Ignite the Flame

College of Saint Mary Flames Athletics Fundraising Luncheon

Celebrate excellence and leadership in women's athletics at Ignite the Flame at College of Saint Mary (CSM).

In its fourth year, the fundraiser supports women’s athletics, showcases the achievements of CSM’s Flames athletes and honors a trailblazer in women’s sports. 

CSM will present this year’s Ignite the Flame Community Impact award to John Cook for his dedication to empowering girls and women in athletics. 

John Cook, keynote speaker and Community Impact Award recipient

We are excited to welcome John Cook, Co-Owner and General Manager of the Omaha Supernovas and former head volleyball coach at the University of Nebraska, as our keynote speaker and Ignite the Flame Community Impact Award honoree.

Cook’s impact on volleyball is immeasurable. He has helped to grow the sport in ways many thought were not possible, and he has inspired generations of female athletes across the country. He is a true trailblazer.

His career highlights include:

• Four NCAA national championships
• Fourteen conference championships
• Three National Coach of the Year awards
• Record-breaking attendance, including the largest women’s sporting event in history
• A lasting influence on women’s athletics nationwide

We could not have selected a stronger advocate for women’s sports, and we appreciate Cook’s willingness to help us celebrate our athletes, ignite community pride and champion the future of Flames Athletics.

Ana Bellinghausen, emcee

We’re proud to welcome Ana Bellinghausen as the Emcee of Ignite the Flame. As the Digital Director at Hurrdat Sports, Bellinghausen helped build one of the state’s fastest‑growing sports platforms, reaching more than 165,000 followers across digital channels.

Bellinghausen was named the 2025 Steve Pivovar Sports Media Person of the Year, becoming the first woman ever to receive the honor—a testament to her impact on athletics storytelling.

Beyond her digital leadership, she works as a sideline reporter for the Omaha Supernovas, one of Nebraska’s premier women’s professional sports teams.

Deb Denbeck​, honorary chair

We are thrilled to welcome Deb Denbeck as the Honorary Chair of College of Saint Mary’s Ignite the Flame fundraiser—an event dedicated to empowering the next generation of women student‑athletes.

A lifelong champion for women in sport, Deb currently leads Partnership 4 Kids, an Omaha nonprofit that equips thousands of students with the skills, confidence, and mentorship they need to thrive in school, in their communities and beyond.

Deb’s career includes serving as Associate Athletic Director at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and coaching volleyball at the College of Saint Mary (1982–1985) and Southwest Minnesota State (1986–2002). She also made a mark as Head Softball Coach at College of Saint Mary, leading her team to a 5th‑place finish at the NAIA National Championships—a milestone that contributed to her induction into the College of Saint Mary Hall of Fame.

Join us in celebrating Deb Denbeck, whose leadership and passion help keep our Flames burning bright.