Bellevue University Awards Honorary Doctor of Commerce to Business and Community Leader Keith Edquist
At its Spring Commencement ceremony held June 6, Bellevue University awarded an Honorary Doctor of Commerce degree to board member Keith Edquist for his impact on business, public service, and student success. His leadership and direct investment in learners reflect the university’s commitment to career-relevant education and community advancement.
Key Facts
- Member of the Bellevue University Board of Directors since 2004.
- Member of the Council of Nebraska Independent Colleges Board of Directors since 2009.
- Created scholarships for Omaha North High graduates attending Bellevue University; two students are currently enrolled and living on campus.
- Entrepreneur with ventures across home appliances, banking, property development, automotive and aviation.
- Former owner/operator of North Omaha Airport; advocate for preserving the LeMay Aero Club at Offutt AFB and supporting aviation programming at Bellevue University.
- Served 18 years on the Omaha Public Power District Board, including as Treasurer and Chairman.
- Served two terms on the Bellevue City Council; active investor in regional economic development.
- Omaha North High School graduate (1962) and Viking of Distinction (1996).
Keith has a magical quality in how he connects with people. His connections become catalysts for action. He listens and sees opportunities to change the status quo, to inform decisions, to provide paths forward or ways to overcome problems.
Retiring Bellevue Board Member Receives Honorary Degree
Bellevue University awarded Keith Edquist an Honorary Doctor of Commerce in recognition of his sustained leadership across business, civic service, and higher education.
A longtime entrepreneur, Edquist has built and led ventures spanning retail, banking, real estate, and aviation, while also helping guide public infrastructure and economic development through nearly two decades of service on the Omaha Public Power District Board and leadership on the Bellevue City Council.
His impact is equally visible in his support of students. Through scholarships for Omaha North High School graduates attending Bellevue University, and his personal engagement with those students, Edquist is helping expand access and reinforce the connection between education and career opportunity. His active role in higher education governance reflects a deep commitment to strengthening pathways for learners and to supporting institutions that prepare students to succeed in a competitive, fast-changing workforce.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).