Stites & Harbison Welcomes Nine Attorneys to Kentucky and Georgia

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Nov. 20, 2024)—Stites & Harbison, PLLC announces the addition of nine attorneys to the firm. Four attorneys join the Louisville, Ky., office: Rachel Gumbel, Jackson B. Hurst-Sanders, James E. Myers and April M. J. Sain. Harper B. Anderson, Holly A. Couch and Robert H. Dean join the firm in Lexington, Ky., while Mackenzie Miller and Lauren Towell (Ren) join the Atlanta office.

Rachel Gumbel is a member of the Business Litigation Service Group. She earned her J.D. from the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law, summa cum laude, in 2024. In law school, Gumbel served the University of Louisville Law Review as the senior notes editor for Volume 62, where she published a note, and as a member for Volume 61. Gumbel also was a research assistant for Professor Lauren Rothstein. Her honors include the Samuel L. Greenebaum Excellence in Legal Writing Award, the Runner-Up Best Note Award, the Brandeis Leadership Initiative (inaugural fellow) and the Brandeis Honor Society. Prior to joining Stites & Harbison, she was a legal extern for Judge Eric Haner, Division One of the Jefferson Circuit Court in the fall of 2023. She also participated in Stites & Harbison’s summer associate program in 2022 and 2023. She is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

Jackson B. Hurst-Sanders is a member of the Business Litigation Service Group. He earned his J.D. from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law, summa cum laude and Order of the Coif, in 2023. While in law school, Hurst-Sanders was a BARBRI ambassador and a student representative of the UK Rosenberg Diversity Committee. For the Kentucky Law Journal, he served as editor-in-chief of Volume 111 and was published in that volume; he also served as a staff editor of Volume 110. His other honors include a Best Brief Award and a Best Source & Cite Award for Weaver Note, Book 1. Prior to joining Stites & Harbison, Hurst-Sanders was a judicial law clerk for Judge David J. Hale of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, 2023-24. He was a summer associate for Stites & Harbison in 2021 and 2022. He was also a legal extern for the Fayette County Attorney’s Office, spring of 2022, and a judicial extern for Judge Brian C. Edwards, Division 11 of the Jefferson Circuit Court, spring of 2023. He is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

James E. Myers is a member of the Business & Finance Service Group. He earned his J.D. from the Vanderbilt University Law School in 2024 and completed the Law & Business Program. In law school, he was a Vanderbilt Law School ambassador, a representative for the Vanderbilt Law and Business Society, a treasurer of the Vanderbilt Law School Transfer Association and a member of the Investment and Securities Law Club. Prior to joining Stites & Harbison, Myers was a summer associate for the firm in 2023 and a summer law clerk for an Asheville, N.C., firm in 2022. He is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

April M. J. Sain is a member of the Business Litigation Service Group. She earned her J.D. from the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law, magna cum laude, in 2021. While in law school, Sain was editor-in-chief of the University of Louisville Law Review, Volume 59, and chaired the Student Bar Foundation. She received the Samuel L. Greenebaum Award for Achievement in Legal Writing in Spring 2021. Prior to joining the firm, Sain clerked for the Honorable Claria Horn Boom, U.S. District Judge for the Western and Eastern Districts of Kentucky, from 2022-24, and for the Honorable Regina S. Edwards, U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Western District of Kentucky, from 2021-22. She is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

Harper B. Anderson is a member of the Torts & Insurance Practice Service Group. She earned her J.D. from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law, magna cum laude, in 2024. In law school, she was president of the Moot Court Board and captain of the Moot Court National Competition Team. She also was a member of the Appalachian Law Caucus and the Trial Advocacy Board. She served as education chair of the Women’s Law Caucus and social events chair of the Student Bar Association. Additionally, Anderson earned a Class of 2024 Pro Bono Award. Prior to joining the firm, she participated in Stites & Harbison’s summer associate program in 2023 and was a legal extern for Judge Lucinda Masterton in Fayette Circuit Court in the fall of 2023. Anderson is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

Holly A. Couch is a member of the Construction Service Group. She earned her J.D. from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law in 2023. In law school, she served the Kentucky Law Journal as a staff editor for Volume 110 and the special features editor for Volume 111. She also was president of the Women’s Law Caucus. Couch worked as a certified legal intern at the University of Kentucky Legal Clinic, 2022-23, and was a law clerk for the National Labor Relations Board Region 9 in the summer of 2022. In 2023, she earned the Allison Connelly Seek Justice Award and the UK College of Law Pro Bono Award. Prior to joining the firm, Couch was a law clerk for Magistrate Judge Edward B. Atkins in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, 2023-24. She is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

Robert H. Dean is a member of the Real Estate & Banking Service Group. He earned his J.D. from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law, cum laude, in 2023. While in law school, Dean was a senior online staff member of the Kentucky Law Journal, Volume 111, a staff editor for Volume 110 and served as president of the Business Law Society. His honors include being a recipient of the Book Four Source and Cite Award and the Online Publication Source and Cite Award. Before joining Stites & Harbison, Dean was a law clerk for Judge Patrick J. Urda, U.S. Tax Court in Washington, D.C., in September of 2023 and a 2022 summer legal associate for the IRS, Office of Chief Counsel in Washington, D.C. He is admitted to practice in Kentucky.

Mackenzie Miller is a member of the Real Estate & Banking Service Group. She earned her J.D. from Georgia State University College of Law, magna cum laude and Order of the Coif, in 2024. While in law school, Miller was an articles editor for the Georgia State University Law Review for Volume 39 and the articles editor for Volume 40. She served as president of the American Constitution Society, vice-president of the Georgia Association for Women Lawyers and a graduate assistant for the Academic Success Program. She received a recognition from the White House and Department of Justice Eviction Prevention Program. Prior to joining the firm, Miller participated in Stites & Harbison’s summer associate program in 2023 and was a business immigration analyst for an Atlanta firm, 2019-21. She is admitted to practice in Georgia.

Lauren Towell (Ren) is a member of the Torts & Insurance Practice Service Group. She earned her J.D. from Emory University School of Law, with honors, in 2024. In law school, Towell was a member of the Moot Court (ABA competition team) and the American Constitution Society. Prior to joining the firm, she participated in Stites & Harbison’s summer associate program in 2023 and was a summer judicial intern for Henry County Superior Court in 2023. She also was a data analyst for Hilton Worldwide, 2019-21. She is admitted to practice in Georgia.

About Stites & Harbison

Stites & Harbison, PLLC is a nationally recognized, full-service law firm. With 11 offices across six states — Kentucky, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia — the firm represents clients across the United States and internationally. Tracing its origins to 1832, Stites & Harbison is known as a preeminent firm managing sophisticated transactions, challenging litigation and complex regulatory matters on a daily basis. For more information, visit www.stites.com.

IU Southeast names 2025 Chancellor’s Medallion honorees and scholars  

NEW ALBANY, IN (November 18, 2024) – Indiana University Southeast is proud to announce two recipients of the 2025 Chancellor’s Medallion. 

Pamela Bennett Martin, past-president of Bennett & Bennett Insurance Inc., and Jerry Roby, an entrepreneur with interests in various businesses including owner and President of Creditors Insurance Service, LLC; co-owner and CEO of Dennis Ott & Company Construction Services; partner in BEK Consultants; owner of Roby Advisory Group and former co-owner of Steinert’s Grill & Pub will be honored March 29, 2025, at the Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner at The Foundry in Jeffersonville. 

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, 61 of these awards have been presented. 

Pamela Bennett Martin 

Pamela Bennett Martin exemplifies a life of service, dedicated both to her clients and her community. As the former president of Bennett & Bennett Insurance, Inc., an independent agency with locations in Corydon and New Albany, Pamela built her career in the insurance industry, becoming a Certified Insurance Counselor in 1994 and specializing in health and commercial coverage. After 45 years in her family-owned business, she oversaw its successful merger with Shepherd Insurance on December 31, 2021, leaving a legacy of expertise and commitment to service. 

Martin’s community contributions are vast: she chaired a successful YMCA campaign in 2004, raising $3 million to build the facility, and later served as board chair from 2005-2007. She currently serves on the board of First Savings Bank and chairs the Compensation Committee. As a former president of the Corydon Rotary Club, she was named “President of the Year for Large Clubs” in District 6580 in 2010. 

Her community leadership includes a term as president of the Harrison County Community Foundation Board (2010-2012), co-chairing the Indiana 200th Birthday Celebration for Harrison County, and leading the year-long Corydon Bicentennial Celebration. She has founded several nonprofits, including Repair-Affair, Leadership Harrison County, Mainstreet Corydon, Renaissance Harrison County, and the Women in Philanthropy Steering Committee. 

Currently, Martin’s community roles include past chair of Align Southern Indiana, Advisory Board Chair for Genesis House, Fundraising Chair for the Popcorn Festival, and serving on the Harrison County Library Board of Advisors (beginning January 2024).  

A 1992 graduate of Leadership Southern Indiana and 1998 graduate of Leadership Harrison County, Martin earned the Servant Leadership Award from Leadership Harrison County. She has also been recognized with the Sam Walton Business Leader Award, the Main Street Board Member of the Year Award from the Indiana Main Street Association (2003), and the Norman Melhiser Community Service Award (2009). Her recent honors include the Harry P. Cooper Jr. Award from the Independent Insurance Agents of Indiana (2021) and the West Bend Mutual Community Service Award (2019). 

Martin holds a BA from Hanover College, graduating in 1980. She is married to David Martin, and they have two sons, Brent (married to Stacy) and Douglas (married to Liz), and five grandchildren: Jack, Molly, Benjamin, Louie, and Henry. 

Jerry Roby 

Jerry Roby is a seasoned entrepreneur and dedicated civic leader with diverse business interests and a lifelong commitment to service. He is the Owner and President of Creditors Insurance Service, LLC, Co-owner and CEO of Dennis Ott & Company Construction Services, a partner in BEK Consultants, and the Owner of Roby Advisory Group. A former co-owner of Steinert’s Grill & Pub, a Southern Indiana landmark, Roby brings vision and leadership to each venture. His career reflects a commitment to giving back to the communities and institutions that shaped him. 

A 1985 graduate of Indiana University Southeast, Roby was the institution’s first Academic All-American Student-Athlete and the first athlete to receive national honors. He became the first three-time team captain and three-time recipient of the Ron Johns Mental Attitude Award. In 1985, he was named Outstanding Student in Political Science. He served as Chair of the IU Southeast Grenadier Club for 20 years and as past Chair of the annual IU Southeast Champion’s Dinner, raising scholarships for student-athletes. Roby was honored as the IU Southeast Alumnus of the Year in 2018. 

Graduating from St. Xavier High School in Louisville in 1981, Roby has served on its Board of Directors since 2015, holding roles as Governance Committee Chair, Vice Chair of the Board, and currently as Chairman of the Board. He co-chaired the school’s 2023 Strategic Plan and served on the X-Effect Campaign Committee, which raised over $51 million. He was inducted into the St. Xavier Hall of Honors in 2005. 

Roby is active in the nonprofit sector, serving as Board Chair and Co-Organizer for RISE Academy of Lifelong Learning and the RISE Foundation, which provides education for neurotypical and autistic students. He has also served as Vice Chairman of the Cedar Lake Lodge Foundation Board and contributed to its Executive Leadership and Leadership Giving Committees. He has been an Advisory Board Member for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Indiana, where he co-founded the successful “Links for Littles” fundraiser, and served on the Executive Leadership Team for the March of Dimes “March for Babies.” 

Roby lives in New Albany, Indiana, with his wife, Kimberly. Together, they have four children and their spouses—Tyler (Lauren), Victoria (Stanley), Nathan (Casey), and Courtney (Chase)—and seven grandchildren: Annelise, Carrigan, Maxwell, Carson, Churchill, Emerson, and Rosalie. 

Eight Scholars Recognized 

The Chancellor’s Medallion Scholarship recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and perseverance. It is one of the most coveted scholarships available at IU Southeast. Each year, eight recipients with a minimum of 60 credit hours, are selected by the Chancellor of IU Southeast to receive the highly sought-after scholarship. The Chancellor’s Medallion award is up to $6,000, based on tuition, and is renewable. Criteria for selection include: 

  • Minimum of 60 credit hours completed by the beginning Fall semester of selection, 
  • Maintaining full-time enrollment of 15 credit hours or more, 
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0, 
  • Preference is given for financial need, and 
  • Completed application including an essay, extra-curricular activities (civic and non-university volunteer activities), special accomplishments, and letter of recommendation. 

The application deadline for next year’s Chancellor’s Medallion Scholarship is May 31, 2025. 

The 2024-2025 Chancellor Medallion Scholarship Recipients include. 

  • Timothy Jerome Bryant, Pekin, IN 
  • Dylan Curtis Mapp, Evansville, IN 
  • Jadrian Morris, New Albany, IN 
  • Jade Mundy, Jasper, IN 
  • Jenna Rogers, Sellersburg, IN 
  • Natalie Stewart, New Albany, IN 
  • Bailey Warner, New Albany, IN 
  • Kara Page Wright, Corydon, IN 

The Chancellor’s Medallion Dinner will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. The Foundry in Jeffersonville, 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. 

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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 eight counties in the Louisville region. For more information, visit https://southeast.iu.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus. 

River Ridge Businesses Partner to Help Neighbors in Hurrican Helene Relief Efforts

Niagara Cares and Mister “P” Express send a truckload of bottled water to Rutherford County, North Carolina, home to Meta Data Center.  
Jeffersonville, IN (November 14, 2024) – In the wake of the devastation left by Hurricane Helene, three local businesses have organized a donation of more than 40,000 bottles of drinking water. 

In North Carolina, Rutherford County is home to a Meta Data Center.  Because River Ridge will be home to a future Meta Data Center, two companies in River Ridge have reached out to their new neighbor with assistance.

Niagara Cares, the charitable division of Niagara Bottling, donated a truck load of bottled water, and Mister “P” Express donated the truck, fuel and the driver to transport the water to Rutherford County.  River Ridge Development Authority coordinated the effort, and the delivery was unloaded at its destination Thursday morning.   Residents in Rutherford County can contact Dayna West with Habitat for Humanity Disaster Relief for distribution.

“At Niagara, we believe in standing by our communities, especially in times of need,” said Nicholas Griess, Sr. Plant Director for Niagara Bottling in Jeffersonville. “We are proud to team up with our community partners to play a small part in providing safe, clean drinking water to support this community as they rebuild.”

Rutherford County was one of the areas hit hardest by Hurricane Helene in September, knocking out roads, power and communications and leaving residents in need of basic supplies like clean drinking water.

“We at Mister “P” Express are glad to be part of this relief effort for the victims of the storm,” stated Rebecca Collier Estes, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “We believe that anything is possible when the community rallies together.” 

“The RRDA is so pleased that our family of businesses are looking out for each other,” said Jerry Acy, Executive Director of the River Ridge Development Authority. “I want to thank Niagara Cares and Mister “P” Express for making this possible.”  
 
About Mister “P” Express 
Mister “P” Express is a family owned and operated truckline in Southern Indiana. Our foundation lies in the growing relationships we have developed over the past 37 years in business. Mister “P” Express started in 1987 with only three trucks. Allan Parnell, his wife Bunny and daughter, Cynthia Parnell Collier, started the company. The company has expanded to acquire additional property to ensure room for growth over the next several years. Mister “P” Express, Inc. strives to be the best in the business and continue to grow in the right direction.

About Niagara Bottling and Niagara Cares
Niagara Bottling, LLC has been family owned and operated since 1963. Headquartered in Diamond Bar, Calif., Niagara operates bottling facilities throughout the U.S. and Mexico. As a leading U.S. beverage manufacturer, Niagara Bottling works closely with some of the largest retailers, grocers, club and convenience stores throughout the country. Niagara produces a variety of beverages including bottled water, sparkling, vitamin and flavored water, teas, sports drinks, ready-to-drink coffee, protein drinks and non-dairy milk products. For more information, visit www.niagarawater.com.

Niagara Cares is the heart of what we do and who we are at Niagara Bottling. For more than 60 years, we have been making a difference for our Team Members, consumers and communities through philanthropic giving, volunteering, water donations and disaster relief. As a family-owned business, we are committed to creating meaningful change for our communities through a spirit of giving back both big and small. For more information, visit niagarawater.com/niagara-cares.

About the River Ridge Development Authority 
The River Ridge Development Authority (RRDA) manages the River Ridge Commerce Center, a 6,000-acre business and office park established in 1998 to replace lost economic activity from the closure of the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant.  Today, River Ridge is home to approximately 80 companies such as Amazon, Bose, Collins Aerospace, Medline, Optum and PharmaCord.  Onsite employment totaled more than 12,002 in 2023, and the Center produced a total of over $2.9 billion in economic output and supported an additional 6,555 jobs. The investments and growth at River Ridge earned the RRDA the International Economic Development Council’s 2020 Gold Award for Real Estate Redevelopment and Reuse. 

Entrepreneurs to Pitch Ideas at IU Southeast’s Next Big Thing 

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (Nov. 14, 2024) – Budding entrepreneur finalists will have a chance to pitch their ideas and take home seed money and other prizes as part of The Next Big Thing Pitch Competition, presented by NovaParke Innovation & Technology Campus and hosted by the IU Southeast School of Business.  

The live pitch event will be held on Wednesday, November 20th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Hoosier Room, located in the University Center North Conference Center on the IU Southeast campus. The public is invited to attend to hear the ideas and cheer on their favorite entrepreneur. RSVPs are encouraged for the free event by registering via Eventbrite 

“We’re thrilled to be organizing a pitch contest that not only celebrates entrepreneurs and the spirit of entrepreneurship but is also an official event of Global Entrepreneurship Week,” said Dr. Aycan Kara, associate professor of strategic management and entrepreneurship at IU Southeast. “We’ve received submissions from both established and aspiring entrepreneurs. The submissions have truly impressed us, not just in terms of quality, but also in the wide range of concepts they cover.”  

Finalists participating in the competition, similar to the popular television series, Shark Tank, will have the chance to present their ideas to a panel of experts, entrepreneurs, and mentors, who will provide valuable feedback and guidance on projects. Registrants will also compete with other talented individuals/teams from around southern Indiana and the best pitches will receive cash awards, mentorship, and exposure.  

There are two categories in Wednesday’s pitch competition including Fast Pitch, and Pitch Tank. 

The Fast Pitch competition is for individuals/teams who have identified a problem to solve, have addressed a customer need, have executed market research, and have a rough business plan; however, they have not identified or finalized a minimum viable product or service to offer. Businesses must have operated for six months or fewer. The first-place award for the Fast Pitch competition is $5,000 in non-dilutive grant funding and a one-year membership to Maker13 in Jeffersonville, IN. 

The Pitch Tank is for individuals/teams who have a completed business plan and have identified a specific minimum viable product or service to offer. The first-place award for the Pitch Tank competition is $20,000 in non-dilutive grant funding and office space for the 2025 calendar year at Novaparke Innovation and Technology Campus in Georgetown, IN.  

Judges for the competition include James M. Hojnacki, President and CEO of Cleveland Private Trust Company and an active angel investor; Bill White, Market President for Indiana Members Credit Union; Landon Young, Vice President of Pre-Seed at Elevate Ventures, the Midwest’s most active seed-stage fund; and Jack Manzella, Chief Operating Officer of SoFab Inks, a chemical manufacturing startup developing novel  materials used to produce next-generation perovskite solar cells. Amber Miller from AME will emcee the competition. 

Participants will also hear from Chase Slepak, keynote speaker and competition judge. Slepak’s journey began at age 18 with diverse jobs, from door-to-door dry cleaning salesman to a night-shift security guard, which shaped his hands-on business approach. He launched his first businesses in his late teens and early twenties, Fifth Avenue Carwash & Detailing and Fortitude Property Services, learning invaluable lessons in resilience and customer service.  

Today, as Chairman and President of Slepak Family Companies, he manages a diverse portfolio including Slepak Enterprises, Uncle Joe’s Good Time, Swing Zone Sports Hub, and more. Slepak also serves as COO for brands like Boylan Bottling Company and is Interim President of Rainshadow Labs. His public service includes roles with the Fawn Township Fire Company and the Ohio Special Response Team.  

“Universities are known for cultivating big thinkers,” said Dr. Michelle Williams, executive vice chancellor for academic affairs at IU Southeast. “The Next Big Thing Pitch Contest helps identify budding entrepreneurs and set them up for success. With seed funding, mentoring by our expert faculty, and workspace to further develop their concepts, we hope to find the next Shadyrays, 21C, or even a Lume in our midst,” she said. 

A total of $25,000 will be split between the competition categories, along with office space at NovaParke Innovation & Technology Campus, and memberships to Maker13. 

The Next Big Thing Pitch Contest is presented by NovaParke Innovation & Technology Campus and hosted by Indiana University Southeast and the IU Southeast School of Business and community partners including Maker13, the Indiana Small Business Development Center, Republic Bank, Ideology, the Floyd County Library, and the Root Co-Working Space. 

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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 eight counties in the Louisville region. For more information, visit https://southeast.iu.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus. 

 

International minerals supplier establishing first U.S. facility at Ports of Indiana–Jeffersonville to support green manufacturing 

Lumina Sustainable Materials to open mineral processing, research hub in Jeffersonville 

JEFFERSONVILLE, IN. (Nov. 12, 2024) An international supplier of specialized minerals will develop its first U.S. facility at Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville to supply Midwest manufacturers with greener mineral additives. Lumina Sustainable Materials will invest $14.3 million at the Jeffersonville port to establish a multimineral processing facility, logistics base, and test laboratory to serve the rapidly growing polymers, electronic glass, coatings, aerospace, and building and construction markets. The new operation, located at 1302 Port Road, plans to add 50 full-time positions by 2027 with an average hourly wage of $35 per hour.   

“The total value package offered by Ports of Indiana and the State of Indiana is unmatched,” said Lumina Sustainable Materials CEO Brian Hanrahan. “The ability to ship by barge into the Midwest, to leverage logistics facilities and services, and to partner with the port on future expansions and container exports makes Jeffersonville a perfect place for our U.S. processing and research facility. We mapped our target customers for polymers, coatings, and building and construction, and Jeffersonville is in the center of it all.” 

Lumina sources minerals from around the world and is working with Purdue University, NASA, and NASA subcontractors to develop innovative mineral-based products, improve lunar simulants, and support research projects involving space travel. The company will renovate and repurpose an existing building at the Jeffersonville port that has been vacant for more than 10 years and will partner with Ports of Indiana to develop a shared laboratory facility for research and educational uses by community partners and schools. The Jeffersonville facility will use the port’s barge and rail services and serve as Lumina’s processing and logistics hub for the Western Hemisphere. In addition to mineral processing, the Jeffersonville site will manufacture advanced polymer additives, including concentrates of novel flame retardants, performance modifiers, and lightweight mineral fillers. 

“Lumina’s decision to establish its first U.S. facility in Jeffersonville speaks volumes about our city’s appeal as a center for innovation and growth,” said Mayor Moore. “This investment brings exciting opportunities for new high wage jobs and strengthens our position as a logistics and research hub for advanced industries. We’re proud to welcome Lumina to Jeffersonville and look forward to partnering with them as they bring economic and environmental value to our community and around the world.” 

“We’re thrilled our Jeffersonville port can serve as a launch pad for Lumina’s first U.S. facility,” said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock. “This is an innovative company that has done extensive research to find an ideal U.S. location to support its global supply chain. We’re excited to partner with Lumina to grow business and develop facilities that will create innovative products and drive further research and education in our community.” 

Funded by investors in Canada and Switzerland, Lumina primarily processes anorthosite, a silicate mineral, that replaces less environmentally friendly raw materials in the production of electronic glass, plastics, paint and fiberglass. The product comes from the White Mountain Mine in western Greenland, which has the largest anorthosite deposit on earth. The only larger deposit is on the moon. Anorthosite will be shipped from Greenland to New Orleans by ocean vessel and transloaded to barge for transport to Jeffersonville.  

Lumina works with allied mineral suppliers from around the world, sourcing pyrophyllite from Canada, barium sulfate from Morocco, bauxite from Guyana and graphite from Greenland. It is also developing the first vertically integrated manufacturing operations for producing battery anodes from mine to finished active anode material. 

“International companies like Lumina continue to choose Indiana for U.S.-based growth thanks to our pro-growth business environment and skilled talent pipeline,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC). “We are excited to welcome Lumina to our ecosystem of innovators statewide that is developing new solutions and creating new products to advance the future economy.”  

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the IEDC committed an investment in Lumina of up to $725,000 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.  

“Considering Lumina could have located anywhere in the Western Hemisphere, we’re extremely honored they picked our Jeffersonville port,” said Lance Allison, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana. “It’s gratifying for our regional economic development team to partner with a forward-looking company like Lumina that is committed to providing economic and environmental value to our region.” 

About Lumina Materials: Lumina is an innovative material science company tackling today’s most pressing manufacturing challenges with industry-leading sustainability. With customers around the world, Lumina is developing infrastructure for growth in North American and Europe while exploring additional materials and technologies to create sustainable solutions for critical markets. Lumina is a privately-owned business shipping minerals such as anorthosite from Greenland to customers on three continents and developing high impact products that extend beyond industrial minerals through custom chemistry and processing solutions. www.luminamaterials.com  

About Ports of Indiana 

Ports of Indiana is a statewide port authority operating three ports on the Ohio River and Lake Michigan. Established in 1961, Ports of Indiana is dedicated to growing Indiana’s economy by developing and maintaining a world-class port system, and by serving as a statewide resource for maritime issues, international trade, and multimodal logistics. www.portsofindiana.com  

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.  

Contacts: 

Lumina Sustainable Materials 
Brian Hanrahan | CEO / Commercial North America and R&D 
Brian@Lumina.gl  

Ports of Indiana 
Eric Powell | Director of Communications 
Epowell@portsofindiana.com | 317-233-6231 

One Southern Indiana 
Ellinor Smith | Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager 
EllinorS@1si.org | 217-320-4832 

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IU Southeast Appoints Nine to Board of Advisors

New Albany, Ind. (November 11, 2024) – Indiana University Southeast has welcomed nine new members to its Board of Advisors. 

“We are very fortunate to welcome these new board members who will continue to help connect IU Southeast to our local mission of serving our students and our region,” said Joe Glover, vice chancellor for University Relations. “Each new member has deep roots in the community and brings skills that will help our campus grow and thrive.” 

Lance Allison, CCE, IOM 

As the newly appointed President and CEO of One Southern Indiana (1si), Lance Allison has a proven record of demonstrated success and growth, previously serving as CEO and President of two chambers: Murray-Calloway County in Kentucky and Panama City Beach in Florida. He is a graduate of Murray State University and was most recently employed as the Director of Business Development with Bacon Farmer Workman (BFW) Engineering & Testing / Marcum Engineering LLC. 

At the Murray-Calloway County Chamber, Allison led the chamber to U.S. Chamber Accreditation, a high distinction held by less than 200 chambers, and created and led a new strategic plan. The chamber was also named the 2012 Mid-Size Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. At the Panama City Beach Chamber, Allison led the chamber in the increase of membership retention, improved operational and financial results, and created strong relationships with local partners. 

 

Jillian Cantu 

Jillian Cantu is the Executive Vice President of Junior Achievement of Kentuckiana. She has served several positions for Junior Achievement over the past six years including as Director of Development and Vice President of Development. Prior to her time at Junior Achievement, Cantu worked for the Greater Clark County Education Foundation, Ivy Tech Sellersburg, and Metro United Way.   

Cantu holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business with a concentration in marketing from Indiana University Southeast in New Albany and an MBA from Bellarmine University. During her time at Bellarmine, she was able to travel abroad and study at the European School of Management in Paris. 

A Louisville resident, Cantu is an active volunteer for Junior Achievement, a member of Jeffersonville Rotary and serves on the One Southern Indiana’s Wisdom of Pearls committee as the past chair. Recently, she won the One Southern Indiana “Chairperson of the Year” and has been named the 2015 One Southern Indiana “Young Professional of the Year” and Southern Indiana Business Source Magazine’s “Twenty Under 40.” 

 

Ann Carruthers 

Ann Carruthers is the Executive Director of Clark/Floyd System of Care, an organization that is the connecting of all service delivery systems in collaborating with Providers and Agencies that support children, youth and families impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences, Mental Health, and Addiction. 

Carruthers has a Psychology degree from Ottawa University, an Organizational Leadership Communication degree from Spalding University, and an MS in Psychology/Addictions from Purdue Global – Indiana. She is a certified master QPR instructor, a licensed steward of children, and a parent cafe trainer. She has a certification in diversity and inclusion from Cornell University and is a Trauma Informed Care facilitator to guide communities and professionals into positive conversations about self-care and conflict resolution.  

Carruthers is passionate about prevention, teamwork, service, empowerment, and individual growth, and anything is possible with a positive mindset. She advocates, educates, and promotes community awareness regarding child abuse and neglect, mental health, and substance use disorders, specifically to individuals who are in the criminal justice system and who have been impacted by generational poverty. She supports self-sufficiency and individual growth as a visionary leader and is constantly looking for an opportunity to build solution-focused teams.

Carruthers is a member of Graceland Baptist Church. She is also President of the Board of Directors of New Albany Township was recently elected to serve on the school board for New Albany Floyd County Schools. She is involved with many community and grassroots organizations including One Southern Indiana, Family Ark, Salvation Army, Floyd County Library, Southern Indiana Works, Metro United Way, and Guerin Woods. 

Dana Huber 

Dana Huber is the Vice President of Distribution and Public Relations at Huber’s Orchard, Winery, and Starlight Distillery. Her responsibilities include wine and spirits distribution & outreach, public relations, brand ambassador, and community outreach.  Huber is very engaged with local tourism efforts and is always finding ways to spread the word about family-owned businesses and agritourism.     

Huber attended Indiana University in Bloomington, IN where she received her bachelor’s degree from the Kelley School of Business. Before joining the family business in 2003, she worked for Humana, Citicorp, and Kindred Healthcare.  Her passion and expertise are with people and project management.   

Huber is very active in her community and currently serves on the First Harrison Bank Board of Directors, Southern Indiana Tourism Board, Our Southern Indiana Regional Development Authority as Chairperson, Indiana Destination Development Corporation, Indiana State Dept. of Agriculture & Wine America.   

Dana is married to co-owner & 6th generation family member, Ted Huber, and has two sons – Christian & Blake. She was awarded the Chancellor’s Medallion from IU Southeast Chancellor Debbie Ford in April 2024. 

Charlotte Ipsan 

Charlotte Ipsan is the Senior Vice President and Chief Hospital Officer at Norton Healthcare. She previously served as chief administrative officer of Norton Women’s & Children’s Hospital, since 2012.  

Ipsan has more than 30 years of experience in maternal/child and pediatric health care. She worked in several roles at Norton Children’s Hospital, Norton Audubon Hospital, and the former Norton Suburban Hospital, including staff nurse; nurse manager, neonatal intensive care unit; and director of women’s services. She was named vice president of Norton Children’s Medical Center, the first pediatric outpatient center of its type in Kentucky, in November 2009, then promoted to system vice president of pediatric services for Norton Healthcare/Norton Children’s Hospital in 2011.  

Ipsan was instrumental in creating the first women’s and children’s hospital in the Louisville area. She has excelled at implementing a transformational model of comprehensive health care for women, along with expanded pediatric services in conjunction with Norton Children’s. 

She has served as the American Hospital Association’s representative to the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Hospital Care and on the Governing Council of the Section for Maternal and Child Health. She was executive chair for the American Heart Association Go Red for Women Kentuckiana chapter in 2014 and has served on Louisville’s Perinatal and Infant Health Network Advisory Committee. She is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Ipsan also advocates for pediatric and women’s health across the United States. 

She has served as course director of the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Tract at the University of Louisville Graduate School of Nursing, and as manager of the Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Team for the university’s Department of Pediatrics. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Indiana University Southeast, a master’s degree in nursing/neonatal nurse practitioner tract from the University of Louisville, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Rush University in Chicago. She is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. 

In 2011, Ipsan was named the “University of Louisville School of Nursing’s Alumni of the Year” and in 2014 was recognized for being among the “Top 40 University of Louisville School of Nursing Outstanding Alumni.” She also is a proud member of the Kentucky Leadership Class of 2011. In May 2013 she was named the “Most Admired Woman in Healthcare” by Today’s Woman magazine. 

Dr. Richard Phillips 

Dr. Richard Phillips is the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) at Baptist Health Floyd Hospital in New Albany, IN. Phillips previously served as the chairman of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Chicago Medicine – AdventHealth GlenOaks Hospital in Glendale Heights, IL. He has also served as the regional medical director for the Chicagoland ED staffing company, IEMS LLC, caring for almost 200,000 patients annually. 

A graduate of Harvard University, Dr. Phillips received his MBA and medical degree from the University of Chicago and completed his residency in emergency medicine at the Harvard Affiliated Emergency Medicine Residency (HAEMR) which included Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston Children’s Hospital and Mount Auburn Hospital. 

He began his role as CMO at Baptist Health Floyd on Sept. 25 and said he is “incredibly excited” about being part of the hospital and its future growth. 

Phillips comes from a healthcare family. His mom was a nurse for more than 30 years. His parents immigrated to the United States in the early 1970s from Jamaica and he was born and raised in New York City. He is married and has three children – a son and two daughters.

Clayton Rose 

Clayton Rose is a Commercial Banking Officer with German American Bank. He assists companies, organizations, and public entities with their various financing needs in the areas of construction, real estate, and equipment. 

Rose is a graduate of Indiana University Southeast receiving his master’s in strategic finance in 2020 and B.S. in Finance and Business Administration from IU Southeast in 2016. 

Rose is involved with multiple IU Alumni Association boards and serves on the Finance Committee for the Floyd Memorial Hospital Foundation Board. 

Rose and his wife Kristy, reside in Floyd County, IN, with their daughters, Reece and Caroline. He enjoys golf, fitness and attending sporting events. 

Tony A Schoen, CPA 

Tony Schoen is Director, Executive Vice President, and Chief Financial Officer at First Savings Bank Indiana.  

Since joining First Savings in 2007, Schoen has played a key role in transforming the organization into a high-performing commercial bank, overseeing numerous strategic initiatives such as mutual-to-stock conversion, acquisitions, and nationwide lending platform integration.  

Prior to joining First Savings Bank, he was a manager at Monroe Shine & Co., Inc. where he audited financial statements and prepared tax returns filings. 

Schoen received his Bachelor of Science in Accounting at Indiana University Southeast. In 2004, he received their Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification from the State Board of Accountancy. 

Daryle W. Unseld, Jr. 

Daryle Unseld, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kentuckiana has long served the communities of Louisville and Southern Indiana.  

A graduate of Louisville Southern High School Unseld earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Louisville, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Saint Leo University, and Certificates in Nonprofit Executive Leadership and Fundraising Management from Indiana University School of Philanthropy.  

Before his service at the Boys and Girls Club, Unseld was Chief Equity & Impact Officer at Metro United Way and held positions in Louisville Metro Government and the YMCA of Greater Louisville. In his youth, he attended the Newburg Boys & Girls Club and worked at the East End Boys & Girls Club as a teen. He is an 11-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force. 

Unseld’s experience has been essential to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kentuckiana, one of the area’s largest out-of-school time providers. He has helped advance the mission of inspiring and enabling young people in the community who need it most. Unseld brings a strong sense of community and passion for the mission. 

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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 eight counties in the Louisville region. For more information, visit https://southeast.iu.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus. 

 

 

 

CoreLife Eatery Reopens Clarksville Location with New Leadership and Menu Enhancements

Louisville Location Adds New Leadership

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Nov. 11, 2024) – CoreLife Eatery, a go-to destination for fresh, bold, and nutritious meals, is excited to announce the reopening of its Clarksville, Indiana location at 1225 Veterans Parkway, Suite 100. The grand reopening is set for November 11, coinciding with Veterans Day. The restaurant closed in February 2024 under former ownership and was later purchased by FULLIFE CLARKSVILLE LLC. As part of the reopening, CoreLife Eatery will introduce a revamped menu and a refreshed commitment to quality and customer service.

CoreLife Eatery’s menu offers a unique blend of flavor-packed bowls, broths, and sides prepared daily from scratch. As part of the revamped menu, CoreLife Eatery will offer a Teriyaki Chicken Broccoli Bowl, Tri Tip Steakhouse Bowl, and The Box Meals – a nutritious combination of greens, grains, proteins, and sides such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, rosemary red potatoes, and gluten-free mac and cheese – catering to customers looking for a balanced and flavorful meal.

“We are thrilled to reopen CoreLife Eatery in Clarksville with a renewed focus on providing delicious, healthy, and thoughtfully sourced food,” said Clarisa de Luna-Villaflor, owner of the Clarksville and Louisville CoreLife Eatery. “This is not just a reopening but a complete revamp, and we are excited to relaunch this location for the Clarksville community. Our goal is to offer our customers both nourishing and satisfying meals prepared fresh every day with high-quality ingredients.”

The Clarksville location, originally opened in 2018, now features a dedicated team of 20 staff members. The Louisville CoreLife Eatery, located at 9365 Viking Center Drive and first opened in 2020, has also welcomed new management, marking an exciting new chapter for both CoreLife Eatery locations. Owner Clarisa de Luna-Villaflor with FULLIFE Hurstbourne LLC acquired the Hurstbourne location on September 6, 2024, which now operates with a skilled team of 22 staff members. Both CoreLife Eatery locations are under fresh leadership, with Tristan Thompson managing the Clarksville store and Malik Williams leading the Louisville location. Both locations are open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

“At CoreLife Eatery, we’ve prioritized hiring and continuously training staff dedicated to providing an exceptional experience, emphasizing speed, accuracy, and genuine hospitality,” said de Luna-Villaflor. “Both locations are ready to serve our community with dine-in, pick-up, delivery, and catering options to meet the diverse needs of individuals, families, and groups.”

For more information or to place an order, visit www.corelifeeatery.com.

About CoreLife Eatery

CoreLife Eatery is dedicated to making fresh, healthy eating accessible to everyone. Each meal is crafted with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, combining bold flavors with nutritional value. With locations in Clarksville, Indiana, and Louisville, Kentucky, CoreLife Eatery aims to provide a vibrant dining experience that keeps customers returning for more. For more information or to place an order, visit www.corelifeeatery.com.

 

 

 

 

 

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Bass Group Real Estate Facilitates Lease of 433 North Indiana Ave to Mindful LifeTherapy Service

Sellersburg, Indiana – November 8th, 2024 — Bass Group Real Estate is pleased to announce the successful lease of 433 North Indiana Avenue in Sellersburg, Indiana, to Mindful Life Therapy Services. This well-located space will serve as the new home for Mindful Life, providing an accessible and welcoming environment for their clients.

“We are thrilled to represent Mindful Life with getting them into this space,” said Kane Fullen, an agent of Bass Group Real Estate. “Their dedication to enhancing mental health resources in the community is inspiring, and we are proud to play a role in supporting their mission.” Mindful Life offers a range of services aimed at supporting individuals in their mental health journey in order to reach their therapeutic goals.

For more information on commercial buying or leasing opportunities, please contact:
Bobby Bass
Bass Group Real Estate
Phone: 502-552-1296
Email: bbass@bassgroupre.com

National Coffee Brand Acquires Prime Land on Highway 311 in Sellersburg, Indiana

Sellersburg, IN – Nov 8th, 2024 – Bass Group Real Estate-Commercial Division is pleased toannounce the successful sale of a prime parcel of land located on Highway 311 in Sellersburg,Indiana, to a nationally recognized coffee brand. This strategic acquisition marks a significantstep in the company’s expansion efforts in the Midwest.

The site, encompassing 1.13 acres, is ideally situated to capture high traffic visibility and accessibility, making it an excellent location for the coffee brand’s new outlet. This development is expected to create job opportunities for local residents and contribute positively to the local economy.

“We are excited to see this prominent coffee brand choosing Sellersburg as a key location for their new store,” said Bobby Bass, agent representing both the buyers and sellers. “This transaction not only signifies growth for the brand but also showcases the potential for Sellersburg as a thriving business hub.”

For more information about this sale or to inquire about available commercial properties in the
area, please contact:
Bobby Bass
Bass Group Real Estate
Phone: 502-552-1296
Email: bbass@bassgroupre.com

Stites & Harbison Earns 93 Rankings in 2025 Best Law Firms® 

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Nov. 7, 2024)—Stites & Harbison, PLLC has been ranked in the 2025 edition of Best Law Firms®. The firm’s National Tier 1 rankings include: Litigation – Construction, Litigation – Real Estate, and Trademark Law. The firm’s overall results include 93 metropolitan rankings in six regions and represent the following 52 legal practice areas:   

Administrative / Regulatory Law

Appellate Practice 

Banking and Finance Law 

Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law 

Bet-the-Company Litigation 

Biotechnology and Life Sciences Practice 

Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law 

Commercial Finance Law   

Commercial Litigation 

Construction Law     

Copyright Law 

Corporate Governance Law    

Corporate Law 

Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law 

Employment Law – Management 

Energy Law 

Environmental Law 

Family Law 

Family Law Mediation

Health Care Law 

Information Technology Law 

Insurance Law 

Labor Law – Management 

Land Use and Zoning Law 

Legal Malpractice Law – Defendants 

Litigation – Banking and Finance 

Litigation – Bankruptcy 

Litigation – Construction 

Litigation – Environmental 

Litigation – Insurance 

Litigation – Intellectual Property 

Litigation – Labor and Employment 

Litigation – Land Use and Zoning 

Litigation – Patent

Litigation – Real Estate 

Litigation – Trusts and Estates 

Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions –  Defendants 

Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions –  Plaintiffs 

Mediation 

Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants 

Mergers and Acquisitions Law 

Mining Law 

Natural Resources Law 

Patent Law 

Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants 

Product Liability Litigation – Defendants 

Professional Malpractice Law – Defendants 

Public Finance Law 

Real Estate Law 

Tax Law 

Trademark Law 

Law firms were evaluated and ranked through a combination of hard data, peer reviews and client assessments. To be eligible for a ranking, a law firm must have at least one lawyer currently listed in The Best Lawyers in America® in a Best Law Firms practice area and geographic jurisdiction. This year’s Best Law Firms rankings span 75 national practice areas, 127 jurisdictional practice areas and 188 distinct metro areas.  

About Stites & Harbison 

Stites & Harbison, PLLC is a nationally recognized, full-service law firm. With 11 offices across six states — Kentucky, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia — the firm represents clients across the United States and internationally. Tracing its origins to 1832, Stites & Harbison is known as a preeminent firm managing sophisticated transactions, challenging litigation and complex regulatory matters on a daily basis. For more information, visit www.stites.com.