Michiana Business News

The spring session of the Michigan City Neighborhood Leadership Academy is kicking off April 10. The program is a partnership between the City of Michigan City and the Economic Development Corp. Michigan City. It aims to help individuals interested in taking leadership roles in their neighborhoods and sparking change. Participants learn more about the city, its departments, processes and resources to cultivate their neighborhood’s identity and future path. The program includes eight sessions 5 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays, April 10 through May 29. Dinner is included. In place of the May 1 session, a Cornerstone Class session will take place 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. May 3. “At the end of 2024, we celebrated our first Leadership Academy graduation since Covid,” said Clarence Hulse, EDCMC executive director, in a press release [https://lnkd.in/gJffU7NU]. “The participants shared their talents and insight to develop plans for change in their own neighborhoods.” Erin Meisner, EDCMC community development manager, will help facilitate the sessions. Attendees will hear from speakers and take part in activities and discussions. During the last class, participants present their final projects before a graduation ceremony. “I was heartened by the differences and needs represented by each project for the individual neighborhoods,” Meisner said at the December 2024 graduation. “The different ideas were brought together in solid plans.” Applications are now being accepted for Michigan City residents ages 18 and over who reside within the city limits. The submission deadline is March 28. Learn more here [https://lnkd.in/d4ViWnDC]. The Economic Development Corp. Michigan City works to grow and attract new industry and business to the community and strengthening existing business.

The Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau and Elkhart Redevelopment Commission recently won an Indiana Tourism Award. The statewide award salutes the campaign to promote downtown Elkhart. Jon Hunsberger, executive director, accepted the Best Cooperative Partnership Award March 4 at the Indiana Tourism Conference. “We value highly the partnerships that we are privileged to be part of, and we are especially proud of the work our team has done in the ongoing Downtown Elkhart promotion campaign,” Hunsberger said in a press release [https://lnkd.in/gQ3qymxK]. The Do Downtown Elkhart awareness campaign highlights the arts and cultural attractions, business opportunities and recreation amenities in the city’s core. The Do Downtown Elkhart website, social media content, Elkhart County CVB staff and vendor engagement are the primary elements. The Elkhart County CVB also won the Best Cooperative Partnership Award in the 2024 Indiana Tourism Awards for its downtown Elkhart promotion. In nine years, the Elkhart County CVB has captured eight awards across multiple categories. “Promoting downtown Elkhart and elevating the entrepreneurs who choose to invest in our city is a responsibility we take seriously,” Sandi Schreiber, Elkhart Redevelopment Commission president, said. “The work of the Elkhart County CVB on behalf of downtown merchants is vitally important for the future of Elkhart.” The Elkhart County CVB and Elkhart Redevelopment Commission collaborate each year to fund and manage Do Downtown Elkhart promotional activities. The Elkhart County CVB was also a finalist for four other awards: * Best Culinary Focused Marketing Campaign for Elkhart County Restaurant Weeks * Best Overall Marketing Campaign for Elkhart Exit 92 * Best Visitors Guide for the Elkhart County Area Guide * Best Website for VisitElkhartCounty.com “We love downtown Elkhart and how much it has grown and continues to evolve,” Hunsberger said. “Spreading the word and attracting more residents, visitors and investment is a fantastic outcome that we all benefit from.”

Michigan-based Journeyman Distillery announced two new additions to its leadership team. Tim Turbett is Journeyman Distillery’s new director of marketing. Michael Wozniak steps into the newly created role of chief operating officer. Both Turbett and Wozniak both bring global hospitality experience to their new positions. “We’re raising a glass to welcome experience, enthusiasm and leadership to Journeyman Distillery,” said Bill Welter, Journeyman Distillery co-founder and CEO, in a press release [https://lnkd.in/g8JcHp6s]. “Our team embodies a strong sense of determination and craftsmanship in everything we do, and Tim and Mike will bring their extensive backgrounds to build a platform that elevates our brand.” Turbett has 20 years of experience in marketing. He specializes in brand strategy and creative development. He has worked with organizations in the lifestyle, wine and spirits and food and restaurant industries such as Terlato Wine International and Budweiser. Wozniak has also led creative strategy for Redbox and Valspar. Turbett earned a bachelor’s degree from Columbia College Chicago. He is the founder of marketing consultancy firm, Zanik Design. Wozniak has served in several C-suite positions. He has consulted and led restaurants, hotel and resort groups and entertainment firms like Hard Rock International and V&E Restaurant Group. Wozniak has an affinity for scratch-made culinary concepts similar to Journeyman’s restaurants. Wozniak has a culinary background that started with shucking oysters during his days at the University of Central Florida. He studied at several culinary schools, has traveled to over 41 countries and worked in MICHELIN-recognized kitchens. Journeyman Distillery was founded in 2010, by Bill and Johanna Welter. Their Three Oaks, Michigan location, once home to an 1800s corset and buggy factory, houses the distillery’s production hub. Journeyman opened The American Factory, a distillery and brewery in Valparaiso, Bill Welter’s hometown, in October 2023.

The Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2025 annual meeting to a sold-out crowd. Nearly 500 local business leaders, dignitaries and community members attended. Brian Conybeare of ABC 57 served as emcee. The luncheon began with an invocation by Pastor Lori King of Guidance Ministries. David Findlay, Lake City Bank president, kicked off the meeting festivities.? At the meeting, the chamber honored individuals and organizations in the community. The 2025 award winners included: * Business of the Year: Boling Vision Center. Over the past year, the chamber’s Business Recognition Council selected twelve Businesses of the Month from nominations. The criteria for Business of the Month includes growth, innovation, entrepreneurial story, community involvement and impact on the local economy. * Nonprofit of the Year: Boys and Girls Clubs of Elkhart County. Each year the Business Recognition Council recognizes one nonprofit organization that serves the community. Throughout the year, the chamber honored four nonprofits and selected the nonprofit of the year from those winners. * Century Plus Community Award: Bull Moose Tube. The chamber presents the Century Plus Community Award annually to a chamber member business or organization who has operated in the Region for 100 years or more. The recipient will also have demonstrated a commitment to the strengthening of the Greater Elkhart area. * Woman of the Year: Jess Koscher, Write Connections president/CEO. The Women’s Council recognizes a woman who has distinguished herself in her organization, profession and community. * Ambassador of the Year: Chris Boynton, B100/Federated Media. The Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year builds relationships and meets with companies to aid growth and success. The ambassador represents their company and the chamber at networking events and member celebrations. “We are thrilled to see such a strong turnout at this year's annual meeting,” said Levon Johnson, Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, in a press release [https://lnkd.in/eg-dYMrJ]. “It's a testament to the vibrant business community we have here in Elkhart and the chamber's dedication to fostering growth and collaboration.” The event also included a panel discussion “We Are Better Together” moderated by Johnson. Panelists included Arvis Dawson, Elkhart City Council; Suzie Weirick, Elkhart County commissioner; Joanna King, Indiana House of Representatives, District 49; and Rudy Yakym, U.S. House of Representatives. The Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce aims to serve as a resource for businesses of all sizes and industries. It offers support, advocacy and networking opportunities.

Northwest Health and Lakeshore Public Media are presenting two free community screenings of a documentary about menopause. The documentary, The [M] Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause, centers on the experiences of women across the U.S. Cameras follow women into their doctors’ offices, at work and in their homes. The film exposes the challenges they face—regarding race, gender, structures and barriers. The women featured in the film open up about their experiences. They share their stories of enduring symptoms yet feeling ignored, ridiculed and left untreated. Following the screening, conversations with obstetrics/gynecology physicians will engage attendees. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss menopause health concerns and tell their stories. “At Northwest Health, we know the importance of empowering people with information to help them live healthier,” said Kelly Credit, Northwest Health spokesperson, in a press release [https://lnkd.in/geiGswpw]. “We are pleased to share this eye-opening film along with an opportunity for women to connect with others and discuss their shared experiences with a physician who understands.” Screenings [https://lnkd.in/gU4n9UzN] will take place 5:30 to 8 p.m. March 12 at Sand Creek Country Club in Chesterton and 5:30 to 8 p.m. April 8 at Uptown Social in Michigan City. “Working together, Northwest Health and Lakeshore Public Media can help ensure that conversations about menopause and other health issues are brought to the forefront,” Chuck Roberts, Lakeshore Public Media president and CEO, said. “Together we can offer women and community members the tools, resources and support needed to navigate health care challenges experienced by Northwest Indiana residents.”

Six University of Notre Dame students and alumni have earned spots on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for 2025. The annual list honors entrepreneurs, innovators and creators under the age of 30. This year’s list includes seniors Zachary Brown and Liam Redmond. It also includes alumni Royce Branning, Kevin Mekulu, Krystal McLeod and Brandon Wimbush. Brown and Redmond were recognized in the Youngest and Transportation & Mobility categories for co-founding Yelo. Yelo is a social ride network that helps students match for rides around town. The app launched in 2023 and generated $20,000 within its first month. The Forbes 30 Under 30 recognition came as a surprise. “It’s a validation of the work we’ve done so far and a reminder of the potential impact we can have,” Redmond said in a press release [https://lnkd.in/g8bNyxR2]. “But for now, it’s heads down as we prepare for our expansion and the opportunity to bring Yelo to new campuses.” Branning, a 2018 alumni, was included in the social media category alongside co-founder Oliver Hill. The pair launched the app Clearspace, recently valued at $20 million. Clearspace intercepts opens of social media apps and requires users to do something like breathing exercises or pushups to continue. Mekulu, a 2018 alumni, was included in the health care category for his technology DementiAnalytics. The technology utilizes smart devices. It generates a cognitive assessment of a patient in under five minutes based on speech, eye tracking and vitals. McLeod earned her degree from Notre Dame Law School in 2021. She was included in the education category for her work as director of New York University's Center on Violence and Recovery. Since joining the center, McLeod has raised $2.8 million. Wimbush, former Notre Dame quarterback and 2018 alumni, was included in the sports category for his role in co-founding MOGL. MOGL is a marketplace that helps businesses connect with college athletes to form name, image and likeness marketing deals. “We are deeply honored by Forbes's recognition of our exceptional alumni and students,” Karen Deak, interim executive director of the university’s IDEA Center, said. “This distinction highlights the vibrant innovation ecosystem we are cultivating at the university — where groundbreaking ideas not only flourish but also become products and services that make a difference in our world.”

Bethany Burgun has joined Indiana University South Bend as director of development. In her new role, Burgan will help advance strategic priorities, experiences for students and faculty and staff resources. “I’m excited to help IU South Bend make a high-quality education affordable and accessible to all students,” Burgun said in a press release [https://lnkd.in/g6PcR-3v]. Burgun brings a background in education to the role. She has served as a classroom teacher and higher education administrator. Burgun has worked in alumni relations and student affairs at the collegiate level. She has been involved in the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education. She also served as the Indiana Deputy State Whip for NAFSA: the Association for International Educators. Burgun previously served as director of mission advancement at Saint Joseph High School in South Bend. Her work included closing the school’s Forward in Faith Campaign, eliminating the school’s debt. She helped establish new endowments, strengthened the annual fund and grew the advancement team. Rob DeCleene, IU South Bend vice chancellor for university relations and advancement, said Burgun has strong relationships with the community. “Many of those people have a connection to IU South Bend so Bethany will be able to expand on those relationships and continue working with them in a new way,” DeCleene said. Burgun will begin meeting with internal colleagues and learning about the IU 2030 strategic plan. She will then turn her focus to establishing relationships with new and existing supporters of the campus. “There is something unique about IU South Bend and the relationship it has with the surrounding community, supporting the economic development of north central Indiana,” Burgun said. “The number of students who stay in this area and contribute to the economic impact of this community is phenomenal. The stronger IU South Bend becomes, the stronger our community becomes.”

Merrillville-based NIPSCO has opened applications for the 2025 Environmental Action Grant. The annual endowment is awarded to local organizations to help fund environmental projects and programming across NIPSCO’s service area. “As engaged corporate citizens, we take our responsibility to protect and nurture the environment that sustains and strengthens our communities to heart,” said Rick Calinski, NIPSCO director of public affairs and economic development, in a press release. The Environmental Action Grant program is in its tenth year. It has provided $577,000 in funding to 143 projects for environmental education and restoration. Last year, the grant review committee selected 21 initiatives from local organizations to each receive between $500 to $5,000 in funding. “Through the Environmental Action Grant, we support initiatives that preserve our natural resources and empower local organizations to create lasting social and environmental impact,” Calinski said. Many of the funded initiatives include a volunteer and community engagement component. Last year’s grant recipients included: ? The Nature Conservancy in Indiana, Festival de la Monarcha, East Chicago ? La Porte County Park Foundation, Habitat Restoration Project ? Indiana Audubon Society, Chasing Melody, Lake and Jasper Counties ? Blue Heron Ministries, Lupine Meadow Expansion at Headacres Farm, Steuben County ? The Morning Bishop Theatre Playhouse, Summer Youth Environmental Education, Gary ? Speaks for the Trees and More, Summer Nature Camp, Allen County The deadline for submissions is April 4. Learn more?here [https://lnkd.in/gZ4-wmnx]. NIPSCO will announce grant recipients the week of April 21 in recognition of Earth Day.

Officials gathered for a steel topping ceremony at Four Winds Field in South Bend, marking a milestone in the renovation. Attendees watched as the final steel beam for the new upper deck roof, adorned with signatures, was lifted into place. South Bend Mayor James Mueller and South Bend Cubs owner Andrew Berlin were on hand for the ceremony. Members of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and other local and state officials also attended. Mayor James Mueller spoke about the project's impact on the local community. “This expansion project stands as a testament to the steadfast dedication of our community and the South Bend Cubs in revitalizing our city and bringing this world-class vision to life,” Mueller said in a press release [https://lnkd.in/e5eA-yFs]. “It’s an exciting time for South Bend and I am thrilled to see what this transformation project has in store for the growth of our city and the surrounding neighborhood.” The renovation project features upgrades and expansions to the stadium. “As we approach the midpoint of the renovation here at Four Winds Field, I'm already imagining the memories that will be created for fans in this re-imagined stadium,” Berlin said. The project involves adding a second floor to the concourse to create suites and party deck space. The existing Pepsi Club is also being upgraded. Work on relocating and enlarging the splash zone is also underway. “We are thrilled to celebrate the steel topping ceremony for the new upper deck at Four Winds Field, marking a significant milestone in this transformative renovation project,” Brian Larson, Larson-Danielson Construction president, said. Larson-Danielson is the construction manager for the two-year, $48 million project. The City of South Bend owns Four Winds Field. It is home to the South Bend Cubs, the High-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs.

South Bend-based General Stamping & Metalworks appointed Kellen Zollinger as chief financial officer, effective March 3. ? Zollinger succeeds John Ryal, who retired Feb. 28. Zollinger spent three months working with Ryal prior to his retirement. Zollinger will oversee the company’s accounting, human resource, IT, purchasing and administrative departments. Zollinger brings leadership experience to his new role. Prior to joining General Stamping & Metalworks, he served in positions with Whirlpool, CTB Brock Grain Systems and Patrick Industries. Zollinger earned a bachelor’s degree in financial and economics from Brigham Young University – Idaho. He also earned his MBA in general management and international business from Brigham Young University. “I am excited to welcome Kellen Zollinger to the General Stamping & Metalworks family as our new CFO,” said John Marshall, president, in a press release [https://lnkd.in/gPJKHYtB]. “In his short time with GSM, Kellen has already demonstrated the knowledge and passion that we need to move GSM to the next level, and I look forward to working alongside him in the years ahead.” Established in 1922, General Stamping & Metalworks manufactures fabricated metal parts. The company serves original equipment manufacturers across several industries, including outdoor power equipment, industrial equipment, agricultural equipment, recreational vehicles and solar energy.