Seiler positive about the past and future

Above: Sen. Seiler is grateful for advice provided by veteran legislators.

After serving in the military, the Nebraska National Guard and on numerous boards, Sen. Les Seiler is no stranger to public service.

But when asked who his political role model is, Sen. Seiler responded without hesitation: “Dennis Utter.” He tells a story as an illustration:

In 2008, Seiler—an attorney—decided he wanted to take the next step in his life and become a state senator. So Seiler said his first step was to seek the help of his good friend, Dennis Utter.

As it turns out, Seiler said with a smile, Utter also had decided to run for the legislative seat and was seeking out help with his campaign.

Seiler said he returned to the office and broke the news to his law firm partner. “I am not running against Utter,” he told him.

Utter went on to win election and served in the Legislature three years. He died Dec. 27, 2011 due to health complications.

Seiler said Utter’s death was “a tremendous loss” for the state and he will serve with “the same diligence, determination, and responsibility” as Utter did.

Having joined the Legislature after session was underway, Seiler said he is not afraid to ask questions of his peers.

“I find the legislators very helpful,” he said. “They are more than happy to give me their advice, and I do appreciate that.”

But the warm welcome he has received in the Capitol is not the only thing Seiler is grateful for.

“I’ve done almost everything I have ever wanted to do, from hunting and fishing to traveling with friends,” he said. “Just about everything I have ever thought about doing, I have had the opportunity to.”

And because of that, Seiler said he has no regrets.

“I wouldn’t change anything in my life, to the woman I have married to the kids I have raised,” he said.

Seiler has been married to his wife Joann for 46 years and they have three children: Stephanie, Gregory and Bradley.

Before attending law school at the University of Nebraska, Seiler graduated from Wayne State College with a minor in education. He taught economics at Omaha Central High School, where he gained significant exposure to the school system.

“I believe that education is the future of our district and state,” he said. “There is no second chance, so we need to get it right.”

The experience will serve him well as the newest addition to the Legislature’s Education Committee. Seiler also sits on the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.