Is Proud Is Pro r ud to to Support Supp Su p orrt
We are honored to support the 40 Under 40 Awards as well as this year’s recipients. These men and women help to shape the area’s future through their accomplishments in business and in the community. We all benefit from their talent and hard work.
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Indiana University–Purdue University Fort Wayne
CONGRATULATES KIMBERLY WAGNER, M.P.A.
Chief of Staff
RACHAEL RAYBURN, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Public Policy
RECIPIENTS OF THE 2014 40 UNDER 40 We’re Proud They’re Making a Difference on Campus and in the Community!
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IPFW is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access University.
A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF GREATER FORT WAYNE
Publisher’s letter
Business Weekly 3306 Independence Drive Fort Wayne, IN 46808 (260) 426-2640 Fax: (260) 426-2503 www.fwbusiness.com
Terry Housholder thousholder@kpcmedia.com Publisher
Barry Rochford brochford@kpcmedia.com Editor
Linda Lipp llipp@kpcmedia.com Associate Editor/Reporter
Peter Ambrose pambrose@kpcmedia.com Reporter
Doug LeDuc dleduc@kpcmedia.com Reporter
Claudia Johnson cjohnson@kpcmedia.com Marketing Manager
Mary Schmitz mschmitz@kpcmedia.com Creative Supervisor
Ashley LeTourneau Ryan Schnurr Photographers
MARKETING CONSULTANTS
Wendy Krzyzanowski Nate Woenker
George O. Witwer Publisher Emeritus
Terry Housholder President, CEO
Terry Ward Chief Operating Officer
S. Rick Mitchell Chief Financial Officer
Lynette Donley Advertising Director
Kelly Lynch Digital Media Director
Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly is a publication of KPC Media Group Inc.
©2014 All rights reserved
he Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly’s Forty Under 40 Class of 2014 consists of an outstanding group of young professionals based here in northeast Indiana. This year’s honorees come from a wide range of backgrounds and represent a variety of professions. They include entrepreneurs, a college professor, a local labor leader, a small business owner, a youth minister, an attorney, the president of the Junior League of Fort Wayne and active members in Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana. Each is a proven leader and has made important contributions through his or her business and community service. The recipients were recognized at a banquet held at Ceruti’s Banquet & Event Center on March 19. Serving with me on the panel of judges were: Justin Clupper of Greater Fort Wayne Inc.; Tammy Klimek of the Community Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Indiana Inc.; Palermo Galindo of the city of Fort Wayne; and Molly Rommel of Barrett and McNagny LLP. A special thanks goes to the event sponsors: Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, AMI Investment Management, Sweetwater, O’Daniel Automotive Group and Keyflow Creative. Congratulations to this year’s recipients, who join a distinguished list of Forty Under 40 alumni from the previous four years. Their hard work, dedication and leadership help make northeast Indiana a great place in which to live, work and raise a family. Terry G. Housholder President, publisher
T
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Table of contents 2014 Forty Under 40 Sponsors
Tiffany Ann........................... 4
John J. Minnich ..................30
Laura Antil ........................... 5
Andy More ........................32
Jacob Daniel Benedict ....... 6
Joe Noorthoek ...................33
Justin Berger........................ 7
Jake Pickett ........................34
Kim Paige Bowers .............. 8
Rachel Rayburn.................35
Tomra (Tomi) Cardin ........ 9
Mandy Reber ....................36
Crystal Church-Stavitzke .10
Christy Sandmaier ...........37
Amanda Cope ...................11
Marla Schneider ...............38
Billy Davenport .................12
Tommy Schoegler ............40
Adam Drummond.............14
Brad Shank ........................42
Brent Eastom .....................15
Alex Smith .........................43
Brandon Ferrell .................16
Carrie Snyder ...................44
Corey Ford ........................17
Lanah K. Hake Tarango...46
John H. Foxworthy II ........19
Julie Townsend..................48
Adam Henry ......................22
Tom Trent ..........................50
Frank Nicholas Howard...24
Andrea Trevino.................51
Jermaine Jackson ..............25
Jami VandeVelde ..............52
Dr. Zubair Khan ................26
Kimberly Wagner .............53
Mark Leu............................27
Kryste Wallen ....................54
Rudy Mahara II. ................28
Erica L. Wehrmeister.......56
SPECIAL THANKS
to our Gift Sponsor who provided engraved key chains for our honorees to commemorate this occasion. Page 2
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Congratulations to
ERICA WEHRMEISTER Chief Operating Officer, Lutheran Hospital
Recognized in 2014 as one of forty individuals under 40 making a notable contribution to the Fort Wayne business community!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO LUTHERAN HOSPITAL!
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Early registration discount through July 6! Individual or Team Combos. Excellent course for the novice or experienced athlete. Co-sponsored with Kendallville Rotary Club, City of Kendallville & Cole YMCA
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Tiffany Ann 27 • Keyflow Creative Digital consultant, nonprofit advocate Year you joined the company: 2013 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: A
Better Fort, Mad Anthonys Children’s Hope House, Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society, Downtown Improvement District What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
The crew at A Better Fort (ABF) has probably been one of my biggest support systems. We at ABF may do things a little rogue from time to time, but the important thing is that we do them. I’m surrounded by a group of tenacious people who aren’t afraid to fail and then more importantly re-evaluate and push forward anyway. Marcie Harruff has also been what I refer to as my “professional mom.” Marcie has provided me with insight and perspective that can only come from an experienced professional, while continually encouraging me to achieve more and push the limits both professionally and personally. It’s really important to have someone who genuinely cares about your overall well-being helping you navigate through the ins and outs and thorns along the way. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
It very well could be the recognition as one of this region’s Forty under 40. As a young lady who moved back from Hawaii with almost nothing but a baby in tow, it’s difficult to pinpoint one specific achievement. It’s rather been a culmination of choices and determination along with my genuine passion for this city and the potential it holds for others, who like me believe this city is worth investing in, that has driven my involvement in anything. This award is a huge honor because what it communicates to me and other recipients is that our efforts are not only noticed, but making a difference in the region. If there’s anything these experiences have taught me it’s to pursue something you are passionate about, even and especially in the face of adverPage 4
sity, and to surround yourself with other passionate people who are willing to do more than talk about how things should be, but actually go out and create things the way they could be.
Having the two of them by my side and included in the things we love enriches everything I do.
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
I’d be a stay-at-home mom (who volunteers a lot). Olive is the reason I do anything, and while I love contributing to the work force, I feel the guilt of not being able to spend more time with her during these short years before school. Living in Hawaii was a life-changing experience. When I came back I struggled with, “What am I going to do here? What kind of impact can I have?” When I first heard the “My City” song on the radio I knew whoever was behind it was investing in this community. I sought them out because whatever time I didn’t spend with Olive, I was going to spend investing in her future.
I want a significant part of my career to be about championing the city and its people. I hope the organizations and businesses I work for or am involved with would benefit from my passion for both. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
Pizza Hut in North Manchester — part of the Dick Freeland franchise, of course! How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
It’s probably less of a balance than it is a blurred line. Whether by luck, necessity or my own design, I have managed to overlap and incorporate all the things most important to me. Almost anyone who knows me, knows my sidekick and daughter, Olive, and/or my partner in crime and boyfriend, Kelly Lynch (2013 Forty Under 40 recipient, I might add).
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
What else should we know about you?
I like trains. #NKP765 If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Time is your most precious resource. Invest it wisely and don’t accept status quo. Be the standard.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc..
Laura Antil 39 • Lupke Rice Insurance and Financial Services Client service executive Year you joined the company: 2001 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: I
have been an active member of the Junior League of Fort Wayne since 2000. I’ve served in many chair and board positions and am currently the 2012-2014 president. I have stepped down from a number of organizations, as I did not want to have any conflict of interest as president of JLFW, but a few I’ve worked with are the YWCA, Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer and the Fort Wayne’s Women Bureau. I am also a member of WOWnet, which is a women’s business networking group, since 2005 and served as president in 2007. We are a network of local professional women supporting each other in business, community involvement and philanthropic work. Each year, we choose two local organizations to support, and in 2014 we are supporting the Rescue Mission and My Brother’s Keeper. your company?
What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
My parents, first and foremost, gave me a solid foundation, and without them I could not have accomplished all that I have. My husband is always there to listen and provide the much-needed level head. I have been blessed to have been mentored by wonderful women throughout the years, and each has provided me what I have needed at the time. I have learned that you cannot do it alone, and you need to keep great people around you. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
Passing my property and casualty license exam in 1996. I cannot perform my job without it! I received my life and health license in 2000 and completed all five parts to become a certified insurance counselor in 2005. I love working within the insurance industry; you learn daily, as it’s constantly changing. That is what makes it exciting. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit
I would like to take a more active role in the day-to-day operations. I believe the training I have received from Junior League has helped me realize my ability as a leader. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
Traditions Restaurant, waitress. I was 15 and my mother said if I was not going to participate in sports then it was time to get a job. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
That is always a work in progress, and just when I think I have it figured out, then life throws me a curve ball. I think the greatest way to balance is to understand that everything in life is a give and take, and know that you cannot do it all and it’s OK. In those moments when things feel out of balance, that is when I sit back and take a deep breath and know that I’ve done my best. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Attorney comes to mind first, but then I would have to go back to school. I am
seriously thinking about getting involved in local government. I am not sure what I would like to do, but I will complete my term as president of JLFW in June this year, so I need to start making some inquiries. I do not want to stay idle too long. What else should we know about you?
While I may not be the best salesperson, I am a good insurance person and the approach I provide to my clients is more than selling them insurance. I take the time to understand their business and work out an insurance program that best fits their needs. It is what I love about my job. Every business is different, thus they need different coverages or require a different type of service, and I feel that I listen to their needs and then deliver. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
I would tell them to give it some time. Insurance is a fun career (and I mean the property and casualty side) and it can take you many places as there are so many opportunities, so take a chance and give it a try. You have to work hard but the rewards are plentiful.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Jacob Daniel Benedict 29 • AMI Investment Management Inc. Director of research Year you joined the company: 2008 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Notre Dame Club of Fort Wayne, Noble County Thrive, the CASE Project What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
My family gives me unwavering support and keeps me grounded. I am fortunate to work for a firm that supports me both personally and professionally. We have great clients who value the importance of integrity and a long-term relationship. Finally, I’ve been continually impressed with how open some of the very successful businesspeople I’ve reached out to have been with me, sharing their time, thoughts and advice. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
Connecting the dots that working with the right partners is not only the right thing to do but also the best way to maximize the odds of business and investment success has been a key intellectual discovery. We’ve always focused on this at our firm, but it’s become an increasingly central part of our investment process. It makes our work both intellectually stimulating and personally satisfying. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
The investment world is so interesting because it requires the analyst to never stop thinking or solving problems. In a world filled with complexity and uncertainty, employing a diligent process becomes very important. I am focused on developing robust systems to help with investment decision making and reduce preventable errors, both for us and our clients. Meanwhile, we are always trying to do as much “scuttlebutt” research as possible to learn more about the competitive dynamics of different industries. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form? Page 6
During an investment banking internship in college, I went on a trip to New York with an important and impatient managing director. He was in first class and I sat on the last row of the plane. He was already annoyed he had to wait for me to take a car to the city together, and when he realized I’d checked my bag, he threw a fit and told me I could get my own taxi. Then when he realized I didn’t have any cash, he shoved $40 into my hand and screamed that he felt like he was traveling with his 3-year-old. The office thought the story was pretty entertaining when I returned to Chicago with my reimbursement form. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
I started a mowing business when I was in sixth grade. I built a roster of five to six elderly clients. I think they paid me more for the company than the work. It was a great learning experience, and the stories and experiences were worth much more than the money. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
It’s hard and I don’t know if you ever get it right or figure it out. I try to (a) always be in the moment no matter what I am doing and (b) do things I enjoy in areas where I can add value. This doesn’t
mean I am always successful, but I try. Finally, I don’t have a lot of hobbies outside of my profession: spending time with my family, work in the community and exercising. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
A part of me has always wanted to be a college economics professor. What else should we know about you?
I’m working on a master’s degree in applied mathematics. My favorite thing to eat is cereal. I think even people who aren’t interested in investing should read Warren Buffett and his partner Charlie Munger. I am a big believer in open and honest debate, which is unfortunately extremely rare in our society. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Try to find something that you are not only interested in, but also where you think you can add value; having an impact is both satisfying and intellectually stimulating. Most importantly, I would recommend focusing more on what person you work for as opposed to what industry or company you work in. Find a mentor you respect immensely who challenges you intellectually.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Justin Berger 31 • Fort Wayne Habitat for Humanity Chief executive officer Year you joined the organization:
2010 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: Home
Builders Association and our church, The Chapel What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I have been very blessed with some great mentors in my life who have provided me with the opportunities to experience business in multiple arenas through reallife, on-the-job experience from a young age. I worked for my father and his business as a youngster, worked for my grandfather’s engineering business through college and have had some outstanding Christian businessmen that have helped to shape my approach to business in a way that impacts the community in a positive way. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
Definitely the launch of Fuller’s Landing, a $10-million project that is Fort Wayne Habitat’s first subdivision development and will eventually make the dream of homeownership a reality for families in need of affordable housing in our community. I learned a couple things through this process. First, I have been truly humbled by the support and excitement I have experienced from members of the community around this project. This support comes not just from donors and Habitat advocates, but from people who want to become engaged as a volunteer and help build this neighborhood, as well as the hundreds of families who have applied to call Fuller’s Landing “home.” Second, developing a neighborhood is a whole lot more involved than I could have every imagined, and I have learned how blessed our organization is to have the team we do to get the job done. This has been quite the learning process for our organization, but one that we are very excited about, and a process that we hope to continue in multiple areas throughout Allen County. The need is great in our community for affordable homeownership, so we know
that we still have a lot of work to do. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
I would like to develop my advocacy skills with local, state and national government. Habitat for Humanity is the No. 1 homebuilder in the world, and yet there are many people locally who don’t realize the impact that our ministry has on every community in which an affiliate serves. I believe that if I can continue to develop my advocacy skills, more business leaders and government officials will see the value of Habitat’s mission of building home, communities and hope, and look to Habitat as a leading voice in affordable housing. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
The short answer: the best I can. My family means the world to me. I have three great kids and a beautiful wife who support me 100 percent, and I work my hardest to make sure they feel the same love and support that I do. I try to flex my schedule to make every Donuts with Dad, school program, baseball or gymnastics event, coach when I am able and be as involved at church as possible without stretching myself too thin. It is definitely the hardest thing to do, but I have found peace and guidance in some great friends, mentors and through the Word. If you could try another profession, what
would it be?
I originally went to school hoping to become a physician, but those who know me best would tell you that I have a burning desire to work at the Walt Disney Co. someday, even to the point where some people have nicknamed me “Walt.” I would love to become an imagineer or head of park operations, where I could use some of my creativity and vision to serve people and give them the experiences of a lifetime, while developing processes and teams that operate at the highest level of efficiency and effectiveness. What else should we know about you?
I am a Fort Wayne native, graduated from Northrop High School and played volleyball at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne for Coach Ball. I am also a Boilermaker, but don’t hold that against me. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
I would say to be patient, develop a great plan, collaborate with other businesses or organizations whenever possible, and always remain flexible. In the nonprofit sector you often feel that you need to take the elephant in the room on all on your own, but there are some great assets in the community and there really is strength in numbers. Be self-aware of mission drift and have some great accountability partners to ensure you stay the course.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Kim Paige Bowers 39 • University of Saint Francis Associate professor, Department of English and Foreign Languages Year you joined the organization:
2008 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: I’ve
been involved with First Presbyterian Theater for the last few years. Last year, I worked with One Billion Rising, Fort Wayne, and this year I’m working with Acres Land Trust. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
The most important support came in the form of friendship. I’m not sure it helped me advance in my career in any way except it helped me know I was loved. And that’s pretty great. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career?
I suppose being awarded tenure is the biggest accomplishment of my career thus far. Tenure at USF can be largely based on teaching and service. I was doing well on the teaching end of things, but I needed to increase my service if I wanted to be awarded tenure. And I found that I could best serve others by doing things I really loved. Following my creative impulses, rather than doing what I thought others expected of me, has really served me (and others) well. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
I’d like to write more creative nonfiction, some of which would be nature writing. More experience writing and publishing in the nature-writing genre could help me better teach students who are interested in the same thing. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
Oh how I wish I’d submitted something really strange! All of my development funds help me attend academic conferences, which aren’t terribly strange. But they are fun. The most fun conference I’ve ever attended was one of ASLE’s. ASLE is the Association for the Study of Literature and the Environment. I suppose some people might think it strange. It’s made up of hippies and Page 8
nerds. My personal heaven.
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
I’d be a Thai massage therapist and yoga teacher, or I’d write for a nonprofit environmental group.
It’s so much more fun to tell you about strange paychecks rather than first paychecks. So my strange paychecks (considering my job now) came from dancing as an elf at the Zoobilee of Lights in Fort Worth, Texas, playing a waitress in a “Walker, Texas Ranger” episode, and playing Wendy in “Peter Pan.” My first interesting jobs were in the entertainment industry. All of that was 15 to 20 years ago. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
Ha! That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Yoga. I do lots and lots of yoga.
What else should we know about you?
Hmmm. I think downtime is really important. Time to play, love and care for the self. If we’re happy and healthy, we’ll serve others better. And I don’t think our society recognizes that enough. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Learn to listen to your body and trust your instincts. And be smart with your money. Be really, really smart with it.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Tomra (Tomi) Cardin 38 • Redemption House Ministries Executive director Year you joined the organization:
2012 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Allen County jail chaplaincy, Sheriff’s Chaplaincy Conference, Faith Based Mentoring, Big Brothers Big Sisters lunch buddy, Rising Stars Ministry of Associated Churches, Fatherhood Engagement Program, Strengthening Families Program and Walking Home What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I’ve had some incredible mentors and supporters who have helped me get to this point professionally. They’ve held me accountable and corrected me when I’ve gotten off track. They’ve also encouraged me and rooted me on when I didn’t think I could make it through difficult times. I couldn’t have accomplished all that I have so far if they hadn’t seen something in me that I didn’t even know existed, and ultimately convinced me that I could accomplish great things if I would truly trust God and give my best effort.
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
My biggest accomplishment thus far professionally is the birth of Redemption House Ministries. Watching how this organization has come together and the impact it’s made on its residents and the community in such a short amount of time is astonishing. I’m inclined to chalk it up to the favor of God much more than an accomplishment of mine. It has been an amazing experience to lead as God has brought so much together. I’ve learned that if you are committed to trusting God to put you in the right place at the right time with the right people, incredible things can and will happen. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
I’d like to expand the ministry and the capacity of Redemption House. Possibly more transition houses, maybe some longterm sustainable housing for our graduates, maybe a community center for the
ex-offender population. I’m confident that whatever comes next will be as much of a benefit to our organization and our community as the current transition house.
Outside of baby-sitting jobs starting at 13 years old, my first official job was at 16 as a cashier at a grocery store in Bluffton. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
Luckily for me, my career and community involvement allow my daughter (who is 13) to be by my side most of the time. She’s been involved with jail/ prison ministry with me for as long as she can remember. She’s sat in on so many parenting classes that I’ve taught she could probably teach one herself. We do make it a priority to spend some quality time together as much as we can, but we really do enjoy giving back and being a blessing to others through volunteering, services projects and other outreach opportunities. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I feel blessed to have been able to work in quite a few different professions so far in my life. If I weren’t the director of
Redemption House, I’m sure I’d be doing something in jail/prison ministry, and I’d continue my work with professional athletes and entertainers as they work to accomplish their desires to give back and change their communities. What else should we know about you?
I truly feel like one of the luckiest people alive to get to do this job every day. I think it’s the mistakes I’ve made in life and the challenges and adversities I’ve overcome that allow me to be successful in this profession. As amazed as I am that God would choose me to do work like this, I believe that is precisely why it works so well. I don’t think anything I’ve accomplished so far is because of my brilliance, it’s because of my obedience and my refusal to quit or give up. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
If someone believes they are called to work in jail/prison ministry I’d tell them to continue to work hard, trust God and be willing to be uncomfortable as you are following your path. If they think it’s something they’d like to try, I’d tell them to pick something else! It takes 110 percent all day every day and is not for the faint of heart.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Crystal Church-Stavitzke 39 • RISE Inc. Director of programs and development Year you joined the organization:
2013 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
I volunteer with the United Way of Steuben and DeKalb Counties. I do volunteer work for Tibbits Opera House as the director for the young audiences group. I work with the Dance Factory Dance Team as the facial/performance coach, and do various fundraisers for organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters and Special Olympics. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I have been blessed to have the support of a loving and supportive family and have worked for organizations that have encouraged growth and creativity. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career?
I do not feel that I am able to identify any one accomplishment in my career. I help people become as independent as they possibly can and have worked with more than 200 people; each time one of them learns and grows, I truly feel like that moment is the biggest. What lessons did you learn from it?
I learn lessons every day in my work. The moment I stop learning from the people I serve is the moment that I need to find a different industry. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
For me, the constant goal is to be sure that we are focused on each individual’s needs while providing quality help to the people in our communities who need us. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
I work for a nonprofit. There are places that have expense forms? Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then? Page 10
My first job was for a local grocery store, Miller’s, where I worked as a cashier.
I couldn’t picture my life without my work. I wouldn’t be the person I am without serving the people I do.
How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
What else should we know about you?
I am lucky to work for an agency whose fundamental philosophy is family first. I’ve worked in the industry for 21 years, and my family is extremely supportive of my work. My daughter enjoys the stage and loves people, so she just comes with me. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
There is no other profession that I could ever imagine myself working in.
I love laughing, I love learning and my favorite thing is improvisational theater. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Get to know the people you serve. They are the true teachers. Always think in terms of advocating for the individual and what you would want to have happen for your family or friends and you will never make a bad decision.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Amanda Cope 31 • City of Angola/Trine University Industrial pretreatment coordinator/ assistant track and field coach Year you joined the organizations:
2012, city of Angola; 2004, Trine University Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: I am
also an adjunct professor for Trine University and teach engineering courses, mostly for the School of Professional Studies program at Trine. This program is primarily geared toward working adults achieving a college degree. I try to stay active through the community through athletic events and other community events. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
My family is a huge support system for me. They have always supported me in all my endeavors, even when it was changing my career path from business to engineering and returning to school. Even after nine years of college and three degrees, my family and close friends still supported me. I reassured them that a 29-year-old in college was perfectly normal. My family is the reason I live in northeast Indiana and am committed to this community. In my engineering career, I was given meaningful advice that I’ve held on to by my adviser at Purdue University. I had set up a meeting with him to reluctantly tell him I wanted to switch advisers and my thesis project. He told me that in all his years and all his successes he always trusts his gut and follows his heart. Follow your heart, you’ll never be disappointed with the outcome. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
My biggest accomplishment has been passing all the exams and completing the requirements to become a licensed professional engineer. It is an eight-year process of combined education and working experience and passing two eight-hour exams. Completing this has reinforced the importance of persistence and working toward goals. In my coaching career my biggest accomplishment is the relationships I have developed with my athletes. I have consistently coached athletes ranked top 50
in the country for Division III, and while that is very satisfying, the relationships I have developed have meant more. Having athletes call me up or send a message asking for advice about “the real world” is a wonderful feeling. It’s humbling to know they respect my opinion and look to me for guidance as they transition from college students to adults. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
those goals. My family life is the most important to me, so I make every effort to attend all family events. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Although I do this part time, I would have to say teaching. My mom and sister are in teaching positions, and it’s rewarding to see the lives touched because of how they do their job. What else should we know about you?
I would like to help the city of Angola with its engineering needs and improve the current infrastructure within the city. This can be done by identifying aging and poor infrastructure and prioritizing where repairs and replacement needs to occur. I would also like to become more involved in educating young females about the opportunities in engineering, math and science-related fields. Engineering is a male-dominated profession, so encouraging girls to pursue these types of degrees will help the profession as a whole.
I am a very committed person who is goal-oriented. I find the greatest satisfaction in helping others achieve their goals and solve their problems. This could be anything from helping a community with an engineering problem, an athlete achieve a new personal record, a student figure out a solution to their homework or a family member learn how to shoot a basket. I believe in the power of helping people. I try to live by Mahatma Gandhi’s quote: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
I balance my career, family life and community involvement by staying organized and staying busy. I get up early in the morning, even on weekends, and that is my quiet time to myself. In the early morning I get myself organized as to what I want to accomplish that day and set out to meet
The education is far inferior to the development of relationships. Study hard in school, but networking and developing professional relationships will get you much farther in life than a 4.0 on your résumé.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Billy Davenport 33 • Old National Insurance Commercial account executive Year you joined the company: 2009 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Foellinger Foundation, University of Saint Francis, Little League Baseball What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I was/am very fortunate to have a number of outstanding mentors. Jumping head first into the commercial insurance industry was a bit of a leap of faith and these individuals have been there every step of the way. They’ve offered guidance, support, technical expertise and friendship. The industry itself can be trying at times, especially starting out establishing yourself, and they never let me get down. When there was failure, it was always dust yourself off, climb back in the saddle, learn from it and press forward. When there was success, it was a pat on the back, job well done, but don’t get too big of a head. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
Biggest, most gratifying, accomplishment of my career, so far, isn’t business-oriented. It happened when a group of people and I formed a Little League baseball program for at-risk youth. At that time, there was no league for 13-year-old and older boys on the southeast side of town. We felt that providing an alternative to being in the street may help keep some of the kids from ending up a statistic. Through some different circumstances, I ended up being the manager, head coach, assistant coach and bookkeeper. A real one-stop shop, all while keeping track of 12 13- to 15-year-old boys. Over the years, we won some games, we lost some games and we had a lot of great times. They were my “boys” and I looked at them as younger brothers. They always knew, even in the off-season, my phone was always on and all they had to do was call.
your company?
prioritized and on track.
I’d like to continue to build on my insurance expertise through additional certifications. I already hold the accredited adviser of insurance (AAI) and I’m currently working on my chartered property and casualty underwriter (CPCU) certification. It’s an eight-part exam, and I should have that wrapped up within the next 18 months. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
First paycheck came from Indiana Auto Auction. Some very good friends of the family used to own it, and their son and I worked in maintenance when we were 13 or 14. Our job was to paint, clean out old warehouses they had purchased and generally stay out of trouble. We weren’t very good at any of that. Looking back, we were terrible employees. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
Being a bachelor, I should have all of the free time in the world, right? Wrong. Rarely a day goes by that there is nothing on the plate. To deal with this, I’m a firm believer in lists and taking a little time each day to reflect. Every Friday, I make a list of things I want to accomplish in the following week and they are constantly being modified. At home, I have an ongoing list of projects. At work, I’ve got Post-it notes everywhere and a dry-erase board in my office. Helps me keep things
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit Page 12 Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com •
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Without a doubt, a rock star. Since I have a terrible singing voice and don’t possess a single ounce of musical ability, insurance brokerage is a good profession for me. What else should we know about you?
I’m a huge fan of music. Some of my friends say I’m a music snob, and they are probably right. I go to as many concerts as possible and have seen everything from Paul McCartney to Radiohead to the Roots, and everything in between, all within the past few years. I also really enjoy traveling. Last year I traveled to Colombia and drove down the Pacific Coast Highway in California. All were fantastic experiences. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Persistence, persistence, persistence. There will be more defeats than victories at first, but if you keep growing each and every time, you can and will be successful. Also, make sure to listen to what your clients are saying. By listening more than speaking, you will gain invaluable knowledge about clients wants and needs. There’s a reason you’re made with two ears and one mouth.
©KPC Media Group Inc.
Congratulations, Billy, for being honored in the 40 under 40 class of 2014!
C
ommitted to the power of partnerships, Billy Davenport has already established himself as a highly effective leader both in the insurance industry and throughout the community. His enthusiasm, ability to inspire, and commitment to excellence strengthens those around him. Billy is a valuable resource not only to Old National Insurance but to organizations such as the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and Big Brothers Big Sisters. From all of us at Old National, congratulations, Billy, on being named one of the Fort Wayne Business Journal’s 40 under 40! Thank you for everything you do, day after day, to touch lives, inspire others and ensure a brighter tomorrow.
Billy Davenport Commercial Account Executive
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Adam Drummond 33 • Huntington County Community School Corp. Principal of Lincoln Elementary Year you joined the organization: I began as a classroom teacher for
in January and February of this year have really forced me to work on what “free” time looks like.
Huntington County Community School Corp. in 2002. Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: board
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
of directors for the Parkview Boys and Girls Club of Huntington County; board of directors for the LaFontaine Arts Council and served as past president; board of directors for Huntington County Baseball and serve as president of the Mays League; council member of the Ball State University Alumni Association; various committees of Evangelical United Methodist Church and serve on the church council; active member of the Pulse Opera House community theatre in Warren; Huntington County United Way Capital Campaign Cabinet Committee; state board of directors for Indiana Association of School Principals
If I could be in any other profession, I would work in politics. I am very opinionated and have a strong belief system of what is right and wrong. I also believe that if there is a problem, you can either complain or be part of the solution. While it’s easy to look on the outside and be judgmental of how political (local, state, national) leaders work, I believe that the system is much more complicated, and that a voice of reason and understanding is critical. What else should we know about you?
What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I believe that each person who serves in a leadership position for an organization or business does so with the hands of others who have guided them to their present-day experience. My own experience as a school principal continually evolves from those with whom I surround myself. First and foremost, my family has helped me advance to the position I currently am. Advanced degrees require time, money and dedication. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
The biggest challenge of working in education is that everyone is an expert. Simply because they went to school, graduated, have kids in school or have families make people feel they are experts. Yet, unless you work in a school, it is hard to truly know the “business” of education. When I reflect back on accomplishments, it is not about awards earned, ratings provided, 15-percent increases in data instruction or even certificates hung on a wall. The field of education is working with people. The inputs are people. The products are people. How we work with people is through people. It’s Page 14
all about people. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
My next accomplishment is finishing my doctorate degree in 2014. All coursework is finished. The research has been conducted. Now, it’s the analysis and writing up of the findings. By the end of 2014, holding my doctorate degree in hand is the next accomplishment for my career. I think earning my doctorate benefits the school and community because it demonstrates a thirst for knowledge and a desire to never stop learning. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
I think the balance comes from knowing when one part of your life is tipping too far away from the equilibrium. When my kids say, “Dad, are you working again?” or our school secretary asks if I have been staying late again, I know that I need to make adjustments. I rely on those closest to me to call me out on when that balance doesn’t work. I also have a struggle with downtime. I like to be reading, thinking or working. The snow and cancellations
I would guess that most people would consider me to be decisive, opinionated and incredibly organized. But why I am described in these ways many may not know. I am very methodical and reflective in what I do. I know that in order to be effective, I must be organized. In order to have opinions, I need to be well-educated. In order to be decisive, I need to have the ability to reflect on what I know, what I need to know and what I have practiced. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
If I were starting out in education, I would do three things. First, I would work to become a reflective practitioner. After the end of each day, reflect on what worked and what did not work. Make a plan on how to be better the next day. Second, ask for help. In a world that seems to run faster than ever before, there are basic assumptions made. One of those assumptions is that we understand what we are to do and are expected to do it. One must be able to speak up and ask for help. Finally, the third piece of advice is having compassion. Our children are the future (while cliché), but they need to know you are there for them, care about them and will do anything to help them. An educational leader, Madeline Hunter, said, “Children don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Brent Eastom 31 • IUE-CWA Local 901 Union president — representative of BAE Systems and General Electric
Year you joined the organization:
benefit your organization?
2003 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Community Harvest Food Bank, Salvation Army, USO of Indiana, United Way, several homeless food drives What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I was able to tap into several retirees who have been down this road before to discuss certain historical decisions they made to better utilize what happened back then and to bring it into the modern era. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
I believe my biggest accomplishment is that 750 members put their faith in me in representing their livelihoods day in and day out. By investing my time and energy in them, they trust me in having their jobs in my hands. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it
I want to work to make sure that every member that I represent retires from Fort Wayne. It is a rewarding feeling seeing those who I represent get to the finish line. This would benefit our organization because we worked as a partnership in sustaining our business locally for the long term, benefiting all of us as well as our community. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
Red wine vinegar and Saran wrap to figure out how to trap fruit flies as recommended by our Orkin guy. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
Paper boy, collecting door to door. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
It is tough, but I have a very understanding spouse and children. I do what I need to do in representing my members and their jobs as well as being involved in the community through donations/collections. However, now
that my children are getting older, I have to work to carve out time in trying to train them in athletics or be there for them as they become more involved. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Sports broadcaster or professional athlete. What else should we know about you?
I am from a family of 12 (10 brothers, two sisters): Chris, Craig, Carrie (three C’s) Brian, Brandon, Brent (three B’s), Aaron, Andy, Alan (three A’s) and Dustin, Darren, Dawn (three D’s). If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Look to those who have been down the road before to help you out with past practices, listen to your members’ concerns, but always be there for each and every person you represent. When they see that you care about them and their families, they appreciate you that much more.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Brandon Ferrell 23 • Minear Real Estate Office manager and real estate broker Year you joined the company: 2012 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Whitley County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors; Whitley County Chamber of Commerce board of directors; Junior Achievement board of directors; Junior Achievement teacher for Columbia City High School; Leadership Whitley County policy board; several subcommittees for events throughout the year, including golf outings, car shows and the 4-H fair in Whitley County What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
Every job I’ve had has lead me to the next bigger and better event in my life. My parents have been some of the biggest supporters throughout high school, college and even in my professional life. It’s taken awhile to learn, but no one starts off at the top. I always have had a dream that I’d graduate college and get hired as big wig for a Fortune 500 company. Boy, was I wrong. Along with my parents, I’ve had unending support from friends who I’ve met along my journey. I’ve bounced so many ideas off of them that I’m sure they’re sick of me, but I honestly can’t thank them enough.
My goal when I started real estate was to hit $1 million in sales in my first year. I achieved that goal within a few months. I started this year hoping to hit more than $4 million in sales. The biggest benefit this can have is to bring more growth to my company’s overall market share in our county and region.
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career?
What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
My biggest accomplishment thus far in my career has been selling over $3.1 million worth of homes in my first year (2013) of real estate.
A girlfriend’s golf clubs. It was a gift, so how could I not expense this? Hopefully she’ll use my real estate services in the near future!
What lessons did you learn from it?
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
No deal — no matter how big or small — is ever the same. Some days you go to work knowing you’re going to make someone’s day by telling them their offer was accepted. On other days, you can’t answer your phone fast enough to tell them the bad news. Although everyone won’t always be happy, I’ve learned to better deal with the good and bad days along the way.
R&D Motorsports in Columbia City. I built all motorsports — four-wheelers, snowmobiles, motorcycles, Jet Skis, etc. — and then also detailed them after they were sold. I didn’t have an official title. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
Very carefully. I’m so thankful to
to be set out by the road. Friends and family can be frustrated with my job schedule. Trying to be at a dinner on time or leave for vacation can be very difficult. My dates usually aren’t too pleased with me when I answer my phone during dinner. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I would want to be an architect. I’ve always been fascinated by large custombuilt homes. What else should we know about you?
I’ve owned 12 cars within the last eight years. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Get connected. The more people you know and can connect with, the better. Also, have a mentor who you can bounce questions, thoughts and ideas off of. Always have another perspective on anything you do. You’ll know you’re doing the right job when your clients are referring you.
have an iPhone to remind me when my What would you next like to accommeetings are, events I’m planning to be plish in your career and how would it at and even what day the trash needs benefit your company? Page 16 Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Corey Ford 26 • Visit Fort Wayne Sports sales manager Year you joined the organization:
2012 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: Fort
Wayne Sports Corp. board member; membership director, Sports Indiana; Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana; Turnstone; NEI Hospitality Association; Upward Basketball; Camp Whatcha-Wanna-Do; National Association of Sports Commissions; Ball4aCause; Fort Wayne Youth Sports Advisory Committee; Allen County SPCA; Fairplay Volleyball What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
All the credit goes to the women in my life. My mom raised three kids on her own and always kept me out of trouble. My grandma made sure I was well-fed and had clean clothes and teeth. My sister Ashley helped me develop a sense of humor and creativity. Now, my beautiful fiancée, Emily, has assumed responsibility for all of the above. Emily takes really good care of me, even though she is way out of my league. Their love and support has allowed me to focus and grow in my professional life.
What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
A six-pack of beer, catfish dinner and the Richard Petty Driving Experience in Daytona Beach, Fla. It looked more like a hillbilly vacation than a business trip.
Last year was a banner year for us. My team and I brought 34 events to Fort Wayne. Those events provided more than $14 million in direct economic impact to our city. I booked several national and regional sporting events, some of which bring 15,000-plus people from around the country to compete in Fort Wayne. I love visiting the malls and restaurants during these huge sporting events; everything is packed. I find great affirmation knowing that my work benefits and affects so many different people and companies.
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
I am in the process of creating a sports commission for Fort Wayne. By establishing a more unified and focused effort, it will take Fort Wayne to the next level in attracting and hosting bigger and better
sporting events. I have been facilitating a merger between Visit Fort Wayne and the Sports Corp. to accomplish this. Our vision is to develop “one-stop shopping” for promoting our current youth, adaptive and recreational sports programs, while aggressively pursuing new events and opportunities for Fort Wayne.
My friend Rudy and I had a pretty legit leaf-raking business in seventh grade throughout my grandma’s neighborhood. We invented a method called “speed raking,” where we would sprint around the yard as fast as possible and rake really rapidly in hopes of finishing sooner. We pooled all our profits to save up for a Sega Dreamcast and a go-cart. Although we made decent money for 12-year-olds, sadly we were never able to afford either. Maybe someday. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
I always make things that are important to me a priority. I find ways to get involved
that include my family and friends, or I partner with community organizations that align with my mission at work. There are plenty of hours in the day, if you use them efficiently. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I would love to do something that involves animals. When I was a kid, I dreamed of hosting my own travel animal TV show. I envision the show being a mix between “The Crocodile Hunter” and “The Wild Thornberrys.” What else should we know about you?
I’m a huge advocate for adventure travel. Every year, my little brother, Andy, and I take a “wilderness adventure of manliness.” We use this time to refine and test our survival skills and live off of the land. Our last one was a five-week backpacking trip in New Zealand and Fiji. Next, we are targeting Nepal or Micronesia. Both of us feel more at home in nature than we do in the city. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
As a young executive, it’s a lot easier to say something dumb than to say something profound. So choose your words wisely, trust yourself and speak up.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Page 17
We help our clients see and feel the future of their decisions before they make them. We call it, Play it Forward.
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Page 18
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
John H. Foxworthy II 35 • Phillips Financial Financial adviser Year you joined the company: 2010 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne Children’s Choir, Fort Wayne Estate Planning Council and the Mizpah Shrine What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I have been blessed with a wonderful family that has supported me throughout my career, particularly in the early days when things didn’t go as well as they could have. Without the support of my wonderful wife, Jill, I would not be able to do what I am doing today. Also, the support of my parents has been instrumental in my success. My mother always told me to reach for the stars because sometimes you’ll find that they aren’t as far away as they seem. Throughout my career, I have also been blessed with support from other experienced people in my profession. I would not be where I am today without those who were willing to take me under their wings and teach me the ropes in business and community activities. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
Becoming a certified financial planning professional was my biggest accomplishment so far. Preparing to pass the 10-hour exam is one of the most difficult, yet rewarding, things I have ever done. Words cannot describe the improvement in my ability to help my clients as a result of the CFP certification process. The biggest lesson I learned from that experience is the power of devoting yourself completely to something and believing in yourself, even when it seems impossible. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
I would love to grow my business to the point that I can become a partner in my firm. To do that, I plan to continue my work to provide financial advice in
new and innovative ways that appeal to young professionals and business owners. By providing financial planning and coaching that is dynamic instead of static, I feel that we can continue to be one of the top independent financial firms in Northern Indiana.
providers and community leaders second. No level of business or community success is worth anything if there is no one there to enjoy it with you. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Fighter pilot. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
Confetti cannons for the YLNI Masquerade Ball. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
What else should we know about you?
I was the original drummer in a local band, Good Night Gracie, and I have been known to come out of retirement every so often to sit in on gigs with local musicians.
Chi-Chi’s. I was a dishwasher. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Work-life balance is so important. I have always tried to have the end game in mind as I build my career and engagement in the community. We must be willing to prioritize, and remember that we are spouses and parents first, then
Never stop learning. Be ethical at all costs. Find someone who does business the right way and learn from them. Always put your clients’ needs ahead of your own. Don’t be afraid to reach for the stars!
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Page 19
The Hall of Fame
2013 Tom Allman Shane Araujo Ed Baker Josh Barkley Melissa Beber Tyler Binkley Neal Bowman Andrew Boxberger Sarah Brown Albert Brownlee Justin Brugger Kimberly Carpenter Kent Castleman Justin Clupper Grant Daily Jake Farris Tamesha Fikes Keith Gillenwater Matt Graves Shannon Hardiek Mary Jo Hardiman Lettie Haver Lindsey Hively Kendra Klink Michael Limmer Kelly Lynch Melissa McKown Brent Minnick Jarrod Ramer Shannon Reed Nate Reuser Anthony Romano Melissa Schenkel Kylee Shirey Luke Squires Katy Stafford-Cunningham Krista Stockman Nick Talarico YaVonda Ulfig Stephanie Veit
Page 20
2012 Tony Belton Zachary Benedict Jennifer Jo Brown Jon-Paul Capito Cameron Collier Kristi Cortezano Ryan Daniel Carmen Darland Patrick Dean Denise DeMarchis Julia Fiechter Jennifer Fisher Scott Gruner Ryan Hart Douglas Horner Evan Hyndman Lori Keys Alex Kiefer Chad LaCross Zach Lear David Lefever Andy Marshall Kyle Martin Susan McGrade Cory Miller Carrie Minnich Aaron Myers Joshua Neal Jennifer Neher Kristin Pagan Irene Paxia Heather Presley-Cowen Marceline Rogers Beth Schrader Justin Shurley Brad Smith Mick Stewart Alan Tio Pone Vongphachanh Donna Whinery Alison Mansfield
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
The Hall of Fame
2011 Daniel Blevins Aaron Brown D. Joe Caffee Chris Ciocca Kristin Coppolino Angela Dane Angela Dippel Michael Douglass Michael Earls Sarah Earls Kevin Erb Sam Graves Stacy Hefty John Henry III Heather Herron Andrew Hoffman Amy Johnson Zachary Klutz Erin LaCross Kyndra Landgraff Christopher Langschied Todd E. Larson Dr. Kara Heine Laughlin Wei Luo Thomas Martin Mike McCaffrey Aaron McDevitt Thomas (Ted) Nitza Jr. Amber Recker Darren Renier Brian Schackow Patrick A. Scheiderer Dan Swartz Sam Tippmann Tonia Brown Courtney Tritch Nate Utesch Kenneth Whaley Misty R. Woltman Ebony Conely-Young
2010 1st Sgt. Ricky J. Weber Abigail M. Butler Amber Coughlin Angela Hughes Anthony (Tony) Hudson Beth McLeish Brian More Christopher W. Lake Codie Ross Craig Vanderwall Jr. David Hefty Derek Myers Evan Wood Gina Leoni H. Joe Cohen Heather Schoegler Jason Brooks Jason C. Daenens Jeffrey Potter Jeremy Carnahan Jonathan Leman Kate Gribble Katy Silliman Kelly J. Pautler Linda Clevenger Lisa Updike Matt Getts Melinda Martin Michael Barranda Michael Nutter Michael R. Ziembo Michelle Merritt Mike King Nathan Lowe Nicole Wilkins O. Karl Behrens Ronald Turpin Steve Hoffman Theresa Wagler Zach Hayden
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Adam Henry 31 • Beers Mallers Backs & Salin LLP Attorney How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
Year you joined the firm: 2008. Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Admittedly, I am still working on the balance between career, family life and community involvement. Recently, my youngest sister said it best: You always have a lot of balls in the air. There is a lot of truth to that statement, as I spend a fair amount of time at the law firm and attending community functions. Though this balance does seem out of sorts at times, my family is what drives me to be a better attorney, and to be a more active and engaged citizen.
Fort Wayne Sports Corp.; World Baseball Academy Capital Campaign Steering Committee; Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana; Allen County Democratic Party Central Committee; Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program of Northeast Indiana. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I am fortunate to have a strong support system personally and professionally. The oldest of five children, we were provided with the tools to succeed including a strong work ethic, the importance of respect and responsibility, and to honor our commitments. Beginning as high school sweethearts, my wife has stood with me for nearly 16 years. Her encouragement is unwavering, and her patience a blessing. I attribute much of my accomplishments, personally and professionally, to Jen as she has an unending amount of faith in me. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
I tend to assess myself personally and professionally in six-month snapshots of time. That being said, my biggest personal accomplishment in the last six months is the birth of our second child, Liam Matthew. My wife and I, along with Liam’s big sister, Julia, could not be more excited to have him as part of the family. Second only to Liam’s birth is the success of the Fort Wayne Sports Corp.’s fourth-annual Party in the Park held on Friday, Feb. 7, at Parkview Field. I had the privilege of being chairman of this event, which serves as the primary source of funding for the Fort Wayne Sports Corp. Thanks to the help of my committee and the financial contributions of numerous sponsors, our guests and honored athletes had a nice time and we raised more than $48,000. We hope to build on this momentum as the Fort Wayne Sports Corp. celebrates its silver anniversary next year. My biggest professional accomplishPage 22
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
ment in the last six months is the growth of my practice at Beers Mallers Backs & Salin. This growth in my book of business has been significant, and it is attributed to two key points: (1) being responsive to a client’s needs and, in turn, providing quality service at a fair rate; and (2) the caliber of teammates I have supporting me at the law firm. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
The personal and professional accomplishments may come in due course for me; however, the immediate focus is providing quality service to my current clients, all the while attracting new business for the law firm. If a client is satisfied with my counsel, my attentiveness, and my billing practices, Beers Mallers Backs & Salin will benefit because he or she will remain a longstanding client, and if I am fortunate, he or she will pass my name along to a friend, family member or co-worker. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
When I was 11, I received my first paycheck from Fort Wayne Newspapers. At that time I delivered the News-Sentinel to friends and neighbors in my childhood subdivision of Blackhawk.
If I could try another profession, it would either be as an athletic director or coach. As an athletic director, I can utilize my skill set as a lawyer while working in a university setting (as I have fond memories of my time on the Bloomington campus). I enjoy strategy and the formulation of a game plan — key responsibilities of an attorney and of a head coach. Both positions also provide an opportunity to work with and teach our future leaders. What else should we know about you?
I wake up at 3:40 a.m. every morning. I drink diet soda and craft beer. If I pack a lunch, it always includes a yogurt, fat-free pudding, pretzels, carrots and a piece of fruit. I have been best friends with the same four guys since middle school. I prefer eating at local restaurants. I enjoy a perfect Manhattan, on the rocks, without fruit. I have never traveled across the pond. I follow Indiana high school marching band during the fall season. We gather for dinner with my parents and siblings every Sunday evening. My wife picks out my shirt and tie combination nearly every night. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
I oftentimes tell young colleagues to keep an open mind when deciding which area of the law to focus one’s practice. There is a lot of value in building a tool box of skills — including trial experience — before devoting all of your time to one practice area.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Cheers to Adam Henry
2S[ SRI SJ µFort Wayne’s Famous¶ 40 Under 40. Representing the people and institutions that make Fort Wayne unique.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Frank Nicholas Howard 32 • Downtown Improvement District Director of marketing, environmental and business services Year you joined the organization:
2010 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
African/African American Historical Society Museum What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
First and foremost, my wonderful wife, Tiffany, as well as my three kids have provided the love and support I draw from when the days are long and the work is hectic. Next, my sisters have been pivotal in my success for the support and encouragement they have provided over the years, and my parents who raised us all to have integrity and understand that there is nothing more important than family. I would also like to mention my fellow staff at the Downtown Improvement District and partners for their hard work and dedication to the success of our shared community. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
I would say my biggest accomplishment thus far has been to join the Downtown Improvement District as an intern in 2010, working 10 hours a week and advancing over the last four years to my current position as the overall director of programming for the organization. I’ve learned so much over the years, but perhaps the best lessons are to approach each day with a simple willingness to make a positive impact and to never consider a task or project complete until you can honestly say you gave it your best effort.
my professional development to support the honest and hardworking people in the district.
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
Pick N Save grocery store in Van Wert, Ohio. At 15, I worked in the produce department.
When not with my family I spend my free time riding motorcycles and playing billiards, and enjoy both immensely.
How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
I’ve always felt that keeping it simple leads to the best results, so I honestly don’t like to look that far ahead in terms of accomplishments for my career. My current goals for the Downtown Improvement District are to ratify our 2014 program initiatives under budget and above expectations while continuing Page 24
What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
Fright Night is an event that we program every year around Halloween in collaboration with our downtown partners, and in purchasing decor it’s always fun to submit receipts for rubber brains and severed limbs. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
One of the benefits of my career is that it requires a high level of community involvement, which is a positive in balancing the two. My family is very understanding of the importance of
this and often joins me at events and functions, which allows me to remain engaged and still spend quality time with those most important to me. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I have an educational background in military history with a focus on World War II, so I have always wondered about working in that field, perhaps in a museum doing historical research. What else should we know about you?
If you like what you do and believe in your mission, then treat every day as an opportunity to do something worthwhile and don’t compromise.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Jermaine Jackson 28 • Jackson Insurance Agency Owner and founder Year you founded the business: 2009 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: I am
a very active member at my local church, Harvest Word of Life Ministries International Inc., under the leadership of Bishop Malcolm and Pastor Jacqueline Howell. There I, along with my wife, lead our youth ministry, and I work alongside my brothers Drece Guy, Vernon Johnson and Sean Young with our Covenant Men of God men’s ministry. I also volunteer at the Euell A. Wilson Center. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
The support I received along the way that helped advance my career was spiritual. My wife, pastors and family have always spoken words of encouragement and the word of God in my life. This is what gave me the strength to keep going during those moments that I wanted to quit. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
One of my biggest accomplishments in my career thus far is establishing my agency as an independent agency. I was once a captive agent with a particular company, and once I left that company to go independent I literally had to start all over from the ground up. By the grace of God business has been thriving and continuing to grow despite the many challenges that I’ve incurred along the way. One of the main lessons of many that I’ve learned is that it is easy and better to do things right the very first time. Also I’ve learned that with great authority, liberty and privilege comes even greater responsibility. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
I would like to eventually expand my operations to another state such as Michigan. The reason being is that this is my native state, and I have a really strong, warm market there that I haven’t tapped into. The benefit for the company would be growth and also an opportunity to provide
jobs to individuals in that particular area. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
My first paycheck came from a floral shop that I worked at when I was 12 years old. I worked all of about a week and then they fired me because I couldn’t make it on one occasion. The funny part is that my little cousin, who is three years younger than I am, got me the job because he worked there first at 9 years old; he was kept instead of me. I thought that since I was older they would’ve kept me instead of him. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
The only thing that I can say is by the grace of God. The reason being is this area in particular is so difficult for me. I love helping people and using my gifts, abilities and talents to benefit others. The issue arises when I schedule too much in one day. I am so thankful for having such a supportive wife who is very patient with me and helps me along the way. Honestly, I must admit if she wasn’t so long-suffering with me it would be very difficult. What else should we know about you?
Well one profession that I am taking my time to get involved in is real estate. It’s always been a desire of both my wife and mine. I’m choosing to take my time this time because I sort of rushed into the industry couple of years ago and purchased a property that I really shouldn’t have. And
boy, oh boy, it sure did cost me. The only thing that I got out of that property was the privilege to say I owned real estate and the extreme cost incurred to possess that privilege. I learned a valuable lesson during that venture, which was you have to move in God’s timing. You can’t make a decision independent of God and then just expect him to go along with you. It absolutely does not work like that. You have to do what God wants and then He will back, endorse and support what you do. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
In all of your getting, get understanding. I would encourage them to find out what the industry is all about. This can be done by spending time with someone who is successfully advancing in the industry. Or they could also go to the local library and find books written by someone who has been in the industry. I would also encourage them to search deep within themselves to see if they really love people. Being an insurance agent, I am in the public eye dealing with people every day. And in dealing with people, you run into so many different behaviors and attitudes every day. So you have to love people right where they are at that moment in order to deal with them successfully so that you maintain your integrity and your good name. If you lose integrity and your name, you might as well close your doors because you will not get any business.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Dr. Zubair Khan 38 • Fort Wayne Vision Associates Optometrist Year you founded the business: 2004. My other business is a brand new, stateof-the-art child-care facility that I started in November 2013 with my wife called Kiddie Academy. We started this business when we couldn’t find good quality child care for our then 2-year-old son in the north. Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Universal Education Foundation, board member; Muslim Alliance of Indiana, board member; Hawthorne Park Homeowners Association, board member; Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana, member; Parkview Cookin’ Men Chef, raises money and awareness for women’s health; volunteer eye doctor at Matthew 25 Health Clinic What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
The biggest support was from my parents, especially when I was in optometry school. In opening Kiddie Academy, my wife has been a tremendous help, especially with her background in teaching. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
My biggest accomplishment is owning two businesses and being responsible for about 20 employees. It’s a big responsibility and I love it. In my eye practice, fitting my patients with contact lenses where others have failed brings great joy to me. I have learned to carefully listen to what my patients needs are. Contact lenses have evolved a lot in the past 10 years, especially bifocal contacts. Baby boomers don’t want to give up their contacts and knowing how to fit bifocal contacts has been very important in my practice. Another big accomplishment is opening Kiddie Academy with my wife. My wife and I are both from Chicago and we could not find the same type of quality child care that we saw in Chicago. Studies show that early childhood education allows children to do well in school and be successful in life. At Kiddie Academy of Fort Wayne we hired the best teachers and built a Page 26
center that allows children to learn and develop through play. We invested in a secure webcam where parents can log in and see how their child is doing on their smartphone or computer. This webcam by Watch Me Grow is only located at Kiddie Academy and is the only one in northeast Indiana with this type of technology. Classrooms are equipped with touchscreen computers, tablets and smart boards. There is also a chef for the children so that they get fresh healthy meals every day. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your businesses?
In my eye practice I would like to see my medical optometry practice grow to the point where I would need to bring in a full-time associate doctor. In child care, I have plans with my wife to open another location in the south. The great thing about opening Kiddie Academy so far has been the chance to provide a service of good quality educational child care and provide jobs for 15-20 people. It’s a win-win situation.
pushing carts for our grocery store in Chicago. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
It is a juggling act to balance all three but the most important is to make time for good quality family time. I make sure we go on vacations, usually out of the country, to unwind and relax. I’m blessed that I own two businesses with amazing managers and staff, which gives me time to do community service without sacrificing family time. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I always thought being a paleontologist would be a lot of fun. The chance to dig and study fossils around the world sounds adventurous. What else should we know about you?
I enjoy playing basketball, cooking with my kids and traveling. I also ran and completed the Chicago marathon in 2003.
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
In Chicago when I was 12 in wintertime, I used to shovel my neighbors’ sidewalk for cash money. My first real paycheck was when I was 16 or 17,
Work hard, don’t stop learning and keep your eyes open for opportunities. Hang out with people that are more successful than you. It will rub off on you.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Mark Leu 36 • LaGrange County REMC Chief executive officer
Year you joined the company: 1999 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
LaGrange County Economic Development Corp., LaGrange County Redevelopment Commission What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I’ve been fortunate to work for a company that believes in developing internal talent and has given me opportunities for career growth and education. What is your biggest accomplishment
thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
I don’t think I can point to one single biggest accomplishment. I would attribute the success I’ve had to preparation, hustle and being in the right place at the right time. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
I’m currently working on my MBA. I believe it will make me a better manager and leader of my company. What is the strangest thing you’ve
submitted on the expense form?
A pingpong table. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
I earned my first paycheck when I was 13. It was from Lord’s Seed Inc., a local seed corn farming company. My job was detasselling corn. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
I guess I just use basic time management principles. Prioritize, schedule and learn when to say “no.”
Target Your Advertising Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Market your business or service in a credible and well-read editorial environment. Call 260-426-2640 today!
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Rudy Mahara II 29 • Mahara Wealth Partners Vice president and LPL financial adviser Year you joined the company: 2008 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: The
Fort Wayne Rescue Mission, Anthony Wayne Rotary, Lifewater Community Church, Celebrate Recovery What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
For as long as I can remember, through high school, the military, college and my vocation, I have placed great value in seeking wise men to speak into my life. I have even received a lot of support from other financial planners in our area. However, there has been no greater teacher, mentor and support in my career than that given by my business partner and father, Rudy Sr. The amount of knowledge he has gained in his 30-plus-year career is invaluable. He knows what it takes to start in this business as well as what it takes to be successful. I would not be the man and financial planner I am today without his support and belief in me. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
My background is not in financial planning, and my degree is actually in ministry. I started in this business because I was looking for a way to still invest in people while freely giving my time to the ministry. My demons tried to convince me that I was unfit to be an effective adviser. After a lot of hard work, studying and experience, I recently received the certified financial planner certification. The significance of this actually goes far beyond some very nice initials after my name. The process to obtain such marks molded me into a well-rounded financial professional. The ongoing accomplishments are seeing how the effects of my counsel benefit those entrusted to me. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
As we speak, I am researching and applying to schools to begin my master’s in business administration. In researching MBA curricula in the area, I have found that virtually all of the subject matter Page 28
would equip me to effectively guide my business to serve our clients for years to come. Again, this is more important to me than fancy letters. Learning these advanced skills should bring more value and effectiveness to any person or organization I get the honor to serve. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
McDonald’s at the Village of Coventry. I was a terrified 15-year-old order taker. I had high aspirations of being promoted to the grill. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
Anything I commit to is just as much as a commitment for my wife, Karen. With beautiful twin 2-year-old girls and a 4-year-old “Rudy” at home, anything I commit to is just as much as a commitment for my wife. She is an unbelievable ally to me and I couldn’t ask for a more beautiful, affectionate and supportive wife. Additionally, I can argue that the best work I can do to support my community is to make sure that my kids have the tools and stability to be contributors to their community someday. That comes with having a dad that is physically, spiritually and emotionally available. And sometimes, that requires having to say “no.” If you could try another profession,
what would it be?
That’s easy. I would be the guitar stand for blues legend Joe Bonamassa. If that didn’t pan out, I suppose I could polish guitars for Aerosmith’s Joe Perry. More realistically, I couldn’t envision a life where I am not investing in people. I would consider counseling, ministry, pubic speaking, coaching and then maybe serving as a rhythm guitarist/vocalist for a local band. What else should we know about you?
I’ve never seen “Rocky.” Jim Harbaugh is the reason I became a Colts fan. I am not a mechanic. My son thinks I am a superhero, so please play along. It is hard to admit this, but Disney World is my favorite vacation spot. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
If you are motivated by quick money, fancy cars and Armani suits, it will be a long and lonely road. Successful financial advisers honestly care about people, work hard to become competent in their craft, sow seeds of trusts and are in it for the long haul. If you have those convictions, I would say, “Hang in there. Do the next right thing. It gets better.” If you can’t commit to those convictions, I would say, “Save the energy. You’re better off playing the lottery.”
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc..
Congratulations Rudy Mahara We are very proud of you and your accomplishments. Congratulations from everyone here at Rudy’s!
260.451.0115 • rudysshop.com 409 W Brackenridge St., Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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John J. Minnich 35 • Indiana Tech Assistant professor of accounting Year you joined the organization:
2012 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Community Transportation Network, board member, Finance Committee; Financial Executives International-Fort Wayne Chapter, board member, academic relations chair; Fort Wayne Dance Collective, Finance Committee; Indiana CPA Educational Foundation, trustee, treasurer; Indiana CPA Society, Leadership Cabinet; Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana, board member, program committee; Manchester University, career mentor; Manchester University Alumni Association, board member, vice president; member of American Accounting Association, American Institute of CPAs, Financial Executives International, Indiana CPA Society, Sigma Beta Delta, Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana opportunity that presents itself.
What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
My wife, also a CPA, serves in public accounting and actively volunteers in the community. She and I attend a number of nonprofit special events together. We have had similar personal and professional experiences since earning our master of accountancy degrees from Manchester College (currently Manchester University) and know the demands of each other’s schedule. I believe success starts at home, whether in school or pursuing a career. Early on, both of my parents taught me the importance of having confidence, working diligently and pursuing a goal no matter how daunting the task. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
My parents did not have the opportunity to attend college immediately after high school. For me, earning a master of accountancy degree and passing the CPA exam on the first attempt by the age of 23. Fast forward to 35 and my journey continues as an accounting professor. I learned the rewards of hard work, perseverance and taking advantage of every Page 30
efficiently. We all have the same number of hours in a day.
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
As I grow and settle in my academic role at Indiana Tech, I will continue to seek accounting and consulting opportunities with clients to remain current in my profession. While attending Manchester, I always enjoyed professors who brought their practice to the classroom.
I love innovation and technology. I would pursue something along the lines of a software or Web developer, computer or information systems analyst, or database administrator. Perhaps a certified information technology professional credential from the AICPA.
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
What else should we know about you?
In eighth grade, I delivered papers for the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel and worked Saturdays with my father cleaning Riegel’s Inc. I learned early on from my parents the importance of earning honest pay through hard work. During high school and college, I worked Saturdays and breaks (e.g.: spring, summer) with my dad and younger brother to pay off my first car and to have spending money. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
Passion. I firmly believe coupling one’s passion with the support of family eases the balancing act. Serving in public accounting taught me how to use my time
I enjoy sports, and in particular Komet hockey. Season ticket holders since 2007, my wife and I attend every home game no matter the weather. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
I always encourage our accounting students to earn a master’s degree and sit for the CPA exam prior to entering the work force. I emphasize ethics, professionalism and rigor to the next generation of accountants as our profession demands it. Treat your career as a journey rather than a destination. Continue to grow and learn.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc..
The Rescue Mission’s Board of Trustees congratulates Mr. Rudy Mahara II on an outstanding young leader in the city of Fort Wayne. We appreciate Rudy as both a leader and a young man of great principles and ethics. Thank you for serving the least of these!
TheRescueMission.net • 301 West Superior St. Fort Wayne
For more info contact Rev. Donovan Coley at 260.426.7357 x112
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Andy More 39 • More Farm Store Inc. President Year you joined the business: 1996 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: First Church of God (Columbia
City), United Way Day of Caring, Whitley County Community Foundation, Parkview Whitley Foundation, GAP-Haiti, Whitley Forward What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
The three generations of my family provided a solid foundation and piqued my interest. My ambitions were to continue the family business and the family name to uphold the high standard set by those before me. In addition, our customers are the single largest advisers I use on a daily basis to better the company, as well as myself. The knowledge gained from speaking with the end user of a product is far more valuable to me than any industry study I can buy. I have been very fortunate to have many customers along the way that have offered their knowledge and support of my business based on our business relationship. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
My two biggest accomplishments are as follows: My single largest accomplishment thus far is being the president of this company during its 100th anniversary. The second largest accomplishment is more of a daily accomplishment, but for me it is the largest accomplishment we, as a company, can strive for every day, and that is when a satisfied customer returns to our store to thank us and tell us how pleased they were to have done business with us. Word-of-mouth advertising is more valuable to us than any publication we can buy. Satisfied customers talk about their experience with their friends and their co-workers, thus driving more business to our stores. Customer satisfaction is the No. 1 priority when conducting business at More Farm Store. Page 32
What would you like to accomplish in your career, and how would it benefit your company?
I would like to get to a point where More Farm Store and its three locations are a household name and the general population knows there is a place out there that is fair and honest with every single customer.
just lending a hand. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I would love to help people in a nonprofit arena. What else should we know about you?
My first paycheck actually came from More Farm Store. As a kid, I always came to work with my dad when school was out so I could learn more about what my dad and the rest of my family did on a daily basis.
I wrestled in high school and college. In college I was ranked as high as sixth in the nation in my weight class. I was also a national champion in weightlifting. I am a huge Michigan Wolverines football fan. I have two kids. Joey is 12 and Olivia is 6 1/2. I have been married for 13 years to my wife, Toni. One of my favorite things to do is teaching “Guys for God” on Sunday nights at the First Church of God to fourth- and fifth-graders. I have done this for 15 years.
How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Family is always first. Work and community involvement go hand in hand. My professional goal is to help everyone I come in contact with, whether it is with their lawn mower or
Turn off caller ID and don’t choose which issues to handle. Answer every call and handle every issue. In any situation treat people better than they deserve to be treated and it will serve you well.
What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on an expense form?
Fishing trip with my dad. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Joe Noorthoek 39 • Mission3 Media Founder/CEO Year you founded the company:
I actually worked a ton of hours over the summer and thought I’d made the big time, seriously!
2012 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
TedxFort Wayne; Social & Marketing Breakfast Fort Wayne; cancer walks to raise awareness and support for people in our community who’ve been impacted by this disease
How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I’ve received both great and horrible advice along my career path, and I’m actually grateful for both. The good advice taught me to trust in the wisdom and experience of others. The bad advice taught me to trust my own instincts. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
My most valuable accomplishment in business was the experience of partnering with my best friend and brother in the task of turning his recently acquired, struggling small corporation into a thriving, successful business. The most valuable moment came about three years into this venture when we realized we were in major, major trouble. The list of failures at this point was very numerous. I remember sitting in a coffee shop with my brother and our general manager as we looked over our list of failures. I remember glancing at our balance sheet and seeing lots of negatives. Many times I had thought we were finished and ruined. Multiple times we’d considered throwing in the towel and counting our losses. Instead, we decided to take responsibility, fix what we could (if we could) and do things right. Fast forward: We cut the nonprofitable division from the company, revenue dropped slightly but we were profitable. Our growth is slower, but very focused and very sustainable. Divisive employees were let go and a commitment was made to only work with people of integrity. The workplace environment became fun again. We had realized that we knew our business better than anyone. We began to trust our own instincts and have faith
in ourselves. This also changed the dynamics within the company culture. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
I’ve recently started a video production company called Mission3 Media. Our focus is to assist organizations in developing strategic, intentional video branding programs. Video marketing, and brand development in particular, is a passion of mine. I really can’t believe I get to do this. To take the lessons I’ve learned in previous endeavors and grow this business successfully is my career objective at this point. This means I work in a field I love, with co-workers/ employees I enjoy being around, working for clients that mean the world to me. Basically, I’m in heaven. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
I was paid $2 an hour, under the table, at the age of 12 years old. Job was mowing grass, painting curbs and doing general maintenance for my dad, who managed a group of convenience stores.
I’m still working on this, but a friend introduced me to the five capitals concept. This has really been instrumental in helping me balance and prioritize decisions I make with my life. I’ll list them in order of importance. I’ll admit that it was a big deal for me to realize that I pretty much had the list flipped backwards at one point in my life. • Spiritual. (How much faith do you have to invest?) • Relational. (How much relational equity do you have to invest?) • Physical. (How much time and energy do you have to invest?) • Intellectual. (What intellect, skill sets and competencies do you have to invest?) • Financial. (How much financial capital do you have to invest?) If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I’ve always wanted to go island hopping down in the Caribbean on a nice yacht. Still trying to figure out how to turn this into a profession. What else should we know about you?
I am darn lucky to to be married to an amazing person. How in the world she’s put up with me for this long is an amazing miracle, of which I’m very grateful. We have five challenging … I mean … amazing children. While I’ve threatened to trade them in for a sports car on occasion, (I humorously mention this to them often) truth is I could never do it. I’m very blessed. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Failure means nothing, perseverance means everything. You can do this and I’m willing to help in any way I can.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Jake Pickett 33• Marketshare+ Director of account services is get home before she goes to bed. That half hour of cuddling and reading is the highlight of my day, regardless of what’s happened at work, a meeting or an event. It’s also important that we spend time together as a family so I try not to have something after work more than a couple of times a week. Sam and I make it a point to get some “us” time almost every weekend as well, and we’re blessed with a family that is more than happy to watch Hannah when we ask.
Year you joined the company: 2013 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Special Olympics since 2007, coaching basketball, track and softball for Marion Co. Northeast, Allen County and Team Indiana; also have helped out with various local and state committees and special events. Joined Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana in 2012 and participated in the Leadership Institute before serving on the LivingFortWayne.com committee as a blogger, and now as director at large representing the LFW committee on the YLNI board. I also recently met the impressive founder of Second Home of Fort Wayne, DeVon Cooper, who is an emerging young community leader in his own right, and have had the opportunity to serve on his board to help him network and grow his organization. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
It starts with my wife, Samantha. We have our hands full as new parents, but she understands how important it is to me to get involved in worthwhile causes and to be active, so with her support I’m able to get to take part in a number of activities that may get me home well past suppertime. My family and friends mean the world to me, and they have always shown support and offered encouragement through darkness and light. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
Having the opportunity to coach Team Indiana track and field at the Special Olympics National Games was about as good as it gets. Sharing firsthand in the pure joy and excitement an athlete feels when they accomplish their goals, whether that’s a gold medal or just finishing a race when they really wanted to quit, is more rewarding than anything I can imagine. It shows what an amazing organization Special Olympics truly is and seeing the challenges those athletes overcome keeps things in perspective. Page 34
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
We want to position Marketshare+ as one of the most respected ad agencies in the area. There’s a ton of talent in Fort Wayne, especially when it comes to marketing, but we’ll put our work up there with anyone’s and are eager to grow the business. We feel we have a superb balance of young and seasoned talent backed by a wealth of experience. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
When I was 13 or 14, a buddy of mine’s dad worked for the Azar family, and they had a warehouse full of old kitchen equipment that needed cleaning. We’re not talking about washing dishes. These were deep fryers and griddles and cold storage, all caked with grease, grime and mysterious slime. We spent what felt like weeks, but was probably just a couple of days, chiseling and scrubbing. It was hot, smelly and exhausting, but I think the true payout was learning humility and perseverance. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
It was a lot easier before our beautiful and rambunctious daughter Hannah came into our world a year and a half ago. The main thing I try to do, as much as possible,
Baseball was my first love and is my favorite sport, and when I was a kid I dreamed of playing it professionally. Some guys I played with went on to the pros, and I saw how hard they trained and how much they sacrificed to get to that level. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the strongest work ethic when I was a teenager, and even though I worked really hard at my game, it just wasn’t something I was able to accomplish. Also, if I was funnier and liked talking in front of crowds, being a stand-up comedian would be pretty cool. What else should we know about you?
I come from a family of educators and have the utmost respect for that profession. I think the world would be a better place if parents demanded good manners from their children; “please” and “thank you” are underrated and underused. I’m left-handed. I can play “Mary Had a Little Lamb” on the piano (and that’s it). I really, really wish I could make my hand illustrate what I see in my head; that’s to say, I’m creative but cannot draw. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Read and listen. I didn’t take the traditional route to get into advertising, so I’m constantly learning. Watch “Mad Men.” Network, but with the mind-set of “how can I help this person?” before “how can this person help me?” Join organizations. I highly recommend YLNI and Special Olympics, of course, but there are a million (give or take) other groups out there that can use help.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Rachel Rayburn 31 • Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne Assistant professor of public policy
Year you joined the organization:
2011 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: I
work with many different groups on the topic of homelessness. I’ve also been working to develop a training program for inmates in Allen County that matches them up with a dog that would be put down. Inmates learn the skills of training and grooming, and the dogs get homes. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
me. That happens for most professors in their sixth year, so I’m about halfway there. Getting tenure basically means job security for professors. And one of the best things about it is the year sabbatical in Year 7.
I once got stuck in Reno, Nev., for a few days and had a little too much tequila. That’s very different from just the right amount of tequila. I may have tried to submit a receipt for Patron.
It was an Italian restaurant in Titusville, Fla. I was 15 and worked as a hostess.
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
Getting tenure is the next big step for
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I would be Anthony Bourdain.
What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
Completing my doctoral degree. I learned tenacity. I also learned a lot about eating ramen.
have any kids. However, if I get any more cats, I’ll probably have to hire help.
How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
What else should we know about you?
I’m not as successful as I seem. People see all the positive things I do; they see my wins and my achievements. They don’t see the rejections and the failures. For every time I’ve been told yes, I’ve been told no much more frequently. The secret is not giving up. Or finding a path that’s a better fit. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
I’ve never been married and don’t
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Time is short. Don’t waste it. Page 35
Mandy Reber 34 • Boys & Girls Club of Huntington County Executive director Year you joined the organization:
2005 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Rotary, ABWA, Boys & Girls Clubs of Indiana Alliance What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I was blessed at my first jobs out of college to have great bosses/mentors who were willing to educate me about the organizations, invested in sending me to training and gave me major responsibilities to help me grow in my career. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
In 2012, our club received the Honor Award for best overall programming for smaller clubs. When I started working at the club in 2005, we were receiving help from another county and were not receiving much community support. At that time, I put all my energy into providing great programs to show the benefit of our organization. This award just showed this strategy was successful. The single best thing I did was put a strong leadership team in place who believed in this vision. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
Our club is currently in the heart of a capital campaign, so building a facility where kids don’t have to wear their coats all winter long is our biggest priority. At some point, I’d like to start a Boys & Girls Club in surrounding communities. Every community needs a club! What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
Working with kids, what most people think as odd I probably don’t think twice about. Last month, I purchased a Barbie tiara and plastic crown for our teen winter formal. Where did your first paycheck come Page 36
from? What was your job then?
I started baby-sitting at age 10 and was paid with cash. My first paycheck was at the Pioneer Restaurant in Decatur at age 14, washing dishes. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
My son comes to the club a few days a week, so I get to see him when he gets off the bus and help him with his homework. We always go to dinner one night a week just the two of us. My husband owns several small businesses; we discuss our work lives daily through long conversations at night. Neither of us would find balance without helping each other and working as a team in all aspects of our lives. Both of us know our success is due to a lot of people believing and pushing us along the way, that giving back to our community is just second nature for both us — from
being involved in organizations, sponsoring events and doing what we can to help. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I’ve always worked in not-for-profit. I think I’d like to try a go at the for-profit side, maybe a relationship banker or open my own consulting business. What else should we know about you?
Being a first-generation college graduate, I’m a huge Purdue fan. Boiler up! If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Forward on the advice I received from my mentor: When I first started and asked what are the three most important things I need to know about this job, her response was, “Networking, networking, networking.”
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Christy Sandmaier 37 • Fort Wayne Ballet Director of administration
Year you joined the organization:
to make a significant change. It has been the absolutely best decision for me professionally and personally. I feel like a completely new person.
2013 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Allen County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
There are several people in my life who have quietly supported and inspired me over the years, one going all the way back to a Houston airport conversation I will never forget while I was an intern at USA Gymnastics in 1998. Those same people have always been there when I needed advice. Great leaders and people influence and motivate me by their process and dedication, not their words or results.
We have very big dreams for Fort Wayne Ballet. It’s an incredible place to be. I don’t have a job without our dancers. Whatever I can do to support them and their efforts benefits us and our goals. It’s not at all about myself. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
Champagne. Not strange, but pretty fantastic. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
Natural Wonders – retail.
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
My biggest accomplishment by far was accepting the position at Fort Wayne Ballet after spending 12 years at the Fort Wayne Philharmonic. The lessons came in recognizing I was ready to take the next step in my career, leaving my comfort zone having checked off all of my goals and believing in myself enough
How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
My career is just like a family member to me. I’m here more than I am at home. When you work for a nonprofit arts organization, there is never total separation, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. My outlet is my work with the
animals at the ACSPCA; every Sunday morning I just spend time with them. It’s quiet and there’s no better reward for me. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
A researcher for NBC Olympic television productions. What else should we know about you?
I’ve recently be named a contributor for Inside Publications’ Inside Dance magazine. It’s been a goal to begin writing again in a more public venue, and I couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity. I love the Olympics (wanted to be an Olympic gymnast) shopping, Peyton Manning, days at the spa, sitting outside in the summer reading (sometimes the most mindless literature) and our eight fur children: Peyton, Mia, Gracie, Marvin Harrison, Nevada, Millhouse, Peanut and Cooper. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Total dedication. Have the passion for what you’re doing. Never be satisfied. And laugh, really laugh at least once a day.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Marla Schneider 36 • Greater Fort Wayne Inc. Vice president of marketing and communications
Year you joined the organization:
you provide.
2007 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana
I would like to influence all sectors of the business by broadening my reach to operationally direct strategies and processes within the organization.
What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
Advice from mentors, professional development courses and business coaching.
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
Owning a Web design business and working for myself for five years was a big accomplishment. It taught me that nothing worthwhile comes easy and that you have to work hard to achieve your goals. It also taught me to view the business from all angles internally and to focus on how the customer will perceive the experience and service that Page 38
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
My first job was in high school was working at The Gap in Glenbrook Mall. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
As a single mom, it can be challenging to fit it all in. Family comes first, and I make sure to carve out time to spend with my son, family and good friends. I try to work smart and multitask to balance my workload. I fit in as
much community involvement as I can during my free time, but I make sure that I don’t overcommit myself. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Medical doctor. What else should we know about you?
I absolutely love to play pingpong and am reigning champion in my family’s tournaments. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Work hard, follow your gut and do the right thing. Make time for friends and family. If you stop loving your job and believing in your mission, find another path that makes you happy. Don’t be afraid of change.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Congratulations Frank Howard Jr.!
You work hard everyday to make Downtown Fort Wayne a better place. YOU DO and IT IS. We're so very proud of you!
With love and respect from YOUR FAMILY
Congratulations to our own
Marla Schneider
for being recognized as one of Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly’s Forty Under 40 Class of 2014!
Marla’s collaborative spirit and innovative thinking make significant contributions to greater Fort Wayne every day. We’re proud to have her on our team and moving our community toward a greater future.
Greater Fort Wayne Inc. is the primary advocate for economic development and business innovation in our community. Learn more at GreaterFortWayneInc.com. Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Page 39
Tommy Schoegler 36 • WPTA-TV/Indiana’s NewsCenter 21Alive sports director
Year you joined the company: 2002 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: Big
Brothers Big Sisters; volunteer at the Community Harvest Food Bank through my church, Pathway Community Church; emceed numerous nonprofit events, including Mad Anthony’s Red Coat Dinner, Brad Miller Charity Auction and Gala. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
There is no way I could have stayed in this career without my wife, Heather. We work funny hours in TV, and Heather has always been 100-percent supportive. Curtis Smith, 21Alive chief meteorologist, has been a true friend during my nearly 12 years at the station. Also my parents, Tom and Ginny Schoegler, helped lay a foundation of morals, work ethic and gave me a belief in myself from an early age through their unwavering support.
live coverage from Sycamore Hills for the Hotel Fitness Championship. We owned the biggest sporting event to be held in Fort Wayne in decades. What I learned was that no matter the size of a team or the obstacles that may be in front of them, if you work together you can do anything. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
My overall goal is for 21Alive to be viewed as the clear sports leader in northeast Indiana, and for us to continue to generate local sports programming that can only be seen on 21Alive. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
I once ate a $175 steak while at Super Bowl 44 in Miami. Just a little tip, when in South Beach, always ask what the price of the special is. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
Denny’s. I was a waiter there in northern Virginia when I was 16.
My proudest moment was last summer, when 21Alive did four days of
How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
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This is a hard one that I have to work really hard at and don’t always succeed. When you work in sports, there are a lot of nights and weekends involved. I have tried to make time with my wife and kids a top priority even despite these obstacles. As for community involvement, my feeling is that if you have decided to make your home somewhere you have to get involved. Don’t just stand on the sidelines. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I would be a football coach or maybe start a band! I would have to learn to play an instrument first, though, so that probably wouldn’t work. What else should we know about you?
I am a huge Dave Matthews Band guy and have been to nearly 50 DMB shows around the country. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
It’s never too early to start getting experience. Go wherever and whenever you have to in order to start getting on the air. And always show up to the ballpark ready to play.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Brad Shank 33 • Fort Wayne TinCaps Vice president, ticket sales Apple Dancer version of Hammer Pants, or four tuxedos for Opening Day in 2013 to pull off Justin Timberlake’s “Suit & Tie” look.
Year you joined the organization:
2003 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: I am
a member at Pathway Community Church and my wife and I serve twice a month at the welcome desk and the coffee bar. I also am a member of the Garrison Group, which is a business group where our main area of focus is giving back to the community as well as building business relationships. I have also helped lead dances for 1 Billion Rising for the past two years, which aims to end violence against women and girls.
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
My first paycheck came from Big Blue, which was a farm and fleet store in Richmond. I did a little bit of everything there, from cashier, to changing tires and lots of stocking shelves. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
My wife, Kelly, is my biggest fan, supporter and cheerleader day in and day out. She encourages me each day to be a man of integrity, and is supportive through great days and tough days. My family has also been a great support throughout my career and very understanding of my crazy schedule in the summertime. My parents were always a great example to me growing up with how involved they were in their church as well as different community groups, so it was instilled in me early on that giving back is very important. I have the privilege each day to go to work with a fantastic team of people who support each other like a family. It has certainly helped me to have the opportunity to learn and grow under some great leaders like Mike Nutter, Brian Schackow, Michael Limmer and David Lorenz, who have all challenged me in different ways over the years to get better every day and to never settle for anything but the best out of myself. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
I would have to say the transition from Memorial Stadium and the Wizards to Parkview Field and the TinCaps would be the biggest accomplishment — and having a big part in sustaining the positive momentum for downtown Fort Wayne by continuing to draw fans downtown. A big lesson that I learned throughout that process is that in many cases the path with Page 42
the most adversity may lead to the biggest rewards if you can persevere and stay true to your morals with humility in the face of that adversity. A lot of people forget just how much opposition there was to both the downtown ballpark and then also with the renaming of the team to the TinCaps. Going through that definitely pulled our staff together and is a big reason why our staff has been able to continue to raise the bar each season. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
It’s tough to find that balance, especially during the summer when Parkview Field turns into my second home. I always put God first, closely followed by my wife and my family, and then career and community involvement. In the summer, my family definitely takes advantage of coming out to my “office” and enjoying TinCaps games. One thing that I’ve learned is that there are times when you just have to say no to some things. It stinks to have to do that, but the problem you run into when you say yes to every opportunity is you just can’t give your best to all of the things you are involved in. I try to get involved in community activities that are something that I’m passionate about. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Cruise ship entertainment director. I think it would be a blast and I love to travel, so it would be a good fit for me.
Continuing to grow as a leader and through that helping new employees reach their full potential. I love investing in other people and seeing growth from them in their careers as they find what their strengths are and what drives them to be their best. I feel that this is how our organization will continue to grow and strive for great things in our business as well as out in the community.
What else should we know about you?
What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and help with every part of the business. That’s the best way to learn the business as a whole, and find your passions and strengths.
It would probably be a tie between a combined order of khakis and flashy gold fabric, which obviously became the Bad
I am an experienced choreographer, having collaborated with the other members of the Bad Apple Dancers to come up with over 100 different dances over the five seasons at Parkview Field. Suggestions are always welcomed! If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Alex Smith 27 • Panzit International CEO
your company?
Year you founded the company:
2010 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: A
Better Fort, Downtown Development Committee What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
A wonderful entry-level position at Galecki Financial Management allowed me to observe and learn firsthand the logistics behind running a small business. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
I would like to continue enrolling in higher learning programs such as the Six Sigma black belt certification. Business processes are key to scaling a small business like ours. Increasing my knowledge base will improve our company’s quality of process outputs — aka increased efficiency and automation. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
The IRS gives me anxiety already. Our “strange” entries are usually limited to hilarious named restaurants we try while traveling.
Rapid growth! Thus far, my biggest accomplishment was having to make the decision to give up a great paying and conservative career in financial services to assist my partner and keep up with volume.
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit
Automation via technology — and that’s not foolproof. (Ask my wife!)
Pine Valley Bar & Grill where I was a dishwasher. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I would pursue career in music administration. What else should we know about you?
Most people would not guess by looking or having a general conversation with me, but I am a huge advocate of the local arts (specifically interested in local music) and tattoos. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Three pieces of advice if you are wanting to start a business: (1) This is not a Facebook post, so don’t expect instant gratification. Give it three years. (2) Make sure you are solving a problem in this world. (3) Make sure you are passionate about the field, not just in it to make money.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc..
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Carrie Snyder 38 • Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park Owner, general manager Year you founded the company:
2013 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: I
volunteered at my children’s school, but we do a lot of work with charitable organizations at Sky Zone. We have done several successful fundraisers with groups such as Make-a-Wish, RibbonChicks and local PTA associations. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
When you say you’re going to open a trampoline park, people are naturally a little skeptical. Most of my friends and family knew I could do anything I put my mind to, but my husband, Mark, has been my biggest supporter. He encouraged me to look into Sky Zone even when I thought there was no way to make it happen, and he kept at me about my daily goals to get it going. He is my best support in our daily life as he picks up any slack so I can focus on the business, and he can focus on Sky Zone when I need to focus on my kids. Our partner, TK Herman, has also been amazing. He has been the greatest mentor and the perfect partner. We work together very well and are great complements to one another.
management team I can leave without worry so I can be with my family at home.
We are working to open two more Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline parks in 2014. I am excited to open the possibility for upward movement and growth for our team members as well as working through the challenge of managing multiple locations. I also want to get our awesome team out into the community. We have hosted various fundraisers and given donations, but I would like to see us become the hands and feet, working together to give to our community.
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career?
When we began our journey with Sky Zone, we set out to be the best. When someone has a question, we want them to ask, “What is Fort Wayne doing?” At our corporate convention, they gave four awards; the first three were statistics-driven, and the last award given was based on input from the corporate team. Sky Zone Fort Wayne won the award for outstanding culture, the biggest award given at the convention! Having only been open less than five months at the time, it was a great honor to receive the award. What lessons did you learn from it?
Relationships matter. Treat people well and be yourself. You can also work hard and have fun at the same time if you surround yourself with great, hard-working people with positive attitudes. Page 44
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
My dad had an accounting office and I worked answering the phones sometimes, so he was technically my first paycheck, though I’m pretty sure that I spent most of my time reading and sleeping on his couch. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
Balance for me is much about time management, prioritizing, delegation and working together as a team to get things done. I have my to-do list, but address what needs to be done in that moment. If it is practicing spelling with my second-grader or doing some accounting or the laundry, one will take priority, another gets done while kids are at school or late at night, and I’ll probably delegate that last one! I’m blessed to have kids who are flexible and a “job” (I can barely call it a job) that I can take my kids to. I also have a fantastic
Race car driver, stand-up comedian, teacher, TV show host. I’m after you, Kelly Ripa! What else should we know about you?
I have four kiddos, Brendan, Kendall, Adrienne and Addison, and two stepchildren, Brenden (yes, two boys with the same name!) and Emma. They range in age from 14 to 7, and I love the people they are becoming and the life that we live. I would also have one of every kind of dog if I could, but my own sanity tells me that three is enough — for now. Six kids, three dogs and a trampoline park may just prove that I thrive in a little controlled chaos. I love to travel, driving with the top down, laughing, dancing in the kitchen and spontaneously breaking out in song. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Talk to people who have been where you are, not just in your field, but who have started other businesses. Ask lots of questions, make a solid plan. Be able to eloquently explain your plan. Be passionate about your goals. Don’t expect someone else to make your dream happen for you. Make a goal and work every day on something, even if it is something small, toward that goal.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Lanah K. Hake Tarango 36 • LanahLink Social Impact Solutions President and founder what would it be?
Year you founded the organization:
I feel my work is my vocation vs. a profession so I think I am where I need to be but would love to grow my opportunities as a professional speaker, author and voice for bringing the power of individual and collective social impact to light no matter what your role may be — as a CEO, a student, a parent, a community member. We all have an opportunity be a constructive or destructive force for a better world, and my hope is to continue to enhance a growing awareness of this so people can see that yes, I can be sustainable and make a difference.
2012 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: Learn
United School Buddies; neighborhood association; Fort Wayne Outdoor Yoga; Lakeside Fall Concert What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
Trailblazing and introducing new concepts and offerings can be scary, but as I’ve rooted my business here in Fort Wayne, a broad range of community leaders and organizations been supportive of my efforts to bring my experience and vision for our community to the table. I sincerely thank all of those who’ve widened their lens and recognized what I’m offering is innovative locally, yet building immense momentum nationally and globally, and will help our community maximize its competitiveness and sustainability in the long run. I continue to seek input and support from our leaders to enhance the opportunity for impact locally. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
It sometimes can be hard to see this aspect of personal accomplishment as all of the work I do is premised on collaboration by many stakeholders. That said, I often envisioned starting my own business but never felt “right” doing it outside of my hometown. Today, I’d say my biggest accomplishment is taking the leap and founding LanahLink Social Impact Solutions to bring my 15 years of global and local experience to the table for our community and continuing to facilitate collective impact, linkages to best-in-class national frameworks and fostering education and integration on social responsibility. I’m passionate about the work I have been fortunate to do in support of helping to improve social and economic quality of life — whether addressing children’s access to health care, expanding educational opportunities for kids, engaging the community to work collectively or leading multimillion-dollar government strategies Page 46
What else should we know about you?
abroad. I’m proud of whatever small part I had to widen the scope of opportunity for people. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
Good question! I would like to see my business, LanahLink Social Impact Solutions, thrive locally as a key resource to support sustainable, systemic transformation using best-in-class approaches. I’m in the process of identifying lead partners from key economic-development entities, foundations, nonprofits and universities to help us move from a “community that cares” to a “community that cares with strategic intention and maximized sustainable outcomes.” How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
I try to stay grounded in remembering what is truly important. Without health, loved ones and enjoying this ride called life, the rest really doesn’t matter. Now that I’m married to a fellow entrepreneur and our first baby is on the way, I think it is more important than ever to carve out time to pause, take some moments of silence and reflect on what and where energy is going. If you could try another profession,
Fort Wayne native, social impact strategist, trailblazer, innovator, born leader, traveled close to 25 countries, a New Zealand resident, master of international relations, certified yoga for stress management instructor, intentionally living simply in a 600-square-foot home, passionate about opportunity for all — especially children — believer that there is a better way for all of us to live this thing called life in a win-win way that supports our personal sustainability as well as social, environmental and economic viability. Peace and social change is from the inside out. Oh, and I feel blessed to be married to amazing singer Fernando Tarango, who I met upon returning home to Fort Wayne. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Whenever I’m asked to speak with high school and college students, I generally share this advice when asked how I carved out my path: • Work back from your vision. Take time to close your eyes and reflect on your vision. Ask yourself what is it that lights you up? What is it that makes you tick? What makes you want to change something? • Take action and work hard with humility. • Learn self-care early and what tools you need to stay balanced and grounded. Create your support system because when you are striving to live your purpose, it can take its toll and it’s easy to become overwhelmed.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc..
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Julie Townsend 31 • University of Saint Francis Admissions counselor Year you joined the organization:
2008 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Hispanic Leadership Coalition of Northeast Indiana, chair of the scholarship committee; Greater Fort Wayne Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, board member; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana, for which my husband, Francisco, and I are Big Couple to our 15-year-old little brother who is the most amazing young person you will ever meet. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I have been extremely blessed with wonderful role models. My husband, Francisco, has been my greatest support and inspiration. He has taught me much about persistence and hard work. My mom and dad are also my heroes. People pay good money for the consulting services and speech coaching that my parents provide, and I don’t have to pay a dime for it! They’ve also instilled in me the moral compass that has guided my decisions in business and life. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
For me, accomplishment is best expressed in positively changing lives. When I started at Saint Francis five years ago, the university had no international service trips. Because I believe intercultural exchange is valuable in professional and personal development, I began the process of organizing the university’s first international service trip to Chile in South America. From this experience I learned the importance of partnering with other visionaries such as Katrina Boedeker, the director for the Center for Service Engagement. Our first intercultural exchange involved 11 Saint Francis students, many of whom had never traveled outside the Midwest. Seeing firsthand the transformation that occurred in these students was the most rewarding experience of my career. The students returned to the U.S. with a new understanding of white Page 48
privilege, an eagerness to serve locally and a desire to study abroad again. The trip expanded their horizons and changed their worldview. It was my pleasure to make that happen. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
I am currently undertaking a feasibility study that I hope will help the University of Saint Francis grow in new horizons. Please ask me about it, and I’ll be happy to share some details with you. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
My first paycheck came from the Vincent House where I served as the assistant to the youth activity coordinator when I was 18. This experience opened my eyes to the lack of resources for low income families in our own backyard. As a result, I felt called to serve wherever I can, whether it is through my professional or volunteer pursuits (or a combination of the two, as I am able to do through my role as admissions counselor). How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
In order to be effective in all three areas, I organize my time well. At work, I strive in my responsibilities as if unto the Lord. This means that I give my
employer, co-workers and students my best when I am on- and off-duty. My husband is extremely supportive of my community involvement. Time is short between work and civic engagements, but the time spent dreaming of our future with my husband, Francisco, and reading and snuggling with my 3-year-old, Jasmine, and 9-month-old, Francisco, remain the most gratifying moments of my day. Before I had kids, I used to think I was busy. Now, looking back, I wonder how much more I could have done with all of that time. I finally realize why my mom always used to say “I’ll sleep when I’m dead.” Perhaps I’ve found a new mantra. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Before I retire, I’d like to earn my registered nurse’s license so that I can bring a skill to help serve in national and international missions once our kids are grown. What else should we know about you?
I am fluent in Spanish. I have taught English to elementary school students in Puebla, Mexico. I was a tour guide for American and Canadian tourists in Valparaiso, Chile. I have taught everything from personal finance classes in Spanish to a university general education course on service learning.
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Salute to a Superstar!
Julie E. Townsend Here’s to you for all you do and are, from your Fans, Family and Friends
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Tom Trent 37 • Rothberg Logan & Warsco LLP Partner
Year you joined the firm: 2001 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne Inc., Turnstone Center for Children and Adults with Disabilities Inc., CVC of Allen County, Blessings in a Backpack, the Lutheran Schools Partnership, Erin’s House for Grieving Children Inc., Fort Wayne Redevelopment Commission
I try not to characterize success in terms of “the biggest” or “the best.” To the extent I’ve accomplished anything in my career, which is arguable, I would view each accomplishment as being on an even plane with the other. Like all of the Forty Under 40 nominees, I try to approach each project/task with equal effort and priority.
What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I have received a ton of advancement support. Support has come from a variety of sources. I have several wonderful mentors at Rothberg Logan & Warsco LLP. I have several clients who have taken me under their wing and allowed me the opportunity to “learn on the job.” I have several friends who are super successful; watching them professionally and in social situations has been very meaningful. Page 50
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
My objective is to be a reliable, go-to advocate for my clients, friends and those individuals who are served by the agencies of which I am a part. Such is an ongoing responsibility. I don’t expect to ever reach a state of excellence in this regard. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
Several outrageous bar bills come to
mind, but nothing too strange. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
Swim coach, Club North Pointe. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
I find opportunities to get my work done, whether it’s during the early morning hours, after dinner, on the weekends, etc. With kids’ activities, volunteer work and my professional responsibilities, I simply do not operate on an 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. basis. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
Landscaping. What else should we know about you?
Competed in the 2013 Boston Marathon. Captain of the Indiana University men’s swimming and diving team.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Andrea Trevino 37 • Allen Circuit Court Magistrate in the courtroom, strive to cultivate new ideas and/or better ways of doing things, and remain active in our community. If I can achieve those things, I think I am benefiting the Allen Circuit Court.
Year you joined the organization:
2013 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: vice
president of the board of directors of the Allen County Bar Foundation Inc. and a board member of the association’s Family Law Executive Committee; Indiana State Bar Association and the Allen County Bar Association; lecturer for organizations such as the Allen County Bar Association and ICLEF; volunteered for Legal Line; soccer coach for the youth rec league at the Fort Wayne Sport Club; coach for students at South Side High School and Canterbury Middle School; past president and board member of the South Side Alumni Association and also served on the South Side Foundation
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
My first paycheck came from Pacula & Gough Jewelers, a locally owned retail store. While in high school, I worked part time as a sales associate for the stores located in Glenbrook Mall and the old Southtown Mall. I continued working for them during college when I came home on breaks. It was a great first job because I got to interact with people, learn sales skills and — during slow times — I got to people watch. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I have amazing family and friends who have been tremendously supportive in all aspects of my life, including my career. My husband, Ben, has sacrificed greatly to help me advance in my career, giving up his own career in order to spend more time at home with our young children while I grew my law practice. I have also been fortunate to work with some amazing attorneys during my career, and they, along with other colleagues within the legal profession, were instrumental in my decision to apply for the magistrate position when it became available. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
I practiced law in Fort Wayne from 2003-2013. As an attorney, the biggest accomplishments would probably be my oral arguments in front of the Indiana Court of Appeals and Indiana Supreme Court. I have never been so nervous in all my life as that day I stepped in front of those five Supreme Court justices broadcast online for the world to see. On that day, more than all others, I had to overcome nerves and fears and trust that my schooling, experience, and individual
preparation would pull me through. Since I was appointed magistrate in August of 2013, there are two accomplishments that stick out. This past November, I presided over my first five-day jury trial. I got to see the interworkings of a legal action from a completely different perspective. I witnessed firsthand how bonded the jury became during the trial and how committed they were to achieving a just result. That experience further reinforced my belief in our legal system. The new WorkOne program that we initiated in the Allen Circuit Court for the IV-D Program is also something that makes me feel accomplished. This program is intended to assist parents owing child support gain job skills training, education and vocational rehabilitation services with the hope of increasing employment rates and child support compliance. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
At this stage, I am really just focusing on learning the trade and honing my skills as a judicial officer. Going forward, I simply want to execute my best skill
Achieving balance is a daily challenge, and a challenge that was much easier before I had children. Before kids, I didn’t think twice about committing myself to work or community activities late through the week, or working weekends, or taking business calls during a meal or on a holiday. Since I became a mom, I am ever cognizant of the fact that I have family wanting and deserving of my time, love and attention. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
A sportscaster, or something else involving sports. I played at least three sports every year throughout high school and was a collegiate athlete, so I definitely miss that atmosphere. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Never underestimate the value or power of natural instincts. As judicial officers, we listen to and review evidence and testimony, follow rules of evidence, and support our state and federal laws, but there is definitely an intangible component of this job not found in any transcript, code book or constitution. It’s called a “gut feeling,” and it is absolutely vital in what we do.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Jami VandeVelde 34 • People TrueCare CEO Year you founded the company:
2011 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work:
Lions Club, Junior Achievement, volunteer at Lakewood Park Christian School What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
My husband has to be the most understanding man in the world. Late nights, early mornings, weekends — my job never stops. Raising three young boys and launching People TrueCare has been an incredible experience, one that would never have been possible without my husband, Mark. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
My biggest accomplishment was my very first client. I was the one that drove the van to pick her up from the nursing home. She was a long-term care resident, wheelchair bound, had chronic health conditions and was declining in her overall health status. She desired to go home, and People TrueCare made it happen by providing her with quality, 24-hour care. Two years later, she is in better shape physically, mentally and, most importantly, emotionally than she has been in years. I learned that anything is possible in a home environment, and she is the spark that continues to fuel my passion for helping individuals realize their goal for aging how they want to, whether it is staying in their own home or moving to a facility. Every client is an individual. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
The next step in my career is to become a certified care manager. This will allow me to help people approach their health as a consumer of services, not funneled through a system where decisions are made while in a health crisis. The lack of knowledge about the services available in the community is Page 52
astounding. By offering care management services, I plan to assist people in accessing those services to meet their goal of aging in place. What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
A bedside commode. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
A small hydroponic tomato farm. I picked tomatoes! How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
I am very purposeful about blocking time on my calendar for my family. I volunteer at my children’s school every Friday, and I won’t miss it for anything. I love the flexibility my job affords me. Really, I’m able to achieve balance because I’m able to be flexible and respond to the need at the time. If it is my family or my clients, they know that I will be there any time they need me, 24/7.
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I would be in politics. I have such a desire to open doors, change lives and impact our community. What else should we know about you?
I was blessed to be able to be a stayat-home mom for 4 1/2 years. That was a hard job and I loved every minute of it. My husband of soon to be 10 years and my three boys, Jackson, 8, Caleb, 6, and Kyle, 4, continue to influence and shape me today. Being a wife and mother teaches you about being selfless and serving others. I use that in my career today. Everything People TrueCare stands for is about serving others first. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Make sure your heart is truly in it. The medical profession is about helping people, and that is where you will find the most satisfaction.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc..
Kimberly Wagner 34 • Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne Chief of staff stands how important it is to me to be making a difference in our hometown, and I know how committed he is to his career. Thankfully, my family still lives in Fort Wayne so I do my best to spend time with them whenever I have the opportunity. I truly consider my mom, dad and older sister my best friends, and I’m so thankful they are close by. And I have made some great friends through my involvement in the community and at work, so I get to spend time with them while doing good work, supporting great causes and cheering on the Dons!
Year you joined the organization:
2004 as an employee, 1998 as a student Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: Junior
League of Fort Wayne, Rotary Club of Fort Wayne What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I have worked for some incredible people and am thankful to have several mentors, especially some very strong women. My boss when I worked in the First Year Experience program, Rachelle Darabi, was one of those people who believed in me and never really told me, “No, you can’t do that.” She always encouraged me to try and do things I hadn’t done before.
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
This isn’t a secret to people who know me well, but I would love to work in law enforcement. I have several friends and family who wear (or have worn) a badge, and I have always appreciated what they stand for. Their primary goal is keep our community safe and I have always felt safe here.
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
I am really proud to have earned my master of public affairs degree early in my career. I remember calling my dad in December (the month I was finishing my bachelor’s degree) and asking if I should try to get into the program that spring or wait until the next year. He emphatically told me: “Don’t stop! Go now!” I was already working full time when I started the MPA program and believe my education was further enhanced by applying the concepts I was learning in the classroom to my everyday work experiences. It also gave me a “leg up” as many people earn their graduate degrees later in life. I was in my mid-20s, and I would not have been promoted to administrative positions at the university without a graduate degree. I think the biggest lesson I learned is to never stop learning. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your company?
I would someday like to work in civil service. I have been a lifelong resident of Fort Wayne and don’t have any intentions of leaving. I believe that working in higher education with people from such varying disciplines and backgrounds has really taught me the skills to deal with the
What else should we know about you?
public on a larger scale. And I became passionate about public administration when I was finishing my bachelor’s degree and took an intro to public affairs class with IPFW professor emeritus Dr. Jim Owen. His class was the primary reason I then decided to pursue my MPA. I see how much IPFW means to the northeast Indiana region and believe our graduates being employed throughout the area is one way this region and university can continue to thrive even greater than it does today.
I am an introvert. Every personality assessment I have ever taken has said it, but to meet me, most people wouldn’t think that’s the case. I can be extroverted when I have to be, but I really enjoy time to myself. My respite is the gym. I walk into Spiece, turn my music on, get 1 1/2 to two hours of a workout in, and not interact with anyone if I don’t want to. It’s my stress relief and quiet time.
Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
Believe in yourself and don’t be afraid to try new things. If someone would have asked me when I joined IPFW where I thought I would be in 10 years, I would have never guessed I’d be serving as the chancellor’s chief of staff. I took some risks and tried things that at first I was afraid to do. But every experience that I’ve had has led to the place I am today. And maybe most importantly, stay humble and appreciate the expertise and experiences of the people around you. You can learn so much by being open and willing to listen.
Sears at Glenbrook Mall. I worked as a sales associate in the intimate apparel department. Oh, the stories I could share! How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
It can be daunting at times (and there are some instances when I don’t balance it very well), but I have a fantastic support system in my family and friends. My husband manages a retail store, so our schedules can be hectic, but he under-
If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Kryste Wallen 36 • Eagle’s Wings Air/Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne/thinLINEINK Marketing manager/visiting lecturer, interim graphic design coordinator/owner
Year you joined or founded the company or organization: Eagle’s
What lessons did you learn from it?
Financial compensation is not the most important factor in a career.
Wings Air, 2013; IPFW, 2011; TLI, 2011 Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: Boomerang Backpacks, Junior
What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization or company?
Achievement, Rise, Steuben County Cancer Association, Girl Scouts of Northern Indiana/ Michiana What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
I would like to obtain a Ph.D. in educational design with an emphasis on remote teams. This would be beneficial at EWA and IPFW since the trend of telecommuting and online education continues to grow.
I have been fortunate to have great mentors along the way who not only invested in me but pushed me outside of my comfort zone.
What is the strangest thing you’ve submitted on the expense form?
What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career?
Where did your first paycheck come from?
The ability to be involved in a variety of positions and organizations. This provides the flexibility to live on my terms and invest my time only in things that align with my values and beliefs. Page 54
Baby clothes for a photo shoot.
KPC Media Group. What was your job then?
Paper girl in the fourth grade. How do you balance your career,
family life and community involvement?
Family has always been first. As my career has grown, I have been fortunate to work for organizations that feel the same way. My only child recently left for college, freeing up a lot of time to devote to other responsibilities both professional and civic. If you could try another profession, what would it be?
National Geographic photographer or a ballerina. What else should we know about you?
I am addicted to hot cocoa, cereal and shoes. I really love alternative photographic practices. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Embrace every experience and realize that each opportunity offers a new skill set you may need in the future.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
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Erica L. Wehrmeister 34 • Lutheran Hospital Chief operating officer Year you joined the organization:
I started with Lutheran Health Network in 2010 as a member of the administrative team at Dupont Hospital. I soon transitioned to COO at Dupont before accepting the position of COO at Lutheran Hospital in December 2011. Community organizations in which you are involved outside of work: I’m
a board member with several local organizations including the StrokeCareNow Network, Mad Anthonys Children’s Hope House, Three Rivers Ambulance Authority and Downtown Improvement District. What kind of support did you receive along the way to help you advance in your career?
My husband has been extremely supportive. He has always believed in me when I have doubted myself, and has challenged me to go after my goals. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far in your career? What lessons did you learn from it?
I am very proud to be the COO of Lutheran Hospital. I love health care, and as a nurse who started out in the operating room, I dreamed of becoming a hospital administrator. I feel very fortunate in my career. The biggest lesson I have learned is to practice patience and perseverance. Set your goals and do not stop until you get there. There will be bumps in the road, but it will be worth it in the long run. What would you next like to accomplish in your career and how would it benefit your organization?
I would like to continue to grow in my current role and eventually move into a CEO position. The Lutheran Medical Park is a complex campus with vast learning opportunities. This role will give me the foundation to move to the next step. The organization and I will benefit from my years of experience here at Lutheran. Where did your first paycheck come from? What was your job then?
I was a cashier at Scott’s grocery Page 56
store through high school. My first job in health care was as a trauma nurse in surgery. How do you balance your career, family life and community involvement?
The challenge of balancing family life and career took an important, wonderful turn last year when I became a mother. I absolutely love my job, and with my husband’s support, it’s been easy for me to remain a workaholic. However, having Lucy has taught me to prioritize and work around her schedule when possible, like trying to stay off of my phone and iPad until she goes to bed. When I have community activities, I try and include her in the activities when appropriate. I also have an extremely supportive family. The involvement of my mom and my in-laws allows us to remain flexible with our time.
If you could try another profession, what would it be?
I would love to be an interior designer. As the COO, I often get to play that role in construction projects. What else should we know about you?
I am a very passionate and intense person when it comes to my career. I take my role and responsibilities very seriously because we have lives depending on us. At the same time, I also tend to be the jokester in a crowd and love to make people laugh. After all, we can’t take ourselves too seriously. If someone were just starting out in your profession, what advice would you give that person?
Stay true to yourself. Aim high, work hard and the career will follow.
Forty Under 40 • March 2014 • kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.
AMII INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT Congratulates
Jacob Benedict for being a 2014 Forty F t Under U d 40 Recipient! R i i t!
www.AMIinvestment.com 710 N. Krueger Street, Kendallville, IN 46755
260-347-1281