Wendi Beck is Nelnet’s 2025 Butterfield Leadership Award Winner
The announcement of the Steve Butterfield Award for Excellence in Leadership is always a hallmark moment during Nelnet’s All Directors Meeting (ADM) every year.
The Butterfield Award is presented to a Nelnet leader who exemplifies passion in one or more of the following areas:
- Service – A customer-focused leader who goes out of their way to take care of others.
- People – An influential leader who develops associates and builds culture.
- Humility – A servant leader who puts the team first.
- Vision – An inspiring leader who dreams big and pursues bold goals.
- Innovation – A change-embracing leader who turns obstacles into opportunity.
In 2025, the Butterfield Award Winner is Wendi Beck.
I was truly honored to be nominated for this award—let alone receive it. To be recognized alongside the incredible individuals who have won in years past is both humbling and inspiring. It’s been a privilege to be part of Nelnet for the past 19 years, where I’ve been given the opportunity to learn, grow, and evolve every single day. That journey perfectly reflects Steve’s vision: See your future. Be your future. I’m proud to wear the Circle N.
Managing Director
Merging Cultures, Strengthening Connections
Wendi’s impact isn’t always loud, but it’s lasting. Over the past 19 years, Wendi has been a guiding force at Nelnet—shaping the associate experience and driving meaningful organizational growth.
Wendi joined Nelnet in the early 2000s and has since played a pivotal role in countless business evolutions, including the seamless integration of acquired companies. Whether transitioning benefits, onboarding systems, or merging cultures, she has guided thousands of associates through change with clarity, calm, and care.
Wendi embodies our culture of care. She lives the question, ‘What else can I do?’ She steps in when others hesitate and leads without needing credit. That’s servant leadership in action. Wendi doesn’t just meet the criteria for the Butterfield Award—she defines them.
Chief People Services Officer
A Mentor, A Guide, A Presence
Wendi’s impact extends well beyond her direct reports. She has mentored leaders across the organization—offering not just insights but genuine presence during pivotal career moments and personal milestones. That kind of mentorship, built on authenticity and care, is what defines Wendi’s leadership. She develops others not to follow her, but to discover their own strength and voice.
Her leadership is rooted in selflessness, vision, and the desire to help others grow. She is the kind of leader who makes you better just by being near her.
Director of Associate Experience
Steve Butterfield, a co-founder of Nelnet, was known as the heart of Nelnet—optimistic, humble, and always leading with people in mind. In her own way, Wendi Beck has carried that legacy forward.
Join us in celebrating Wendi Beck, the 2025 Butterfield Leadership Award recipient, honored for her unwavering commitment to care, humility, and service.
Celebrating Leadership, Championing Culture
At Nelnet, we believe in recognizing leaders who make a difference—because great leadership shapes great culture. Explore our current job opportunities to grow with us, or learn more about our workplace values at #LifeAtNelnet.
