1si Non-Profit Spotlight: Family Scholar House

by with No Comment 1si NewsNonprofit Spotlight

The mission of Family Scholar House is to end the cycle of poverty and transform their community by empowering families and youth to succeed in education and achieve life-long self-sufficiency.

Each year, they serve residential and nonresidential student parents and their children with a comprehensive, holistic continuum of care that meets them where they are and empowers them to achieve their educational and family goals. Learn more about their latest developments, goals, and how that will impact the southern Indiana region. See more about who they are and what they do here.

Advocacy Update 2.11.2026

by with No Comment 1si NewsAdvocacy

Our Advocacy Committee visited the statehouse!  

Last week, our Advocacy Committee visited the statehouse and state officials to advocate for the priorities that impact our region. The visit to the statehouse is an opportunity for our Advocacy Committee to advocate and learn about bills that are currently under review and how that influences our region. 

If you are interested in understanding local priorities, you can also register for our upcoming 5 O’clock Network at Indiana-American Water Company for our annual “Meet Your Local Elected Officials.” You can register here.  

 

We are continuing to learn and monitor policies that may impact our local region. The goal of our Advocacy Agenda is to articulate the opportunities and concerns of Southern Indiana businesses and to speak for them as one voice. 

We encourage everyone to see upcoming deadlines. 

Bills we are monitoring: 

 

SB 76 Immigration matters  

Status: 

  • 2/03/2026: Committee report: amend do pass, adopted 
  • 1/28/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Judiciary 
  • 1/27/2026: Referred to the House 
  • 1/27/2026: Representative Bascom added as cosponsor 
  • 1/26/2026: Senator Koch added as coauthor 

 

SB 281 Income tax credits 

Status: 

  • 2/05/2026: Representative Snow added as cosponsor 
  • 2/05/2026: Representative Lopez added as sponsor 
  • 2/05/2026: Representative Snow removed as sponsor 
  • 2/2/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 

 

SB 283 Regional Development Tax Credit 

Status: 

  • 1/12/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy 
  • 1/12/2026: Authored by Senators Mishler, Niezgodski 
  • Did not advance; Inactive. 

 

HB 1101 Regional Economic Development 

Status: 

  • 1/05/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 1/05/2026: Coauthored by Representatives Snow, Lehman 
  • 1/05/202: Authored by Representative Heine 
  • Did not advance; Inactive. 

 

HB 1164 Tax Increment Financing Districts 

Status: 

  • 1/05/2026: First Reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 1/05/2026: Authored by Representative Rowray 
  • Did not advance; Inactive. 

 

HB 1333 Land use and development 

Status: 

  • 2/05/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Utilities 
  • 2/03/2026: Referred to the Senate 
  • 2/02/2026: Senate sponsors: Senators Koch Doriot 
  • 2/02/2026: Third reading: passed; Roll Call 195 
  • Yeas: 54 
  • Nays: 45 

 

Bills we support: 

 

HB 1018 School age childcare 

Status: 

  • 1/26/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Family and Children Services 
  • 1/23/2026: Referred to the Senate 
  • 1/22/2026: Senate sponsors: Senators Donato, Walker G 
  • 1/22/2026: Third reading: passed; Roll Call 65 
  • Yeas: 93 
  • Nays: 0 

 

HB 1177 Child care assistance 

Status: 

  • 2/05/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Tx and Fiscal Policy 
  • 2/03/2026: Referred to the Senate 
  • 2/02/2026: Cosponsor: Senator Charbonneau 
  • 2/02/2026: Senate Sponsors: Senators Buchanan, Clark, Goode 
  • 2/02/2026: Third reading: passed; Roll Call 172: 
  • Yeas: 80 
  • Nays:0 

 

Bills we oppose: 

 

HB 1104 Nondisclosure Agreements in Economic Development 

Status: 

  • 1/12/2026: Representative Commons added as coauthor 
  • 1/05/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Government and Regulatory Reform 
  • 1/05/2026: Authored by Representative Greene 
  • Did not advance; Inactive. 

 

You can find a copy of the 1si 2026 Advocacy Agenda by visiting https://1si.org/advocacy/ or downloading a PDF copy here.   

Louisville Muhammad Ali International AirportCelebrates Another Year of Success

by with No Comment Member News

Airport experienced Top 3 busiest year ever, remained a global leader in cargo operations and investment progressed on SDF Next Program

Louisville, KY (February 5, 2026) – The Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport(SDF) marked another year of success in 2025 including celebrating its third busiest year for passenger traffic following its top two record years in 2023 and 2024. Last year, 4.59 million total passengers flew in or out of SDF with Sunday, May 4, 2025 (the day after the Kentucky Derby) serving as the airport’s busiest day yet with 18,500 departing seats.


In 2025, a total of 19 nonstop routes increased their capacity throughout the year while eight of these were by double-digits. Eight airlines continue providing service to more than 40 nonstop destinations from Louisville, including last year’s launch of service to Nashville (BNA) on Southwest Airlines that provides convenient connections to more than 75 cities across the country.


“Passenger figures remained consistently strong throughout last year,” said Dan Mann, Executive Director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, which owns and operates SDF. “To experience three consecutive years of record-setting growth, all of which mark the highest passenger totals in SDF’s history is a testament to the community’s support and the robust air service options available to travelers at our airport.”


SDF Next Program Investment
Progress continues on the SDF Next Program, a comprehensive capital improvement initiative that will see more than $1 billion invested in the airfield and Jerry E. Abramson Terminal. To date, more than $364 million in projects have been completed with more than $565 million in additional investment expected between now and 2028.


Terminal highlights from 2025 include progress on the new security checkpoint expansion, a 30,000 square feet addition with 10 passenger screening lanes that will house the latest technology is scheduled to be operational by early 2027. On the airfield, the first phase of Taxiway B reconstruction was completed along with various electrical upgrades and pavement rehabilitation to areas of SDF’s runways and taxiways.


Looking ahead to 2026 in the terminal, nearly $70 million in significant improvements to the post-security area along Concourses A and B just recently kicked off that include mechanical upgrades, skylight replacement and an overhaul of all gate waiting areas. On the airfield, reconstruction of both Taxiways B and D are expected, totaling $40 million in investment to improve operational efficiencies for aircraft.


Global Leader in Cargo
Cargo operations at SDF remained strong last year as home of UPS Worldport, the center point of their global air network. The airport also set another record for its busiest year for cargo operations with nearly 7.5 billion pounds of cargo handled in 2025, besting the previous year by more than 13%. With this record, it’s believed that SDF will likely be the no. 1 busiest airport for cargo operations in North America and remain within the Top 5 in the world. Airports Council International World is expected to release its preliminary World Airport Traffic Report in the Spring with updated rankings for 2025.


An Economic Engine for the State
The Airport Authority including SDF and Bowman Field, the crucial general aviation reliever airport for the community, continue to be the no. 1 economic powerhouse for aviation in the state. Each year, airport and airport-related activities generate $12.8 billion in economic impact and $550 million in state and local tax revenue, or $1 in every $6 in Louisville Metro tax revenue. Plus, nearly 90,000 jobs – or 1 in 8 jobs in Louisville Metro – can be attributed to airport operations.


“SDF is leading the way for our community, our region and the state,” added Mann. “We continue to be a major economic driver, global leader in cargo operations and set new passenger records. We are well positioned to continue this momentum into 2026 for another successful year.”


| Media Materials |
Defying Expectation Presentation from Executive Director Dan Mann during his annual Year-End Briefing.


SDF Fact Sheet 2025

 

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 40 nonstop destinations from Louisville. SDF is home to UPS Worldport, moving millions of tons of products each year, making it the no. 1 busiest cargo airport in North America and Top 5 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.

Contact: Natalie Chaudoin
(502) 363-8507 office
(502) 475-8084 cell
Natalie.Chaudoin@FlyLouisville.com

 

Advocacy Update 2.4.2026

by with No Comment 1si NewsAdvocacy

We are continuing to learn and monitor policies that may impact our local region. The goal of our Advocacy Agenda is to articulate the opportunities and concerns of Southern Indiana businesses and to speak for them as one voice.

Due to the weather, the Advocacy Committee has postponed their trip to the statehouse, but looks forward to meeting with officials today, Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026.

If you are interested in understanding local priorities, you can also register for our upcoming 5 O’clock Network at Indiana-American Water Company for our annual “Meet Your Local Elected Officials.” You can register here.

We encourage everyone to see upcoming deadlines.

Bills we are monitoring:

SB 281 Income tax credits

Status:

  • 2/2/2026 First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means
  • 1/29/2026 Referred to the House
  • 1/29/2026 House sponsor: Representative Snow

SB 283 Regional Development Tax Credit

Status:

  • 1/12/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy
  • 1/12/2026: Authored by Senators Mishler, Niezgodski
  • Did not advance; Inactive.

HB 1101 Regional Economic Development

Status:

  • 1/05/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means
  • 1/05/2026: Coauthored by Representatives Snow, Lehman
  • 1/05/202: Authored by Representative Heine
  • Did not advance; Inactive.

HB 1018 School age childcare

Status:

  • 1/26/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Family and Children Services
  • 1/23/2026: Referred to the Senate
  • 1/22/2026: Senate sponsors: Senators Donato, Walker G
  • 1/22/2026: Third reading: passed; Roll Call 65: yeas 93, nays 0

HB 1164 Tax Increment Financing Districts

Status:

  • 1/05/2026: First Reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means
  • 1/05/2026: Authored by Representative Rowray
  • Did not advance; Inactive.

Bills we oppose:

HB 1104 Nondisclosure Agreements in Economic Development

Status:

  • 1/12/2026: Representative Commons added as coauthor
  • 1/05/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Government and Regulatory Reform
  • 1/05/2026: Authored by Representative Greene
  • Did not advance; Inactive.

You can find a copy of the 1si 2026 Advocacy Agenda by visiting https://1si.org/advocacy/ or downloading a PDF copy here.  

For Immediate Release: Global Polymers to Relocate and Expand Operations in Charlestown, Indiana

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

CHARLESTOWN, Ind. (Feb. 2, 2026) — Global Polymers LLC, a Kentucky‑based, industry leader in recycled Polypropylene resins, announced plans to relocate and expand its operations to Charlestown, Indiana. Backed by strong support from the City of Charlestown and regional partners, the company will reactivate an existing facility at 100 Quality Court, strengthening its manufacturing footprint and positioning the business for continued growth.

The expansion will strengthen Global Polymers’ recycling and manufacturing capabilities and reinforce its commitment to customers. The company also operates Global Freight LLC, a for-hire transportation business supporting its logistics operations.

“This relocation and expansion mark an important milestone for Global Polymers,” said Barry McRoberts, Founder and Managing Member of Global Polymers LLC. “As demand for our products continues to grow, this investment will enhance our ability to serve customers through expanded capabilities and new product offerings. We appreciate the support of the City of Charlestown, One Southern Indiana, and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, whose partnership has been critical to advancing this next phase of growth.”

The company plans to create up to 30 new jobs by 2030 at the Charlestown location, with an average hourly wage of $31.17—well above the current Clark County average wage. Global Polymers also plans to invest more than $8.5 million in the facility through new machinery and equipment, building improvements, special tooling, and other capital expenditures.

“We are excited that Global Polymers has chosen Charlestown for this significant investment,” said Mayor Treva Hodges. “The revitalization of this facility reinforces the strength of our workforce, quality of our community, and highlights our commitment to fostering smart growth and high-quality job opportunities in our community.”

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation committed an investment in Global Polymers of up to $290,000 in the form of incentive-based tax credits. These incentives are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim state benefits once jobs are created. 

“Indiana’s pro-growth business climate and robust small business ecosystem are attracting quality investments that will further support our economy and residents,” said Governor Mike Braun. “We are proud to welcome Global Polymers to our state and to our southern Indiana community, where the company will have the skilled talent needed to grow.”

“Global Polymers’ decision to stay in the region and grow in southern Indiana demonstrates their confidence in both Charlestown and our regional advantage,” said Lance Allison, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana. “Southern Indiana continues to be a premier hub for advanced manufacturing and logistics, and we’re proud to support this expansion and the quality jobs and products it will create.”

In addition to state support, Global Polymers has received local support through an estimated tax abatement savings of $65,000 over five years from the City of Charlestown on qualifying personal property.  This allows the company to phase in its new taxes over time as operations expand.

For more information about Global Polymers, visit www.globalpolymerscorp.com.

About Global Polymers LLC 

Global Polymers LLC, founded in 1992 by J. Barry McRoberts, is a 9001:2015 certified manufacturer of recycled Polypropylene resins and a recognized authority in closed-loop recycling and certified destruction. The company specializes in mechanical recycling hard-to-recycle polypropylene (PP) materials, including post-consumer (PCR) and post-industrial (PIR). Global Polymers provides molders with a reliable supply of superior-quality recycled resins. Global Polymers’ mission is to provide sustainable solutions for the plastics industry.

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. 

MEDIA CONTACTS

Global Polymers LLC
J. Barry McRoberts
Email: Barry@globalpolymerscorp.com
Phone: 502-552-2050

Indiana Economic Development Corporation
Ashley Gibbons
Email: comms@iedc.in.gov

One Southern Indiana
Ellinor Smith
ESmith@1si.org 
Phone: 217-320-4832

Indiana American Water Installs First Drinking Water PFAS Treatment System in Indiana

by with No Comment Member NewsUncategorized

CHARLESTOWN, Ind. (Jan. 29, 2026) –Indiana American Water held a ribbon cutting ceremony today at its Charlestown water treatment plant. The company announced that the facility is now operating Indiana’s first drinking water treatment system designed to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS. The nearly $6 million system investment, which went online last month, marks another major milestone in protecting public health and improving water quality for the community.

“We are proud to partner with Indiana American Water on this important project,” said Treva Hodges, Mayor of the City of Charlestown. “Access to high-quality drinking water is essential for the health and well-being of our community, and this new treatment system shows a forward-thinking approach to community safety. Continued improvements to our water system have helped Charlestown achieve a higher quality of life and have spurred community growth, making our city an even more attractive place to live and invest.”

According to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM), this is the first PFAS treatment installation in a public water system in the state. PFAS are a group of manufactured chemicals that have been used for decades in industrial and consumer products and are known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.

To celebrate this milestone, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on January 29, 2026, with local officials, community leaders, and Indiana American Water representatives in attendance.

“This investment underscores our continued commitment to delivering safe, clean, and reliable water to our customers,” said Barry Suits, President of Indiana American Water. “By proactively addressing PFAS, we are leading the way in Indiana and setting the standard for future water quality improvements across the state. This project also provided us with an opportunity to gain valuable experience in adding PFAS treatment, which will guide and inform similar upgrades at other systems as we make these investments over the coming years.”

This investment builds on Indiana American Water’s commitment to Charlestown, following the commissioning of the $16 million water treatment plant in 2022. The PFAS upgrade is supported by Indiana’s State Revolving Fund Loan Program, which allows the company to finance the project at a lower cost than traditional loans. This additional investment includes the granular activated carbon or GAC system and also supports infrastructure such as pumps, piping, electrical systems, and controls. Charlestown was selected for this enhancement because the original plant was designed to accommodate future improvements, making it an ideal location for this advanced treatment technology.

The Charlestown facility serves approximately 3,000 customers, or about 8,000 residents and businesses, with four percent of its daily production sold to neighboring Marysville-Otisco Nabb Water Corporation. Indiana American Water’s Water Quality Reports, published annually, confirm that all Indiana American Water systems meet or surpass federal and state drinking water standards.

Future PFAS Investments in Indiana

Indiana American Water is committed to expanding PFAS treatment capabilities across other service areas. Plans are underway for similar upgrades to its water systems in Terre Haute, Johnson County and other communities as funding becomes available. These investments are part of a broader strategy to ensure compliance with evolving water quality regulations and to safeguard public health for generations to come.

Curious about PFAS and how they impact your water?

Indiana American Water is committed to providing safe, high-quality water and keeping its customers informed about emerging contaminants like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). A dedicated PFAS resource page explains what PFAS are, why they matter, and what steps the company is taking to help ensure water meets the highest standards. Learn more about PFAS and our proactive approach by exploring the full details here.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s 6,700 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors, and other stakeholders. For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About Indiana American Water
Indiana American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 1.5 million people. For more information, visit amwater.com/inaw and join Indiana American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Media Contact:
Joel Reuter
External Affairs Manager
Indiana American Water
P: (317) 885-2434
E: joel.reuter@amwater.com

For Immediate Release: PC3 Health Expands Operations to Indiana, Creating 40 New Jobs in Jeffersonville

by with 2 Comments 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

JEFFERSONVILLE, IN. (1/29/2026) – Indiana leaders announced that Physician Care Coordination Consultants LLC (PC3 Health), a growing health care services company, is expanding into southern Indiana with a new office location in Jeffersonville. The expansion will create 40 new premium wage full-time jobs as the company establishes operations at 903 Spring Street in Jeffersonville, Indiana.

The new Jeffersonville location will support PC3 Health’s continued growth as it partners with hospitals and health systems across the country to improve utilization management, case management, and overall clinical and financial performance.

“Indiana’s robust life sciences sector and talent pipeline are primed to support health care services providers like PC3 Health,” said Governor Mike Braun. “PC3 Health joins a growing list of innovative and tech-enabled companies, from small businesses to Fortune 500 firms, choosing Indiana and its communities for long-term growth.”

The company’s new office will house a range of professional positions, including physician advisors, case managers, data analysts, and administrative support staff. The Jeffersonville site allows PC3 Health to tap into the growing health care and life sciences workforce in the region while remaining closely connected to hospital partners throughout the Midwest and beyond.

“We are excited to expand our footprint into Indiana and become part of the Jeffersonville community,” said Karan Shah, M.D., managing partner of PC3 Health. “Our mission is to provide strategic guidance and clinical expertise to hospitals navigating the increasing complexity of payor relationships, utilization, and case management. This expansion positions us to better serve our partners while creating meaningful, well-paying jobs in the region.”

Local and regional community leaders also welcomed the announcement, noting the importance of attracting health care and professional services employers to the city’s downtown corridor.

“PC3 Health’s decision to locate in the City of Jeffersonville is yet another victory for our growing community and we welcome their presence and partnership,” said Mayor Mike Moore. “This announcement brings new premium high-wage jobs for our residents, reactivates a key commercial building on Spring Street, and further reinforces Jeffersonville’s reputation as a destination for innovation.”

“Health care and life sciences remain priority sectors for southern Indiana,” said Lance Allison, President & CEO of One Southern Indiana Chamber & Economic Development. “PC3 Health’s investment underscores the region’s ability to support fast-growing, high-impact companies that invest in their people, customers, and community.”

PC3 Health specializes in utilization management and case management services for hospitals, helping reduce claim denials, improve patient throughput, and enhance financial performance. The Jeffersonville expansion represents the company’s next phase of growth as demand for its services continues to increase nationwide.

For more information about PC3 Health, visit www.pc3health.com

About PC3 Health 
PC3 Heath are the approvals champion. We fight for better outcomes and brighter futures for healthcare organizations and the patients and communities they serve. We are physicians, nurses, and administrators who have experienced what healthcare organizations experience. We know how to help them get more yes, to ensure providers get the support they need to deliver the quality care patients need today and in the future. By working hand-in-hand with healthcare organizations, we leverage an innovative blend of data analysis, technology and human interaction to go beyond simply overturning payor denials and build strategies for future prevention.

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. 

MEDIA CONTACTS

PC3 Health
Nicole Yates
Nicole.Yates@pc3health.com
(812) 987-6266

One Southern Indiana
Ellinor Smith
ESmith@1si.org
217.320.4832

Breeze Announces Three New, Nonstop Routesfrom Louisville Muhammad Ali International AirportFares on sale now and start from $39* one way

by with No Comment Member News

LOUISVILLE, KY (January 28, 2026) – Breeze Airways today announces three new, nonstop routes from the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) with service to Hartford (BDL), Los Angeles (LAX) and Pittsburgh (PIT). Flights for the three new destinations will begin in May with the premium leisure airline that aims to provide affordable, direct flights for travelers.

“With today’s announcement, we are adding nonstop service to two new markets from SDF with Pittsburgh and Hartford, along with continuing to offer more options to the West Coast with Los Angeles,” said Dan Mann, Executive Director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, which owns and operates SDF. “We appreciate Breeze’s recognition of the strength of our market and expanded presence in Louisville, giving travelers in our region even more options.”

With the addition of Pittsburgh and Hartford, SDF now has service to a record 41 nonstop destinations from Louisville. On average, nearly 200 people travel between Louisville and Pittsburgh each day, and it serves as one of the largest markets for visitors to the Louisville region. Hartford is a key link to New England, a region full of historic sites and outdoor recreation adventures. Conveniently located between Boston and New York City, Hartford area’s population of more than three million makes it the largest population center in the eastern U.S. that SDF did not serve nonstop.

“This is a huge win for Louisville,” said Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg. “Anytime our airport adds non-stop flights to major cities, it’s an indicator of our economic momentum because it shows there is a demand for these routes, especially from business travelers. Non-stop flights are also a selling point for businesses looking to set up operations here.”

Beginning today, Louisville travelers can book the summer seasonal flights to:

• Los Angeles (LAX) on Wednesdays and Saturdays starting on Wednesday, May 6.
Fares start at $99* one way.


• Pittsburgh (PIT) on Thursdays and Sundays beginning on Thursday, May 7.
Fares start at $39* one way.


• Hartford (BDL) on Mondays and Fridays starting on Friday, May 29.
Fares are now available from $49* one way.

“Breeze continues to grow by adding nonstop routes that deliver real value to our Guests,” said David Neeleman, Founder and CEO of Breeze Airways. “Louisville’s new service to Pittsburgh, Hartford and Los Angeles reflects that progress and our commitment to the community.”

Since arriving at SDF in 2021, Breeze has continued to enhance its presence in Louisville. With today’s announcement of Hartford, Los Angeles and Pittsburgh, Breeze now offers nonstop service to nine cities from SDF including Charleston, Fort Myers, New Orleans, Raleigh/Durham, San Francisco and Tampa.

Breeze was named one of Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2025 for its fresh take on affordable flying that is transforming low-cost air travel into a nice experience. It was also named the Best Major Airline in North America by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), as well as the No. 3 Best Domestic Airline by Travel + Leisure in 2025, placing Breeze in the list’s top four every year since it began flying.

The airline is known for its flexible network that directly and conveniently connects travelers to underserved cities nationwide, making air travel more accessible to millions of travelers coast to coast. Coupled with its brand-new fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft and premium products like free family seating, fast onboard WiFi, preferred seat options, and no change or cancel fees, Breeze is making it nice to fly affordably.

To learn more about Breeze or to book a flight, visit flybreeze.com, or download the Breeze Airways app.

*$39 No Flex Fare promotion is available only when booking a new reservation for PITSDF and SDF-PIT. *$49 No Flex Fare promotion is available only when booking a new reservation for BDL-SDF and SDF-BDL. *$99 No Flex Fare promotion is available only when booking a new reservation for LAX-SDF and SDF-LAX. Promotion must be purchased from January 28, 2026, through February 3, 2026 (11:59 pm PT). LAX SDF and SDF-LAX promotion is valid only for travel from May 6, 2026, through September 15, 2026. PIT-SDF and SDF-PIT, promotion is valid only for travel from May 7, 2026, through September 15, 2026. BDL-SDF and SDF-BDL promotion is valid only for travel from May 29, 2026, through September 15, 2026. Price displayed includes taxes & government fees. Fare prices, fare classes, rules, routes, and schedules are subject to change or exemption without notice. Any changes or modifications to qualifying promotional reservations will be subject to fare repricing. A difference in airfare at the current fare price may apply. Other restrictions and blackout dates may apply.

| MEDIA CONTACTS |
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport Breeze Airways
Natalie Chaudoin McKinnley Matson
(502) 363-8507 office (801) 436-3984
(502) 475-8084 cell CorporateCommunications@FlyBreeze.com
Natalie.Chaudoin@FlyLouisville.com B-Roll | Newsroom

Preparing IU Southeast for the Future: A Strategic Review of Our Academic Structure

by with No Comment Member News

By Debbie Ford, Chancellor, Indiana University Southeast   

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (January 22, 2026) – Higher education across the nation is experiencing a period of profound change. Workforce needs are evolving, student expectations are shifting, technology continues to reshape learning, and demographic trends are influencing how universities serve their regions. At Indiana University Southeast, we believe the most responsible response to this changing landscape is to be proactive, transparent, and strategic—always with our students and community at the center.  

That is why this semester, IU Southeast will undertake a comprehensive review of our academic structure. This effort will be guided by a process facilitator from the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), a national organization that works closely with public regional universities like ours. Their role is to provide an informed perspective—grounded in national best practices—to help ensure our academic organization is well positioned to support student success, faculty excellence, and regional impact for the future.  

This review is not about cutting corners or diminishing our mission. It is about strengthening our ability to deliver high-quality, relevant education in a sustainable way. Our goal is to ensure IU Southeast remains agile, student-centered, and closely aligned with the workforce and economic needs of Southern Indiana and the greater Louisville region.  

A faculty-led task force is guiding this work in partnership with the AASCU facilitator. Throughout the semester, the group will engage faculty, staff, students, alumni, community leaders, and campus leadership to examine how academic units are organized, how programs are delivered, and how resources are aligned with institutional priorities. This will be a collaborative and transparent process, with no predetermined outcomes.  

It is likely that this review could result in changes to our current six-school academic structure. However, I want to reassure our campus and community that our academic programs will remain. The focus is not on elimination, but on exploring whether programs could be better supported, more connected, better aligned, or more efficient within a different structure. The intent is to strengthen what already works and position IU Southeast for long-term success.  

Similar reviews have taken place on other Indiana University campuses and public universities nationwide. This type of review is a normal and responsible practice in higher education, particularly as institutions work to be strong stewards of public and private resources.  

In recent years, IU Southeast has built strong momentum. We have stabilized enrollment, improved student retention, expanded partnerships with regional employers, launched new academic programs aligned with workforce demand, and increased experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for meaningful careers. This review is a natural next step in building on that progress.  

Public regional universities like IU Southeast play a vital role in expanding access to higher education, strengthening local economies, and developing the next generation of professionals and civic leaders. To continue fulfilling that role, our academic structure must reflect today’s realities—not those of the past. This review will help identify opportunities to enhance collaboration, strengthen advising and student support, reduce unnecessary duplication, and better position programs to meet regional needs.  

For our community partners, alumni, and supporters, I want to emphasize that IU Southeast remains deeply committed to serving as a regional anchor institution—one that opens doors to opportunity, supports workforce development, and contributes to the vitality of Southern Indiana. This work is an investment in that shared future.  

Change in higher education is inevitable. The choice institutions face is whether to react to change or lead through it. At IU Southeast, we choose to lead—thoughtfully, inclusively, and with our students and community at the heart of every decision.  

I look forward to sharing updates as this work moves forward and to continuing meaningful conversations about how we shape the next chapter of IU Southeast together.  
  

About IU Southeast: IU Southeast is one of nine campuses of Indiana University. Offering top-quality, 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. 

Contact Information:
Indiana University Southeast 
Contact:  Nancy Jo Trafton 
812-941-2676 
ntrafton@iu.edu 

Advocacy Update 1.21.2026

by with No Comment 1si NewsAdvocacy

We are continuing to learn and monitor policies that may impact our local region. The goal of our Advocacy Agenda is to articulate the opportunities and concerns of Southern Indiana businesses and to speak for them as one voice. 

Our Advocacy Committee continues to meet and discuss relevant bills to our local businesses and constituents. Together, they look forward to going to the statehouse next week where they will speak with elected officials on behalf of the bills and priorities they are monitoring. In the meantime, our Advocacy Committee looks forward to learning more about other bills and local priorities to track in our upcoming advocacy updates. 

We encourage everyone to see upcoming deadlines. 

  • Monday January 26 – Latest Day session must reconvene (IC 2-2.1-1-3) 
  • Thursday January 29 – Last day for 3rd reading of Senate bills in Senate 
  • Thursday January 29 – Last Day for 3rd reading of House bills in the House. 

 

Bills we are monitoring: 

SB 283 Regional Development Tax Credit 

Status: 

  • 1/12/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy 
  • 1/12/2026: Authored by Senators Mishler, Niezgodski 

HB 1101 Regional Economic Development 

Status: 

  • 1/05/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 1/05/2026: Coauthored by Representatives Snow, Lehman 
  • 1/05/202: Authored by Representative Heine 

HB 1164 Tax Increment Financing Districts 

Status: 

  • 1/05/2026: First Reading: referred to Committee on Ways and Means 
  • 1/05/2026: Authored by Representative Rowray 

 

Bills we oppose: 

HB 1104 Nondisclosure Agreements in Economic Development 

Status: 

  • 1/12/2026: Representative Commons added as coauthor 
  • 1/05/2026: First reading: referred to Committee on Government and Regulatory Reform 
  • 1/05/2026: Authored by Representative Greene 

 

You can find a copy of the 1si 2026 Advocacy Agenda by visiting https://1si.org/advocacy/ or downloading a PDF copy here.