28th Annual Celebration of Leadership Nominees

INDIVIDUALS

Arts

David Brown

David Brown

Nominated by Susan Vaughn

In the spirit of historical education and preservation, Dave Brown has collected documents with verified signatures of every US president. In addition to donating his entire collection to the William Henry Harrison Presidential Mansion and Visitors Center in Vincennes, he also shared it with the community through an exhibit at the Evansville Museum last year, hosting tours and giving lively gallery talks.

Zach Evans

Zach Evans

Nominated by Nathan Jochum

Zach Evans is a leader in our arts community, putting endless energy and time into area events, performances, and art programs. At the Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana, Zach does the marketing and curates the “On the Roof” music series. He is also director of ParksFest, makes art for music events and albums, and is a member in one of Evansville’s most popular bands, Corduroy Orbison.

Debbie Goldman

Debbie Goldman

Nominated by Josh Armstrong

Retired pediatrician Dr. Debbie Goldman has begun making beautiful art from driftwood and other objects found while cleaning up our riverfront and other shores. Her first show was held in December at USI’s McCutchan Art Center and Pace Gallery, where she generously donated all the artwork so it could be sold with all profits going to the University’s Art and Design department.

Dr. Roger Kalia

Dr. Roger Kalia

Nominated by Kimberly Bredemeier

Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra Music Director, Dr. Roger Kalia, inspires our community with the gift of orchestral music. Kalia’s dynamic presence on and off the podium invites us to share his love of music, and his willingness to include our community brings a special dynamic to the performances. In his first few years as Director, he created innovative programming (especially during the pandemic) and partnered with many local organizations and artists, winning the hearts of local music lovers.

Annie Kim

Annie Kim

Nominated by Andrew Carter

Student and concertmaster for the UE symphony orchestra, Annie Kim has established and grown UE United Sound, a student club and ChangeLab course at UE based on the national group aimed at removing barriers and fostering social change through music. They train UE music students to teach younger students with disabilities how to play instruments, and give them exciting opportunities to perform, such as at the Victory Theatre for the Holiday Pops concert.

Justin McCullough-Haddix

Justin McCullough-Haddix

Nominated by Nathan McCullough-Haddix

An EVSC educator for 13 years, Justin McCullough-Haddix strives to create a safe space for his students to be their most authentic selves through the art of stagecraft. Be it through the Reitz High School Theatre Department, EVSC Summer Musical, or the Sexuality and Gender Alliance Program, he works tirelessly to support this community’s youth. Through his volunteer work, he has built strong community connections to better support his students and connect them to other young people across the region.

Rob Millard-Mendez

Rob Millard-Mendez

Nominated by Kristina Arwood

Through his positivity and dedication to both his students and his craft, Rob Millard-Mendez, professor of Art and Design at USI, is bettering our community through teaching and creating art. For more than 20 years, he has inspired the next generation of artists and given them the skills to pursue careers in the fine arts. He inspires outside the classroom by crafting beautiful pieces of artwork shown in exhibitions around the world and donates his time and work to area nonprofits.

Robert Nicholls

Robert Nicholls

Nominated by Jake Kohlmeyer

Robert Nicholls, First Presbyterian Church’s Director of Music since 1996, brings unparalleled energy to our region’s choral and organ music. Aside from directing the Church’s choir and leading the local chapter of the American Guild of Organists, Robert works to establish programs that bring all people together, performing works from all faiths and cultures and intentionally incorporating diverse artists—even those of no faith—all for the love of music. He also created Evansville’s Beer Choir in 2019.

Suzanne Schriber

Suzanne Schriber

Nominated by Terry Becker

Countless people in our community and across the nation credit Suzanne Schriber for giving them their first experience as a performer. Over the years she has worked at the elementary, high school, college, and community level in music and musical theater, uplifting students and colleagues on and off the stage. Her commitment has always been to give the experience of performing to as many people as possible and she has touched many lives in a profound way.

Tiffany Ball and Robert Hunt

Tiffany Ball and Robert Hunt

Nominated by Suzanne Schriber

Tiffany Ball and Robert Hunt have been friends for over 30 years, and this dynamic duo works tirelessly to build a theatrical company where everyone can feel safe regardless of backgrounds, skills and views. In the past nine years, they have partnered to present 20 shows for the EVSC Summer Musical, The Jacob Ball Wish Fund Production, and the Bosse Theatre Project. Their enthusiasm for theater arts is an inspiration to all those that work with them.

Community & Neighborhood

Kent Anderson

Kent Anderson

Nominated by Amanda Redenbaugh

In June of 2021, Kent Anderson joined Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Indiana as a mentor. Since then, Kent has gone above and beyond to get his Little Brother, Antonio, to open up more by sharing new experiences with him and encouraging him to try things like ice skating and trying out for basketball. Antonio is able to stand on his own and not be afraid because of what Kent has taught him in the last 2 years.

Andrew Backes

Andrew Backes

Nominated by Amanda Redenbaugh

In the two years that Andrew Backes has been Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Indiana, he has positively changed the trajectory of the organization, reducing unmatched Littles by 44%. A defender of youth potential, he never misses an opportunity to educate and encourage friends, family, and community members as to how they can get involved—not just with BBBS, but with many youth-serving agencies in our community.

Nicki Blythe

Nicki Blythe

Nominated by Pamela Young

As the Executive Director of Home For Your Heart School, Director of Next Gen Ministries and Director of Community Partnerships, Nicki Blythe made a full-time commitment 17 years ago to the families and community of Evansville. She  leads the school and ministries with a servant’s true heart. She strives to make each and every person, child, and adult feel special in work and play.

Wendy Chinn

Wendy Chinn

Nominated by Jillian Gibson & April Goebel

Director of Diversity at Ivy Tech, and board member and active volunteer at many organizations, Wendy Chinn’s service spans her passions of diversity and inclusion, infants, elderly, and especially, furthering youth education. She recently started her own mentoring program, My Community First Mentoring. In all of these causes, she goes above and beyond to make sure people have the resources they need to succeed.

Leonard Collins

Leonard Collins

Nominated by Lu Porter

Leonard Collins is a veteran, a hardworking advocate for his neighborhood, and respected by civic leaders in the community. He has served as the proud president of the Goosetown Neighborhood Association for over a decade, providing the leadership that the area needed to navigate a changing environment. He is a trusted voice that can be looked to for guidance and comfort in tough times.

Jack Deig

Jack Deig

Nominated by Erin Lewis

As a high school student, Jack Deig saw a problem in our community—not everyone has access to filtered drinking water. He entered UE’s High School Changemaker Challenge with his idea to provide clean drinking water to all through Hydration Stations. Continuing his work at UE Changelab, he has now installed a free drinking water machine at Patchwork Central, and more are being installed around Evansville’s downtown, specifically targeting those experiencing homelessness.

Amanda Deutsch

Amanda Deutsch

Nominated by Judi Reininga

Amanda Deutsch has a passion for helping others which has stemmed from her involvement with the 4-H Program since she was in the third grade. She has provided over one thousand hours of volunteer services to different organizations in our community like the Boys & Girls Club, the YMCA after school programs, Tri-State Food Bank, local nursing homes and her local church’s food pantry. Amanda is dedicated to making Evansville and the surrounding areas are a better place to live for people of all ages.

Rev. Floyd Edwards, Sr.

Rev. Floyd Edwards, Sr.

Nominated by Missy Mosby

Rev. Floyd Edwards, Sr. has advocated for minority communities and the homeless for over 50 years, working tirelessly to motivate and empower people toward justice both locally and at the state level. He has served in every office for the Indiana Consortium of State and Local Human Rights Agencies, as well as for local organizations supporting LGBTQ rights, fair housing, people with disabilities, and racial equity.

Rev. Kevin Fleming (D)

Rev. Kevin Fleming (D)

Nominated by Dr. Rabbi Gary Mazo

Reverend Kevin Fleming mobilized the local faith community to come together for acts of love, kindness, and justice. Working with leaders of Temple Adath B’nai Israel and the Islamic Center of Evansville, he created the “One God, One Community” partnership, uniting congregations from the Abrahamic traditions. He was tirelessly dedicated to improving the lives of those around him and working for social justice and a strong interfaith community, and he made all of us who knew him better human beings. Though the community lost Kevin in 2022, his leadership will live on.

Terri Hartweck

Terri Hartweck

Nominated by Sandy James

Terri Hartweck has been the daycare director of Caring Friends Daycare Ministry for almost 31 years. She is a true child advocate that is always there for children and their families. Additionally, Terri volunteers for many local charities like Little Lambs, Feed Evansville, Junior League, and many others. Terri is always putting others’ needs ahead of her own, and is a true leader in our community and an inspiration to us all.

Geronica Hazelwood-Conner

Geronica Hazelwood-Conner

Nominated by Vera & Carisa Campbell

Geronica Hazelwood-Conner is the Founder and Executive Director of Missing Pieces Community Development Corporation. Seeing her sister struggle with transportation issues created a passion in her to start a transportation company to help people get to doctor appointments, treatment centers, and worksites. She and her organization help people in our community every day in real ways.

Sophie Kloppenburg

Sophie Kloppenburg

Nominated by Don Crankshaw

When Mount Vernon High School senior Sophie Kloppenburg heard that the largest lynching in Indiana history had taken place in her hometown in 1878, she did some digging. Upon discovering the horrific truths, she set out to honor the victims with a memorial bench and history marker in Mount Vernon’s courthouse—the site of the killings. Sophie thanked the town for the progress they have made, and their ability to have difficult conversations while giving voice to minorities.

Marcia Lynch-Duncan

Marcia Lynch-Duncan

Nominated by K Pullom

Cutting hair for nearly 50 years, Mrs. Marcia Lynch-Duncan was the first widely recognized, successful female barber in the city of Evansville, and one of the few women barbers in the state. Her success as the owner of Lynch’s House of Coiffure, the oldest and most established Black-owned business in Evansville, has served as a model for aspiring hair care professionals and entrepreneurs to follow. She has also served many organizations and committees to help youth, women, and minorities, gain standing in our community.

Mackenzee McKittrick

Mackenzee McKittrick

Nominated by Drew Brown

Mackenzee McKittrick dedicates herself to helping both animals and people. Through the Vanderburgh Humane Society, she is always coming up with new, creative ideas to inspire others to help out the animals in our community without homes. She also offers her free time to support those who cannot care for their animals.

Drew Mehta

Drew Mehta

Nominated by Dr. Brad Scheu

Dr. Drew Mehta, a family medicine physician at Deaconess Clinic, has become an instrumental part of the volunteer community at The Potter’s Wheel, serving multiple times per week in the organization’s service programs. Dr. Mehta helps people understand and manage their health and well-being, and provides education about the effects of addiction on themselves and those they love. His presence at The Potter’s Wheel has led to improved well-being and even lives saved among the people who come for assistance and community.

Aaron Miller

Aaron Miller

Nominated by Lawrence Taylor

Aaron Miller runs Invictus, a nonprofit organization which refurbishes and sells gently used home and office furniture. The proceeds go to affordable housing for US veterans. He wants to give an underserved population the ability to live with dignity and respect.

Kori Miller

Kori Miller

Nominated by Lu Porter

As the director of the Evansville African American Museum, Kori Miller’s collaborative leadership has brought new partners into the museum for expansion of mission and scope. To lead any museum in the challenging 21st Century is no easy task, but he is someone who can make the dream of the museum live in this new era.

Estella Moss

Estella Moss

Nominated by Kelley Coures

Estella Moss has worked her entire life for civil rights, from riding in the back of the bus in a segregated Evansville to being known as a trailblazing, revered community figure. Only 16 years old when she began helping register Black people to vote, she would later persuade Black people to run for office and gain employment. She was the first Black woman to be elected to office in Vanderburgh County, serving as country recorder for 8 years, and then on the City-County Human Relations Committee. At 95 years old, she has truly given her life to social justice.

Kim Mullins

Kim Mullins

Nominated by Alyssa Brown

Kim Mullins is the founder of Homie’s Hope, an organization which provides support to families and children fighting Mitochondrial Disease. Kim’s niece Abigail, diagnosed at 18 months with the disease, was not expected to live past nine. Throughout its 15 years, Homie’s Hope has raised over $204,000 and has seen Abigail not only surpass her ninth, but her 21st birthday.

Tyler Myers

Tyler Myers

Nominated by Andrew Carter

Inspired by a sibling who has sensory processing challenges, high school senior Tyler Myers has committed his time and energy to helping Evansville become a more inclusive community. He is doing this through the nonprofit organization he founded: Driving for Change: Sensory Inclusion. By placing Sensory Inclusion bags at key institutions throughout the city, he is opening the doors of the Evansville community for more people to enjoy life in a way that is safe and accessible to their needs.

Luke Nordine

Luke Nordine

Nominated by Laura Nordine

Luke Nordine works as a local Commercial Real Estate Appraiser at David Matthews and Associates and is the current President of the Hoosier State Chapter of the Appraisal Institute. He is always collaborating with other professionals to see how he can give back. He uses his passion for affordable housing to endlessly give back to Habitat for Humanity, and helped them get involved with Walking for Dreams, which helped to raise over $70,000.

Emily Patton

Emily Patton

Nominated by Amanda Redenbaugh

Since being matched through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Indiana, Emily Patton has created a positive, safe, and welcoming relationship with her Little Sister Gracie and has helped her make huge strides. Emily is constantly adapting to Gracie’s passions, and certainly goes above and beyond as a Big, working with Gracie’s speech therapist and mentoring her in ways that both strengthen their relationship and her relationship with others. In addition to her dedication to her Little Sister, Emily also volunteers for BBBS fundraisers and sits on the Board of Directors.

Brenda Phelps

Brenda Phelps

Nominated by Lawrence Taylor

Brenda Phelps has been serving the homeless community through her involvement with United Caring Services. She gives her time, talent, and resources to UCS on a daily basis, working on projects during the week and weekend to accomplish their mission. She truly believes that everyone should have the opportunity to have a dignified living space and access to resources to adequately care for themselves.

Brian Southern

Brian Southern

Nominated by Kori Miller

An engineer and insurance agent by trade, Brian Southern spends equal or more time volunteering toward his passions through the Red Cross’s Disaster Action Team, the Evansville African American Museum Board, and the Southern Indiana Mentoring Academy (SIMA) Executive Committee. He works tirelessly to bring together people and organizations to create action, always bridging gaps of equity and diversity. Brian also leverages his company’s national presence to help sponsor and promote various events.

Erum Shafi Syed

Erum Shafi Syed

Nominated by Abdul Samee Mohammed

Erum Shafi Syed has been instrumental in the formation and continued success of MASIHA Free Clinic and Mobile Food Pantry. Erum helped the Food Pantry partner with DoorDash to deliver food to community members in need. She registered and got federal immunity for the Free Clinic in record time, giving a huge advantage to the clinic so the doctors can volunteer without having to fear for liability.

Teddy the Therapy Pig

Teddy the Therapy Pig

Nominated by Jennifer Darnell

Teddy, rescued by Oinking Acres farm before being adopted by his parents, is an uncommonly friendly pig. Because of this, his family decided to try getting him certified as a therapy animal. He now makes visits to long-term care facilities, schools, museums, libraries, and local events. His mission is to bring joy to everyone he meets, and create a relaxed atmosphere to help kids with reading or to soothe patients. In addition, Teddy and his family educate the public about animal welfare issues, and help dispel common myths about pigs.

Dacia Wilkerson

Dacia Wilkerson

Nominated by Makinlyn Winkler

As a science teacher at Princeton Community Intermediate School, Dacia Wilkerson has built some of the most caring relationships with most, if not all, students at the school. Her commitment to helping each and every student continues through her role as Site Coordinator for the Y Reach after school program, and as leader of the student advisory council. She is always striving to serve the Princeton youth now and in the future. Dacia is committed to making sure all students feel loved, heard, and know that they belong.

Laura Ziliak

Laura Ziliak

Nominated by Amanda Redenbaugh

Big Sister Laura Ziliak is very supportive of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Indiana. She has been a consistent presence in her Little Sister’s life since being matched, often throughout her own personal tragedies and life events. She helps Catty speak up for herself, has introduced her to experiences she never would have had without being matched, and even spends time with Catty’s two sisters, inviting them along on many outings and ensuring they have positive experiences as well. In addition, she is always recruiting volunteers in the Haubstadt area for BBBS.

Education

Jane Ann Bradford

Jane Ann Bradford

Nominated by Casey DePriest

Jane Ann Bradford is an educator at Optimal Rhythms who selflessly gives and advocates for those who are underestimated or misunderstood. She is a friend to everyone and is never shy to engage someone in learning something new or gaining from her own lived experience. Jane Ann takes good care of her team, lifting them up on the hard days and celebrating successes on the good ones. She understands the many obstacles neurodiverse individuals face in our schools, medical centers, places of worship, and our community.  She values diversity and seeks to make sure everyone has a place and a voice.

Rob Carroll

Rob Carroll

Nominated by Gracie Schmitt

Dr. Rob Carroll, through his tenure as principal of South Heights Elementary in Henderson and his current role as a teacher educator at USI, treats each human he meets with great dignity and respect. His passion for people shows in all of his work and life, as he empowers everyone to succeed and counts his successes not by his accolades, but by the success and happiness of those around him.

Jason Emmerson

Jason Emmerson

Nominated by Jared Totsch

In his few months at St. Vincent Early Learning Center, Jason Emmerson’s work is already building the commitment, relationships, and philanthropy of staff, families, supporters, and community. Jason betters the community at SVELC, through his various board service, and volunteerism. He has brought new passions, perspectives, and ways to problem solve, making everyone feel that they will be successful in their mission of serving children and families.

Carol Havens

Carol Havens

Nominated by Andrea Lantz

After retiring from nursing, Carol Havens dedicated her time to improving the lives of people in our community by talking about death. She strives to increase education opportunities for more people to feel empowered, informed, and prepared to make difficult decisions at a difficult time. She has created a comprehensive organizer so more people and their loved ones are prepared for the event of a medical crisis or death.

Jay Hille

Jay Hille

Nominated by Donna Groves

Jay Hille has been with the EVSC for over 25 years and currently serves at Harwood alternative school, where he is always thinking outside of the box to give students the best experiences. Two years ago, he started a basketball team, which he also referees. To participate, he requires students to do their homework and keep up grades. He also collaborated with the community to get uniforms donated. He has always been a positive and optimistic person that takes each child’s interest to heart.

Audra Kellams

Audra Kellams

Nominated by Kimberly Zirkelbach

As Chief Administrative Officer for EVSC middle schools, Audra Kellams works with all administrators, coaches, and teachers to improve our students’ educational experience. She is an excellent leader who supports educational leaders and remains student-focused. Audra always puts what will best help kids at the forefront and is passionate about student success. She listens to concerns and is a woman of action, always looking for solutions. Audra’s work with educational leaders ensures that every student in attendance receives a quality education.

Ted McCreary

Ted McCreary

Nominated by Brian Southern

Ted McCreary is the founder and president of Southern Indiana Mentoring Academy (SIMA), a student mentoring organization  that serves low-income schools in Evansville. He works tirelessly to make the vision of SIMA a reality. He is at Lincoln Elementary every day creating stability and being a strong role model for all the kids. He has recruited most of the volunteers serving SIMA and is constantly working with community and business leaders to obtain the resources necessary. Ted also serves on the Board of the Evansville African American Museum.

Dr. Shallegra Moye

Dr. Shallegra Moye

Nominated by Terri Minor Spencer

Dr. Shallegra Moye is the founder and Executive Director of Brilliantly Blessed Community Health and Wellness, a non-profit organization that supports students, families, and educators in Pittsburgh PA. She is also the Program Manager of the Heinz Fellowship within the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Urban Education, where she is the liaison for university, school, family, and community partnerships that maximize social justice and equity for students in several local school districts.

Jessica Ong

Jessica Ong

Nominated by Cedric Armstrong

Jessica Ong, a high school student at San Diego’s Westview High School started the San Diego Unified School District’s art clubs. She currently runs art clubs across three schools. Due to COVID, budget cuts, and a virtual learning environment, some students have missed attending art classes. Jessica has volunteered her time and talent so that students can experience the joy of learning about and creating art.

Cassandra Rains-Francis

Cassandra Rains-Francis

Nominated by Andrea Lantz

Cassandra Rains-Francis is an emerging strong voice for the local Black community, focusing on ways we are all connected, and how people can unite to become better versions of themselves. She has created opportunities for so many women to grow and heal from grief through her business, Life After Love, and also serves as DEI leader at Plank Nutrition Bar. She inspires people to talk about difficult subjects including grief, as well as racism and inequality, so our community is healthier – mind, body, and spirit.

Elisabet Sena-Martin

Elisabet Sena-Martin

Nominated by Emily Wilderman

Elisabet (Ely) Sena-Martin has used her life experiences to make a commitment to our community through her role as President of the EVSC Foundation. Under Ely’s leadership, the EVSC Foundation has made a focus on helping students in transformative ways. Ely works collaboratively with many organizations to find partnerships that work for each school and teacher, and invests her passion in public education and children’s futures as a way to create a vibrant and inclusive community for the Evansville area.

Robin Woebkenberg

Robin Woebkenberg

Nominated by Jessica Dennis

Coordinator for EVSC’s OptIN program, Robin Woebkenberg works with individual students, parents, schools, and companies, to ensure that ALL students in EVSC have the chance at a productive and happy future. Be it career training, interview preparation, or help with college applications, Robin will make it happen to help each student toward their next step. 

Government, Public Service, & Environment

Rev. Gerald Arnold

Rev. Gerald Arnold

Nominated by Lu Porter

Rev. Gerald Arnold is a true servant leader who, as the head of the local NAACP, strives to make our immediate world a more equitable place. Throughout his life, he has spoken out where civil rights are threatened or fairness to minorities was denied, inspiring several generations in pursuit of diversity. He has worked in collaboration with all facets of the community, to speak truth, to empower and enlighten his fellow citizens, to right wrongs, and to help those less fortunate.

Kelley Coures

Kelley Coures

Nominated by Lu Porter

Kelley Coures is an advocate for all marginalized people. As Director of Metropolitan Development for nine years, he has advocated for blight removal, revitalization, and the preservation of important Black heritage sites. He also collaborated with others to seek and obtain the Promise Zone award for Evansville. In addition, he is extremely well-versed in Evansville’s Black and LGBT history which he uses to educate others through talks and his new book.

Debbera DiLena

Debbera DiLena

Nominated by Drew Moscow

A police sergeant at Georgetown University, Debbera puts the community first to better the environment. She treats everyone fairly, provides direct leadership to inspire her superiors, and is a role model to young individuals. She practices leadership by engaging with the community and discussing problems to be solved, and by committing herself to her officers and pushing them in the right direction.

Deonte Meriwether

Deonte Meriwether

Nominated by Zach Garcia

Deonte is a leader of environmental, ecological, and social flourishment for Wesselman Woods and the region. Beyond his regular duties as Director of Operations, he leads the Eco-Access Initiative, a program that harnesses the power of our local communities to further establish and assure equal access to Wesselman Woods. More than sharing the love of nature with all people, he is creating a collaborative network of organizations to strengthen the Woods and our community as a whole.

Taylor Merriss

Taylor Merriss

Nominated by Casey DePriest

Officer for the Evansville Police Department, Taylor Merriss developed a registry to ensure the safety of neurodiverse individuals when experiencing a crisis or accident. First listening, she then collaborated with EPD, Optimal Rhythms, and Central Dispatch, to get the project off the ground. We now have over 30 families who can sleep easier at night knowing that their loved one will be given needed considerations for communication and sensory needs in the event of an emergency. Taylor does not back away from challenging tasks; she jumps in with both feet to ensure that progress happens and awareness is raised.

Mario Reid

Mario Reid

Nominated by Jessica Reid

Mario Reid is committed to serving the Evansville community through his extensive work with those struggling with mental health issues. As an officer for the Evansville Police Department, he saw a need in the community and was able to research solutions, propose new ideas, and ultimately bring progressive thinking to his department. Mario works hard to build relationships with residents and community partners to ensure each person gets the assistance and support they need.

Shirley Starks

Shirley Starks

Nominated by Lynn Kyle

As Director of the Department of Child Services, Shirley Starks has served the children and families of our community for many years. She flies under the radar, as she quietly cares for her team, and as she cares for the children and families of Vanderburgh County in many roles and in many ways. She believes in everyone having an opportunity to thrive, and that people of all ages and stages have many experiences, strengths, challenges, hopes, and dreams and each and every one of them should be valued, encouraged, and seen.

Lorie Anne Van Hook

Lorie Anne Van Hook

Nominated by Steve Schaefer

As Executive Director for the Evansville Trails Coalition, Lorie Anne Van Hook helps connect people and places, promote active lifestyles, and advocate for the development of multi-use trails. She has spearheaded Evansville’s bike share program, built story trails in Garvin and Akin Park, and is working with Warrick County on a regional trail project. Lorie has become an invaluable part of our overall efforts to improve the quality of life in our region. Her ETC board and colleagues will all agree that her positive attitude is infectious and key to the success of their work.

Neil Woods

Neil Woods

Nominated by Andrea Lantz

Neil Woods is a lawyer at Woods & Woods, LLC, The Veteran’s Firm. He is dedicated to serving veterans and he and his staff are also dedicated to growing a protected area of land outside of Evansville to be one of Indiana’s largest forests. He and his family embrace conservationist values so land can be protected, enjoyed, shared and cherished. Neil is practical, yet able to be a risk taker, while seeing the big picture with desire to work together, improve, and continue to learn.  

Health & Social Services

Courtney Beitler

Courtney Beitler

Nominated by Dr. Cindy Crowe

Courtney Beitler goes above and beyond in her work as a therapist. In addition to doing pro-bono work for those in need, Courtney finds something positive within every conversation to help her clients feel better about themselves and feel empowered to make a difference not just in their lives, but in the lives of others.

Joann and Mason Bogard

Joann and Mason Bogard

Nominated by Jake Kohlmeyer

Joann Bogard lost her 15-year-old son Mason in 2019 to the “choking challenge,” a dare on social media. Ever since, she has led the effort to help parents realize it is any child that social media can affect. She has met with social media CEOs, appeared on TV, and spoken before Congress to urge the passing of KOSA (Kids Online Safety Act). Her son Mason did not die in vain. He was also able to help five people through organ donation.

Julie Davis-Brunner

Julie Davis-Brunner

Nominated by Karese Johnson

Julie Davis-Brunner has made an extraordinary commitment to Evansville’s youth for over 25 years, setting an example of good character, tenacity, and leadership for her peers and the youth she serves. Director of the CenterPoint Energy YMCA (AKA Caldwell Community Center), she is always advocating for attributes and additions that would best serve the youth. She maintains partnerships with many community organizations, and connects youth and their families to community resources, following up to ensure their needs are met.

Dr Shaukat Iftikhar

Dr Shaukat Iftikhar

Nominated by Abdul Samee Mohammed

Dr. Shaukat Iftikhar is the CEO and founder of MASIHA Free Clinic and Mobile Food Pantry. He has worked relentlessly to improve the health and welfare of our citizens, always thinking about how to help people in need who are not getting the help they deserve. Dr. Iftikhar makes it very clear that even though MASIHA was founded by Muslims, they were going to serve humanity regardless of an individual’s race, religion, sex or sexual orientation, or immigration status.

Jacy King

Jacy King

Nominated by Mendy Poole

As YouthBuild Evansville’s Case Manager, Jacy King connects students with the community to break down barriers that prevent them from building a better life. YouthBuild’s mission is to build better lives, but Jacy puts action to the mission by guiding them with a light every step of the way. Through her dedication to the youth in need of second chances, Jacy goes above and beyond to make sure students are seen, loved, and taken care of in her holistic look at human existence.

Krista Mason

Krista Mason

Nominated by Barbara Bias

Krista Mason embodies servant leadership and impacts the life of the most needy in our community every single day. As director of the God Is Good Foundation, a new state-approved refugee resettlement agency in Evansville, Krista has helped establish and set up housing for refugees, provided 15 cultural orientation classes, assisted with ESL, employment, and youth services. Since January, God Is Good has resettled about 40 refugees, counting those who are currently due to arrive, and arranging pre-arrival services for them.

Marcia Lambert

Marcia Lambert

Nominated by Kathleen Elliott

Marcia Lambert is the founder and Executive Director of The Isaiah 1:17 Project founded in Gibson County, Indiana. Marcia started this grassroots effort out of her home, with no funding, and just the dream of providing necessary support to foster families. She works long hours without thinking of herself, and makes sure that all tasks are covered and ready to provide support to those coming from vulnerable and difficult places. Her goal is to defeat the odds of 50% of  families leaving the foster journey due to lack of support.

Chris Metz

Chris Metz

Nominated by Savannah Wood

Chris Metz served ECHO Housing Corporation for more than a decade in various roles. Initially a case manager, he was then the Program Director, Assistant Director and eventually the Executive Director before he left in August of 2022. Chris was also fundamental in orchestrating and managing the city’s SARTO COVID-19 isolation center/operations through the entire pandemic. He continues to serve ECHO Housing as an Executive Consultant to ensure there are no gaps in service, and to continue advancing the mission of ECHO Housing throughout the leadership transition.

Abdul Samee Mohammed

Abdul Samee Mohammed

Nominated by Dr. Shaukat Iftikhar

Abdul Samee has been instrumental in the success of the MASIHA Free Clinic and Mobile Food Pantry. He joined the organization four years ago as a volunteer and board member, and has now also taken on the role of CFO. He is always busy doing things that many consider below their status, while still providing vision and direction. He is an unsung hero of the Evansville community who has impacted many lives without ever taking any credit.

Jessica Schnur

Jessica Schnur

Nominated by Brian Schnur

An RN, Jess received a rare liver disease diagnosis in 2014. She has since advocated for herself and other patients, focusing on fostering respect between patient and provider. Once she received her transplant she immediately focused on being an advocate for organ donation and now works for an organ donation agency. She continues to volunteer for many liver and donor organizations, always with a smile. She has also brought the Liver Life Walk to Southwest Indiana in the last four years with great success.

Amy Jo Sheeley

Amy Jo Sheeley

Nominated by Dr. Cindy Crowe

Amy Jo Sheeley has the heart of a servant combined with leadership skills that enable her to see not only problems in the field of healthcare, but also the potential solutions for those problems. Since 2020, Amy Jo has focused her managerial skills and her heart on improving healthcare for our LatinX community, from translating important healthcare materials into Spanish, partnering with local universities to present research findings, to organizing breast cancer education events and free mammograms.

PROJECTS & PROGRAMS

Arts

Before There Was Mozart with the Eykamp String Quartet

Before There Was Mozart with the Eykamp String Quartet

Nominated by Kimberly Bredemeier

Before There Was Mozart with the Eykamp String Quartet inspires students to know anyone can play/make/enjoy music. The performance centers around a lesser-known musical superstar of the 18th century, Joseph Boulogne, Chevalier de Saint-George. This inspiring story tells how Joseph, the only child of an enslaved Black woman and a White plantation owner, becomes “the most accomplished man in Europe.” This program is available, free of charge, to community schools to share the gift of music and a message of diversity.

Elf Academy

Elf Academy

Nominated by Abby Murphy

The Children’s Museum of Evansville’s Elf Academy is the holiday event of the year, engaging kids in STEAM-based activities while celebrating, and helping to ensure cMoe is able to create extraordinary experiences that ignite the imaginations of children and families through the power of play. Preparing for the event in anticipation of 250+ children and families is no small feat, and cMoe collaborates with over 30 local businesses and 25 volunteers to bring the magic to life.

Joshua Academy Music Instruction ChangeLab

Joshua Academy Music Instruction ChangeLab

Nominated by Andrew Carter

Through this course led by Fran Vile of UE’s Music Conservatory, music education students Will McDonner and Luke Robertson have established and grown an insturmental music program at Joshua Academy. Beginning with a closet full of forgotten, dusty, and broken instruments, they repaired or replaced the instruments and taught students to read and play music, finishing the year with a popular performance and partnering with the Academy’s choir.

YART

YART

Nominated by Zach Evans

YART is a bi-annual “art yard sale” that showcases a variety of artists, but also caps the price at $50 per piece so that patrons can afford to purchase local work. Having an event that allows for ease of access to local art helps create a sense of connectivity and community within the Evansville region. YART empowers artists to create a portfolio of affordable, accessible work and gives them a platform and venue to sell their work. The event truly makes artists into community leaders.

Community & Neighborhood

Cardio for Canines

Cardio for Canines

Nominated by Amanda Coburn

Cardio for Canines, the Vanderburgh Humane Society’s most popular program, is a volunteer-run, 100% free program that allows families to take a shelter dog on a walk, run, or stroll through Evansville’s Garvin Park. It is a win for the dogs who get fresh air and socialization, a win for the families who get to exercise together, and a win for our community by utilizing our city parks’ green spaces!

Chloe Randolph Organization, Inc.

Chloe Randolph Organization, Inc.

Nominated by Nancy Cutrell

The Chloe Randolph Organization, Inc. is raising awareness for victims of domestic violence. They are providing hope before it becomes too late, to make victims feel they are not alone. Their vision is to build the first women’s advocacy center in Henderson. This organization arose through the traumatic loss of a beautiful daughter, Chloe, being murdered at the hands of her own husband. It has become a safe haven for women and children who are victims of domestic abuse.

Emergency Food Assistance Program

Emergency Food Assistance Program

Nominated by Abdul Samee Mohammed

The Emergency Food Assistance Program is a unique partnership between the MASIHA Mobile Food Pantry and DoorDash to bring food to those in need. Started in April of 2022, this initiative has brought over 200 bags of food to people suffering from food insecurity. This program is helping the elderly, those experiencing homelessness, and any individual or family without transportation who are in desperate need of nourishment.

Evansville Día de los Muertos

Evansville Día de los Muertos

Nominated by Marisela De la Parra

Evansville Día de los Muertos is a spectacular example of grassroots collaboration between Evansville organizations and individuals to create an event that accurately reflects the cultural importance of Dia de los Muertos in celebrating and remembering our ancestors, and making sure the majority of the event is free for attendees. The event began with the strong support of the Montessori Academy of Evansville, and grew to include Signature School, Bosse High School, New Tech Institute, Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library and many, many individuals.

EVSC Festival of Nations

EVSC Festival of Nations

Nominated by Sara DeWitt

EVSC Festival of Nations welcomes more than 1200 guests each year to experience an international celebration through food, dance, music, games, and conversations. In addition, many local restaurants, businesses, universities, and community organizations join with students to share information and demonstrations at the event. It seeks to highlight the diversity in the international population in our schools and community, and empowers them to represent themselves and their culture. Over 26 countries are represented!

International Food Festival

International Food Festival

Nominated by Helen Azarian

The International Food Festival has been going strong for 19 years and counting, bringing the Evansville community together for a day of sharing amazing food and fellowship, while at the same time benefiting the Tri-State Food Bank. The Islamic Society of Evansville prioritizes its “giving back” outreach each year by preparing a mouthwatering array of delicious food, with event proceeds going toward helping to feed the hungry in the entire region.

Jacobsville Advantage: Powered by Fifth Third

Jacobsville Advantage: Powered by Fifth Third

Nominated by Erin Lewis

The Jacobsville Advantage: Powered by Fifth Third program, is a partnership between the Center for Innovation & Change at the University of Evansville, Fifth Third, UE’s Embrace Marketing & Communications student-run ChangeLab, and the entire Jacobsville community. They’ve come together to develop a new model for making marketing accessible to small businesses, non-profits and individuals in the community. This innovative collaboration is making a big difference for that region of our community.

Judson Street Words Project

Judson Street Words Project

Nominated by Jill Carter

The Judson Street Words Project was designed to catch the eye of people driving on Judson Street and give them uplifting words to inspire positive thoughts, both about their community and themselves. These 30-inch letters are easy to read without being a distraction. The project is meant to inspire others to follow by example. One word can change a thought. One thought can change a world.

OASIS Program at Evansville Rescue Mission

OASIS Program at Evansville Rescue Mission

Nominated by Micah Boyd

The OASIS program is an addiction recovery program at Evansville Rescue Mission that is offered to residents of the Mission. This program has helped countless men transform their lives. The OASIS program, created from the ground up by Phillip Boyd and Nate Denning, connects participants not only with recovery resources, but mental health services, financial literacy assistance, employment opportunities, long-term housing solutions, and many other necessary resources to help reduce the likelihood of future homelessness.

Sister Joanna's Table

Sister Joanna's Table

Nominated by Rev. Holly Rankin Zaher

For 40 years, Sister Joanna’s Table has been a staple in the Evansville, IN community, serving delicious and nutritious meals to between 80 and 150 guests every day. What began as a Thanksgiving dinner in 1980 has grown into a collaborative effort between multiple churches, organizations, and businesses, all working together to make a difference in the community. Sister Joanna’s Table is committed to serving everyone, regardless of their background, and creating a sense of community and fellowship through food.

Toyota Indiana YMCA

Toyota Indiana YMCA

Nominated by Lisa Verkamp

The Toyota Indiana YMCA is a first-class amenity that demonstrates a commitment to bettering the community and improving the quality of life for residents in Gibson County. The project has brought together various stakeholders, including businesses, non-profit organizations, schools, and government, to make it a reality. The YMCA’s mission is to respond to community needs by serving all people, especially youth, through activities that promote healthy spirit, mind, and body.

West End P.O.W.E.R

West End P.O.W.E.R

Nominated by Terri Minor Spencer

West End P.O.W.E.R. is a community organization in Pittsburgh PA committed to strengthening communities through activism, advocacy, education, equity, and promoting unity, particularly in communities of color and other underrepresented communities. Through the process of continued community building they collaborate to bring about positive outcomes.

Where's Waldo

Where's Waldo

Nominated by Katie Reineke

Your Brother’s Bookstore has proven its commitment to bettering the community through its “Where’s Waldo” event. Out of 4,000 bookstores in the country, YBB was one of the lucky 300 to host the event. Throughout the month of July, a city-wide hunt for Waldo cutouts took place, with 24 businesses participating and hiding their own Waldo in their store. This collaborative effort brought the community together and resulted in a big celebration outside the bookstore at the end of the month.

Education

COL 2022 Nominee Subgroup

COL 2022 Nominee Subgroup

Nominated by Beth Kroft

In a Celebration of Leadership 2022 Zoom breakout group, Dr. Lucia Crowe, Arlinda Payne, Debbie Calhoun, and Denise Kohut had an immediate connection. Although from completely different backgrounds, they identified supporting children as a unifying passion. The pod began putting their servant leadership talents together to plan an Open House with Washington Middle School, focusing on STEM and Healthcare for the LatinX community. They were able to connect with many LatinX middle school youth, in their language, to give them options for programs that can assist them with technology and healthcare advanced education.

CYPRESS Pen Pal Program

CYPRESS Pen Pal Program

Nominated by Sarah Rollins

CYPRESS’s Pen Pal Program fosters a connection between schools in the Tri-State area and the town of Amandola in Italy, allowing students from both countries to find similarities. It is the belief of CYPRESS that when students learn to connect with others of different backgrounds, compassion and understanding develop. Students who learn these values continue to foster compassion and improve their lives and the lives of those around them.

EVSC OptIN Signing Day

EVSC OptIN Signing Day

Nominated by Sara DeWitt

Much like an athletic signing day, the EVSC’s OptIN Signing Day recognizes and celebrates the hard work and dedication of students whose future plans, skills, and interests have them entering the workforce or military upon high school graduation. Taking the time to recognize these students helps serve as a reminder that there is a clear, successful path for all students based on their strengths and goals.

NTI and Company

NTI and Company

Nominated by Christopher Gibson

New Tech Institute and Community Organization (NTI & CO) is the organization of parents and families that supports EVSC New Tech Institute High School. Each year, NTI & CO hosts a regional STEM Fest that provides dynamic, hands-on STEM activities for students in the Evansville area. New Tech HS is an innovative model high school in the EVSC that focuses on STEM, Project-Based Learning, and Entrepreneurial Leadership.

SICTC Culinary Arts Program

SICTC Culinary Arts Program

Nominated by Sara DeWitt

Through EVSC’s Culinary Arts program at the Southern Indiana Career and Technical Center, students not only learn about food and cooking techniques, they put their skills to work by planning and preparing restaurant-style meals for the school’s restaurant, The Lunch Box. After a three-year hiatus, The Lunch Box is back in business and open to the public. Open three days a week, The Lunch Box not only gives students real-world experience and knowledge, it gives anyone in our community the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch and to help support our community’s future.

USI Bus Drivers - James Putnam and Jermaine Razor

USI Bus Drivers - James Putnam and Jermaine Razor

Nominated by Dr. Rob Carroll & Josie Hume

James Putnam and Jermaine Razor are METS bus drivers on USI’s campus who go above and beyond to make students feel welcome and appreciated each day. Because of their legendary reputations as campus leaders with huge hearts, Dr. Rob Carroll asked to hold a class on diversity and equity on their buses, with the drivers actively participating in discussion. James and Jermaine left the students with greater perspective and plans for further collaboration in supporting the students they drive each day.

Government, Public Service, & Environment

Data Analytics ChangeLab

Data Analytics ChangeLab

Nominated by Erin Lewis

UE’s Data Analytics ChangeLab, led by Assistant Professor of Mathematics Omid Khormali, puts its students’ talents to use for the community. They have served Deaconess, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor’s iCivics, and COVID Between the Coasts, a partnership with WNIN. Last semester, their project took data received from the United States Forestry Service and created a tool for them to identify trends in invasive species and forest fires, and they have been asked to testify before Congress about the project.

Deaconess Green Team

Deaconess Green Team

Nominated by Lynn Lingafelter

The Deaconess Green Team was created in 2018 by a group of employee volunteers who wanted to reduce waste, initiate recycling, and start composting at Deaconess. But this influential group also takes their sustainability mission outside their organization; they are often found planting trees, doing Ohio River sweeps and Keep Evansville Beautiful clean-ups, and taking part in other green initiatives around the community.

Paws for Comfort at EVPL

Paws for Comfort at EVPL

Nominated by Jake Kohlmeyer

Engaging with a warm, loving pet is known to reduce stress, anxiety, trauma, and loneliness. EVPL McCollough is now offering the opportunity for any and all people to spend time with a registered therapy dog in a new program, Paws for Comfort. Twice a month, people of all ages are welcomed to McCollough to take turns spending time with Jack the therapy dog to alleviate stress and experience joy together.

Seasons of Sharing

Seasons of Sharing

Nominated by Helen Azarian

Seasons of Sharing is an initiative of the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library whereby the community is encouraged to participate in donation drives to benefit local nonprofits. Realizing that need is present in our community year-round, a different organization is featured as a recipient for each quarterly drive. Thus far, recipients have included Hangers of the EVSC, Vanderburgh County Animal Control, Teacher Locker, and a combined recipient of Little Lambs, CAPE, and Pre-3 of the VCHD .

WNIN-FM's The Friday Wrap with John Gibson

WNIN-FM's The Friday Wrap with John Gibson

Nominated by Jake Kohlmeyer

The Friday Wrap is a weekly program on WNIN-FM hosted by beloved veteran TV news anchor and reporter John Gibson. The program delves into stories and the who, what, why, when and where behind the headlines by talking to reporters and major players in the stories. It puts the listener first and allows the story to be examined from every angle, and in greater detail than a typical news story.

Health & Social Services

Be Kind for Ollie Comfort Bags

Be Kind for Ollie Comfort Bags

Nominated by Ashley McReynolds

Oliver “Ollie” Dill was a young beacon of gentleness and love for all those he encountered; his family lost him at 3 years old in a hot car accident in 2019. His parents started the “Be Kind for Ollie” project to educate the public about the dangers of leaving children and pets in vehicles, and serves children through education, health, and other human service initiatives. One of their notable projects is the Comfort Bag program that helps alleviate stress for children in crisis situations.

Children's Mental Health ChangeLab

Children's Mental Health ChangeLab

Nominated by Erin Lewis

When children need mental health testing, it is often a year-long wait. The students at UE’s Children’s Mental Health ChangeLab worked with parents and doctors in our community to identify the root causes of this issue, and then developed an elegant, multi-tiered solution. They make it easy to view eligible doctors and wait times, and use UE’s Doctor of Psychology program to help with the backlog of doctors and paperwork, increasing affordability and speed of testing for kids.

Deaconess Medication Assistance Program

Deaconess Medication Assistance Program

Nominated by Shawn McCoy

The Medication Assistance Program (MAP) is a free service provided by Deaconess that helps qualifying patients obtain medications for little or no cost.  The program is an important safety net for patients who do not qualify for other programs and cannot currently afford the medications they need. During the last three fiscal years, Deaconess MAP specialists secured nearly $140 million in medication and copay assistance for those in need.

Deaconess SANEs

Deaconess SANEs

Nominated by Dr. Gina Huhnke

A SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) is a registered nurse with additional training in the comprehensive health care of a sexual assault victim. SANEs collect forensic evidence, document and photograph injuries, offer testing and treatment for STDs, as help with HIV and pregnancy prevention. They coordinate with law enforcement and are able to testify in court. They also connect patients to funding and support services. Each year, Deaconess SANEs provide care to approximately 150 victims.

Health Communications ChangeLab

Health Communications ChangeLab

Nominated by Erin Lewis

The Health Communications ChangeLab project has made a significant impact on the community by addressing a critical issue of vaccine education. The partnership between the Vanderburgh County Health Department and the Communication Department at UE used focus groups and research to better understand the people the VCHD is trying to serve. They then made recommendations for a public health campaign to educate the community, thus saving lives.

Lunch & Learn Series

Lunch & Learn Series

Nominated by Abdul Samee Mohammed

MASIHA’s Lunch and Learn series is a standout initiative aimed at promoting health awareness. By inviting specialist doctors to discuss and present educational topics while the audience enjoys their lunch, the program creates a comfortable and accessible learning environment. The bi-monthly lectures cover a range of topics, from stress management to diabetes management, with the goal of educating the community on how to prevent diseases and maintain good health. The program’s success is a testament to the commitment to bettering the community and promoting equity and diversity through health education.

Medical Professions Academy

Medical Professions Academy

Nominated by Sara DeWitt

The EVSC’s Medical Professions Academy (MPA) at Central High School is committed to creating opportunities for future medical professionals to develop essential skills and impact their communities. MPA offers a diverse group of students the chance to work with local and state universities and healthcare organizations, broadening their scope and fostering equity and diversity. The program provides transportation to and from Central for all EVSC students, ensuring accessibility to interested students in grades 9-11.

Over the Edge for Granted

Over the Edge for Granted

Nominated by Andrew Backes

In 2022, Granted began the Over the Edge fundraiser, where community members and Wish children rappelled down the CenterPoint Energy building, in addition to a virtual rappelling experience for the wheelchair-bound. In the first year, the event raised $271,000, six times more than their previous record! Granted is now in a position to never turn down a Wish request from a local child fighting a terminal or life threatening condition, and has been able to expand its Beyond The Wish support services for Wish children and families.

Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare's Diversity, Equity & Engagement Committee

Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare's Diversity, Equity & Engagement Committee

Nominated by Amanda Green

The D.E.E. Committee of Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and engagement within their organization and community. They strive to create an inclusive culture where all clients and staff are respected, celebrated, and embraced for their differences. They have implemented various initiatives such as educational panels, cultural celebrations, mandatory DEI training, and community outreach to fulfill their mission.

TSA Youth Group

TSA Youth Group

Nominated by Kyle Laslie

Since 1998, the TSA Youth Group has been a safe space for LGBTQIA+ teenagers in the Tri-State region. They work collaboratively with other minority student organizations, participate in local civil rights events, and advocate on behalf of LGBTQIA+ students at the school board and city and county councils. Their efforts have led to Pride month resolutions, civil rights ordinance amendments, and the first LGBTQIA+ float in the West Side Nut Club parade.

Wag 'n Drag

Wag 'n Drag

Nominated by Amanda Coburn

Wag ‘n Drag Adoption Event, hosted by the Vanderburgh Humane Society in partnership with River City Pride, provided a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals to adopt pets without fear of judgment. This event was part of VHS’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. No matter which humans we love — the love we all have for our pets is universal.

BUSINESSES & ORGANIZATIONS

Arts

Bokeh Lounge

Bokeh Lounge

Nominated by Zach Evans

Bokeh Lounge has committed itself to keeping the arts in Haynie’s Corner Arts District alive! They have weekly musical performances, poetry, and literature readings and feature a different local visual artist on their walls each month; they even have the artist do a live demonstration for the public! The artists and musicians are highly diverse, creating an equally diverse room of patrons. Bokeh also livestream almost every event for free, offering access to the arts for those who can’t make it out, can’t afford a cover, or don’t want to be in a bar to experience art.

Haynie's Corner Arts District Association

Haynie's Corner Arts District Association

Nominated by Anne McKim

The Haynie’s Corner Arts District Association is a non-profit organization committed to bettering the community through arts and entertainment programs and events. With the help of its dedicated volunteers, HCADA holds numerous events throughout the year, including monthly “First Fridays” open-air festivals and “Front Porch Fest” that feature over 50 musical acts. HCADA’s commitment to collaborative/servant leadership is evident through its all-volunteer board of directors comprised of neighborhood residents and business owners.

School of Ballet Indiana

School of Ballet Indiana

Nominated by Erin Tomlinson

The School of Ballet Indiana inspires and betters the community by providing a judgment-free zone for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn ballet. The owner practices collaborative servant leadership by ensuring the well-being of instructors, staff, and volunteers. SBI demonstrates a commitment to equity and diversity by treating everyone equally and embracing people of all ages, genders, body sizes, and skill levels.

Community & Neighborhood

Atlas® World Group

Atlas® World Group

Nominated by Colton Howard

Atlas World Group, a transportation and services company headquartered in Evansville, is committed to empowering its communities, employees, and industries through philanthropy and community service. They support numerous organizations, including Truckers Against Trafficking, the Wounded Warrior Project, and local community organizations like Easterseals Southwest Indiana and the Boys and Girls Club of Evansville. Atlas also encourages employees to volunteer and participate in charitable events, and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, appointing its first Chief Diversity Officer.

Caring Friends Daycare Ministry

Caring Friends Daycare Ministry

Nominated by Sandy James & Maylyn Miller

Caring Friends Daycare Ministry, led by Terri Hartweck, is a beloved organization in our community. Their commitment to improving the lives of children and families is evident through their Voluntary Certifications, Level 3 accreditation, and collaborations with various organizations to provide resources for those in need. Caring Friends welcomes all children with love and kindness, and their staff teaches compassion and empathy.

Impact Evansville

Impact Evansville

Nominated by Rev. Holly Rankin Zaher

Impact Evansville has a mission of discovering and activating resident founders in disinvested neighborhoods for economic flourishing. They seek to change neighborhoods from the inside out as opposed to having money and people come in from the outside. Impact Evansville seeks to connect founders with existing resources so that both the founders and the community can thrive. It is not about Impact Evansville thriving, it is about the economic flourishing of the Evansville area.

Mae's Way Foundation

Mae's Way Foundation

Nominated by Andrea Lantz

Mae’s Way Foundation was created to reach and support children and families left behind by suicide. After losing her mother to suicide at age five and finally healing as an adult, founder Michele Gates set out to ensure that other children don’t suffer as long as she did. She does this through grief camps, workshops, counseling, and even college scholarships.

Mothers at War Ministries & Resource Center, Inc.

Mothers at War Ministries & Resource Center, Inc.

Nominated by Helen Azarian

Mothers at War Ministries has been providing emotional and financial support for families of incarcerated individuals for two decades. Started in 2002 by Angela Watson, this organization is the support system that parents need if facing the past, present, or impending incarceration of loved ones. Their door is open and welcoming to helping anyone who needs it, and they inspire families to support each other as they deal with the trauma of incarceration within their families.

Sixth and Zero

Sixth and Zero

Nominated by Robin Mallery

Sixth and Zero, led by Mary Allen, is a community-driven retail space that prioritizes sustainability and inspires people to “Waste Less, Live More.”  The beautiful store front on Evansville’s Main Street offers handmade soaps and skincare products, bulk household goods, and eco-friendly products and clothing. In addition, with the closing of Evansville’s only local health food store, Sixth and Zero now offers a selection of bulk dried grocery items. Sticking to their mission, Mary accepts and processes recycling of various materials that are not avaialble in Evansville.

Soul Writer’s Guild

Soul Writer’s Guild

Nominated by Kori Miller

The Soul Writer’s Guild is an auxiliary organization of the Evansville African American Museum.  Over the years the SWG has provided various events recognizing other servant leaders through the Caldwell Speaker Series, Book Fairs, Kwanzaa, MLK day, welcome receptions to newcomers to the City of Evansville, and other significant events. They provide education and awareness to the community of Evansville through their events, trainings, and publications.

Zeta Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Breakfast with Santa

Zeta Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Breakfast with Santa

Nominated by Danielle Anguish

The Zeta Zeta Omega Breakfast with Santa is a yearly event for children and their families to come together for a hot breakfast, where the kids have the opportunity to play and create, receive a gift and other supplies that will assist with their overall well being. All of this takes place while the parents receive information on topics that can help with daily life.

Education

Autism Evansville

Autism Evansville

Nominated by Samantha Eberhart

Autism Evansville offers programs to support individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders.  They create partnerships with local organizations to train them on how to work with a person who is on the autism spectrum. They have trained countless emergency response and other community personnel on the appropriate way to support a person who has autism who is in a crisis situation. The entire existence of Autism Evansville is to show the community that people with Autism Spectrum Disorders have a voice and a contribution to be made to society.

Early College High School Student Council

Early College High School Student Council

Nominated by Amy Scharf

Serving the students of Early College High School, the Student Council is dedicated to strengthening the Early College community through its focus on equity, service, and fellowship.  Recently established in 2021, the Council has become a driving force for inclusion and collaboration at Early College. In its first year, the Student Council recognized a need for guidance and support for its students and developed a mentoring program for freshmen students, helping them acclimate to the rigorous college environment.

Incognito Instructors

Incognito Instructors

Nominated by Shaurya Jadhav

Incognito Instructors is a student-led tutoring organization originating at Memorial High School aimed to assist struggling peers while maintaining their anonymity. This has raised grades and self-esteem and created camaraderie within the school, and some students who started in the program have gone on to become tutors themselves. The program has also expanded outside Memorial: the twenty instructors now offer summer workshops at places like the Boys and Girls Club of Evansville.

North Gibson Dollars for Scholars

North Gibson Dollars for Scholars

Nominated by Susan Munnier

North Gibson Dollars for Scholars is an organization that provides monetary scholarships to college-bound seniors in our school corporation. Dollars for Scholars is a “community-based, volunteer-driven assembly of individuals and organizations” that provides a “wealth of student assistance by harnessing the power of volunteers and donors empowering students in their own backyards.” The committee consists of local businesspeople, educators, and other volunteers.

Optimal Rhythms/Access Academy

Optimal Rhythms/Access Academy

Nominated by Paige Laplante & Sarah Luzader

Optimal Rhythms/Access Academy is dedicated to improving education and support for the autistic community. They provide neurologic music therapy and a neurobehavioral approach to support those with motor differences, and prioritize identifying and utilizing client strengths. They presume competence in all students and work collaboratively with students and the community to create understanding and resources. Their tireless advocacy for equity and diversity has made a significant impact on the lives of those they serve.

Potter's Wheel

Potter's Wheel

Nominated by Amber Santana

The Potter’s Wheel partnership with Glenwood Leadership Academy has single-handedly changed the course of GLA students’ lives. Potter’s Wheel offers full wrap-around support for families of students in their kid zone. Potter’s Wheel has been at the front lines of support for all Glenwood students. Students know they are loved by the Potter’s Wheel staff, and the way families connect them with is a true testament to their commitment to family units.

Government, Public Service, & Environment

Owensboro Stands With Ukraine

Owensboro Stands With Ukraine

Nominated by Don Crankshaw

In March of 2022, the Owensboro “Blue” Bridge was lit at 7 p.m.  with the colors of the Ukrainian flag in a message from the City that “Owensboro stands with Ukraine.” The show of support continued for the next 30 days, with the bridge lit in blue and yellow at 7 p.m. for 30 minutes each night. The symbolic display that thousands saw showed support of those that are fighting for their freedom.

Southwest Indiana Small Business Development Center

Southwest Indiana Small Business Development Center

Nominated by Jenna Richardt

Hosted by the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP), the Southwest Indiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers no-cost business advising, training, referrals, and a library of cultivated tools and resources to help businesses, from startup through sale or retirement, succeed in our region. With over 500 clients in 2022, they created 100 new jobs, 40 new businesses, and $10 million in capital infused.

VHS Low-Cost Spay & Neuter Clinic

VHS Low-Cost Spay & Neuter Clinic

Nominated by Amanda Coburn

The Vanderburgh Humane Society’s Davidson Rausch Clinic has provided access to affordable basic veterinary services to nearly half a million Tri-State families since 2007, including spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipping, and more. The spay & neuter program has prevented countless unwanted litters of puppies & kittens from burdening our local shelter system, and helped beloved pets live healthier, longer lives. The Clinic recently completed its 100,000th spay/neuter surgery in December 2022!

Health & Social Services

Alex and Ali Foundation

Alex and Ali Foundation

Nominated by JoAnn Wood

The Alex and Ali Foundation provides safe venues for individuals with developmental disabilities to learn, work and interact within the community. Founded in 2014 by Jennifer and Andrew Parker, the foundation is named for the Parkers’ son, Alex, who has autism, and his best friend, Ali. Learning job skills and confidence allows individuals to contribute to the community in unique ways, while helping society grow in awareness and appreciation of every person’s profound value and worth.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield "The Addict's Wake: A Documentary of Hope" Screening

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield "The Addict's Wake: A Documentary of Hope" Screening

Nominated by Helen Azarian

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield is leading the way in addressing the stigma of substance use disorder by sponsoring the viewing of the film “The Addict’s Wake: A Documentary of Hope”. Across Indiana, communities are coming together to view and discuss this documentary which was filmed in and around Brown County IN. By sponsoring the film’s important message and spreading it throughout the state, Anthem can help to spark more collaborations, and service to communities can continue to grow.

Evansville Christian Life Center

Evansville Christian Life Center

Nominated by Katie Sutton

Evansville Christian Life Center (ECLC) offers a multitude of programs and initiatives to our community for individuals and families in everyday life-challenging situations that encompasses and addresses basic needs for anyone in any economic status. The foundation of their services is GAIN, which assists households experiencing poverty and instability to achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency. Through collaborative efforts and an efficient, well-organized utilization of external resources within the community, ECLC is helping to strengthen families and build a flourishing community.

Southwest Indiana Area Health Education Center (SWI AHEC)

Southwest Indiana Area Health Education Center (SWI AHEC)

Nominated by Helen Azarian

Southwest Indiana Area Health Education Center (SWI AHEC), housed at the University of Southern Indiana, was founded in 2008 to create and serve as a conduit for developing qualified health care professionals with the ultimate goal of retaining workers in underserved communities in the region. AHEC promotes health careers, collaborates to provide community-based education and clinical training, sponsors the AHEC Scholars Program, and offers continuing education for health professionals.

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Leadership Everyone celebrated its work throughout the region, recognized new LE alumni, and elected the 2023-2024 Board of Directors Leadership Everyone (LE) reflected on another successful year of engaging with regional servant leaders and fostering community growth...

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