One of the most meaningful ways donors support students through the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools is by creating scholarships that honor the people and values that shaped their lives. This year, we're proud to celebrate two new scholarship funds that will help students pursue higher education while carrying forward the legacies of remarkable individuals.
The Bruce Bunde Memorial Scholarship was established by Margaret Bunde to honor the life and legacy of her husband, Bruce, a man who truly embodied the spirit of a lifelong learner.
Bruce (1948-2024) graduated from high school in Cozad, NE, and continued his studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, earning Bachelor's and Master's degrees in education and history, with a minor in music; subjects that would remain close to his heart. He treasured his time playing trumpet in the Cornhusker Marching Band and maintained a lifelong interest in all types of music.
His love of learning never faded; he was rarely seen without a book in hand, usually history, the more ancient the better, and he continued taking classes throughout his life. He had a natural curiosity and a gentle way of teaching, often turning a casual conversation into a meaningful one by imparting knowledge or wisdom to those around him.
Bruce and Margaret raised three children, all of whom graduated from Lincoln East and were active in a variety of activities. Bruce's life was one of hard work, quiet perseverance, deep loyalty, and above all, love for his family and friends. The scholarship stands as a tribute to his generous spirit and enduring belief in the power of education.
Established in June 2025, the Bruce Bunde Memorial Scholarship was awarded for the first time this 2025-26 scholarship season, with the first recipient to be announced next month. The annual $1,000 scholarship supports graduating Lincoln East seniors pursuing degrees in education, history, or music at an accredited two- or four-year college or university.
Another new scholarship honors the life of Arlene Spader Oberg, whose dedication to education, service, and lifelong learning left a lasting impact on her family and community.
Arlene Spader Oberg (1915-2010) attended Garr Creek one-room elementary school in rural northeast Lancaster County, Nebraska, and graduated from Havelock High School in 1932. She attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln until 1934, studying Latin, botany, and education, after which she taught in rural schools in Lancaster and Butler counties during the Dust Bowl. Oberg and her students sealed cracks and crevices and wore handkerchiefs over their faces to fight the dust. In emergencies, she carried ailing students home to their farm families. After marriage in 1937, she continued to teach as a substitute and to grade examination papers for the Lancaster County Superintendent. In the 1940s and 1950s, living on a farm, she was active in County Home Extension clubs and in the school activities of her four children, always applying her skills and high standards as a teacher. She read to children at weekend reading groups in Waverly.
In the 1960s, she returned to the university to pursue a bachelor's degree and subsequently worked in the Lincoln Public Schools administration. After retirement, she found joy in nature, whether planting trees or walking on the prairie, always eager to learn more. She and her husband, Howard Oberg, joined the Peace Corps in 1977 and served in El Salvador.
Created in November 2025, the Arlene Spader Oberg Scholarship was awarded for the first time this 2025-26 scholarship season, with the first recipient to be announced in June of 2026. The annual $1,000 scholarship will support a graduating senior from Lincoln Northeast High School (formerly Havelock High School) or Lincoln High School who plans to pursue studies in education or the social sciences. The scholarship honors Arlene's lifelong dedication to education and high academic standards, while also recognizing the many Havelock High School graduates who have made positive contributions to their communities, state, and country.
Together, these new scholarship funds demonstrate the lasting impact one person can have on future generations. Through the generosity of families who choose to honor loved ones in this way, students gain financial support to pursue their dreams while carrying forward stories of perseverance, curiosity, service, and a lifelong commitment to learning.
