Events

Amy Hornocker is the Executive Director of College World Series of Omaha, Inc. (CWS, Inc.), serving as the key liaison between the NCAA and the City of Omaha to ensure the continued growth and execution of the NCAA Men’s College World Series. She leads a dedicated team of five staff members who work year-round to bring the event to life. Beyond the MCWS, her office oversees various community outreach initiatives and a dynamic internship program.

Prior to joining CWS, Inc., Hornocker spent nearly a decade with the Omaha Sports Commission (OSC) as Events Director, where she managed over 30 sporting events, including three U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials.

A Des Moines, Iowa native, Hornocker began her career in sports as a Cyclone student recruiter in the Iowa State Football office before interning with CWS, Inc. She earned her bachelor’s degree in sports management from Iowa State University.

Hornocker currently resides in La Vista with her golden retriever, Olive.

Renee Rafferty is the Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health and Wellness at Children’s Nebraska.  She brings over 30 years of experience, including more than 20 years in healthcare leadership. Renee has worked across a wide range of clinical settings, including inpatient care, residential treatment, outpatient therapy, substance use treatment, and crisis services.  She is deeply committed to expanding access to behavioral health care and has been instrumental in developing and launching innovative programs.

Dan Kutilek is a graduate of Creighton Prep High School and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, holding a Bachelor's and a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering. After graduation, Dan was drafted into the Army. He served with the First Air Cavalry Division in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Silver Star for bravery, the Air Medal, and the Purple Heart.

Dan has worked in the Douglas County Engineer’s Office since 1971, currently serving as the Engineering and Planning Manager. His professional experience and history of civic involvement have developed an extensive network of long-standing relationships with Omaha and Douglas County leaders.

Dan will share his experiences in Vietnam. Come listen to his story as we approach this Memorial Day, honoring and mourning the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Special Agent in Charge at Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Omaha Field Office, Nebraska and Iowa.

John Knicely has been named the 2025 Omahan of the Year by the Suburban Rotary Club of Omaha.  Knicely has been a mainstay on Omaha television networks for many years as a sportscaster and news anchor on WOWT and KETV. He has become a favorite of the Omaha community through his news features of “John at Work” and “Knicley Done, “giving viewers unique behind-the-scenes perspective through reporter-involved segments. 

John served as Sportscaster for WOWT from 1974 to 1981, at which time he moved to St. Louis in the same capacity for KTVI, the ABC affiliate. He returned to Omaha and KETV in May 1984, and made the move back to WOWT in May 1992, this time as anchor of the 5, 6 and 10 p.m. newscasts.

His community spirit is always on display, and he emcees many charity events throughout the year.  He has received numerous awards, including the Journalism Alumni Award of Excellence from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.  He is a graduate of that university’s School of Broadcast Journalism.

He and his wife Sue have raised five children and have six grandchildren. He was born in Sidney, Nebraska.

According to Mary Bernier Chairman of the Four- Way Test Committee of the Suburban Rotary Club of Omaha, John was chosen by the 4-Way Test Committee because of his commitment to the Omaha Community. Through his fair and honest reporting, including his news segment “Knicely Done,” he has inspired our community to be and do better.

Knicely will be honored with the award at the Club’s weekly meeting at noon on June 5 at Legends Patio & Grill, 6920 Pacific St. Suite 100, Omaha, Neb. 68106.