Harvard Museum inducts 8 members into Hall of Fame

Eight community and school-affiliated members were inducted into the Harvard Museum’s Hall of Fame Oct. 11.

The inductees were voted on by peers and community members during the alumni banquet in May. Those who didn’t attend the banquet but wanted to vote could cast a ballot at the museum upon request.

This year’s inductees include: Community Members— W.A. Farmer, Milt Tenopir, Jay Keasling, and Forest Pence.

Although Keasling was unable to attend the ceremony, his sister, Jacque Keasling, read a speech he wrote: “Growing up in Harvard, Nebraska, instilled in me a deep respect for hard work, resourcefulness, and community— values that have guided every step of my scientific career. In a small town, you learn early that progress depends on cooperation and persistence, and that everyone’s contribution matters.

“Those early experiences — fixing what was broken, learning from neighbors, and watching people quietly take pride in doing things well — shaped how I approach both science and leadership today.

Jacque Gillespie, left, reads a speech from her brother, Jay Keasling, who was unable to attend the Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Also pictured is Ruby Adam.

“The curiosity that led me to become a chemical and biomolecular engineer was nurtured in Harvard’s schools, libraries, and workshops, where teachers encouraged exploration and problem-solving. The sense of responsibility to use science for the public good—to build cleaner industries, better medicines, and a more sustainable world—also has its roots in Nebraska’s ethic of stewardship and self-reliance.

“Though my work has taken me around the world, the foundation for everything I do was laid in Harvard: a community that taught me the value of curiosity, integrity, and helping others succeed.”

SCHOOL-AFFILIATED MEMBERS

• Kathryn “Cotty” Bishoff: A long-time school secretary.

• Margret Haseloh: A longtime kindergarten teacher. She was also responsible for getting the avenue of flags started at the cemetery. Haseloh was also very active in the American Legion.

• Mildred Fitzke: A longtime third-grade teacher.

She was also on Harvard’s library board for quite a while and was active in other Harvard organizations.

• Doug Nielsen: Was a head wrestling coach for quite a while, football coach, and took care of the baseball program in the summer time.

The induction event was in conjunction with a fundraiser for the museum.