Nebraska Panhandle News

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts has expressed his condolences following the death of Howard L. Hawks, a co-founder of Tenaska Energy and a notable philanthropist. Hawks was also a long-serving member of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.

In his statement, Senator Ricketts remarked on the impact Hawks had on the community: “Nebraskans have benefitted greatly from Howard Hawks’s leadership and generosity. He was a visionary leader in the business and philanthropic community."

Ricketts highlighted Hawks's contributions to education in Nebraska, noting that "His historic support for higher education opened countless new doors for Nebraska students." The senator also shared personal sentiments, recalling his relationship with Hawks during his tenure as Governor. "Howard and his wife Rhonda were also great partners and friends during my time as Governor," he said.

Ricketts extended sympathies to Hawks's family, stating, "Susanne and I send our condolences to Rhonda and the Hawks family as they grieve the loss of a great Nebraskan.”