Washington, DC, Sept. 21, 2026 – The German-American Heritage Foundation is honored to announce that Ben Sasse, a former U.S. Senator from Nebraska and two-time university president, will receive the 2026 Distinguished German American of the Year Award at a formal gala on Thursday, Dec. 10 at The Society of the Cincinnati in Washington, DC.

This award from GAHF recognizes him for his deep commitment to the principles that have long characterized the German American experience: intellectual curiosity, personal responsibility, public engagement, and a dedication to strengthening democratic institutions. As an elected official representing Nebraska, Sasse earned national respect for his thoughtful approach to public policy, his willingness to engage difficult issues with utmost integrity, and a steadfast belief in the importance of civil discourse. His leadership in higher education further exemplified his commitment to cultivating the next generation of American citizens and leaders. Sasse was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December 2025, and has been very open about his courageous battle with the disease, which has led him to reconsider the meaning of life and death.  He completed his undergraduate degree at Harvard University, followed by graduate studies at St. John’s College, culminating in a Ph.D. in American History from Yale University. His deep familiarity with the history of our nation make him an especially poignant candidate for this semiquincentennial year.