produce consciousness. I want to make a positive impact on all those in my community through medicine.
What will you miss most about high school? Being away from home, I will miss my family the most. I will also miss all the friends who have supported me and the teachers who always pushed me to be better.
Advice for incoming high school freshmen? Follow wherever your interests take you and don’t be afraid to stand out in the process. You can’t excel at anything by copying everyone else.
Most-played music artist? I listen to Johnny Cash more than anyone else. I admire his way of shedding light on seemingly meaningless stories through folk songs and ballads. I think this shows I value the art of storytelling, especially when it highlights the overlooked aspects of life.
Something you’re surprisingly good at? I love trapshooting. It didn’t come easily, but after a lot of frustration and persistence, the targets are starting to break much more often. Trapshooting is surprisingly calming, and it allows me to concentrate all my focus on a single goal.
Favorite snack? All berries, especially blackberries. My family often wonders where all the berries went within an hour of stocking the fridge.
What would you want an unlimited supply of? Free flights. I love traveling and seeing different parts of the world, so it would be amazing to travel wherever I want, experiencing all the foods and cultures without cost.
Sarah Cai
Sarah Cai of Lincoln East
Lincoln East: no rank out of 573; 36 ACT; National Merit Scholar
Parents: Xiwen Cai and Xunfen Chen
College, planned degree: Princeton; chemistry
Scholarships: National Merit; UNL presidential
Why did you pick your college? I picked Princeton for the university’s undergraduate focus, world-class faculty, gorgeous campus and tight-knit community.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years? Alive, hopefully! No clue where I’ll be, but I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
What will you miss most about high school? The extraordinary people I’ve met.
Advice for incoming high school freshmen? Spend more time with your family. You only have four more years living with them in this capacity, savor every moment!
Most-played music artist? Either Tchaikovsky or Dvořák — I’m a romantic at heart.
Something you’re surprisingly good at? Choking on water.
Favorite snack? Fruit or baby carrots.
What would you want an unlimited supply of? Answers — I’m curious, indecisive and anxious. I would love to know the answers to all my burning and mundane questions!
Ashritha Chiguluri
Ashritha Chiguluri of Millard North
Millard North: no rank out of 600; 34 ACT, 1520 SAT
Parents: Durgaprasad Chiguluri and Geeta Namani
College, planned degree: Northwestern University; biological sciences and global health
Scholarships: Grinnell College merit; St. Louis University presidential
Why did you pick your college? I chose Northwestern because it offered the most academic flexibility and encouraged interdisciplinary exploration. Compared to other schools I got into, Northwestern stood out as a place where I wouldn’t have to box myself into one specific path. As someone with a wide range of interests, especially in science, global health, English and psychology, I wanted a college where I could explore all of them without compromise.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years? In 20 years, I see myself actively applying my background in global health to make a tangible difference in communities around the world. I want to work to understand the root causes of health disparities and help design sustainable, culturally sensitive solutions. Whether it’s through nonprofit work, public health policy, or international medicine, I hope to bridge gaps in health care access and create systems that uplift underserved populations.
What will you miss most about high school? I think I’ll miss the little moments the most, just spending time with my friends or chatting with teachers who have become such a familiar part of my daily life. There’s a comfort in the routines and relationships that high school brings, and I know I’ll miss that sense of familiarity once everything starts to change.
Advice for incoming high school freshmen? Don’t limit yourself to what you think your potential is. High school is full of opportunities. You just have to be open to them and willing to step outside your comfort zone. You’re capable of more than you realize, and sometimes the best things happen when you take a chance on yourself.
Most-played music artist? My most-played artist is Lana Del Rey. I think that says I’m someone who really values emotion and storytelling in music. I’m drawn to things that feel nostalgic or a little bittersweet, and her music has that dreamy, reflective vibe I really connect with. I’d say it shows I’m pretty introspective, emotionally in tune, and someone who finds meaning in the little details.
Something you’re surprisingly good at? I’m pretty good at sketching and drawing. I find it really relaxing and a good way to express myself. Whether it’s sketching portraits or landscapes, it’s a way for me to tap into my creativity and just zone out for a bit.
Favorite snack? Trail mix is definitely my favorite snack because I love the satisfying crunch and how each bite offers something different.
What would you want an unlimited supply of? If I could have an endless supply of something, it would definitely be coffee. I have a feeling I might need it for the long nights of studying in the future!
Siri Doddapaneni
Siri Doddapaneni of Brownell Talbot
Omaha Brownell Talbot: no rank out of 24; 35 ACT
Parents: Rajeev Doddapaneni and Prasanti Mandalapu
College, planned degree: Northwestern University; neuroscience and economics
Scholarships: UNL presidential, regents; UNO presidential, regents; Creighton Magis, Shaffel; NE Academic Decathlon; Case Western Reserve university scholars; Brownell Talbot fortitude; UNMC Travis B. Lewis; Rotary Club Honor Roll
Why did you pick your college? I chose Northwestern because the culture was so inviting. When I was on campus, the members of the student orgs were so passionate and kind, and I instantly felt included within their group. Having a welcoming/collaborative culture was a huge factor in my college choice.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years? Besides a career in biotech, I see myself working in a position where I can directly be involved with serving my community, especially in a managerial role in a nonprofit. I’m working with a couple of nonprofits and new independent projects right now that allow me to be directly engaged with my community, and I hope I’m able to further them for 20 more years!
What will you miss most about high school? I will miss the feeling of walking on our campus and feeling at home! I’ve been at BT for seven years, so I’ve grown very close with my class, the teachers, the traditions and the community as a whole. Not to mention that our campus is gorgeous in the fall and spring!
Advice for incoming high school freshmen? My biggest piece of advice is to focus on the who rather than the what. Surrounding yourself with people who bring out the best in you and genuinely want to support you is the best recipe for success and just brings overall happiness, increasing motivation and security.
Most-played music artist? My most-played music artist is Anirudh, an Indian artist, and his music is very upbeat, catchy and goes viral easily, so I think that describes the energetic and passionate parts of my personality.
Something you’re surprisingly good at? Something I’m good at is finding a boba place nearby no matter where we are in the country. From downtown Chicago to rural Maryland, I’ve had boba from all around the U.S.! It’s so nostalgic, and the best pick-me-up.
Favorite snack? I loooove anything sweet, but my favorite is probably the Brookside Acai and Blueberry Dark Chocolate. They’re not too sweet and have a unique fruit flavor; I can go through a whole bag in two weeks!
What would you want an unlimited supply of? I would have an unlimited supply of Chipotle gift cards because I get Chipotle at least once a week without fail so an unlimited supply of gift cards is essentially just free money for me!
Hannah Fernandes
Hannah Fernandes of Omaha Duchesne
Omaha Duchesne: no rank out of 79; 36 ACT; National Merit Scholar
Parents: Sharmila Braganza and Praveen Fernandes
College, planned degree: Brown; biochemistry, medical anthropology
Scholarships: UNL presidential; Creighton Magis Award; University of Tulsa National Merit Semifinalist; Fordham University National Merit Semifinalist; St. Louis University Vice President’s Award, Catholic School Award
Why did you pick your college? When I toured Brown, I just knew it was the perfect place for me. It is such a vibrant learning community, and the combination of academic excellence and the freedom of the open curriculum really spoke to me.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years? I see myself working as a physician of some type, hopefully making a positive impact in people’s lives.
What will you miss most about high school? I will definitely miss the special, tight-knit community at Duchesne. My friends, classmates and teachers are all so kind and supportive, and I will miss being around these people every day.
Advice for incoming high school freshmen? My biggest piece of advice is to take chances and be open to new things! There are so many amazing people and experiences waiting for you if you just take the chance. It’s normal to be nervous to step outside your comfort zone, but that’s the way you grow as a person.
Most-played music artist? This is such a hard question for me as I honestly listen to a little bit of everything. My most-played artist is the band Wallows, but I enjoy anything of that genre. I generally enjoy anything with a sunny vibe, and I feel like that complements my personality pretty well!
Something you’re surprisingly good at? I love cooking and experimenting with different recipes! I enjoy being in the kitchen and making dinner for my family on occasion.
Favorite snack? I love fruit, especially strawberries! I also enjoy crackers and dip!
What would you want an unlimited supply of? I would choose to have an unlimited supply of wishes, so I could wish for anything at any time!
Benjamin Nottingham
Benjamin Nottingham of Seward
Seward: no rank out of 119; 35 ACT; National Merit Scholar
Parents: Dana Nottingham and Danna Dedrickson
College, planned degree: Brigham Young; mechanical engineering
Scholarships: BYU full tuition
Why did you pick your college? I chose to attend Brigham Young University because I have four siblings who have attended BYU, so I know and have grown to love the area. I also enjoy outdoor activities, such as snowboarding, hiking, golfing and basketball, all of which are abundant in Utah.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years? In 20 years, I plan on having a career in engineering, being a prominent member of my community and workplace. I will have a family.
What will you miss most about high school? I will miss the extracurricular activities that I am involved in. I will miss the families I have gained from being so involved.
Advice for incoming high school freshmen? My biggest piece of advice is not to procrastinate. The less you procrastinate, the more successful you will be.
Most-played music artist? I wouldn’t say I have a most-played music artist, and I think this shows that I am always looking for improvement and new opportunities.
Something you’re surprisingly good at? I am good at snowboarding. This is probably surprising because I live in Nebraska, where there aren’t really any good places to snowboard. However, I have spent a lot of time in Colorado and Utah because I used to live in Colorado, and I have a lot of family in Utah.
Favorite snack? My favorite snack is a sweet, crisp, juicy apple.
What would you want an unlimited supply of? I would choose to have an unlimited supply of time. With enough time, I can do anything I want. I can pursue all of my hobbies, make lots of money and always have enough sleep.
Mackenzie Reidy
Mackenzie Reidy of Omaha Marian
Omaha Marian: no rank out of 137; 36 ACT; National Merit Scholar
Parents: Melissa Bales and Rod Reidy
College, planned degree: Notre Dame; psychology
Scholarships: UNL presidential; St. Louis University vice presidents’; University of Notre Dame national merit
Why did you pick your college? I’ve always thought that college should be about more than just papers and projects; it should be about people. The University of Notre Dame embraces this principle like no other school I’ve seen, cultivating a group of servants, advocates and changemakers. To me, that characteristic makes it feel like home.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years? In 20 years, I hope to have a successful career in the legal field. I plan to use my passion for the law to help people, aiding groups like the Innocence Project to deliver justice to individuals who have been failed by the legal system. I also would like to have a happy, healthy family grounded in this value of service.
What will you miss most about high school? When I leave high school, I’ll miss my community the most. Marian has given me a sisterhood unparalleled in compassion, friendship and love. Yet, thankfully, it has also taught me the skills needed to build these relationships wherever I go. I am incredibly grateful to carry a piece of the Marian community with me as I move forward.
Advice for incoming high school freshmen? Talk to everyone you can. Even as a senior, I still meet amazing people and wonder how I missed connecting with them sooner. Go out and meet as many new people as you can, trust me.
Most-played music artist? Growing up, most of my memories have been made with Fleetwood Mac in the background. It’s been a staple of my house as long as I can remember, and whenever I listen to it, it takes me back to my early childhood. Even now, I love how emotional and nostalgic the lyrics are. Plus, my nickname “Mac” has always made me feel like I had a special connection to the band.
Something you’re surprisingly good at? People are usually shocked to hear I’ve played ice hockey on and off for the past 12 years. I’m typically the worst player on the ice, but some of my favorite memories have been made at Monday night scrimmages and weekend tournaments.
Favorite snack? My favorite snack is easily salt and vinegar chips. The best brand has been debated for centuries, but in my years as a salt and vinegar chip connoisseur, I’ve found that nothing compares to a bag from Jimmy John’s.
What would you want an unlimited supply of? I’d choose an unlimited supply of gas for my car. My car is practically an extension of who I am, since it’s been everywhere with me. It’s seen student board meetings, family dinners, late-night frozen yogurt runs and countless other formative experiences. Unlimited gas would mean an unlimited ability to keep making those memories.
Anuj Singh
Anuj Singh of Millard North
Millard North: no rank out of 600; 36 ACT and 1600 SAT; National Merit Scholar
Parents: Amar Singh and Punita Dhawan
College, planned degree: Harvard; neuroscience and government
Scholarships: UNL presidential; UNO presidential; National Merit; Millard Public Schools Foundation-Aldrich Elementary PTO, Kiewit Middle School; Junion Symposium of Humanities and Sciences-2024 Heartland Region Champion; Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation
Why did you pick your college? I chose Harvard because of its unmatched opportunities for interdisciplinary exploration and its unparalleled programs in both neuroscience and government/public policy. I was also drawn to its rich historical feel and proximity to the Freedom Trail, which reflects the nation’s founding spirit. Being just minutes from Boston, a city I love (and home to the Celtics), makes it even more perfect.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years? After obtaining my M.D. and MPP, I plan to work as a neurologist and public policy expert, using both my medical training and experience with public policy to push for meaningful health care reform, especially in mental health. Through governmental involvement and advocacy, I want to help create a system where care is truly accessible and equitable for everyone.
What will you miss most about high school? I’ll miss my friends and the connections I’ve made with students and faculty. I’ve met some amazing people and will continue to cherish the memories I’ve made while also creating new ones.
Advice for incoming high school freshmen? Be able to say no. If you keep saying yes to everything and every commitment, you will stretch yourself so thin that you won’t be able to enjoy the activities you’re involved in. Don’t be afraid to leave an activity if it’s not something you are passionate about, and commit to the things that you do find joy in.
Most-played music artist? My most-played artist is Arijit Singh. His music connects me to my cultural roots and brings a sense of home, no matter where I am. Listening to Hindi songs, especially the ones from films I grew up with, reminds me of my family, traditions and the emotions tied to them. More than just music, it’s a way to stay grounded in my heritage while moving through different phases and places in life.
Something you’re surprisingly good at? I started doing origami when I was in third grade, when I received an instruction manual as a birthday gift. Since then, it’s served as a way for me to destress, crafting a piece of paper into 3D creations and creatures.
Favorite snack? Dried mangoes are my go-to snack. Once I start eating them, it’s almost impossible for me to put them down.
What would you want an unlimited supply of? I would choose time. I’d never have to worry about being late for anything and would finally have the chance to dive into all the hobbies I’ve put off — learning a new language, picking up an instrument and playing tennis. I could read more books, travel without rushing and take on projects without sacrificing their quality. Most importantly, I’d have more time to spend with the people I love. I wouldn’t have to choose between work and family, or between rest and ambition.
Cheryl Zeng
Cheryl Zeng of Lincoln East
Lincoln East: no rank out of 573; 35 ACT; National Merit Scholar
Parents: Lirong Zeng and Lisha Yue
College, planned degree: Northwestern University; economics
Scholarships: National Merit Scholarship; Northwestern
Why did you pick your college? Northwestern University immediately captivated me with its modern architecture and beautiful lakeside setting. Beyond its aesthetics, I was particularly drawn to the curriculum’s structure and the university’s location. Its proximity to Chicago, offering a wealth of internship possibilities, as well as the challenging yet potentially rewarding quarter system, are two traits convincing me that Northwestern will provide a robust and high-quality undergraduate experience.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years? With a background in economics and international relations, my career aspiration is to work in international business. As a Mandarin speaker, I aim to leverage my bilingualism to foster stronger cultural and economic ties between nations.
What will you miss most about high school? The connections I have nurtured and strengthened over the course of four years.
Advice for incoming high school freshmen? Put yourself out there. The moment you step into high school, embrace the opportunity to become your own guide and teacher. Take the initiative to define your goals — what do you aspire to achieve through your education and beyond? Once you have a vision, map out the necessary steps to reach your desired higher education or other pathways. Throughout this journey, remember to prioritize the subjects that ignite your passion and cherish the friendships that will undoubtedly shape your experience and last a lifetime.
Most-played music artist? It’s interesting how many of my favorite artists, like Eloisa, Billie Eilish and Laufey, explore the concept of reflection in their music. They often write not in the heat of the moment or simply to convey an idea, but rather to engage with a past self, as seen in Laufey’s “Letter to My 13 Year Old Self,” or to contemplate past experiences, motivations, or lessons, like in Eloisa’s “Subside.” This focus on reflection, combined with their often melancholic musical styles, resonates deeply with me and seems to mirror my own journey toward inner peace and self-understanding
Something you’re surprisingly good at? I’m good at hoarding. As a scrapbooker and collector, I am constantly looking for tiny trinkets to add to the mess on my desk.
Favorite snack? Unshelled pistachios.
What would you want an unlimited supply of? Perfectly ripe avocados — no more waiting and no more brown mush.
Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of April 2025
Christine Mahon waves at passing cars with other protestors lining Dodge Street to voice discontent with President Trump's administration at Memorial Park in Omaha on Saturday, April 5, 2025. Organizers of the Omaha protest are calling on Trump and Elon Musk to take their hands off the programs that middle class and working families rely on and asking elected officials to take a stand. The protest is part of a nationwide movement, with over 1,000 protests planned across the country Saturday.
Erin Kelly, owner of Rinkel, adjusts the sleeves on Chrissa King's dress before Conscious Collection Fest's sustainable fashion showcase at Floors Floors Floors in Omaha on Friday, April 4, 2025. The showcase, one event from the four-day festival centered on community and slow fashion, highlighted curated second hand, vintage and upcycled collections.
Omaha's Tyler Bishop (2) tags Nebraska's Riley Silva (1)/ for the second out in the first inning during a college baesball game at Tal Anderson Field in Omaha, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Bishop initially bobbled the ball but recovered to make the out
Attorney David A. Domina listens to opposing arguments during a Nebraska Supreme Court session held at Omaha Bryan high school in Bellevue, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
John Ewing speaks to supporters during the municipal primary election watch party for John Ewing at the Omaha Press Club in Omaha, on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Andrea Norris, a content creator who shares fun things in Nebraska, makes a video for TikTok at Woodees in Lincoln on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. A video of hers unexpectedly went viral after Norris jokingly asked if anyone cared about the state, opening up a huge political discussion and some misinformation.
Audrey Christensen puts on lipstick before Conscious Collection Fest's sustainable fashion showcase at Floors Floors Floors in Omaha on Friday, April 4, 2025. The showcase, one event from the four-day festival centered on community and slow fashion, highlighted curated second hand, vintage and upcycled collections.
Omaha's Henry Zipay (1) drops a pop fly off the bat of Nebraska's Tyler Stone (55) with two outs in the ninth inning during a college baesball game at Tal Anderson Field in Omaha, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
People watch the first results on TV for the municipal primary election during the watch party for Mike McDonnell at the Omaha Firefighters Hall in Omaha, on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Omaha's Maddox Meyer (28) celebrates the last out ina win over Nebraska during a college baesball game at Tal Anderson Field in Omaha, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
The Omaha dugout comes out to celebrate with Drew Borner (24) after Borner hit a two-run homer in the seventh inning to break the tie with Nebraska during a college baesball game at Tal Anderson Field in Omaha, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
Omaha's Eli Hoerner (10) celebrates with Drew Borner (24) after Borner hit a two-run homer in the seventh inning to break the tie with Nebraska during a college baesball game at Tal Anderson Field in Omaha, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
Omaha's Trent Burkhalter(6) tries to catch a ball thrown by Omaha's Jackson Trout (20) as Nebraska's Cayden Brumbaugh (0) scores on sacrafice fly by Nebraska's Max Buettenback (11) during a college baesball game at Tal Anderson Field in Omaha, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
Polling booths sit empty inside Nathan Hale Middle School in Omaha on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Erick Estevez fills out his ballot at Walnut Hill Elementary School in Omaha on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Tim Fickenscher, an election official, puts a ballot in the ballot box during the municipal primary election at New Life Presbyterian in Omaha on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Creighton's Will MacLean (17) celebrates after recording the final out during the ninth inning of a college baseball game at Hawks Field in Lincoln on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Brian Rosen walks into Sokol Arena before a press conference introducing him as the new volleyball coach in Omaha on Monday, April 7, 2025. Creighton athletic director Marcus Blossom, front, and former head coach Kirsten Bernthal Booth walk with Rosen.
LaToya Henderson holds Na’Zier, her grandson, while her daughter Jamirriah Nelson watches in Omaha, on Friday, April 4, 2025. Na’Zier's father, Shalamar Davis Jr., was shot and killed on March 25. Henderson had just met Na’Zier the day before her son was killed.
LaToya Henderson holds Na’Zier, her grandson in Omaha, on Friday, April 4, 2025. Na’Zier's father, Shalamar Davis Jr., was shot and killed on March 25. Henderson had just met Na’Zier the day before her son was killed.
Lynn Painter, a local author, signs copies of her books for Lynley Janovich, left, and Sami Nair at the opening of Barnes & Noble in Papillion on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
Other models hype up Kailah Greenwood while she has her photo taken before Conscious Collection Fest's sustainable fashion showcase at Floors Floors Floors in Omaha on Friday, April 4, 2025. The showcase, one event from the four-day festival centered on community and slow fashion, highlighted curated second hand, vintage and upcycled collections.
Iona Fortune, a burlesque dancer and costumer, goes through her costume closet at her home in Bellevue on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Fortune, which is her stage name, tries to emphasize sustainability with her costume decisions by buying vintage and secondhand pieces and giving them a new life.
A truck is turned over on I480 near Cuming Street in Omaha, on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
A truck is turned over on I480 near Cuming Street in Omaha, on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
A truck is turned over on I480 near Cuming Street in Omaha, on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
Omaha police investigate a shooting near 30th and Q streets Omaha, on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
The path of a tornado along with debris can be seen in a farm field near Nashville, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
A tornados seen just north of Doudglas County from Highway 75 , on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
RVs are damaged from a tornado in Nashville, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
Golfball-sized hail rests in a yard in Nashville, on Thursday, April 17, 2025. A quarter was placed to give a size reference.
Clouds darken the sky as a storm that later produced a tornado is seen west of Highway 75 north of Omaha, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
RVs are damaged from a tornado in Nashville, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
Lightning strikes behind Cameron McNew poses for a portrait after a tornado his his house near Nashville, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
A rainbow forms behiind golfball sized hail in Nashville, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
Judd Heaton, 3, runs near the damaged house of his neighbor Cameron McNew near Nashville, on Thursday, April 17, 2025. McNew's house was hit by a tornado.
A tornado damaged the night before this home near 84th Street south of Dutch Hall Road in northern Douglas County on Friday, April 18, 2025.
A tornado damaged the night before this home near 84th Street south of Dutch Hall Road in northern Douglas County on Friday, April 18, 2025. On the wall is the "Serenity Prayer" which starts with the line "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change."
Lashawna Jones is overcome with emotion as she screams "my daughter is dead,” at N.P. Dodge Park in Omaha, on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. First responders had found her daughter and another girl earlier in the day. Three students had gone missing in the river two weeks ago, all three have now been recovered.
Family and friends react after first responders tell family and friends the found the body of the third Omaha student in the Missouri River at N.P. Dodge Park in Omaha, on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
