Summary
In partnership with the Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO), Nebraska Extension’s County Official Online Learning Network (COOL Network) is strengthening local government leadership across Nebraska by equipping county officials with practical knowledge, stronger peer networks, and greater confidence to serve effectively.
In partnership with the Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO), Nebraska Extension’s County Official Online Learning Network (COOL Network) is strengthening local government leadership across Nebraska by equipping county officials with practical knowledge, stronger peer networks, and greater confidence to serve effectively.
Rural Prosperity Nebraska Extension Educator Jordan Rasmussen (far left) celebrates the completion of the 2025 COOL Network course with graduates from across the state.
Now entering its fifth year, the COOL Network has supported more than 150 county officials from 66 of Nebraska’s 93 counties through accessible, applied leadership education designed specifically for local government. Designed for newer county officials, the program combines three weeks of online learning with an in-person session focused on the core functions of county government and public leadership.
Participants build practical knowledge in county governance, finance, human resources, leadership, and public service responsibilities — developing a stronger foundation for informed decision-making and effective local governance. The program draws on expertise from Nebraska Extension, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and the University of Nebraska Omaha, connecting county officials with university faculty, government practitioners, and subject-matter experts from across the state.
Just as important, the program creates space for county officials to connect with peers across Nebraska and strengthen collaboration beyond the course.
The COOL Network addresses a critical need in Nebraska: preparing county officials to navigate increasingly complex local challenges with greater confidence, competence, and clarity. By investing in the knowledge and leadership capacity of county officials, the program is helping build stronger counties, more effective local governance, and more responsive public leadership across the state.
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