Columbus, NE –Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) is deepening its support of Nebraska charitable events by stepping in as the title sponsor for Nebraska’s largest golf event supporting the Nebraska Community College Foundation. The newly named Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska Open brings together professional and amateur golfers from across the nation. The tournament is run by the Nebraska Section of the PGA and Nebraska Golf Association, with coordination from Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD).

“It’s been great to see the continued support for the Nebraska Open, which has provided an excellent avenue to empower students,” said Christy Avery, Nebraska Open event coordinator. “We’re very thankful to everyone who has contributed to this effort for over three decades. Donating more than $2 million is no small feat, and the support of the sponsors ensures scholarships are continued to be provided to local students.”

Since 1992, the Nebraska Open has raised over $2 million for five community college systems within NPPD’s service territory. Proceeds from the tournament are donated to the Nebraska Community College Foundation, supporting scholarships for hundreds of Nebraska students attending Central Community College, Southeast Community College, Northeast Community College, Mid-Plains Community College or Western Community College.

“We’ve proudly supported the Nebraska Open for many years, and stepping in as the title sponsor is a meaningful way to deepen that commitment,” said Ron Rowe, executive vice president and chief revenue officer at BCBSNE. “With the Open’s strong tradition of supporting community colleges, this partnership is a natural extension of our ongoing efforts to invest in education and students across the state.”

The Nebraska Open kicks off at noon on Thursday, Sept. 11 with an 18-hole pro-am scramble at Elks Country Club in Columbus. For those wanting to watch the Pro Tournament Friday, Sept. 12 through Sunday, Sept. 14, tee times start at 8 a.m. each day. An awards ceremony for the Nebraska Open winner will be held Sunday at the putting green, beginning at approximately 3 p.m.

Visit NebraskaBlue.com/Community to learn more about BCBSNE’s commitment to Nebraska’s students.

Learn how to support the Central Community College Foundation as a tournament sponsor at NebraskaOpen.net.

ABOUT BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NEBRASKA

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska is part of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield system, a national association of 33 independent, community-based and locally operated companies. Blue Cross and Blue Shield represents the nation’s largest and most experienced health insurance brands, collectively covering one in three Americans. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska has been providing security and peace of mind to its members since 1939. Learn more about BCBSNE at NebraskaBlue.com.

ABOUT THE NEBRASKA SECTION PGA

The Nebraska Section PGA is a non-for-profit organization comprised of over 340 PGA Members and PGA Associates who strive to promote the enjoyment and growth of the game of golf.  The Nebraska Section PGA encompasses the entire State of Nebraska, western fifth of Iowa and a small portion of South Dakota including Dakota Dunes and Yankton.  The Section office is located in Lincoln, NE and acts as a resource for local and national golf information for the golf professional and amateur player alike.  Our members are often referred to as “Club Professionals”, not to be mistaken as PGA Tour Professionals.

Each Nebraska Section PGA Professional serves as an expert in the ever-changing business of golf.  They are the leading expert players and teachers, skilled business managers, community leaders, and superior merchandisers who have dedicated their careers to the local delivery of these services.