July 20, 2026
Every year, there is a special event that brings together the many people, communities, and programs that make up Immanuel. It's an opportunity to step away from daily routines, celebrate shared accomplishments, recognize those who make a difference, and reconnect with the mission that unites everyone across the organization. That spirit was on full display at Celebrating ONE Immanuel 2026.
On May 14, 2026, members of the Immanuel community gathered at Embassy Suites in La Vista, Nebraska, for the 17th annual Celebrating ONE Immanuel. The event brought residents, PACE® participants and team members from across Immanuel together for an afternoon of connection and recognition. Immanuel Board members and corporate partners were also in attendance.
Emily Tonniges, Executive Director of the Immanuel Foundations, said the intent is simple: create space to pause, spend time together, and recognize the people behind the work.
“Celebrating ONE Immanuel is about taking a moment to recognize the people who make Immanuel what it is, across every community, every center, and every role,” Emily said. “When we come together like this, it’s a reminder that we’re all part of something bigger.”
Bringing people together
The afternoon began with a warm welcome and invocation before the All-Immanuel Choir took the stage, filling the room with familiar Beach Boys tunes that had many attendees smiling and singing along.
The celebration continued with a series of videos produced by Immanuel’s marketing team. Through the Connecting Generations, Sharing Stories series, residents shared memories, personal reflections, and everyday moments. The videos brought laughter, smiles, and heartfelt conversations.
A year-in-review video wrapped up the segment, highlighting memorable moments from Immanuel communities and PACE® centers while celebrating the relationships and experiences that shaped the past year.
Immanuel Deaconess Awards
A central part of the afternoon was the presentation of the Immanuel Deaconess Awards, which recognize team members who reflect Immanuel’s long-standing commitment to compassionate, faith-driven service.
Pastor Brian Maas, Vice President for Mission and Spiritual Care, said each recipient represents the kind of thoughtful, consistent work that often happens quietly, but has a lasting impact on residents, participants, and fellow team members.
“These individuals live out our mission in ways that are steady and often unseen,” he said. “Their work reflects the spirit of the Deaconesses, serving others with compassion, humility, and a deep sense of purpose.”
This year’s recipients were:
- Compassion: Nicole Addison, Grand Lodge
- Honor: Oscar Rosales Rivas, Lakeside
- Relationships: Tabitha Bleich, Copper Shores Village
- Integrity: Cameo Rogers, Home Office
- Serve: Dustin Churchwell, Yankee Hill Village
- Teamwork: Kelly Jepsen, Pacific Springs
A rockin’ good time
Following remarks from Immanuel President and CEO Julie Kaminski, the event wrapped up with a performance by Michael Cavanaugh, whose mix of classic rock and pop songs brought a different kind of energy to the room.
It was an entertaining way to close the afternoon, giving everyone a chance to relax and enjoy time together after a program centered on reflection and recognition.
Thank you to everyone who took part this year, and to those who continue to support residents, participants, and each other in meaningful ways every day.
