Q1 Congratulations on receiving the Sagamore of the Wabash Award! How did you achieve that prestigious honor?
I was honored to receive the Sagamore of the Wabash from Governor Eric Holcomb after being nominated by State Senator Travis Holdman and State Representative Phil GiaQuinta. I have always held the award with high distinction — my father and grandfather served the State of Indiana for a combined 70 years, so public service has always been part of my life. To be recommended for the award by members from both political parties speaks to the way that I have tried to lead and make a difference in our community, focusing on doing what is right for the entire community.
Q2 You have been with GFW Inc. for 10 years. What is one of the most important lessons you’ve learned during your time with this organization?
I tell people all the time that this line of work takes true collaboration and trusted relationships. Those may sound like buzz words, but it must be part of your ethos if you want to be successful in a career like this. Both seem self-explanatory, but unfortunately often they fall short. True collaboration means that you are actively listening to each other and engaging in dialogue to find the common good and the most appropriate approach. Trusted relationships mean that you are each looking out for others interests.
Q3 Can you share with us an upcoming project or initiative that you are most excited about?
There are so many aspects to my role at Greater Fort Wayne Inc. that give me great joy. Working with all our partners to help local businesses have the opportunity to continue to grow is vital to our economic growth. I’m even more excited about the work that we do to help individuals grow. Nothing is more rewarding than helping our younger constituents grow and become engaged. For the second year, GFW Inc. has run a program called the Intern Experience. Through the program this past summer, we engaged 280 college interns from all walks of life, and from all over the U.S. and internationally that were here in Allen County for an internship opportunity. The program aims to more fully integrate the interns into the community by providing social programs in the evening to help them become more connected to each other and to the community. We survey the interns at the beginning of the summer and at the end to gauge their interest in calling Fort Wayne and Allen County home in the future. Last year’s end of summer survey showed a 20-point increase in the number of students that envision their future in our community.
Q4 What is the most rewarding part about your role as GFW Inc. president and CEO? The most challenging?
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the positive change in our community. I’ve been working in Fort Wayne and Allen County for almost 29 years. The pride that I see in residents has changed dramatically. I always enjoy meeting people that are here for the first time or here for the first time in several years — they are always amazed at how our community has evolved. The most challenging part of my job can be making sure that we don’t become complacent with what we have all done together. We have to keep the momentum moving forward and continue to strive for improvement.
Q5 There has been a lot of focus on the development of downtown Fort Wayne, and rightly so. Can you tell us about other major projects going on in our area?
There has been a lot of focus on downtown development. It was important to make a major change in the heart of the community and it has played a major role in the development of the entire region. It has been great to see other parts of the community growing as well. New Haven and Huntertown continue to be fast growing communities, creating new dynamic housing opportunities. The industrial growth along US 30, Bluffton Road and Airport Expressway has continued to create new employment opportunities. Major projects like Parks Edge and Bridge of Grace in southeast Fort Wayne are also attracting additional private investment to that area. All in all, there is growth throughout Allen County that is exciting to see.
Q6 Football season is quickly approaching. Do you have a favorite collegiate or NFL team that you root for?
I prefer college football to the pros, but as a Ball State Cardinal and lifelong IU fan, I haven’t had the best of luck the last few years. Just about any Big Ten football game will fill the void, and conference expansion will make that interesting this year. My nephew is committed to play for the Iowa Hawkeyes next year so they will be a must watch on Saturdays!
Q7 What do you do with your free time?
With three children, free time has been in short supply for a while. When I do get time, I enjoy relaxing around the water and in nature. I also enjoy woodworking and have completed several projects in the last few years. The woodworking allows me to use my creative side and has really become a release for me to get away from the day to day… although my kids have told me that I’ve built enough tables.
Q8 Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
I love my job! At GFW Inc.’s recent annual meeting of our investors, I told everyone that I have the best job in our community. That may seem odd to some, but I truly believe that this work has been my calling, and I’m focused on continuing to make a difference here. I do need to make sure that I get plenty of garage time to keep up on the woodworking, though.
