Dr. Aaron Plas serves as Superintendent of Bennington Public Schools. Now in his third year with the district, he provides leadership for a rapidly growing PreK–12 school system dedicated to student success. He holds a doctorate in Educational Administration from the University of South Dakota and brings extensive experience in educational leadership, having served in a variety of administrative roles throughout his career.

Dr. Plas is known for his collaborative leadership style and commitment to transparent communication. His vision emphasizes long-range planning that supports both staff and students while ensuring the district continues to deliver a high-quality education that prepares all students for their future.

Tom Adams brings a lifelong commitment to service and leadership to Rotary. He comes from a proud Rotary family tradition. His father was a Rotarian for more than 55 years in the New York City area and received numerous awards for service. Inspired by that example, Tom has been a Rotarian for over 20 years and has long been an active member of Suburban Rotary in Omaha. Both Tom and his father are Paul Harris Fellows.

Originally from the New York area, Tom moved to Omaha at age 18 to attend Creighton University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He later earned a second degree in Industrial Psychology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. As Tom likes to say, “I loved Omaha so much, I stayed.”

Tom’s commitment to service extends well beyond Rotary. He was the longest serving Board Trustee, serving 20 years, for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in Omaha until the chapter relocated to Des Moines. He also previously served on the Creighton University Alumni Board, continuing his dedication to leadership and community impact.

Tom has been a longtime member of Suburban Rotary and has visited our club several times over the years. Each visit made him feel genuinely welcomed and connected. As it turns out, Tom Gouttierre finally sealed the deal. Tom Adams simply cannot say no to another Tom and is now fully convinced he is a perfect fit for THE Rotary Club of Omaha. And honestly, we agree.

From Rotary Luncheon to National Spotlight: An Outland Trophy Day to Remember

Last week’s Rotary luncheon gave members a rare and meaningful opportunity to hear from Spencer Fano, the nation’s number one interior lineman and the 2025 Outland Trophy winner, an award that recognizes the best interior lineman in college football. While this luncheon is part of an annual Rotary tradition, this year’s conversation truly stood out. Spencer was humble, thoughtful, and deeply grateful, consistently crediting his parents and family for the sacrifices and support that paved the way for his success. Rotarians asked insightful questions that went far beyond football, touching on leadership, discipline, pressure, faith, and teamwork, and Spencer answered each one with authenticity and ease.

The photos included from the Rotary luncheon capture the warmth of that exchange, including moments with Spencer and his parents that reflect the values behind his achievement. Later that evening, the celebration continued on a national stage at the Hilton Omaha, where a ballroom filled with more than 600 attendees gathered as Spencer formally received the Outland Trophy during ESPN’s College Football Awards festivities. Several Rotarians were proud to attend the dinner as well, led by our very own Mayor John Ewing and Rotary President Gretchen Harvey.

Spencer’s honor is historic. He is the first player from the University of Utah to receive the Outland Trophy, awarded annually to the nation’s top interior lineman. A junior from Spanish Fork, Utah, he started all 12 regular season games at right tackle and was named Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year and First Team All Conference. The photos from both the luncheon and the evening ceremony tell a complete story, from a thoughtful Rotary conversation to a national celebration of excellence. Rotary has proudly sponsored this prestigious event for 25 years in partnership with the Greater Omaha Sports Committee, and this full day exemplified Rotary’s long-standing commitment to leadership, character, and achievement at the highest level.