SE Nebraska News

U.S. Congressman Mike Flood recently paid tribute to Howard L. Hawks, a notable figure from Nebraska, during a speech on the House floor in Washington, D.C. Congressman Flood's remarks highlighted Hawks' contributions and impact on both the business world and his community.

"Howard was a generational leader, who lived the American dream, co-founding an energy company called Tenaska," said Flood. Since its inception in 1987, Tenaska has grown into one of the largest privately held companies in America.

Flood emphasized Hawks' influence and dedication to projects he undertook: "If anyone knows Howard Hawks, you’d know that if he got involved in a project, people in a five-state area knew exactly what was going on and it would get done."

Hawks' philanthropic efforts were also noted by Flood. He invested significantly at the University of Nebraska, serving nearly two decades as a regent and contributing to the Husker athletic program as a booster. Notably, Hawks provided the lead gift for building the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s business school.

"This is just one example of the philanthropic projects that Howard took on through the years," Flood remarked.

Concluding his speech, Congressman Flood expressed condolences: "Howard will be greatly missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to Rhonda and the entire Hawks family as we mourn his loss."

The full text of Congressman Flood’s speech is available for public viewing.