How Lukas Partners Used an Op-Ed & National STEM Day to Raise Awareness for Omaha STEM Ecosystem

by | Dec 22, 2025

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Client Overview 

Client overview and results for the Omaha STEM Ecosystem op-ed case study

The Omaha STEM Ecosystem (OSE) connects education, business, nonprofit and government partners to strengthen STEM learning across the Omaha metro area. With a network of more than 900 community partners, OSE supports programs that prepare students and professionals for tomorrow’s workforce.

The Challenge

OSE wanted to raise awareness about its mission and its STEM Community Platform—an online hub for resources and information about STEM programs, career pathways, internships and more.

Lukas Partners needed to find a strategic way to share OSE’s story while maintaining clarity and control of the narrative, highlighting key messages that often don’t appear in traditional news coverage.

The Big Idea

Collaborate with OSE to create an opinion editorial for the Omaha World-Herald, using National STEM Day as a news hook to encourage publication. We would spotlight the critical need for STEM professionals in Nebraska, promote OSE’s initiatives and encourage readers to explore the STEM Community Platform.

Our Approach

Lukas Partners gathered research on the STEM Community Platform and the broader need for such a resource. Using these insights, we worked with OSE director Julie Sigmon to craft a persuasive, accessible op-ed for key audiences, including current and potential OSE partners and community members. We then pitched the editorial to Omaha World-Herald editors on OSE’s behalf, leveraging the upcoming National STEM Day as a timely news hook.

The Results

Results for the Omaha STEM Ecosystem op-ed case study

Since 2022, Omaha STEM Ecosystem has continued partnering with Lukas Partners to publish National STEM Day op-eds, helping the organization reach more people every year.

Why It Worked

Op-eds give nonprofits a platform to highlight challenges and advocate for change. They position the organization and its leaders as subject matter experts, building authority and trust with policymakers, educators, donors and the broader community. Once published, an op-ed can also be repurposed across the organization’s website, social media, newsletters and other communication channels.

Let’s Spotlight Your Brand

Ready to grow your brand’s visibility and make your message stand out? Lukas Partners offers comprehensive PR services—including marketing and public relations, brand reputation management and media training—to help your organization reach the right audiences. Contact us today to get started!

Kristen is a Senior Communications Strategist and writer with brand advancement, news media relations, media training, social media, and crisis communication expertise. She manages clients like FNTS, Creighton University, Omaha STEM Ecosystem, and Heartwood Preserve at Lukas Partners.

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