Bellevue University’s Rick Galusha Honored With Strengthening Democracy Award by Civic Nebraska
Bellevue University Associate Professor Rick Galusha has been selected as the 2023 Civic Catalyst award winner by Civic Nebraska.
Civic Nebraska’s annual Strengthening Democracy Awards highlight the work of everyday people whose acts build a more modern and robust democracy. Galusha and four other honorees will receive their awards at an awards ceremony set for April 13.
The Civic Catalyst award goes to “a Nebraskan who embraces transformative ideas and puts them into action on behalf of democracy.” According to Alex Brechbil with Civic Nebraska, Galusha was selected for his “relentless passion for civic engagement, civil rights and citizenship.”
Since 2009, Dr. Galusha has served as a member of the Bellevue University faculty. He is currently an Associate Professor and Program Director in the University’s College of Arts and Sciences, where he teaches political science and leads the University’s Kirkpatrick Signature Series. The series, which is required for all undergraduate students, highlights the importance of active citizenship in a rapidly changing world – one in which popular government, Western traditions and American values are sometimes severely tested.
Michelle Eppler, Dean of the College and Arts and Sciences, said “For students and colleagues, Rick exemplifies what it means to be an engaged citizen. We’re proud to see him recognized for the positive impact he’s had on our state.”
In addition to his teaching at Bellevue University, Dr. Galusha is the co-founder of the Free Speech Society, which organizes and hosts monthly non-partisan debate and discussions in Omaha, and since 1991, the host of the award-winning, internationally recognized radio program “Pacific Street Blues.”
Galusha also regularly provides perspective on a variety of issues as a Community Columnist for the Omaha World-Herald.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 60,000 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 80 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).