Summary
Jim Pillen is the 41st Governor of Nebraska, serving since January 5, 2023. A veterinarian by training and livestock producer, Pillen founded Pillen Family Farms in 1993, one of Nebraska's largest hog operations. He previously served on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents from 2013-2023, serving as Chair in 2020. He was elected governor in 2022 with 59.2% of the vote, defeating Democrat Carol Blood. Pillen is married to Suzanne and has four children and seven grandchildren. He is Catholic and played college football at Nebraska as a defensive back (1975-1978), earning induction into the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
Background
Pillen was born December 31, 1955 in Columbus, Nebraska to farmers Dale and Dorothy Pillen. He graduated from Lakeview High School in 1974, earned a B.S. in Animal Science from University of Nebraska-Lincoln (1979), and a D.V.M. from Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine (1983). He played football at Nebraska (1975-1978), inducted into Nebraska Football Hall of Fame (2004). Founded Pillen Family Farms in 1993 (now operates 100+ livestock facilities). Served as Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce President, Columbus Community Hospital Board Chair, and University of Nebraska Board of Regents (2013-2023, Chair 2020).