A 1980 cum laude graduate of UNL, Mari Lane Gewecke holds degrees in political science and history as well as a graduate certificate of specialization in gerontology from UNO. In 1991, she founded Lane Gewecke Consulting. The firm specializes in qualitative research. As a volunteer, Gewecke has served on the boards of Lincoln Children’s Zoo, Lincoln Symphony Orchestra, Leadership Lincoln, Capital Humane Society, Family Service Association and American Red Cross – Cornhusker Chapter. She is currently on the advisory committee of NAA's Nebraska Women’s Leadership Network, chairs Rotary Club #14’s project and grant evaluation committee and serves on the board of Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center. In 1996, Gewecke received the John F. “Rick” Akin Award from the Capital Humane Society.