IU Southeast, Spalding University Create Preferred Admissions Pathway for Graduate Healthcare Programs 

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(L to R) Spalding University Provost, Dr. Melissa Chastain, Spalding President, Dr. Anne Kenworthy, PsyD student, Daniela Reuter, IU Southeast Chancellor, Dr. Debbie Ford and IU Southeast Exective Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Michelle Williams pose following a signing ceremony between the two universities.

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (September 30, 2025) – Indiana University Southeast Chancellor Debbie Ford and Spalding University President Anne Kenworthy have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a Preferred Admissions Pathway between the two institutions. 

This new agreement creates opportunities for IU Southeast students to seamlessly transition into select graduate-level healthcare programs at Spalding University, including the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT), and Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD). 

Under the agreement, Spalding will offer IU Southeast graduates an expedited admissions process with priority consideration for these high-demand programs. To qualify, students must complete their undergraduate degree at IU Southeast and meet Spalding University’s admission criteria for each program. 

“We are excited to collaborate with Spalding University to create clear pathways for our students into graduate healthcare programs,” said Debbie Ford, chancellor of IU Southeast. “This partnership not only opens doors for our graduates to pursue advanced degrees, but it also strengthens the pipeline of healthcare professionals who are so critically needed in our region. Many of these graduates will stay in southern Indiana and Louisville, making a lasting impact on the communities we serve.” 

“This partnership with Indiana University Southeast represents a shared commitment to student success and opportunity, said Dr. Anne Kenworthy, president of Spalding University. “By creating clear pathways into graduate programs, we are helping students dream bigger, achieve more, and prepare to meet the needs of the times, in keeping with Spalding University’s mission.” 

Daniela Reuter, a fourth-year student at the Spalding School of Professional Psychology summarized her experience with the two universities, “I have the privilege of being a practicum student here in the IU Southeast Counseling and Psychological Services office,” said Reuter. “I wish I had the mentorship and support future IUS students will now have with this collaboration. I am honored to be here to witness two incredible universities come together to shape the future and I am confident that many students from IUS and Spalding will benefit from this relationship, and the field of psychology will be better for it.” 

The signing ceremony took place September 30 at Indiana University Southeast, celebrating a shared vision of educational excellence, community service, and regional workforce development. 

About IU Southeast

IU Southeast is one of nine campuses of Indiana University. Offering top-quality and nationally accredited programs in education, nursing, business, social sciences, natural sciences, arts and humanities, the scenic 180-acre campus is located less than 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It currently has over 3,750 students and employs over 360 faculty members. About 400 students live on campus in five fully furnished, lodge-style residence halls. Through an agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Indiana University Southeast offers in-state tuition to students enrolled from ten counties in the Louisville region, including Bullitt, Hardin, Henry, Jefferson, Meade, Nelson, Oldham, Shelby, Trimble, and Spencer counties, and discounted tuition for remaining Kentucky residents through the Indiana Partner Program. For more information, visit https://southeast.iu.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus. 

About Spalding University 

Founded in 1814 by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, Spalding University is a co-educational private institution situated in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky. Dedicated to academic excellence and service, Spalding empowers students to meet the needs of the times and inspire positive change in the world. For more information about Spalding University, visit www.spalding.edu. 

For more information, contact:
Indiana University Southeast
Nancy Jo Trafton
812-941-2676
ntrafton@iu.edu

Spalding University
Kylyn Schnelle
502-873-4276
kschnelle@spalding.edu

1si Non-Profit Spotlight | Community Foundation of Southern Indiana

by with No Comment 1si NewsNonprofit Spotlight

Since 1991, the Community Foundation (CFSI) of Southern Indiana has granted more than $71M in grants and scholarships, including $5M from the Foundation’s unrestricted Community Impact Fund, which supports the most pressing needs of our region.

The Community Foundation provides community grants to nonprofits that help address the highest priorities of Clark and Floyd counties. Using community resources such as the Community Needs Assessment, Affordable Housing Study and Nonprofit Resource Guide, CFSI is identifying areas of greatest need and using our grant dollars to increase their impact in the community. They work with individuals, families, businesses, and other organizations to help them make grants from their funds to accomplish their own, unique charitable objectives.

By making a gift to the Community Impact Fund, you are supporting the long-term sustainability and viability of our community. From now until December 31, 2025, every $1 donated to our unrestricted Community Impact Fund will be matched with a $2 donation. $1 + $2 = $3!

Contact CFSI at 812-948-4662 or visit their website to learn more.

Indiana University Southeast announces 2026 Chancellor’s Medallion recipients: Linda Speed and Jim Epperson 

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New Albany, Ind. — Indiana University Southeast is proud to announce two recipients of the 2026 Chancellor’s Medallion Award. 

Linda Speed, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Indiana, and Jim Epperson, Executive Director of SoIN Tourism, will be honored April 11, 2026, at the Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner at Huber’s Orchard and Winery in Borden. 

The Chancellor’s Medallion is the highest honor presented by the chancellor of IU Southeast. It is given to individuals who have rendered distinguished service to the university and to the community; have given their talents in the promotion of human welfare and community well-being; and who, through their integrity, sensitivity, and commitment, serve as models for students and alumni of IU Southeast. To date, 63 of these awards have been presented. 

Linda Speed 
Linda Speed exemplifies the importance of a life of service in her role as the President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana. She has spent nearly 25 years in the community foundation field and has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector. She has served as the Vice President of Development & Stewardship for the Community Foundation of Louisville, Vice President of Gift and Trust Administration for the Presbyterian Church (USA) Foundation in Jeffersonville, and Director of the Samuel L. Greenebaum Public Service Program at the Brandeis School of Law at the University of Louisville.  She is a former litigation attorney with the Louisville law firm of Frost Brown Todd.  

During her 15-year tenure with the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana, Speed has seen the Foundation’s assets grow from $16 million to over $160 million. Her work with individual donors and their professional advisors has led to the creation of hundreds of charitable funds that support the interests of those donors here in our region and elsewhere. The Foundation’s grantmaking – over $6 million each year from all funds – supports local nonprofit organizations and also important local and regional projects and causes. Under her leadership, the Foundation has become a trusted community leader for projects and initiatives that improve the quality of life for all residents of Clark and Floyd counties. 

Speed has extensive community leadership experience that includes serving on the Louisville Zoo Foundation Board and the Governing Board of Align Southern Indiana. She is a member and serves on the executive committees of the Estate Planning Council of Metro Louisville and the Southern Indiana Estate Planning Council, where she is the past president. She is a member and Past President of the Charitable Gift Planners of Kentuckiana, and she is the Past Chair of the Indiana Philanthropy Alliance board of directors. In 2021, she received the Duke Energy Kevin Hammersmith Community Leader Award presented by One Southern Indiana’s ONCE Awards. In 2024, she was a recipient of the Louisville Business First Enterprising Women Awards. 

Speed received her B.S. in Agronomy from the University of Kentucky and her J.D. from the Vanderbilt University School of Law. She lives in Jeffersonville with her husband Tom. They are the parents of Savannah and Marc (Araceli) and proud grandparents of Declan, Cayden and Sofia.  

Jim Epperson 
Jim Epperson has dedicated himself to serving the southern Indiana community through his support of local tourism. As Executive Director of SoIN Tourism, Epperson has made a strong contribution to the economic and social culture of the Kentuckiana region. 

Epperson started his tourism career in 1988 as marketing manager at an Ohio (USA) ski resort where he managed marketing and promotional efforts and served as founding president of the Ohio Ski Industries Association, a cooperative marketing organization of Ohio ski areas and ski shops. In 1994, Epperson moved to the Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism where he served for four years as marketing manager, becoming State Tourism Director from 1998 until 2002.  

Upon his departure from Ohio, Epperson worked briefly as VP Marketing for the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau in Rhode Island.  Later in 2002, he returned to his native Southern Indiana to continue his career in destination marketing and management and became the Executive Director of the Harrison County Convention & Visitors Bureau in Corydon, Indiana.  In 2013, he moved next door to the neighboring SoIN Tourism as its Executive Director.  

During his career, Epperson’s leadership experience includes service as Vice President-Recreation Division of National Collegiate Ski Association, on the Marketing Committee, National Ski Areas Association and Joint Marketing Committee, NSAA/Ski Industries America, and as the Founding President of Ohio Ski Industries Association. He also spent time as the Marketing Chair and Board Chair, Great Lakes of North America international marketing consortium, and as a board member of the Travel Industry Association of America and CenStates Travel and Tourism Research Association.  

Epperson has served the community on the Research Committee for Destination Marketing Association International, as a Visiting Professor at Purdue University Dept. of Hospitality & Tourism Management, on the Advocacy Committee, Destinations International, as the Advocacy Chair & President, Indiana Tourism Association, as the Advocacy Chair, One Southern Indiana, and as the Event Chair, Rotary Toast & Benefit Banquet, New Albany Rotary Club. He lives in Floyds Knobs with his wife, Sandy. One daughter, Cassie, lives in Greenfield, IN, with her husband and children. Daughter Alysa and her husband live in Indianapolis.   

The Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Huber’s Orchard and Winery in Borden, IN. Proceeds from the Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner benefit the Chancellor’s Medallion Scholarship program. 

For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, contact the IU Southeast Office of Development at 812-941-2464.

Indiana University Southeast
Contact:  Nancy Jo Trafton
812-9412676
ntrafton@ius.edu

Dierks Bentley and ROW 94 Whiskey LaunchGroundbreaking Hologram Experience in Partnership with Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport

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Louisville, KY (September 8, 2025) – ROW 94 Whiskey, founded by country music
superstar Dierks Bentley, is proud to team up with Louisville Muhammad Ali
International Airport (SDF) this September and October to offer fans and bourbon
lovers a one-of-a-kind surprise. Beginning Friday, September 12, a life-sized Dierks
hologram will welcome travelers to Louisville, share the story of ROW 94 and point
them towards exclusive signed bottles and limited offerings of ROW 94’s Broken
Branches Bourbon at the airport’s Distillery District Marketplace. Distillery District
Marketplace is located in the post-security rotunda area, near the entrances to
Concourses A and B.


“We welcome ROW 94 and this unique Dierks Bentley experience to SDF,” said Dan
Mann, Executive Director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, owner and
operator of the airport. “The addition of ROW 94, including the exclusive selection
available in the terminal, is the perfect way for thousands of bourbon enthusiasts
from around the globe and Dierks Bentley fans to start or end their visit by enjoying
our state’s signature spirit. SDF is proud to be the gateway to Bourbon Country and
provide opportunities like this, showcasing why our airport offers a best-in-class
experience to passengers.”


A press event to kick off the hologram experience will take place on Friday,
September 12 at 10 a.m. EST. Beaming in live from his home in Nashville, Dierks will
answer media questions and even chat with travelers passing through the airport.
September is not only Bourbon Heritage Month, it also marks one year since ROW 94
launched, becoming one of the industry’s more talked-about new bourbons. For any
media who wish to attend, please see below for event access information*. If you
have questions about the event location, please contact Natalie Chaudoin at (502)
475-8084 or Natalie.Chaudoin@FlyLouisville.com.
In addition to the live Dierks beam, there will be a signed guitar giveaway at
10:30 a.m. EST (entrants must be present to win) and ROW 94 tastings in the
rotunda. Bourbon tastings will continue at select times throughout September and
October.


*Event Access Information
All media should arrive no later than 9:30 a.m. EST to the Louisville Regional Airport
Authority Administrative Offices at 700 Administration Drive, Louisville, KY 40209.
This is on airport property, but not at the terminal. (Click here for a map with
directions if needed.) Please proceed to the lobby where transportation will be
provided to the post-security area of the terminal. Contact Natalie Chaudoin at (502)
475-8084 with questions or for directions.

About ROW 94 Whiskey
ROW 94 is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, launched in September 2024 by country music
superstar Dierks Bentley and crafted with pride at the historic Green River Distilling Co. in
Owensboro, Kentucky. ROW 94 uses Three Ingredients and The Truth, reflecting Dierks’ dream to
create a bourbon that he and his fans can enjoy on the big nights and everyday gatherings,
amplifying the country in us all. Subsequent bottlings include Broken Branches Bourbon, a limited
release. Learn more about ROW 94 at ROW94whiskey.com.


About Dierks Bentley
Released on June 13, 2025, Dierks Bentley’s acclaimed 11th studio album, Broken Branches, is
rooted in raw honesty and storytelling, embracing life’s outliers and underdogs with songs about
resilience, change, and connection. Praised for its “distinctive and daring sound” (Esquire), the 11-
track collection features a cross-generational lineup of collaborators—including John Anderson,
Riley Green, Miranda Lambert and Stephen Wilson Jr.—and is a bold reaffirmation of Bentley’s
heartfelt grit paired with standout musicianship. After more than 20 years on country’s family
tree, the multi-Platinum superstar’s current Top 30 “She Hates Me” is quickly climbing the charts
following eight Number One albums, 22 Number One songs and over 9.5 billion global streams,
plus 15 Grammy nominations and membership in the historic Grand Ole Opry. Praised for
delivering a live show that “blends hits, a genuine onstage ebullience that easily outpaces many
of today’s newcomers, and intentional audience engagement” (Billboard), Bentley recently took
his 30-city Broken Branches tour to amphitheaters across the country, including a stop at the
iconic Madison Square Garden. He also recently launched the Broken Branches Fund, a multi-year
initiative in partnership with Music Health Alliance to provide mental health support for the music
industry’s creative and touring professionals. Continuing the path built from the ground up, as an
entrepreneur, he has four locations of the gastropub and live music venue “Dierks Bentley’s
Whiskey Row” and has a Flag & Anthem lifestyle collection “Desert Son.” For more information on
new music and upcoming tour dates, visit Dierks.com.


About Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)
Owned and operated by the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, the Louisville Muhammad Ali
International Airport (SDF) is the state’s premier airport, serving more Kentuckians annually than
any other airport in the Commonwealth. Eight commercial passenger airlines offer nonstop
service to more than 35 nonstop destinations from Louisville. SDF is home to UPS Worldport,
moving millions of tons of product each year, making it the 3rd busiest cargo airport in North
America and 5th in the world. Aviation is an economic powerhouse for the region that generates
$12.8 billion in economic impact every year. One in 8 jobs is generated by SDF and Bowman Field
and their aviation partners. Visit www.FlyLouisville.com to learn more.

Media Inquiries
ROW 94 Whiskey Jen Neugeboren – jen@neugeborenpr.com
Debbie Rizzo – debbie@drinkpr.com
Dierks Bentley Tyne Parrish – tynep@thegreenroompr.com
Sarah Bennett – sarah@thegreenroompr.com


Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)
Natalie Chaudoin – (502) 475-8084,
natalie.chaudoin@flylouisville.com

The Lamiflex Group chooses Borden, IN as first U.S. Production Facility

by with No Comment 1si Press ReleaseMember News

Borden, IN. (September 04, 2025) The Lamiflex Group, a global leader in industrial packaging solutions, has announced plans to establish its first U.S. production facility in Borden, Indiana. The company will operate out of the Borden Business Park, where it will manufacture and warehouse a variety of plastic components. This new location is expected to create 62 net new full-time jobs by 2027, offering wages above the county average and contributing to the economic growth of the region.

Headquartered in Sweden, The Lamiflex Group has a global presence through subsidiaries and partnerships. They are a world-leading supplier of transport packaging solutions mainly in the steel, aluminum and cable industries. Lamiflex’s global presence now includes Indiana as they selected Borden, Indiana as their first U.S. manufacturing location. They have a rich, global history of supporting local communities where they are present. Historically, they have sponsored and funded activities in schools and neighborhoods.

Further, Lamiflex is committed to training initiatives related to its upcoming manufacturing activities. This investment will support comprehensive employee development across multiple functional areas. A key focus of the training will be to introduce and support the integration of new robotic machinery, ensuring that staff are well-prepared to operate and maintain advanced automation systems. The training program aims to enhance operational efficiency and equip employees with the necessary skills to meet future production demands.

Phil Yu, an active Board Member of Lamiflex, shares, “We are excited to locate Lamiflex’s operations to Southern Indiana—a region that offers both strategic advantages and a strong sense of community. While our decision has been guided by technical and financial considerations, we’re equally committed to making a meaningful, long-term impact. We look forward to investing in the region, creating quality jobs, and becoming an engaged partner in the community’s continued growth.”

Based on the company’s Indiana job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation committed an investment in Lamiflex up to $750,000 in the form of incentive-based tax credits. These tax credits are performance based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.

“The town of Borden welcomes Lamiflex and the opportunity for engagement and employment in Southern Indiana,” said Borden Town Council President Steve Williams. “We look forward to the work they will provide to our community with a total of 62 added full-time positions. In all, we are proud to demonstrate Borden’s attractiveness and how we support local manufacturing in our region.”

“Lamiflex’s investment is demonstrated through their selection of Borden, IN as their first U.S. production facility,” says Lance Allison, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development. “Not only will this greatly benefit the community through full-time work at competitive wages, but it will also be a benefit to Lamiflex’s growing international presence. We look forward to supporting their continued success as they pursue this opportunity.”

About Lamiflex
The Lamiflex Group is a global supply leader in transport packaging solutions for the steel, aluminum, cable and oil & gas industries. Our product line includes materials, machines, services and calculated methods for an optimal packaging solution. The Lamiflex Group is headquartered in Nyköping, Sweden with offices and subsidiaries across the globe.

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development, and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

 

ONCE Award Nominations and Applications for 2025 Now Open!

by with No Comment 1si News

The ONCE Awards is our annual gala, which recognizes the hard work and dedication of local businesses and individuals in Southern Indiana. Help us celebrate professionals in our community by submitting a nomination or an application for any of the following categories:

Rising Star Award
Business of the Year Award (50 or less employees)
Business of the Year Award (51 or more employees)
Manufacturer of the Year
Community Impact Award
Nonprofit Program of the Year Award
Young Professional of the Year Award (Age 40 or younger)
Professional of the Year Award
Community Leader of the Year Award

AWARD CATEGORIES
  • Duke Energy Kevin Hammersmith Community Leader
  • Axiom Financial Strategies Group James W. Robinson Young Professional of the Year
  • Kightlinger & Gray, LLP Sam Day Professional of the Year
  • First Harrison Bank Rising Star Award
  • Meta Business of the Year Award for companies with 50 or less employees
  • German American Bank Business of the Year Award for companies with 51 or more employees
  • Centra Credit Union Non-Profit Program of the Year
  • Ivy Tech Community College Community Impact Award
  • Harding, Shymanski & Company, P.S.C. Manufacturer of the Year

NOMINATE

If you know an individual or organization that should apply for one of the following ONCE Award categories, click here to nominate them. 

APPLY

If you would like to apply for one of the categories, click here to complete the application.

SoIN Tourism Announces New Hire & Promotion

by with No Comment Member News

Southern Indiana (August 27, 2025) – SoIN Tourism, the destination marketing agency for Clark and Floyd counties in Southern Indiana, has hired a new team member and promoted another to support the organization’s efforts to attract visitors.

“The growth and development of our communities, as well as the ever-changing marketing environment, require that we continue to grow and develop our talent,” said SoIN Tourism Executive Director Jim Epperson. “Both roles help SoIN Tourism build community relations and support our tourism partners, while helping us maintain a competitive edge in the industry.”

Janelle Wilhelm Hired as CRM & Website Specialist
Janelle Wilhelm was hired as SoIN Tourism’s CRM and Website Specialist. In this role, she will oversee the organization’s content and relationship management systems (CRM and CMS). She will also work with tourism industry partners to promote SoIN businesses through the GoSoIN.com website and other digital channels. Wilhelm has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Campbellsville University. She served as an AmeriCorps VISTA and developed a background in nonprofit database management and website optimization at Olmsted Parks Conservancy and the Louisville Nature Center.

“Janelle has hit the ground running and is already exceeding expectations in her role,” said Research and Data Manager Kia Black. “Her expertise and proactive approach are making a big impact, and we’re lucky to have her on the team.”

Marissa Murphy Promoted to Marketing Specialist
Marissa Murphy was promoted to Marketing Specialist, supporting SoIN Tourism’s marketing, communications and sales services through content creation, copywriting, partner outreach and more. In her new role, she will take the lead on planning, strategy and creation for some of SoIN’s social media channels, which are critical to reaching potential visitors in a fragmented media landscape.

“Marissa has quickly become an invaluable part of our team,” said Senior Marketing Manager Katerina Koehler. “Her creativity, attention to detail, and ability to adapt have strengthened SoIN’s marketing efforts, and we’re excited to see her continue to grow in her new role as Marketing Specialist.”

Murphy first joined SoIN Tourism as an intern and started full-time in 2023. She completed her degree in Strategic Communication at IU Southeast where she received the 2024 Indiana University Southeast Outstanding Student in Strategic Communication Award. Since joining the team, Murphy obtained her Professional in Destination Management (PDM) certificate from Destinations International and is a Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate.

To learn more about SoIN Tourism or to schedule an interview with a SoIN representative, please contact Communications Manager Anna Rosales-Crone at Anna@GoSoIN.com.

SoIN Tourism is the official destination marketing organization for Clark and Floyd Counties in Southern Indiana, just north of Louisville, Ky. Offering authentic experiences in the Kentuckiana region, SoIN includes historic downtowns in Jeffersonville and New Albany, Clarksville’s retail corridor, as well as the communities of Charlestown, Floyds Knobs, Henryville, Memphis, New Washington, Sellersburg, and Starlight. Visitors who would like more information can visit the destination’s website, GoSoIN.com.

1si Non-Profit Spotlight: Camp Quality Kentuckiana

by with No Comment 1si NewsNonprofit SpotlightUncategorized

Camp Quality Kentuckiana stands out as a camp providing a place where kids with cancer can be kids again. They are a dedicated non-profit that offers year-round programs and experiences designed to bring joy, support, and a sense of community to families navigating the challenges of pediatric cancer—the companionship they offer sets them apart and helps families build friendship and emotional support networks.

Although the name suggests a summer camp, Camp Quality’s impact reaches far beyond the summer months. From delivering meals to families at hospitals all year round to trunk-or-treats and sporting events to family meet-ups, they offer activities that provide connection.

Camp Quality is always looking for committee members, volunteers, and businesses to partner in their mission to give kids experiences of a lifetime. See their listing in our Member Directory to contact them and learn how you can get involved.

YOUTH LINK SOUTHERN INDIANA RECEIVES $20,800 COMMUNITY GRANT FROM TACO BELL FOUNDATION TO SUPPORT LOCAL YOUTH  

by with No Comment Member News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

August 4, 2025 

YOUTH LINK SOUTHERN INDIANA RECEIVES $20,800 COMMUNITY GRANT FROM TACO BELL FOUNDATION TO SUPPORT LOCAL YOUTH  

The Taco Bell Foundation is awarding a record-breaking $28 million in Community Grants in 2025 – marking the first year that Youth Link Southern Indiana has been selected as a grant recipient.  

JEFFERSONVILLE, IN, (August 4, 2025) – Youth Link Southern Indiana is proud to announce it has been selected as a recipient of a 2025 Community Grant from the Taco Bell Foundation. The funding will support career exploration, leadership development, and mentorship activities, helping youth in Southern Indiana access essential resources to achieve their goals 

“This grant opens doors for students who are ready to step into their potential,” said Tricia Wall, Executive Director of Youth Link Southern Indiana. “We’re so thankful to the Taco Bell Foundation and C&M Smith Restaurants, Inc. for fueling our mission and helping local youth gain the tools they need to lead, grow, and thrive.” 

The Taco Bell Foundation awarded a record-breaking $28 million in Community Grants this year to nearly 500 nonprofit organizations nationwide. The Community Grants program uplifts youth in the communities that matter most to Taco Bell – those of its fans and Team Members. True to the brand’s spirit, the Taco Bell Foundation supports nonprofits that think differently and take bold approaches to creating new opportunities for young people.  

Youth Link Southern Indiana was nominated for the grant by local Taco Bell franchisee Chris Smith at C&M Smith Restaurants, Inc, whose continued commitment to uplifting youth has helped expand access to education, mentorship, and career readiness programs across the community.  

“We believe that empowering young people is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the future,” said Lisa Lane Cardin, Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “This record investment is a testament to the power of community-driven change and the limitless potential that exists when we remove barriers and open doors.”  

Through this grant, Youth Link Southern Indiana will launch the Real-World Readiness program, a new leadership initiative at Jeffersonville High School that will serve a group of  teacher-referred students. The program integrates hands-on learning, mentorship, and career exploration to build confidence, leadership skills, and future planning. Students will participate in workshops, meet local professionals, and end the year with a trip to Kings Island and Great Wolf Lodge in Cincinnati, Ohio. 

To learn more about Youth Link Southern Indiana, please visit youthlinksi.org. To learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation and the Community Grants program, please visit https://www.tacobellfoundation.org/who-we-support/.  

About Youth Link Southern Indiana 
Youth Link Southern Indiana is a nonprofit organization dedicated to removing barriers to student success across Clark and Floyd Counties. Through in-school services, after-school programs, and community partnerships, Youth Link supports students academically, emotionally, and physically. From basic needs assistance to mentoring and mental health services, Youth Link ensures that every child has the resources and support they need to thrive. 

About Taco Bell Foundation 
Taco Bell Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity that empowers the next generation to pursue their passions by breaking down barriers to education and providing resources to help young people chase their boldest ambitions. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached nearly 9 million young people across the country and has awarded more than $203 million in grants and scholarships, focused on education and career readiness. For more information about the Taco Bell Foundation, visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.  

Media Contact 

Christina Gutowski – Development and Marketing Manager, Youth Link Southern Indiana 
cgutowski@youthlinksi.org 
812-280-0028 

IBJ MEDIA RELEASES FOURTH ANNUAL INDIANA 250 LIST OF INFLUENTIAL HOOSIERS 

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 23, 2025) — IBJ Media on Wednesday unveiled its fourth annual Indiana 250, a list of the state’s most influential business and community leaders from a wide range of sectors, including both public and private organizations. 

The list, available at Indiana250.com, features more than 60 new names compared to last year who represent cities and counties from across the state. IBJ Media CEO Nate Feltman said the team that chooses the Indiana 250 is always looking for the leaders who are making an impact today. 

“Every year, we see fresh faces stepping up and driving meaningful change across Indiana,” Feltman said. “The Indiana 250 is a snapshot of those bold thinkers and doers who are shaping the future of our state — from innovative entrepreneurs to dedicated community advocates. It’s truly inspiring to witness the depth of talent and passion making Indiana a great place to live and work.” 

The list was compiled by executives, editors and newsroom staff from IBJ Media’s three news brands — Indianapolis Business Journal, Inside INdiana Business and The Indiana Lawyer — following a months-long process of reviewing nominations, researching Indiana organizations and consulting community leaders across the state. 

The Indiana 250 will be celebrated at an exclusive reception on Wednesday evening at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. Title sponsors are Aaron Wealth Advisors, CareSource, Ice Miller, and Pacers Sports & Entertainment. The premier sponsor is Lucas Oil, and the host sponsors are the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Penske Entertainment and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. 

IBJ Media launched the Indiana 250 program in 2022 and plans to continue updating the list annually. 

“The people on this list are not just leaders in their fields; they are champions for their communities and catalysts for progress across Indiana,” Feltman added. “One of our key goals is to foster connections among them, amplifying their collective impact for all Hoosiers.” 

Among those returning to the list are CEOs of some of the state’s largest public and private companies, including David Ricks of Eli Lilly and Co., Gail Boudreaux of Elevance Health, Jennifer Rumsey of Cummins Inc., Dan Starr of Do it Best Corp., Chuck Magro of Corteva Inc., Scott Davison of OneAmerica Financial, Ken Zagzebski of AES, Pete Yonkman of Cook Medical, Jim Ryan of Old National Bank and Brent Yeagy of Wabash. 

IBJ Media added a number of additional executives this year, including Rick Conner of American Structurepoint, Jack Griffin of Atlas World Group, Stan Pinegar of Duke Energy, Brad Bostic of Hc1, J.A. Lacy of LDI Ltd., Mark Music of Ruoff Mortgage, Rachel Leslie of RJL Solutions, and Amy Sink of Interra Credit Union. 

Sports played a bigger role in this year’s Indiana 250. New to the list are University of Notre Dame football coach Marcus Freeman, Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton, Indy Pro Volleyball co-owner Jim Schumacher, Indiana Sports Corp. President Patrick Talty, NCAA Vice President JoAnn Scott, Catch the Stars foundation founder Tamika Catchings, and Indianapolis Indians President and CEO Randy Lewandowski. 

“This has been a huge year in sports—with Notre Dame playing in the college football national championship game, the Pacers in the NBA Finals, Indianapolis hosting the WNBA All-Star Game and the Indiana Sports Corp. securing the Olympic swimming trials for 2028,” said Lesley Weidenbener, the editor of IBJ and the Indiana 250. “It’s no surprise we ended up with a large number of new people on the list who represent sports.” 

Elected officials are not eligible for the list. 

IBJ Media published profiles of the honorees in a magazine that will be distributed with the July 25 issue of the IBJ. The magazine is available for purchase for $50 at Indiana250.com. The Indiana Lawyer subscribers will receive a discount on the book. All subscribers of IBJ, Inside Indiana Business and The Indiana Lawyer can access the profiles and additional information online at Indiana250.com. 

The Indiana 250 reception is invitation-only and closed to the media.