Ted Hibbeler

Exploring Factors Beyond Economic Investment That Influence Community Vitality

Educator Ted Hibbeler is a member of the Iron Shell family (Maza Pon Kesh Ka Tiospaye) from the Rosebud Sioux Nation (Sicangu Lakota Oyate) in South Dakota. He was raised in Hastings, Nebraska, and graduated from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln with a Bachelor of Science in education. He also holds a Master of Arts in teaching in English from Hastings College. Hibbeler served as director of the Native American education program for the Phoenix Union High School District for 20 years. In his current role, he leads the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Native American Coalition (NAC), which is an effort to build relationships and bridge partnerships between Nebraska Extension and Native American communities and organizations. Through NAC, he has worked with Nebraska Tribal communities, their colleges, and K-12 schools to facilitate community development and leaders. Hibbeler also serves on the board of the Nebraska Indian Education Association and the Jobs for America’s Graduates Nebraska.