NORFOLK, Neb. – Northeast Community College is proud to recognize the exceptional achievements of its alumni, who continue to excel in their careers and make significant contributions to their communities.
Among these remarkable individuals is Andrew McCarthy, a graduate whose accomplishments embody the values and success that Northeast Community College strives to instill in its students.
Andrew McCarthy graduated from Northeast Community College in 2008 with a degree in Business and Marketing. After high school, he moved to Lincoln but returned to Norfolk six months later to enroll at Northeast.
“I love being here, and I love the community, so it was an easy decision,” he shared.
McCarthy reflects on how the classes at Northeast Community College have had a lasting impact on his career.
“The classes I took have been invaluable in both the private sector and as a city councilman. Business Law and International Business are tools I use every day. Interpersonal Communication stands out as another course I apply constantly. It was easy for me because I naturally have that skill, but the class taught me how to treat people and manage different personalities. When you're working with everyone — from large parties to celebrity comedians—you need to understand various types of personalities.”
After graduation, McCarthy worked at Big Red Sports Bar and Restaurant, doing a little bit of everything, including a role at the corporate office in Omaha. While managing the Norfolk location, he recognized a gap in downtown Norfolk.
The city was on the cusp of a great opportunity with improving infrastructure, parking changes, and a revitalized downtown filled with new shops and grants for façade improvements. After many discussions with the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce and city staff, McCarthy decided to put together a business plan to open a restaurant in downtown Norfolk — District Table and Tap.
“It’s crazy. The restaurant’s transformation was night and day. When we first walked into the building, there was a dirt floor and no ceiling. We opened right before Covid, and hadn’t really made any money yet, so it was challenging.”
Thanks to PPP loans, creative marketing, and tremendous community support, District Table and Tap made it through the pandemic. Afterward, it focused on bringing live entertainment back to Norfolk.
“Live music was somewhat dead in Norfolk. We brought it back on a weekly basis, showcasing bands from all over the state and the country.”
To further grow live entertainment, McCarthy opened the District Event Center just a few doors down. The center was designed as a space for social gatherings, with acoustic panels installed to enhance comedy and music performances.
Comedy took off at the District Event Center. What began as one comedy show a month soon grew to two shows a night on both Fridays and Saturdays during the comedy season.
District Table and Tap expanded to West Point in late 2023, and purchased Loup River Distillery in St. Paul, which is north of Grand Island.
McCarthy is actively involved in the community. He first joined the Elkhorn Valley Museum Board of Directors, where he had been a fan of the museum and its fundraising events. He was also involved in the Riverfront Overlay Board. His engagement with local organizations grew when the District Event Center opened, which led him to take an interest in the city council.
“There was a vacancy in my ward, and three people submitted applications. I was appointed in 2021, ran for re-election in 2022, and was lucky enough to win. There was a recount — it was that close.”
He has enjoyed representing his community on the city council, resolving issues, and helping improve Norfolk.
Looking back on his time at Northeast Community College, McCarthy is amazed at how much the campus has grown and evolved since he graduated in 2008.
“The direction under Leah Barrett is amazing. She does a great job, and Northeast is such a valuable resource for Norfolk.”
McCarthy offers advice for future students, emphasizing the importance of learning a trade at Northeast. “It’s a great opportunity that will carry you through life forever.”
To recent graduates, he has some advice.
“Lean on the people you meet — professors and community leaders. The relationships you build can help you tremendously as you navigate your career. Don’t be afraid to go out on your own. It took me a long time to take that step, but once I did, it was incredibly rewarding.”
McCarthy Family photo
The McCarthy Family consists of (from left) Manny, 14; Theo, 5; Maisie, 2; wife Brenda, Andrew, and Evelyn, 3. (Courtesy photo)
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