OpenSky Policy Institute, a nonpartisan policy research think tank headquartered in Lincoln has welcomed four new members to its Board of Directors. Terms for John Levy of Omaha, Stephen Postier of York, Robin Stevens of Gothenberg and John Stinner of Gering began December 12.
“We are honored to have such an outstanding group of leaders willing to lend their time, expertise and strategic prowess to our Board of Directors,” said Dr. Rebecca Firestone, Executive Director of OpenSky Policy Institute. “They share our vision of a Nebraska where everyone can thrive, and will help the organization write the next chapter of initiating positive change for all Nebraskans”
John Levy has served as the president of the William and Ruth Scott Family Foundation since 2015, continuing a lifelong commitment to nonprofit leadership and community empowerment. Trained as an attorney, Levy practiced employment litigation and tax credit law in Omaha prior to commencing his philanthropic leadership career at the Heart Ministry Center. Levy has served as a trustee or board director for more than 20 organizations as well as volunteering as a soccer coach and mentor for at-risk youth. He resides in Omaha with his wife and three sons.
The Honorable Stephen Postier is a community banker and civic leader, having served as a member of the York City Council since 2022. He currently serves on the city’s Finance and Insurance and Benefits committees, which are informed by his role as Senior Vice President & York Branch Manager of Henderson State Bank. Postier is a native of York and has worked in both the legislative and executive branches of the State of Nebraska, bringing valuable insight to OpenSky’s work. He and his wife Monica, a small business owner, have four children and reside in York.
Robin Stevens has a storied career in education leadership spanning 40 years in public education, where he spent 18 years as a teacher and coach in Iowa and Nebraska, followed by 22 years in school administration. His administrative roles spanned western Nebraska, including North Platte, Cozad and Schuyler. He also served as a member of the Nebraska State Board of Education from 2019-2023. Stevens is a Nebraska native, having been raised on a farm, and has enjoyed 51 years of marriage with his wife, Lynnette. The two share two daughters and four grandchildren.
The Honorable John Stinner has held numerous positions in community leadership and public service. Before entering politics, Stinner built a successful career in banking and finance. He founded and led Valley Bank & Trust Co., later serving on the board of Western States Bank. Earlier in his career, he worked as a CPA with Peat Marwick & Mitchell Co. (now KPMG). He served the Nebraska Legislature from 2014-2022, and is perhaps best known for his leadership as Appropriations Committee chair, where he demonstrated diligent decision making and fiscal discipline. He has also served on numerous community and civic groups focused on education, economic development and community well-being. Currently he is the chairman of the Western Nebraska Community College Board of Governors and a board member at Invest Nebraska.
“Our new Board colleagues represent the best of Nebraska. From across the state and with proven track records in sound decision making, strategic leadership and commitment to their neighbors, we are confident their contribution will lift OpenSky Policy Institute higher,” said Board of Directors President Judy Pederson. “We welcome them and are grateful for their willingness to serve.”
