Influence Is Best Measured by Impact

There are moments in a professional career that cause you to pause and reflect. Being named once again to IBJ Media’s Indiana 250 list is certainly one of those moments for me. This year marks, I believe, the fourth time I have been included among a group of leaders recognized as some of the most influential and impactful people in Indiana. That is an honor I do not take lightly. [

What makes the recognition especially meaningful is the company it keeps.

The Indiana 250 was created to identify leaders who are making a difference across Indiana’s business, government, education, nonprofit, and community sectors. Unlike lifetime achievement awards, the list seeks to recognize those who continue to have influence and impact in the current moment. Each year, some names return while new leaders emerge, reflecting the changing landscape of leadership across our state.

As I reviewed this year's list, I was struck by the remarkable breadth of talent represented. The honorees include leaders in life sciences and healthcare, energy and agriculture, manufacturing, technology, media, transportation, hospitality, real estate, financial services, education, law, civic leadership, and the nonprofit sector. These individuals are helping shape Indiana’s future through innovation, investment, public service, and community engagement.

I was equally proud to see strong representation from the South Bend-Elkhart Region. Nineteen leaders from our corner of Indiana were recognized this year, demonstrating what many of us have long known: our region is home to exceptional people who are creating opportunities, solving problems, and building momentum. Whether leading global companies, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems, or entrepreneurial ventures, these individuals are helping elevate the profile and competitiveness of northern Indiana.

Their recognition also says something important about our region itself.

For years, conversations about Indiana's economic future have often centered on Indianapolis. While the capital city remains a vital economic engine, today's Indiana story is much broader. Communities across the state are driving growth, innovation, and quality-of-place investments. From South Bend to Evansville, Fort Wayne to Terre Haute, and Muncie to Bloomington, leaders are finding new ways to attract talent, grow businesses, and strengthen their communities. IBJ Media's continued commitment to identifying leaders from throughout Indiana reflects that reality.

Personally, I view this recognition less as an individual accomplishment and more as a reflection of the organizations and people I have had the privilege to work alongside. At the South Bend Regional Chamber and through our economic development and destination marketing efforts, I have been fortunate to collaborate with business owners, educators, elected officials, entrepreneurs, community advocates, and countless volunteers who share a commitment to strengthening our region.

No leader succeeds alone. Influence, in its best form, is not about titles, recognition, or visibility. It is about bringing people together, advancing ideas, and creating conditions that allow others to succeed. The most effective leaders I know spend less time seeking attention and more time building relationships, solving challenges, and opening doors for the next generation.

That is what I see when I look at the Indiana 250 list.

I see individuals who are shaping organizations, communities, and industries. I see people who understand that leadership carries responsibility. And I see fellow Hoosiers who are committed to ensuring that Indiana remains a place where businesses can thrive, communities can prosper, and families can build bright futures.

For my part, I am deeply grateful for the recognition and humbled to be included among such a distinguished group of leaders. Most importantly, I am grateful to call this region home and to work alongside so many people whose own influence and impact deserve celebration.

Congratulations to all of this year's Indiana 250 honorees. Our state is stronger because of your leadership.