TONY VARGAS | Executive Director

Tony Vargas is the proud son of Peruvian immigrants and union workers. His public service journey began as a science teacher in Brooklyn, NY, through Teach For America and AmeriCorps, where he worked to make a difference in students’ lives. He later expanded his impact nationwide, partnering with schools, nonprofits, and foundations to improve educational outcomes for children. Tony has served in public office in Nebraska, first as a member of the Omaha Public Schools Board and later as a Nebraska State Senator. In the Legislature, he passed over seventy bills focused on healthcare, job creation, affordable housing, and consumer protections, focusing on creating opportunities for all Nebraskans through collaboration. Tony was elected Vice Chair of the Executive Board of the Nebraska Legislature, where he built a reputation for bipartisanship and civility. 

Tony’s leadership has earned national recognition. He was named a Presidential Leadership Scholar, a prestigious national fellowship founded by Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, an Aspen Institute "Civil Society Fellow”, and a National Co-Chair of the States Project, “America’s Goals”. The Council of State Governments awarded Tony as a Henry Toll Fellow and “20 Under 40” Leadership Award for his outstanding work as one of 20 up-and-coming elected officials across the country.

Tony received his undergraduate degree from the University of Rochester and masters from Pace University. Tony now lives in Omaha with his wife and civil rights attorney, Lauren, and their two children, Ava and Luca.