Annual Meeting 2026

Join us for the Thayer County Economic Development Alliance’s Annual Meeting on March 19th at 5:00 PM at the Stastny Center in Hebron, NE. This year’s event features a special keynote from Cory Hepola, along with the presentation of our fifth annual “Thriving in Thayer County” Business Award. More details, including RSVP information and award announcements, will be available soon. Below, you’ll find Cory’s bio and a short introduction video to help you get excited for this year’s lineup.

2026 “Thriving in Thayer County” Business Award

Announcement coming soon!

Keynote Speaker - Cory Hepola

Cory Hepola is a 3-time Emmy-Award Winning Documentarian & TV Anchor. Growing up in small town Perham, Minnesota, Cory is the Director, Writer, and Host of “My Town,” a documentary series which serves to break down the popular misconceptions with the rural lifestyle showing the opportunities in our small towns. Through 2 Seasons, “My Town” has explored 15 different rural communities across 6 states and has been nominated for 4 Emmy Awards including Outstanding Lifestyle Series. 

Before "My Town," Cory had a successful broadcast journalism career earning two more Emmy Awards for “Outstanding TV Anchor” at KARE 11 in Minneapolis and was named “100 People To Know” by Twin Cities Business Magazine as the Host of his own daily show on iconic WCCO Radio. In 2022, Cory was honored by his alma mater – Concordia College – with the “Sent Forth Award” which is presented “to a young alumni who has made an impact early in their career, emphasizing service to others and demonstrating a strong vocational commitment.”