Testimonials
“Participating in the Leadership Northwest Indiana program was an enlightening and highly practical opportunity for me to expand my horizons beyond what had been a very local niche. Many of us from my class went on to play important roles on a regional level. We’ve all been inspired by one another’s talents and successes, which were nurtured by our exposure to each other and our LNI experience.”
John Cain, President
Southshore Arts
“LNI broadened my sense of community and made me see that collaboration in our region is essential to making lasting change. I met likeminded people who are committed to that change. LNI brings together talented leaders to have meaningful dialogue about issues facing our communities. I learned so much from the expertise of the speakers and the participants. This experience left me better equipped to make a difference in my community and the region.”
Leslie Plesac, Director
Purdue University North Central–Porter County
“No matter what your educational background is or what occupation you have, LNI provides you with knowledge about the past and current circumstances we face in Northwest Indiana. LNI then challenges and motivates you to become engaged and make a positive impact in your community.”
Rick Calinski, Chief of Staff
Mayor's Office, City oh Hammond
"The LNI Program was instrumental in quickly assisting me identify critical community issues that could be influenced by collective leadership action. The program provided meaningful networking opportunities with Indiana leaders who view and practice leadership as a civic responsibility. As an organizational development consultant new to Northwest Indiana and committed to the economic growth and empowerment of all Indiana citizens, the LNI program was an excellent professional development resource."
Mary Stewart Pellegrini,Managing Director
Stewart Management Group
“I was born, raised, and have chosen to live my life in the Region. The knowledge and experiences gained as a participant of LNI Class 22 reinforced to me that Northwest Indiana offers a high quality of life as well as opportunities to design a model community. Improvement requires leadership and LNI is designed to prepare and motivate leaders.”
Michael Berta Jr., Superintendent
Portage Township Schools
"Through LNI I was able to interact with many regional decision makers, both within my class and those who are in key roles within area governments, social services, arts, commerce and regional planning. Through all of this, I gained a deeper appreciation and understanding of what is going on around me. This understanding inspired me to participate more in my community and join the board of a local not-for-profit. I know that this experience will live with me and help to positively shape what I do and what decisions I make in the future."
Kurt Sangster, Director
Lake Station Operations, NIPSCO
“The LNI Leadership Program introduced me to a whole new Region that I didn’t know existed and it better equipped me to understand the needs of the Region. I met some wonderful people that had the same goal of making this region a good place to live in.”
Sylvia Planer, Personnel Specialist
U.S. Probation & Pretrial Services
“LNI reinforced my belief that a person can make a significant positive difference in one’s community and LNI has a creative program that empowers and develops leaders at every level. In addition, the contacts developed as part of the program remain long after classes have ended.”
Dan Williams, CFO & Vice President of Finance
Edgewater System for Balanced Living
“I was born and raised in Northwest Indiana, but until I became a part of LNI, I didn't really know what a part I could play in my community. By meeting with others in roles similar to mine and listening to experts in a wide variety of areas, I learned that it's not enough for me just to live here — I need to be a part if I want to see my home change and grow.”
Diane Hayes, Managing Editor
Post Tribune
"I found great fulfillment in working with a diverse group of individuals that represented many professional areas. Having the chance to utilize their knowledge and will help us train and develop the leaders of tomorrow".
Orlando E. Garcia, Residential Life Manager
Purdue University
“I am a big fan of the program and it's been a tremendous help to my business as I seem to run into our key leaders at different functions. I was even involved with a fundraiser for a candidate for Governor and got to know him as well as many of the local mayors. The Leadership Northwest Indiana program introduced me to this "world" and prepared me to be able to blend right in. No longer do I see myself as "an outsider" and I have overcome the fear of getting involved. LNI has made a tremendous positive impact on my career... and my life.”
Scott V. Cherry, Vice President
The Skillman Corporation
“As a new resident of Northwest Indiana, Leadership Northwest Indiana was a great opportunity for me to meet other leaders from various organizations in the region, but just as important, a wonderful way to learn about the history, geography, culture, and organizations in the region. I whole heartedly recommend LNI for people who want to make a difference in Northwest Indiana.”
R. Keith Howard, Vice Chancellor Student Affairs
Ivy Tech Community College Northwest
"My LNI experience went above and beyond anything I anticipated. The knowledge and connections that I gained from this program will last a lifetime."
Theresa Mudd, Regional Sales Manager
Citizens Financial Bank
"LNI equips leaders with the tools and perspectives that are necessary if NWI is to reach its fullest potential."
Kathleen Dowling, Deputy Clerk-Treasurer
Town of Highland
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