The 15th annual “Forty under 40” represents some of the brightest talents in the region. Honorees, chosen by a committee formed by the South Bend Regional Chamber, are recognized for the achievements in their careers and their contributions to community.
The eight-person selection committee, comprised of local business leaders, reviewed more than 180 nominations this year.
Coming back:Workers are back, and business has picked up again, in downtown South Bend
Breanna Denise Allen
Age: 35
Birthplace: Terre Haute, Ind.
Residence: South Bend
Educatione: M.S. and B.S., Indiana State University
Employer: Horizon Education Alliance
Title: Director of student pathways
Who or what inspires you? My mother inspires me. As a single parent, my mother made sure my younger sister and I had everything we needed. I watched her grow in her career, build a home from the ground up, and maintain a fulfilled lifestyle. She taught me how to be strong, dedicated and humble. My mother is amazing!
Best advice you’ve ever received? Find what you love doing, and you will never work a day in your life.
What is something people don’t know about you? I was 22 when I first traveled to Disney World, and when I first stepped foot at the park I felt 10 all over again! It was truly magical!
How do you like to start your day? The alarm goes off at 6:30 a.m. and I yell “Girls, time to wake up. It’s time for school. It’s time for school.” Everyone gets dressed, I drop my girls off at school and daycare … and then I finally get to take my first sip of coffee, a dark roast blend with steamed almond milk and two pumps of sugar-free caramel or sugar-free vanilla! Ahhh! It truly is the best way to start my day.
What problem are you trying to solve? Far too long, there has been a mindset of college for all. What we know is true is that roughly 25% of Indiana high school graduates actually complete a post-secondary degree (2- or 4-year), therefore roughly 70% are left to find their way into the labor market with hopes of a fulfilled livelihood. My hope is to expose students starting in middle school to career pathways in many fields, such as healthcare, information technology, business, education, financial services. Hands-on interaction with local employers could lead to modern youth apprenticeships, where a junior and/or senior in high school starts meaningful work as an employee with a local business in their career path of interest, earning wages, college credits, and industry certifications that prepare the student for multiple options after high school. It will help bring more intentionality around a young person’s career journey. College is not for everyone, and it is not the only way to have a fulfilled livelihood.
Natalie Bickel
Age: 38
Birthplace: South Bend
Residence: Nappanee
Education: M.S., Indiana University South Bend; B.S., Ball State University
Employer: Elkhart Community Schools
Title: Supervisor of student services/attendance officer
Who or what inspires you? Family is everything and definitely drives me to work hard! I was raised by two loving parents and have four incredible siblings. I feel so lucky to have a tight-knit family. My father died when I was 21, so I learned very early to truly appreciate things and enjoy each day of life. We were taught to work hard, help people, protect and nurture relationships, have a good time, and simply enjoy life! My hope is that I instill the importance of these values in my children and family.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Retired U.S. Navy Seal Adm. William H. McRaven said if you make your bed every morning, it will give you a small sense of pride, and it will encourage you to do another task, and another, and another. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can’t do the little things right, you’ll never be able to do the big things right.
What is something people don’t know about you? When I have free time, I enjoy watching mindless reality television. I am also obsessed with Aldi’s Aisle of Shame in the middle of the store. I hesitate to disclose this information for fear the best-kept secret will now be known!
How do you like to start your day? Hitting snooze and making every green light. This is not how I like to start my day, but it is my reality!
What problem are you trying to solve? Many of our students rely on school for their most nutritious and sometimes only meals of the day. These unprecedented times have left many of our students and families in a terrifying place of even greater need, between unemployment, lack of transportation, and fear of health safety. Many families are able to make ends meet during the school year but during the summer are faced with the additional cost of breakfast and lunch for their children, and in some cases, the high cost of childcare. Families who were bending are now breaking.
At Elkhart Community Schools, we refuse to idly stand by, even when the need is unspoken. Our social workers, administrators and teachers, who have been working hand-in-hand with students and families during the school year, are using any means possible to reach and support children and families in this great time of need.
Rochelle L. Brown
Age: 39
Birthplace: South Bend
Residence: South Bend
Education: University of Phoenix; Trine University; Ivy Tech State College
Employer: LaPorte County government
Title: Executive Director
Who or what inspires you? What inspires me the most are the number of people that step into my life and become my family. They give me the love, hope and support I need to be the woman receiving this recognition. “Blood doesn’t make family, love does.” I’m so blessed to have them in my life and heart; some for a season and others for a lifetime. This has been my inspiration.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Work hard and stay humble.
What is something people don’t know about you? I am the most adventurous person you would ever meet.
How do you like to start your day? I start my day by saying a prayer thanking God for allowing me to see another day to affect someone’s life.
What problem are you trying to solve? There are two problems I am trying to solve: I am trying to show love to all the people who feel unloved. (It seems to be growing by the moment.) People are searching for love and acceptance. Also provide quality, cost-effective alternatives to overcrowded correctional facilities and to develop programs to encourage the active participation of courts, communities, victims and participants.
Shanon A. Buari, Sr.
Age: 34
Birthplace: Columbus, Ohio
Residence: St. Joseph
Education: J.D., Valparaiso University; M.L., Boston University; B.A., Eastern Michigan University
Employer: Anderson, Agostino & Keller, P.C.
Title: Attorney
Who or what inspires you? My father. He came to this country from Nigeria to pursue his education. He figured out a way to complete his studies, gain employment, get married, and raise a family, all while being here by himself. His family stayed overseas, so he had to figure it out on his own. He has done a damn good job.
Best advice you’ve ever received? “Purpose is why you started. Passion is what keeps you going.”
What is something people don’t know about you? I wanted to be an architect before becoming an attorney, but the housing crash in 2008 changed things.
How do you like to start your day? By thanking God I am able to open my eyes. This also means I have been afforded another opportunity to be better than I was the day before.
What problem are you trying to solve? My profession awards me the opportunity to solve many problems for others, and as long as I am able to accomplish that, I am at peace.
Rodrigo M. Correa
Age: 38
Birthplace: Brazil
Residence: Niles
Education: Doctor of Physical Therapy, Andrews University
Employer: Beacon Health System – Memorial Hospital
Title: Director, inpatient therapy services, inpatient rehab, sterile processing, speech diagnostics
Who or what inspires you? My faith in God is where my inspiration begins, followed by my wonderful, hardworking wife and three daughters. As a family, we are inspired when we find ourselves out in nature, hiking, swimming at the beach, or having a picnic in a park.
Best advice you’ve ever received? “Today, choose to start.” Don’t allow the possibility of failure, the nay-sayers, obstacles or even your own insecurities prevent you from beginning your journey. Choose today who you will be and once the choice is made, take action with conviction and faith.
What is something people don’t know about you? In high school, I was voted most likely to be on Broadway.
How do you like to start your day? Prayer with focus on gratitude and thinking about my loved ones.
What problem are you trying to solve? How to mobilize and empower people to realize and achieve their fullest potential.
David W. Daley
Age: 37
Birthplace: South Florida
Residence: Granger
Education: University of Notre Dame
Employer: Impact Capital Funds, Inc.
Title: Chief Strategy Officer & Sr. VP of investor relations
Who or what inspires you? My wife, Angeline Johnson Daley. Our two daughters, Dia & Nina. My family. My ND family.
On a more actionable level, helping others to connect, uncover potential opportunities and find their own self-defined chance at success in this life is very inspiring and motivating to me.
Best advice you’ve ever received? “Always. Be. Humble.” My Grandma Phyllis Lukasiak Morrissey, a South Bend native, said this to me all the time growing up in Bennington, Vermont.
What is something people don’t know about you? I’m actually an introvert. Everyone thinks I’m an extrovert because I like to be socially outgoing and joke around with others, but behind the scenes, I then also crash hard and need to recharge.
We live in a society and have developed workplaces that are built for extroverts. My hope is we are increasingly aware of these dynamics and differences of strengths after the experience of the pandemic forcing changes in the opposite way for so many.
There is no longer an excuse not to take everyone’s diverse strengths into consideration as valued and important contributors. We introverts have a lot to offer and say; you just have to allow us to do so in a different way sometimes.
How do you like to start your day? Calmly. I am not a morning person, so an alarm or forced wake up is not a good start to the day for me.
What problem are you trying to solve? At my company we are working to disrupt the student loan debt market and create an innovative new source of scholarship funding for students with need. My mission, along with co-founders C. Elizabeth Abeyta-Price and Craig D. Price, is to help clients invest for more, to create interest with impact by refinancing high-debt loans for college graduates, and to generate new, additive scholarship opportunities, especially for first-generation, underrepresented and under-resourced students who are simply trying to achieve the American Dream.
Instead of big banks and shareholders just profiting off of student loan repayments, our mission is to make that interest matter for college graduates and other students like them.
Dallas Dreher
Age: 37
Birthplace: Niles
Residence: Granger
Education: University of Kentucky
Employer: AM General
Title: Human Resources Manager
Who or what inspires you? People inspire me. Staring with the past (History minor) and honoring the present and future, there are so many “people” that have amazing stories to share. One of the biggest reasons I elected to go into Human Resources is my general fondness of people. I love learning how the journey started and where we end up. I love learning about the life lessons people experience over their life and how they get to where they are. As an extrovert, I so enjoy getting to learn from those in my life and those I read about so I can continue to better myself to be a better peer, professional, family member, friend, co-worker, and overall human being. My goal is to learn from those around me so I can also help coach, encourage, inspire and influence others.
Best advice you’ve ever received? “What people in the world think of you is really none of your business.”
A close friend shared this with me and I really connected with this advice. Many people spend so much of their time trying to control what other people think of them. When you understand that what other people think of you is none of your business, you gain freedom emotionally and physically. The only thing we can control are our thoughts about our life and our person. What someone thinks of you is not only none of your business, but it’s simply their opinion from their perspective. Just like what you think about them is your opinion, all seen through your own lens. Not everyone likes the same thing, and that’s OK. It’s the same with people.
How do you like to start your day? With a cup of Early Grey or English Breakfast. Best way to kick off the day!
What problem are you trying to solve? Trying to merge “best in class” HR solutions and services with current HR tools. One of my biggest pain points in the HR world is offering tools that don’t benefit our employees. Employees are a company’s biggest asset and it’s important to celebrate that by offering them resources to help them be successful. As an HR professional, it’s my job to continually promote and advocate for the employee to help make their lives and professional careers enriching. By offering the right tools, I am helping the employees achieve their career development goals.
Eloise Dunaye
Age: 33
Birthplace: Saint Malo, France
Residence: South Bend
Education: M.S., Universite de Starsbourg (France); M.S., Hochschule Offenburg (Germany); B.S., Universite de Rennes 1 (France)
Employer: Tenneco
Title: Operations and Engineering Manager
Who or what inspires you? People who make a difference every day, no matter how small of a positive influence.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Don’t hate the game; just know the rules better than anyone else.
What is something people don’t know about you? I can be very goofy when comfortable.
How do you like to start your day? Music, coffee and a dog’s love.
What problem are you trying to solve? How to reduce my plastic usage and be more conscious of the impact of my daily actions.
Aja K. Ellington
Age: 31
Birthplace: St. Louis
Residence: South Bend
Education: MSW, Indiana University South Bend; BSW, IUSB; A.D., Ivy Tech
Employer: GVI/S.A.V.E (Goodwill Industries), City of South Bend
Title: GVI/S.A.V.E Outreach resource specialist; business coach; founder & CEO of Free Your Wings, Inc.
Who or what inspires you? My father Rowland Ellington, my twin children, Valentino Summers and Tinayja Summers — who are also Co-Founders of Free Your Wings, Inc.!
Best advice you’ve ever received? This one comes from my father, Rowland Ellington: W.A.T.C.H. That is, watch your words, watch your actions, watch your time, watch your company, and watch your health.
What is something people don’t know about you? I have a twin brother! His name is Aza, and he was diagnosed with schizophrenia and autism. He is my reason for pursuing a degree in social work. My twin brother had his first run-in with law enforcement during our junior year of high school, and he is now serving a lifetime commitment in prison. America dealt my brother a lousy hand of cards in life due to unjust systems for Black men and mental health.
How do you like to start your day? I start my day with prayer, self-affirmations, and yelling at my twins to stop fighting!
What problem are you trying to solve? My overall mission in life is to unify all systems in the effort to raise our youth as a family in collaboration with parents, guardians and all other support systems. Specifically, I’d like to contribute to the criminal justice and mental health systems such that they better understand and better distinguish between what works and what does not work. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results. To that end, I say let’s replace the system wholesale, swapping it with a system designed with input from those it is meant to support. I believe we must improve the lives of underserved youth, families and communities; that we must work together by any means necessary to support all humans. I hope that my children and their children will inherit a better earth and better humanity in moving this mission forward.
Sara Ros Frazier
Age: 37
Birthplace: Reykjavik, Iceland
Residence: Lakeville
Education: B.S., Framhaldsskolinn a Laugum (Iceland); Licensed Massage Therapist, Northern Arizona Massage Therapy Institute, Sedona Campus; Certified Manual Lymph Drainage and Lymphedema Therapist, KLOSE Training and Consulting LLC, Colorado.
Employer: Therapeutic Indulgence
Title: Owner of Therapeutic Indulgence; President and instructor of Massage Academy at Therapeutic Indulgence
Who or what inspires you? My daughter, Hazel
Best advice you’ve ever received? The past does not define you. The scars remind us where we’ve been, not where we are going. Believe in yourself, you are your most important advocate. Love with your whole heart, but respect yourself enough to say no and draw healthy boundaries.
What is something people don’t know about you? I am currently taking online classes in American Sign Language! My goal is to become fluent in ASL, and be able to offer Sign Language Service to my classes at Massage Academy at Therapeutic Indulgence.
I had Deaf family members, so I grew up learning the Icelandic Sign Language, but just like any other language, it varies from country to country. The Deaf population has always had a place in my heart, and I would love to be able to connect with the Deaf Community here in Michiana.
How do you like to start your day? With a cup of coffee and a few minutes of quietness to center myself and prepare for the day.
What problem are you trying to solve? I would love to start a sponsorship/scholarship opportunity for the students who are interested in enrolling in my massage school but cannot afford to attend. My goal is to partner with some community members or corporations that would be interested in investing in the members of our community. My idea is that the sponsor will build a lasting relationship with the student. They could mentor the student, hire them after graduation as part of their team, or simply become the student’s client after they finish their studies and become licensed.
Kelly Friend
Age: 39
Birthplace: LaPorte
Residence: LaPorte
Education: M.S., Western Governors University; B.A., Purdue University
Employer: Ivy Tech Community College
Title: Acting Vice Chancellor of student success; Executive Director of career coaching & employer connections
Who or what inspires you? I’m inspired by working on projects that boost another’s self-esteem, create opportunities and encourage them in their own lives. I believe people want more positivity and cheerfulness in their lives, and I like spending my time with people. It’s infinitely inspiring to know I work with a team of remarkable, talented people who are uplifting to everyone they encounter.
Best advice you’ve ever received? It’s OK to start small.
What is something people don’t know about you? That I love live music, read a few books a week and dabble in painting.
How do you like to start your day? Quietly, with coffee.
What problem are you trying to solve? At home, teaching Zoom manners to my two blue heelers. To be honest, It’s not working. If you have been in a Zoom meeting in the last year, then you have met Loki and Shadow at least once!
Patricia Geels
Age: 39
Birthplace: South Bend
Residence: South Bend
Education: M.S. and B.S., Ball State University
Employer: Saint Mary’s College
Title: Professional specialist
Who or what inspires you? I’m continually inspired by learning across the lifespan. It’s incredible to watch someone approach and engage the world differently because they were willing to learn.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Boundaries keep good things in as much as they keep bad things out.
What is something people don’t know about you? I traveled to Croatia in high school.
How do you like to start your day? A little time by myself and a really hot cup of coffee, preferably on my porch.
What problem are you trying to solve? I don’t like to frame our lives in terms of problems to solve, but I am dedicated to cultivating opportunities that allow individuals to explore their potential.
Katy Gerring
Age: 39
Birthplace: Jackson, Mich.
Residence: Marcellus, Mich.
Education: BSW, Western Michigan University
Employer: Corvilla, Inc.
Title: Director of employment services
Who or what inspires you? The people that I serve at Corvilla are my inspiration. I am so blessed to be given the privilege to not just work alongside them but to have built lifetime friendships.
The lady who is profoundly deaf and blind, lives independently and works for a major retailer — she is my inspiration. The young lady who was told over and over that she most likely would never be employed, does not take no for an answer and now works in one of the dining halls for the University of Notre Dame — she is my inspiration. The young man who suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury at 2 years old, has limited use of his left arm and leg, makes me laugh every day and is known as the “Mr. Clean” of his company — he is my inspiration. I am incredibly blessed to be a part of their lives and learn from them every day.
Best advice you’ve ever received? My parents taught me to always be kind and never judge or assume because you never know what someone is going through. Something as simple as a smile or a “hello” to someone can have a positive impact. Just be kind.
What is something people don’t know about you? I originally went to college to be a special education teacher, but I switched my major to social work. Also, I love to karaoke to AC/DC and Queen!
How do you like to start your day? I enjoy sitting on my deck outside or sitting at my big window, depending on the weather, with a cup of coffee and my dog, Boone.
What problem are you trying to solve? To shut down the stigma that people with disabilities are not identified by their disability but by their ability.
Joshua P. Gobel
Age: 39
Birthplace: Youngstown, Ohio
Residence: South Bend
Education: Vincennes University; Indiana Law Enforcement Academy
Employers: University of Notre Dame Police, Walkerton Police, Gobel’s Cleaning Services, Gobel’s Xtreme Mobile Detailing, Gobel’s Express Transport, Gobel’s Waka Dog Café, VSS Security Services
Title: Police officer, CEO, CFO, general manager and vice president
Who or what inspires you? My wife, Jenn Gobel. She is the hardest-working, most loyal and dedicated person I know. She makes me want to be a better person every day by just being around her.
She has helped me in so many ways but mostly by believing in me even when I don’t believe in myself.
Best advice you’ve ever received? In business or a service industry, when someone asks you to do something, if it’s not illegal, unethical or immoral, don’t say no.
What is something people don’t know about you? That I don’t have a college degree and I learned most of what I know about business from the owner of VSS Security Services, Tom Vigilante Sr.
How do you like to start your day? By waking up next to my wife, checking texts and emails from overnight, catching the morning news and heading into work.
What problem are you trying to solve? Affordable and dependable child care for single parents who can’t afford child care and work to provide for their families.
Michael Gross
Age: 39
Birthplace: South Haven, Mich.
Residence: St. Joseph
Education: MBA, Central Michigan University; BBA, Northwood University; Leadership Program, Harvard
Employer: Whirlpool Corporation, Silver Harbor Brewing Company, Union + Social Event Venue
Title: Vice president of sales and marketing, owner of Silver Harbor Brewing Co. and Union + Social
Who or what inspires you? The unknown inspires me. I personally thrive in white space, the unknown. Creating new solutions to problems gets me excited; in fact, when told it can’t be done, it pushes me to even higher levels and engagement to find a path forward.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Time is the most valued currency. It’s helped me balance what I commit to, create work/life balance and when applied to work helps center you on the consumer experience.
What is something people don’t know about you? In college, I was a gymnastics coach. I’ve never participated in gymnastics or frankly knew anything about the sport but was eager to get involved and had a great owner that taught me along the way. It was a lot of fun and a great college job.
How do you like to start your day? New to our family is our puppy, Alex. So I start my day by walking him and then wake up my two girls (which is a lot of fun having Alex lick them to wake up) but then I glance at my emails and calendar to frame my mind on the day ahead and then read headlines on the Wall Street Journal and any companies that I follow (eg. Lowe’s, Whirlpool, competitors, etc.).
What problem are you trying to solve? Solving problems every minute of the day. Whether that’s working on an omni experience for a new launch, new go to market approaches or working on new menu ideas at the brewery based on trending ingredients, the hours are filled with problems. What I’ve found most valuable to solving problems is ensuring we have high alignment to the actual problem and how we know it’s a problem. Once you get high alignment and it’s deeply rooted, the solving becomes easier and frankly more fun for all.
Bethany Hartley
Age: 35
Birthplace: Grand Rapids
Residence: South Bend
Education: Loyola University Chicago
Employer: South Bend — Elkhart Regional Partnership
Title: Chief Strategy Officer
Who or what inspires you? I am inspired by people that work hard and stay humble; the people who may be successful to others, but aren’t settling at the point of pre-defined success; the people that embrace the journey and don’t see the end point as an immovable object.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Do what you say you’re going to do.
What is something people don’t know about you? I am a pescatarian scuba diver and the first in my family to graduate with a four-year degree.
How do you like to start your day? I wake up at 4:30/5 a.m. and do some sort of training while listening to a podcast or audio book — swim, bike, run, cross-training — followed by a large cup of coffee.
What problem are you trying to solve? Personally, how to do less, better.
For the greater good, how to support regional pride and community engagement across South Bend/Elkhart to foster a healthier and more inclusive place to live.
Jonathan Hauenstein
Age: 39
Birthplace: Ohio
Residence: Niles
Education: Ph.D., University of Notre Dame; M.S., Miami University; B.S., University of Findlay
Employer: University of Notre Dame
Title: Professor, Associate Department Chair, and Department Chair-elect in Applied and Computational Mathematics and Statistics
Who or what inspires you? First and foremost, I am inspired by my family, including my wife, Julie, and my four daughters: Morgan, Leah, Kristyn and Andrea. Additionally, I am motivated by challenging problems nobody has been able to solve before.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Life is nonlinear. Embrace the challenges and celebrate the successes.
What is something people don’t know about you? I raised chickens growing up, with my best chickens being the grand champion at the county 4-H fair.
How do you like to start your day? Eating breakfast with my daughters.
What problem are you trying to solve? Developing algorithms and software for solving nonlinear systems of equations arising in science and engineering applications, as well as inspiring students to learn, appreciate, and enjoy mathematics.
Shelby Herms
Age: 30
Birthplace: Orange, Calif.
Residence: South Bend
Education: Saint Mary’s College
Employer: Kem Krest
Title: Executive assistant
Who or what inspires you? People who have built the best version of their lives and are excited to live them each day. When I meet people, I love to hear in their own words about what they do, what’s important to them, and how they got where they are. People build their lives day by day, and you often hear about the great parts, but rarely about the mundane, daily routines or tasks that got them to that point. I love seeing the daily work people do, because you learn how they view the world and what’s important to them — and it gives context to the larger, inspiring accomplishments they’ve achieved.
Best advice you’ve ever received? I often come back to “the perfect is the enemy of the good.” Worrying about every single detail being perfect can make it impossible to actually get things done. That isn’t to say details aren’t important — but often, details can get in the way of actual accomplishments.
What is something people don’t know about you? At Saint Mary’s College, I studied communications and a student-designed major focused on language and culture (essentially, anthropology with a linguistics focus). I’ve always been very interested in language and how people communicate, and it was incredible to design my own major around the intersection of culture and language.
How do you like to start your day? I’m a little jealous of people who can wake up and immediately dive into their to-do lists. My day really starts on my drive to work. I enjoy taking that time to listen to the news and let my mind wander. By the time I get to work, I usually have a mental list of goals for the day, so I take a few minutes to settle and organize on paper. On days I don’t have some time to ease into the day, I feel less prepared. Also, just a ton of coffee.
What problem are you trying to solve? It can be overwhelming to think about how many problems there are that need to be solved in this world. I try to focus on problems that are mine to solve: doing my job each day to the best of my abilities, being the best person I can be, and helping where I can. I try to use my time to support the nonprofits I volunteer for, and it’s really important to me to be an informed and aware citizen. As my career progresses, there will be bigger problems that are mine to solve, and I’m excited to find out what those will be!
Laquisha Jackson
Age: 38
Birthplace: South Bend
Residence: South Bend
Education: AAS/Certificate in Hospitality Management
Employer: Soulful Kitchen LLC/ Hope for the Hungry
Title: Owner/founder
Who or what inspires you? My grandmother, Bonnie Jean, is my biggest inspiration. Although she is now deceased, she made the most significant influence in my life. She was the epitome of perseverance and humility.
Best advice you’ve ever received? To whom much is given, much is required.
What is something people don’t know about you? I have eight children and three grandchildren.
How do you like to start your day? I like to start my day with prayer. After prayer, I brew myself a hot cup of coffee and watch the news.
What problem are you trying to solve? At Soulful Kitchen, we save our clients time and provide a peace of mind by catering their events.
Soulful Kitchen offers ServSafe classes to all foodies interested in becoming certified and potentially elevating their culinary career.
At Hope for the Hungry, we tackle hunger by feeding families that suffer from food insecurities. Through education, we help build self-sufficiency.
John Jessen
Age: 39
Birthplace: Elkhart
Residence: Granger
Education: MBA, Indiana University Kelley School of Business; BBA, University of Notre Dame
Employer: Bradley Company
Current job title: Managing director
Who or what inspires you? I am inspired every day when I see people who strive to make their communities a better place. It is easy to go about life with a willingness to maintain the status quo. It is wonderful to see individuals working to improve their communities and put in the effort to do so.
Best advice you’ve ever received? “Do what you love.” While very cliché, working long hours is much more bearable when you thoroughly enjoy what you are doing.
What is something people don’t know about you? My natural habitat is in water. Whether it is a pool, lake or ocean, water is my happy place.
How do you like to start your day? I like to start my day early, before the kids are up, with a cup of coffee and some time for reflection. It is often the calm before the storm, and needed for me to maintain perspective.
What problem are you trying to solve? At the most basic level, I am trying to solve the issue of space needs for my clients. That one issue has so many related considerations beyond just a physical location. From branding to budget, and from competition to work/life balance, the physical location of a business hits on so many important facets of business operations and strategy. I like to build long-term relationships and to be seen as a trusted advisor by my clients. Referrals from happy customers is one of the greatest compliments I can receive.
Ray Korson
Age: 32
Birthplace: Helena, Mont.
Residence: Mishawaka
Education: B.A, University of Notre Dame, Master of Science in Business, Notre Dame
Employer: Gibson
Title: Principal, employee benefits practice leader
Who or what inspires you? Faith and family. My Catholic faith has been and always will be my highest priority and source of truth to place all endeavors, relationships and situations in the right context. My daily inspiration is to serve my family and to become the best husband and father that I am called to be.
Best advice you’ve ever received? During my freshman year of college, my biology professor called me into his office to provide me with some very direct, pointed advice. I was, admittedly, coasting through my freshman year on autopilot and was achieving less than my fullest potential, not only in my professor’s class but in other areas as well. He told me, “Natural intelligence and talents will only get you so far. At some point, you have to put in the work and pay your dues.” He called out the fact that I was “mailing in” my college experience and challenged me to develop a stronger worth ethic to reach for my true potential. I’ll never forget this advice and I am so grateful he cared enough about me to set me straight.
What is something people don’t know about you? I enjoy cooking and experimenting with new recipes (especially with a glass of wine or bourbon).
How do you like to start your day? I enjoy waking up before the kids to spend some quiet time in prayer, have a cup of coffee, and get in some exercise (weight lifting, walking, etc.)
What problem are you trying to solve? Healthcare affordability and quality outcomes — specifically through employer investments in employee benefits. Health insurance is one of the largest expenses, second only to payroll for many organizations, and we’re deploying numerous cutting-edge strategies that maximize quality and minimize costs to optimize the value of these healthcare benefit investments and unlock hidden dividends for the health of our communities.
John Paul Lichon
Age: 37
Birthplace: Winfield, Ill.
Residence: South Bend
Education: M.A., University of Notre Dame; B.A., Notre Dame
Employer: Verso Ministries
Title: Founder and CEO
Who or what inspires you? My family. My grandparents and parents have taught me so much about hard work, humility, and taking care of one another. My wife and kids teach me how to love.
Best advice you’ve ever received? The goal of climbing a mountain is not to never fall, it’s to not remain fallen.
What is something people don’t know about you? I’ve been playing the piano since the ’80s.
How do you like to start your day? Make the bed, take a shower, and help everyone get ready for the day.
What problem are you trying to solve? Helping people find their path in life.
Nathan Loucks
Age: 39
Residence: LaPorte
Title: President & CEO
Employer: The Pax Center
Thomas Lynch
Age: 34
Birthplace: Ludington, Mich.
Residence: Granger
Education: DDS, Indiana University School of Dentistry; B.A., Indiana University
Employer: Michiana Smiles
Title: Dentist
Who or what inspires you? My family. They helped guide and mold me into the person I am today.
Best advice you’ve ever received? That nothing in this world worth achieving is given freely. You set your goal and work for it. When you reach your goal you set another one.
What is something people don’t know about you? I married my high school sweetheart.
How do you like to start your day? Nothing gets started until I have a cup of coffee.
What problem are you trying to solve? My work, life and family balance. This is a challenge for me because of my personality. I get very focused on the task I am doing.
Marion Mahone
Age: 36
Birthplace: Detroit
Residence: South Bend
Education: Indiana University South Bend, University of Michigan Medical School, Harvard University
Employer: Beacon Health System
Title: Faculty hospitalist, Memorial Family Medicine Residency
Who or what inspires you? My maternal grandmother. I unfortunately didn’t know her that well; she died when I was 15 and she suffered from Alzheimer’s long before that. However, I’ve been able to learn more about her and her ability to climb the education and the employment ladder as a Black woman in segregated Alabama. She had a really amazing life story and I want to keep that family grind going.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Never be afraid to ask questions.
What is something people don’t know about you? When I was a kid, I was a semi-decent singer, and got to sing at the White House once with a choir.
How do you like to start your day? I typically listen to news radio and then play at least one or two ’80s or ’90s dance songs to dance a little while making coffee.
What problem are you trying to solve? Inequity and discrimination in the health care setting — relating both to patient care, and to recruitment of healthcare practitioners.
Leah Mark
Age: 35
Birthplace, Residence: South Bend
Education: Indiana University Bloomington
Employer: Red Bow Realty
Title: Managing broker, owner
Who or what inspires you? I am inspired by people who follow their heart, their dreams and their intuition. The people who know that we are each on our own, unique path and spread kindness everywhere they go. Who let others live their lives and who don’t let others tell them how to live their lives. I am inspired by seeing examples of people who followed their dreams and have achieved success, but most importantly, are happy!
Best advice you’ve ever received? Your thoughts and mindset create your reality. There is nothing that you cannot be or do or have. The only thing in your way that could prevent you from achieving anything you want in your life, is your own negative belief that you can’t. Once I changed my thoughts, it changed my life!
What is something people don’t know about you? I grew up extremely poor, bounced around from family member to family member, even friends’ couches. Constantly on the verge of becoming homeless. Had an absentee dad and a mother that struggled with alcohol, depression and drug abuse. As a child I relied on government assistance, food stamps, you name it. I told myself that when I grew up, I would never rely on anyone’s help again to eat. I would not just survive, I would thrive. I had a successful career in RV but I always knew that I wanted to be my own boss. I quit my corporate job and jumped right into real estate and investing. I purchased my own home from the income from my own business. Now I get to help other people in our community achieve that same dream of homeownership.
How do you like to start your day? I usually wake up before my alarm and think of five things that I am grateful for before my feet even touch the floor. I drink ice cold water to get the metabolism going and then enjoy a cup of coffee and breakfast while reading inspirational materials that make me feel energized and uplifted.
What problem are you trying to solve? I don’t like to focus on problems. Life is full of questions for sure, but through my positive expectation, the answers always come. My goal is to be an example of a happy, positive person that has decided to not only survive, but to thrive, despite all the obstacles. I hope to inspire someone someday, to not listen to those around them who say they cannot do something. I hope they follow their gut and do it anyway, and when they succeed, they will know that they did it all on their own because they believed they could. Once they change their mindset, see the results, and realize through their own life experience that they really can do anything they want, they will become happy and unstoppable!
Jon Michael Meier
Age: 39
Birthplace: Mishawaka
Residence: South Bend
Education: B.S., Indiana University South Bend
Employer: Patrick Industries
Title: Vice president of CI, EHS, and Transportation
Who or what inspires you? Witnessing other people’s hard work turn into results
Best advice you’ve ever received? “You’re never finished; there’s only deadlines.” Mrs. Grove, Marian High School English Teacher – 1997
What is something people don’t know about you? I enjoy ornate building architecture.
How do you like to start your day? With a 4:45 a.m. workout at Orange Theory Fitness
What problem are you trying to solve? Balancing my personal life, physical exercise needs and professional career with the hours I have in a day. Each day is unique, which makes this a daily problem that gets solved differently.
Emily Mishler
Age: 29
Birthplace/Residence: Goshen
Education: B.A. and B.S., Purdue University; MBA (Nonprofit), University of Notre Dame
Employer: The Cultivated Group
Title: Philanthropist / managing and creative director
Who or what inspires you? The potential for greatness we all have within us and the active, intentional pursuit of that potential throughout our lives.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Life is short and true courage is rare. Dream big, have courage, be kind and stay curious!
What is something people don’t know about you? After finishing a master’s degree, I began traveling the world full-time while remotely consulting on a series of impact-driven projects. Inspired by the adventure, diversity, connection and discovery of the shared human experience throughout the world, I’ve written a published series of children’s books (“Esmè the Curious Cat”) under a pen name that share many of those lessons. Each page of the books contains a hidden four-leaf clover; something I’ve been an “expert” at finding for as long as I can remember!
How do you like to start your day? With gratitude and intention-setting, movement in nature, a big glass of water, and a strong cup of coffee.
What problem are you trying to solve? The Cultivated Group was created with a vision for a future where impactful ideas, access to opportunity and taking action to change and preserve this beautiful world in which we live is equitably accessible. We’re planting seeds for a more conscious, kind and connected future while igniting, empowering and activating organizations and individuals to “be the change you wish to see in the world” — one challenge at a time.
Jessica O’Brien
Age: 39 (I’ll be 40 on June 19)
Birthplace: Michigan City
Residence: Michigan City
Education: Bachelor of Liberal Studies, Purdue University North Central
Employer: Michigan City Area Schools (The Salvation Army of Michigan City when nominated)
Title: Multimedia communications specialist (development director when nominated)
Who or what inspires you? I’m inspired by people who are doing good in their community, and I look up to anyone trying to make a difference for the greater good. But my biggest inspiration was always my dad, who passed away last year. He was the kind of person who would do anything for anyone, never met a stranger, and always saw the good in people, especially when they couldn’t see it for themselves.
Best advice you’ve ever received? A wise friend once told me “good is the enemy of great.” I use this as motivation to always try to be better, and don’t settle. If you settle for “good enough” in life, you’ll never achieve what could be great.
What is something people don’t know about you? Art isn’t something that is a big part of my everyday life, but I enjoy sketching and I’m not terrible at it. Sometimes I wonder how good of an artist I might be if I actually took the time to sharpen my skills.
How do you like to start your day? I start every day with a venti coffee from Starbucks. But my next priority is always to catch up on what’s going on in the world. I’m addicted to the news — whether that’s catching the news on TV, reading the newspaper, listening to NPR on my way to work, or just scrolling social media to see what’s going on. I like to stay up on current events in my community and the world.
What problem are you trying to solve? I think overall the most honest answer to this question is just trying to make the world, and more specifically my community, a better place to live. And even more importantly, trying to raise my daughter to be the kind of person who is thoughtful, considerate, and kind, but also a fighter who will stand up for what is right and make a difference for the greater good.
Nikhil Patankar
Age: 39
Birthplace: Mumbai, India
Residence: South Bend
Education: Grant Medical College, Mumbai, India; Pediatric residency: B.J. Wadia Hospital for Children, Mumbai, India; Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship: Women and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo, N.Y.; MBA: University at Buffalo
Employer: Beacon Medical Group, Beacon Health System
Title: Pediatric intensivist and director of quality for the pediatric intensive care unit
Who inspires you? First, my wife. She has helped me rediscover myself and always brings out the best in me. She is my strongest advocate and my biggest critic and always encourages me to go the extra mile.
Second, my patients. I am a pediatric intensive care physician and I care for very sick children on a daily basis. Children are resilient and tenacious. They have the power of innocence. They are mentally strong and don’t ever give up.
Best advice you’ve ever received? It is important to know when to speak up, but it is even more important to know when to hold back and listen.
What is something people don’t know about you? Unlike many, I learned to drive a car at the age of 29. I never knew I would enjoy driving so much. I especially find long drives liberating to the extent that I now have driven in almost 30 of the 50 states in America.
How do you like to start your day? My work is shift-based, so the days I’m not on call, I start my day with a hot cup of coffee and getting my son ready for his daycare. My on-call days start even before I know it!
What problem are you trying to solve? I represent Beacon Children’s Hospital in the Improving Pediatric Sepsis Outcomes (IPSO) Collaborative through the Children’s Hospital Association. Sepsis is a condition caused by an overwhelming bodily response to an infection and is a leading cause of deaths in children and adults. Children are at particular risk for dying due to sepsis as often the signs can be subtle and be missed until it has progressed extensively and caused cardiovascular collapse. Timely intervention can improve outcomes in sepsis and prevent deaths. At Beacon Children’s, we have implemented standardized and streamlined processes to improve prompt recognition and management of sepsis in children.
I am also working on several projects to improve medication safety at Beacon Children’s Hospital and Beacon Health System as a part of our Zero Harm Initiative.
Thiago Pinto
Age: 39
Birthplace: Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Residence: South Bend
Education: M.A. and B.A., Bethel University
Employer: Bethel University
Current job title: Head men’s soccer coach
Who or what inspires you? The opportunity to develop and equip servant leaders to become transformational leaders in whatever career they pursue.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Multiply your time. Give yourself emotional permission to spend time on things today that will give you more time tomorrow.
What is something people don’t know about you? I enjoy quiet time, have traveled to five continents, and I am a young and proud grandpa of Hudson James.
How do you like to start your day? Apple cider vinegar mixed drink, Bible verse, exercise, coffee.
What problem are you trying to solve? Work and family balance
Leo E. Priemer
Age: 37
Birthplace: Mount Clemens, Mich.
Residence: Mishawaka
Education: B.A., Wabash College
Employer: Edward Jones
Title: Certified Financial Planner
Who or what inspires you? I have always been inspired by what goes into making a person successful. Whether in business, education, sport or art, the process and commitment to achieve excellence is fascinating. I am continually enhancing my client service and investment portfolio process, taking pride in those things that I can control, such as my proactive approach, mindset and willingness to adapt.
Best advice you’ve ever received? A-S-K. My father used to spell it out and say: “If you don’t ASK, you don’t get.” This advice has led me to seize opportunities both in my personal and work life.
What is something people don’t know about you? A friend and I studied abroad on the south island of New Zealand in college. Being adventurous, we bought a cheap car to get to the mountains to ski — often driving up to 9 hours from campus to find good snow. On the way back from one of those adventures, the engine of our cheap little car seized up on a mountain pass. Desperate to make it back in time for class the next day, we decided to try hitchhiking. We were successful! I am not sure what became of the car.
How do you like to start your day? Each day begins with two or three shots of espresso followed by the “Marketplace” with Kai Ryssdal podcast on my drive into the office.
What problem are you trying to solve? I am solving the fiscal confidence problem that exists in society, starting with the families I serve. I pride myself on creating financial understanding. Though money is part of daily life, it carries with it so many complexities. Whether distinguishing between short- and long-term goals, media hype, or the psychological weight of a deficiency or abundance of funds, I partner with my clients to educate them on their financial realities and risks, using their personal goals and objectives as our guiding principles. I have high standards, driven by the desire to make an impact for my clients and my community.
Kevin Lynn Railing
Age: 39
Birthplace: South Bend
Residence: South Bend
Education: J.D., Thomas M. Cooley Law School; B.S., Paralegal certificate, Indiana University South Bend
Employer: Full-Time – Elkhart County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Child Support
Division / Part-Time – Indiana University South Bend and Ivy Tech Community College
Title: Deputy prosecuting attorney/adjunct instructor
Who or what inspires you? I know it is cliché, but serving others really does inspire me. Serving families and children in collecting child support is my number one passion. I am also motivated by guiding students through criminal justice, paralegal, and business law classes. I have found inspiration through serving on the board for Luvability Ministries, Inc. that provides spiritual, nondenominational growth for adults with developmental disabilities and those that serve them. Additionally, serving as a judge for Bashor Teen Court has been both rewarding and inspiring, as it gives youth an alternative to a juvenile record. I am also encouraged by serving as a council member for a Diversity, Equity, & Belonging Council at Ivy Tech to ensure everyone is included.
Best advice you’ve ever received? It’s not what you know, but who you know. We all have a specialized knowledge, and we cannot be an expert in all areas; however, we all work with others daily that know something different than we do. We must trust and rely on others to teach us or guide us in areas we lack specific knowledge.
What is something people don’t know about you? I always want to have fun, even in serious situations. Sometimes you have to laugh to break up the tension and stress.
How do you like to start your day? Cleaning my house and taking care of my cats.
What problem are you trying to solve? I want to help make the world a more inclusive and equitable place for all.
Diana Rowan
Age: 39
Birthplace: Madison, Fla.
Residence: Cassopolis
Education: Master of Science, Indiana University South Bend; Bachelor of Music, Florida Southern College
Employer: University of Notre Dame
Title: HR effectiveness program manager
Who or what inspires you? Helping people really inspires me, especially when it’s helping people achieve their full potential.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Experience alone doesn’t make you wiser, evaluated experience makes you wiser. Take the time to learn from what you’ve done or gone through.
What is something people don’t know about you? I’ve traveled to 17 countries outside of the U.S. and I was trained to sing opera.
How do you like to start your day? I love starting my day by reading (or listening to my daily reading of) the Bible. I like that it grounds me in what’s important as I’m beginning my day.
What problem are you trying to solve? How to lead positive, impactful change during a time of uncertainty and instability.
Gillian Shaw
Age: 31
Birthplace: New Brunswick, N.J.
Residence: South Bend
Education: M.S. University of Notre Dame; B.S., Monmouth University
Employer: enFocus
Title: Director of research and development
Who or what inspires you? I’m inspired by new and innovative ideas that, when realized, make a positive difference in the community that I live in.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Get comfortable being uncomfortable.
What is something people don’t know about you? I had over 100 unexcused absences in kindergarten, but my mom thought it was fine because I was reading chapter books already. (Kindergarten is not mandatory in New Jersey).
How do you like to start your day? Well, I don’t know if I like to start my day this way, but it usually begins by pressing snooze at least 7 times, then stumbling to the kitchen to make tea.
What problem are you trying to solve? Infusing new funding and talent into strategic projects that will raise the region’s collective ability to be innovative and entrepreneurial.
Vanessa Cooreman Smith
Age: 39
Birthplace: South Bend
Residence: South Bend
Education: B.A., Saint Mary’s College
Employer: Owner of Designed to Flourish: co-owner in Irish Realty and Irish Remodeling
Title: Owner, lead designer at Designed to Flourish
Who or what inspires you? I am inspired almost every day by the world around me, both by taking notice of the beauty in our community and everyday life, and by seeking out more dramatic inspiration via travel. On a given day I might be inspired by the colors of an Indiana sunset over a farm field or by art my 3-year-old daughter does. That being said, traveling to France, Belgium, and Greece in 2019 was really pivotal in my artistic growth.
Best advice you’ve ever received? My dad once told me, “Do what you love and the money will follow.” There is so much wisdom in this simple statement. I believe that life is short, that God gives us unique talents and interests that point us to our calling, and that a life lived with passion and intention leads to abundance. When we are engaged and our purpose is being lived out, the work we love stops feeling like work altogether. I named my business Flourish for that very reason: in addition to helping spaces transform and flourish, I am passionate about helping my staff blossom and flourish too.
What is something people don’t know about you? Many people know me for my career in interior design, and before that for owning a women’s clothing store, Flourish Boutique. Few people know that my first job out of college was selling real estate for my family’s brokerage.
How do you like to start your day? After getting my kids to school, each weekday morning, I like to get a coffee and then sit in my car and enjoy a little quiet time. I have a small prayer time and think about the day ahead and the people I will see. Then I organize my to-do list for that day by priority and delegate to-do lists for my staff as well.
What problem are you trying to solve? My husband and I are by definition, entrepreneurs: We own multiple businesses and love innovating. We do not lack for ideas and dreams on where we could take our “family of businesses” as we like to call it. In addition to the businesses we own now, we are slowly becoming more involved in my parents’ home-building company, Irish Custom Homes. I think the biggest problem that I need to solve is refining my goals and opportunities to a strategic and attainable path. I need to solve which ideas are just that —ideas — and which ones are worth making a reality. It’s a good problem to have.
Jacque Stahl
Age: 38
Birthplace: Olympia, Wash.
Residence: South Bend
Education: M.S., Valparaiso University; B.A., University of Washington-Seattle, WA
Employer: South Bend Clinic
Title: Vice president of marketing and communications
Who or what inspires you? First and foremost my son, Andrew. He inspires me to show up every day and to the best I can be. My best friends who constantly challenge and push me to live up to the potential I strive to be. Their encouragement and support inspires my motivation to make a difference, not only in the community but in healthcare.
Best advice you’ve received? “Life happens for you, not to you.” Ed Mylett
What is something people don’t know about you? I have sung the national anthem on live TV and still sing at local sporting events.
How do you like to start your day? Starbucks.
What problem are you trying to solve? To simplify healthcare. People avoid healthcare because of cost and complexity. I want to make a difference by simplifying healthcare and educating the community about high-quality healthcare that is affordable.
Kristin Tawadros
Age: 38
Birthplace: Denver
Residence: Mishawaka
Education: M.A. and Psy.D., University of Indianapolis; B.S., Colorado State University
Employer: Oaklawn Psychiatric Center, Inc.
Title: Vice president, Child and adolescent outpatient services
Who or what inspires you? Right now I’m reading “Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown and finding a lot of inspiration for leading through challenging times.
Best advice you’ve received? “Relationship is key.” To do difficult work, we have to first start with building a relationship and trust.
What is something people don’t know about you? I love to sing. I was in my high school’s a cappella group.
How do you like to start your day? Sleeping in if I can! I am not a morning person.
What problem are you trying to solve? Increasing mental health resources in our community for youth and families and changing the way we think about mental health. The mental well-being of our community isn’t just the responsibility of mental health professionals; we all play a role in reducing the stigma around mental health and making it OK to not be OK.
Kate Williams
Age: 38
Birthplace: South Bend
Residence: South Bend
Education: J.D., Tulane University School of Law; B.A., Saint Mary’s College
Employer: St. Joseph County Prosecutor
Title: Deputy prosecuting attorney
Who or what inspires you? The Indiana Supreme Court has been doing a lot in the last few years to institute reforms that make our courts more accessible and transparent, which I really appreciate. It has been great to see our state adopt innovative programs that help modernize our courts — the work hasn’t been easy, but it makes me proud to practice here.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Without courage, all other virtues lose their meaning.
What is something people don’t know about you? I spend a fair bit of time on snarky embroidery projects.
How do you like to start your day? I hate being rushed in the morning so I try to make sure I get up early enough to have plenty of time for some tea and catching up on the news.
What problem are you trying to solve? I’m passionate about advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. It has been amazing to see the changes and advancements that have taken place over the last few years, but there’s still a lot of work to do to increase awareness and understanding.
J.J. Wright
Age: 36
Birthplace: Buffalo, N.Y.
Residence: South Bend
Education: DMA and MSM, University of Notre Dame; B.A., The New School
Employer: University of Notre Dame
Title: Director, Notre Dame Folk Choir
Who or what inspires you? My wife and children inspire me to be myself; my students, teachers, colleagues and mentors inspire me to be my best.
Best advice you’ve ever received? Risk should be inspired by passion.
What is something people don’t know about you? I ran triathlons when I was younger; the closest I get to that these days is being dragged around the block by our golden retriever, taking bike rides to Howard Park, and playing lifeguard while our three kids swim.
How do you like to start your day? During COVID, my 9-year-old barista/daughter perfected making coffee in the French press before heading to school at Good Shepherd Montessori School. Life changing!
What problem are you trying to solve? Artistic creation, particularly music, fuels collective imagination of our communities. In my work, I hope to build bridges between tradition and innovation, and across generations and religious identities through shared creativity.
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