The Torch: A Special Message from the State Department of Health

Greetings:

As you are aware, businesses, individuals and organizations around the world are making preparations for the potential spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) that has heavily impacted a number of countries. The state of Indiana is no exception to these preparations. Whenever a new illness occurs and spreads rapidly, it naturally can cause worry, especially in rapidly evolving situations when information is changing frequently.

At this time, no confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Indiana, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that for the general American public, who are unlikely to be exposed to the virus at this time, the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is low. However, the CDC also has urged Americans to stay informed and take steps to ensure personal readiness. This is a time to plan, not to panic.

What does this mean for you?

• Regularly practice the same steps you would if you had influenza or another respiratory illness, such as washing your hands thoroughly and often, covering your cough, staying home if you’re sick, and regularly disinfecting surfaces (especially in common areas);

• Continue your current workplace practices, reporting to work and communicating if you are ill as you typically would.

• When considering travel, follow the CDC guidance, which you can find here.

My team at the state Department of Health is working diligently under the direction of Governor Eric J. Holcomb to make sure the state is prepared and communicating the latest information about the outbreak. The situation changes rapidly, and I know that can cause concern because we don’t have all the answers yet. What we do have, however, is a plan for how to respond if and when COVID-19 comes to Indiana. The state also has acquired the needed test to perform COVID-19 testing for possible cases in Indiana.

We are hosting weekly meetings with county health departments and healthcare providers, are operating a 24/7 call center, have formed a state-level advisory group, are offering guidance to schools and universities, are surveying providers to gather the most up-to-date information about their capacities and services and are ordering supplies.

We have also launched a dedicated webpage where you can get the most up-to-date and accurate information. We also have a call center that is open 24 hours a day. The center may be reached at 317- 233-7125 from 8:15 am. To 4:45 p.m. Eastern Time and 317-233-1325 after hours. Although COVID-19 is concerning, influenza remains a larger concern at this time. More than 60 Hoosiers have died from influenza this flu season, and activity remains high across our state. An effective vaccine is available for influenza, and it is not too late to get your flu shot.

We will keep you updated if there are significant changes to the outbreak or to protocol.

Best wishes,

Dr. Kris Box State Health Commissioner March, 2020 Run the State 5K and Hike Series In this issue

returns April 18 Run the State 5K and Hike Series 2 returns April 18 2021 Premium Discount – Start 4 earning yours now! BMV sets new milestone in 9 customer wait time reduction File your taxes for free with 12 INfreefile

Canstruction Competition collects 13 thousands of canned goods for nonprofits, brings state employees together The Torch is published monthly by the Indiana State Personnel Department and is available will once again serve as the debut event for the Run the State 5K and Hike Series. A 5K will be held at this popular northwest Indiana tourist destination online at in.gov/spd/2540.htm. April 18.

Fifth annual series hits Dunes, Ft. Invest in Your Health staple, this Ben, Ouabache, Spring Mill year’s slate of hikes and run/ Got a story? Submit your story ideas to: What has caves, a pioneer village, walks will allow state employees sand dunes, horseback riding, to experience a whirlwind tour of [email protected] some of the Hoosier State’s most some of Indiana’s most unique and scenic walking trails, dog parks, memorable state parks. fishing, biking, golf, miles of sandy The new Run the State season Social media beaches, an astronaut memorial, a once again kicks off with a trip one-of-a-kind fire tower, camping, to Indiana Dunes State Park, Follow AND… um, bison? a majestic northwest Indiana @SOIEmployees The amazing array of Indiana State location that is home to three Parks hosting the 2020 Run the miles of beaches and unique sand dunes. It also has a stroller Like State 5K and Hike Series – that’s @SOIEmployees what! and pet-friendly trail that has established itself as a favorite With a total of four fun events for casual walkers as well as avid Follow State of Indiana planned as part of this annual runners. Employees (Continued on page 3) (Continued from page 2) Run the State 5K and Hike Series returns April 18 Participants will visit the dunes expansive park that features a held (almost) back-to-back. The Saturday, April 18, for the first period-perfect pioneer village 2020 program retains the popular Run the State 5K. Always an and a spring-powered watermill. 5K, but adds a hiking option in lieu appropriate mid-spring debut for The first hike of the season of a second race. the series, Indiana Dunes State will take place in a cavernous The dual-event setup will Park is beautiful year-round. park seemingly frozen in time, encourage runners and walkers Guests may want to dress warmly, transporting guests into 1863 to to take a stroll (or try to set a new however, as April on the shores of see how some Hoosier settlers personal best 5K time), while Lake Michigan can get a bit chilly. lived in the midst of the American hiking pros will surely enjoy time Of course, that’s nothing a good Civil War. on the trail. It’s the best of both run can’t fix, right? The hike at Spring Mill State Park Run the State “worlds” and should The next stop will take us to Wells is set for July 11 and should be a be an appropriate send-off for County for the first time since the mid-summer blast for fledgling another great season of outdoor summer of 2018. Ouabache State Run the State participants AND events. Park features a bison enclosure seasoned hikers who’ve been part The 5K and hike series is open to (home to an entire herd of majestic of the fun since the series began in all state of Indiana employees and creatures) as well as a 100-foot fire 2016. their families. Some visitors choose tower built in the 1930s. The June All Hoosier state parks are steeped to bring along the family’s four- 27 5K is bound to be a pleasant in history, but did you know that legged members as well. The dogs walk for employees and their wears an involved typically appear to enjoy families, though the course is not important bit of Indiana’s past on the event as much as their human stroller-friendly. its sleeve – er, uh, in its name? counterparts – and maybe more Located on the banks of the The Lawrence-based park bears so. Wabash River, Ouabache (which the name of former U.S. President As always, the Run the State series is actually pronounced “Wabash,” Benjamin Harrison (you may have is intended to encourage state but you’ll be hard pressed to find heard it called “Fort Ben”) who, employees to be active while someone in Bluffton who doesn’t though born in Ohio, served as a simultaneously showcasing the call it “O-ba-chee”), was first U.S. Senator for Indiana. Following nearly limitless fun that awaits recognized as a state park in 1983. his single-term presidency, he visitors to Indiana state parks. It’s less than half an hour’s drive resided in Indianapolis until his Guests are encouraged to “make from Fort Wayne, and is perhaps death in 1901. The park bearing a day of it,” exploring the parks one of northeast Indiana’s best his name opened in 1906 and is and checking out some of each kept “secrets.” located on part of what was once location’s distinct features and Next on the agenda is a trip to the site of Fort Benjamin Harrison. attractions. Spring Mill State Park – a first More than a century later, the park There is no charge to attend any of for Run the State – to hike an remains an attractive option for the events, though a park entrance golfers, equestrians, and fee of $7 (which allows admittance anyone wanting to walk of a carload of people) is in place. or hike some absolutely Check out the links below to gorgeous Hoosier scenery. register for your chosen event. Paying homage to its military roots, visitors • Indiana Dunes State Park - can also enjoy the park’s April 18 th Museum of 20 Century • - Warfare. June 27 Fort Harrison has • Spring Mill State Park - previously served as the July 11 grand finale for the Run the State series, and this Note: Registration for Ft. Harrison year will be no different State Park will open at a later date. when we visit the historic Be sure to keep an eye on park Aug. 15. What will One of the new additions to the 2020 Run investinyourhealthindiana.com the State 5K and Hike Series is a hike at Fort change a bit, however, is the format. Previous events all season long for event photos, Harrison State Park. This year’s grand finale wrap-ups, and more. takes place Aug. 15 and will feature a 5K as have welcomed runners and well as a hike. walkers to identical 5K events The Torch | 3 2021 Premium Discount – Start earning yours now!

2021 Premium Discount – Start 3. Record 200 days of physical Complete details are available at earning yours now! activity fitness tracking InvestInYourHealthIndiana.com. We are now two months into the through a device synced to ActiveHealth is a wellness program 2020 ActiveHealth program year. the ActiveHealth platform. offered by the Indiana State Any day with 10,000 steps Have you started working on an Personnel Department (INSPD) or 30 minutes of physical as part of your medical benefits activity to qualify for the 2021 activity counts toward the Premium Discount? package. It helps you make little 200 day goal. changes that can have a big This is your chance to earn the If you want to complete the impact on your health. Employees lowest medical premiums possible Physical Activity option, March 15 and spouses enrolled in a SPD- on any plan you choose for 2021! is the last day you can start. Make sponsored medical plan have In order to qualify, employees and sure you have reconnected your unlimited access to health coaches spouses enrolled in coverage must fitness tracker to the ActiveHealth and a library of health information. each complete one of the following portal in 2020. Keep track of your options by Sept. 30, 2020: For more information, please progress towards completing an check out the resources available 1. Complete four individual activity in your Rewards Center on at InvestInYourHealthIndiana.com, health coaching sessions the ActiveHealth portal. or call the INSPD benefits hotline (in-person or by phone) In addition to the 2021 Premium at 317-232-1167 or 877-248-0007 through ActiveHealth. Discount, you can also earn a from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday 2. Reach Level 5 in $50 e-gift card for completing through Friday. Email the benefits ActiveHealth’s online portal your health assessment and a team at [email protected]. by completing health $100 e-gift card for completing education modules and your biometric screening. goals. Got a minute? The CVS Minute Clinic option Remember: is chosen, employees and spouses is now live and the voucher is Print the may schedule an appointment or available in the ActiveHealth Portal voucher and hold a spot in line so there is less Rewards Center. take it with waiting time when they arrive. you to the screening. To find the voucher, log in to the Click here to find Minute ActiveHealth portal and click the There are 43 Minute Clinic Clinic locations and make an “Get a biometric screening” link on locations throughout the state appointment, and be sure to the homepage, then scroll down of Indiana, and locations in print the voucher from your under Option 2 and click on the other states can be used as well. ActiveHealth Portal to take with “voucher” link. Depending on what Minute Clinic you for screening.

The Torch | 4 March 2 - 15 GRAB YOUR TEAM, GET YOUR STEPS FOR THE CHANCE TO WIN A $25 AMAZON GIFT CARD!

• Each team must have 4 people of your choosing To Participate:

• You must sync a device in order to participate • Form your team of 2 - 4 people

• 25 teams will be chosen and each member • Only steps from a fitness tracker will receive a $25 Amazon gift card connected to the Wellness Challenge Portal will count 5 Tips to Get Started: • All teams who reach the 560,000 step goal will be entered into a prize • Take the stairs drawing • Walk during phone calls • Park further away

Questions? Call 317-537-9764 • Schedule a walking meeting • Take walks on your day off

The Torch | 5 Lubbers presents state’s new agenda for higher education CHE to use fourth strategic plan as strategies and policies in what with a collective sense of urgency guide to 2025 we are calling our ‘Blueprint for and optimism will determine our Change,’ which are aggressive and state’s readiness and prosperity for The Indiana Commission for Higher essential to our success. These decades to come,” said Lubbers. Education is prioritizing college strategies have been selected “The Commission is focused on completion, equity and talent to support our priorities of creating a talent system that through its fourth strategic plan, completion, equity and talent.” affords all Hoosiers the benefits Reaching Higher in a State of associated with higher learning Change. Completion – learning that can be attained College completion has Teresa Lubbers, Indiana’s in multiple ways to respond to a been a continual goal for the changing world of work.” Commissioner for Higher Commission. Approaching Education, introduced the new 2025, the changing landscape Measuring change guiding document for the state of of higher education and the A key component of Reaching Indiana during the 2020 State of demands of a new and changing Higher in a State of Change is Higher Education Address. economy require an expanded measuring the state’s progress. The Lubbers unveiled the details of definition of “completion” and Commission will issue an annual the new plan Feb. 11, during her “higher education.” This means report card leading up to 2025, eighth annual address in the north postsecondary education includes highlighting these three metrics for atrium of the Indiana Statehouse. all quality credentials from short- change: term certificates, apprenticeships and industry certifications to two- • Educational attainment, and four-year college degrees. through progress toward Equity 60 percent of Hoosiers with In defining equity, the Commission education above a high school acknowledges that life’s diploma; as well as progress circumstances or obstacles should on college-going and comple- not dictate a person’s opportunity tion indicators that move the to succeed. Since 2013, the needle on educational attain- Commission has been focused ment on reducing and eliminating the • Career relevance and prepa- state’s achievement gaps, resolving ration, through progress to cut those gaps in half by 2018 toward 100 percent of post- and close educational gaps by secondary programs requiring 2025. More work is needed to an internship, work-based eliminate the gaps entirely. learning, research project or Talent other student engagement The Commission also highlights experience that has career Reaching Higher in a State of the priority of talent, in order to relevance Change is the Commission’s plan to unlock the state’s talent needs • Economic impact, by measur- get to 2025, which is the deadline and develop and unleash Indiana’s for Indiana’s big goal of having at ing progress toward Indiana potential. By taking into account becoming a leading Midwest least 60 percent of Hoosiers with a full range of education and quality credentials beyond a high state for median household workforce credentials, Reaching income (adjusted for cost of school diploma. Currently, 43.4 Higher in a State of Change goes percent of Hoosiers have education living), including short-term beyond the “either-or” depiction of and long-term goals: and training past high school. higher education and workforce to “Reaching Higher in a State of a more productive and meaningful o By 2025, Indiana will Change provides the vision to focus on developing talent. be above the average get us to our goal by 2025,” said “Indiana’s willingness to embrace Lubbers. “We have outlined key this new higher education compact (Continued on page 7) The Torch | 6 (Continued from page 6) Lubbers presents state’s new agenda for higher education of peer states for journeys through education and Day, the Commission hosted median household training. During her address, current college Scholars, alumni income Lubbers recognized those featured of the program, key community in the strategic plan and others partners, universities and colleges o By 2030, Indiana will be in the top five of its who are making a difference in and others in celebration of the peer states for median Indiana. program’s 30th anniversary. household income Governor Eric Holcomb recognized “The work we are doing across the day with a proclamation and our state is impacting individuals’ “These are ambitious goals but both chambers of the General quality of life,” Lubbers said. “Real they’re the right ones for Hoosiers Assembly approved resolutions to Hoosiers are making the decisions and our state,” Lubbers said. acknowledge that 40,000 Hoosiers to pursue education and new skills “We know that the Commission have completed a degree with to the betterment of their families, cannot meet these ambitious goals the Scholars program and over their communities and their alone. We need strong partners 100,000 students – from seventh futures.” inside state government and our graders to seniors in college – are institutions, along with employers Lubbers also highlighted the enrolled today. and the philanthropic community.” state’s early college promise To read the full 2020 State of scholarship, the 21st Century Reaching Higher in a State of Higher Education Address,click Scholars program. Earlier in the Change highlights several Hoosiers here. day during 21st Century Scholars and stories about their individual Fun happenings at Statehouse Education Center Spring and summer camps just around the corner The Indiana Statehouse Education Center is gearing up for spring and summer fun. The annual Spring Camp for kids in second through sixth grade starts April 2. Children of state employ- ees can sign up now to learn all about Gene Stratton Porter and how to be a naturalist. Spots are also open for Summer Camp taking place this year from June 15 to 26, June 29 to July 10, and July 13 to July 24. Team leaders are also needed for Summer Camp. The Statehouse Education Center is looking for anyone age 18 or older to serve as a team leader. This is a paid posi- tion. Education Center coordinator Bailey Hinton-Matthews said can communicate with individual col- leges so that students may receive academic credit for serving in this position. For more information about these programs, contact Hinton- Matthews [email protected] or 317-233-5582. The Torch | 7 ISDH community survey examines Discounts needs of Hoosier women and March 18: children Pacers vs. Warriors The Indiana Department of Health • ISDH is reviewing existing (ISDH) is conducting a maternal and materials, reports and data to State of child health needs assessment. answer the question, What Indiana do we already know? ISDH staff ask that anyone interested ISDH employees in participating should respond to recognizes the information can save they already know does not this short 15 minute survey before on the upcoming Pacers March 16 to make sure the needs of represent all community needs and that things may have vs. Warriors game on Wed, women, children, teens, and families March 18 at the Bankers Life in your community are heard! changed since information was last collected. For that Fieldhouse. reason, ISDH is conducting a community survey. Click here for details and discount info. What is the Community Survey? • The community survey is being Quicken distributed to women, youth, Loans parents, community members, promotions and people who work with State of women and children across the state. Indiana employees • The survey is short on purpose: The goal is to make sure ISDH can receive What is a maternal and child health hears about all the needs of $1,000 off closing costs and needs assessment? women, children, and families $500 back after closing. in Indiana. After collecting • As a part of the Title V Maternal Click here for details. and Child Health (MCH) Block responses ISDH, we will Grant, every five years the compile a big list of needs Maternal and Child Health and of this population. The final More discounts Children with Special Health step is to identify additional For a full list of all discounts Care Services divisions at ISDH activities to help narrow down available to state employees, complete a comprehensive needs the list to a set of statewide click here. assessment to better understand priorities. the state of health and well-being How can you help? of women, children and families in Indiana. As part of the needs • Post the community survey assessment, ISDH looks at the link on your website or capacity of our state and local social media, email it to your systems to meet those needs. program staff, send it out to partners and participants via email distribution lists, and of course, respond to the survey yourself! • ISDH also encourage you to send the link to family, friends and any other social groups Artwork by you are a part of; ISDH wants Jerry Williams to hear from anyone who might have thoughts about what women and children in Indiana need to thrive and reach their fullest potential.

The Torch | 8 BMV sets new milestone in customer wait time reduction New technology, improved Indiana BMV Deputy business practices, and enhanced Commissioner of Policy & employee training are helping Programs Noah Shelton and Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles Indy West Team Leader Shannon Dubecky check out a BMV (BMV) branches reduce customer Service Kiosk. The kiosks allow wait time throughout the Hoosier customers to complete more State. than a dozen routine BMV In 2019, the agency reached a new transactions, 24/7. milestone in reducing “customer experience time” with an average visit taking only 13 minutes and four seconds. The mark was country and is continually A: The agency has built on significant enough to earn mention investing in technology to create its success and continues from Gov. Eric Holcomb during his choices for customers. The BMV to proactively invest in our 2020 State of the State address in has installed more than 30 associates. There have not been January. 24-hour BMV Connect kiosks* dramatic changes; rather a focus But the BMV isn’t stopping throughout the state and offers on making incremental changes there. Kevin Garvey, BMV Chief an online customer transaction to improve service. The BMV’s Operating Officer, recently took site, myBMV, to give Hoosiers Learning and Development team time to discuss how the agency choices when completing BMV transformed associate training is continually making strides in transactions. The kiosks and and career development including improving customer service and online portal provide options for both technical and soft skills. satisfaction, from reducing visit conducting business with the BMV Associates now have access times to making services more any time of day. Customers can to a soft skills library, six fully accessible. complete routine transactions staffed training centers across the such as renewing a registration, state, and an increased number Q: The Indiana BMV recently driver’s license, or requesting of trainers statewide. The new announced that customer visit a replacement ID card at their training curriculum and tools have times in 2019 averaged only 13 convenience. improved training consistency, minutes and four seconds. How In 2019 the BMV also increased decreased training time for new does this figure compare to past associates, and the agency has years’ customer visit times? its Mobile Branch presence throughout the state and hosted seen a decline in turnover. The A: BMV customer experience multiple events to accommodate new training aims to help BMV time has consistently averaged a variety of customer schedules associates grow in their job and under 15 minutes for several and needs. In addition, processing give our team members necessary years. Investments in new centers for dealer and fleet tools for a successful career, all technology, training, and process customers were implemented while providing great government improvement have all contributed to streamline services and give service to all Hoosiers - including to the efficient customer service. customers an option to conduct low customer experience times. In 2018, the BMV did have a spike business with BMV partner Q: Who are some of the people in experience time, averaging a locations on days the BMV is who helped the agency reach this little over 18 minutes, because typically closed. new level of service? of significantly higher volumes of expiring driver’s licenses and *BMV Connect kiosks are 24-hour A: The BMV has worked IDs in one calendar year. Despite self-service terminals, where together as one agency with the the one year spike, customer customers can conduct more than commitment of all BMV branch satisfaction rates have remained 15 routine BMV transactions. and central office associates over 97 percent. Customers now have access to to help maintain low customer more than 32 BMV Connect kiosks experience times and exceptional Q: What are some of the ways throughout the state, plus five customer service. The agency BMV branches are making services Kroger grocery store locations. continues to look for new, more convenient for customers? Q: How have BMV personnel innovative ways to engage with A: The Indiana BMV is one of changed their practices in order to customers and allow Hoosiers to the leading and most innovative reduce wait times? (Continued on page 10) motor vehicle agencies in the The Torch | 9 (Continued from page 9) BMV sets new milestone in customer wait time reduction such as the annual March BMV Communications Graphic Designer Daniella Madness Tournament and “The Conti (left) and Customer BMV 500.” Service Representative Q: What’s next for BMV customer Kasey Hunt examine a BMV service? How does the agency plan Connect Self-Service Kiosk. to continue meeting customer The agency is continually needs in a speedy fashion? working to improve customer experiences, and A: The BMV will continue to look new technology such as for new opportunities and invest these computerized kiosks, in technological advancements to is helping Hoosiers complete provide great government service routine BMV tasks without to all Hoosiers. even having to visit a The agency is still investing in new branch. BMV Connect locations based on community need and branch choose how they conduct business a customer’s transaction. Total transaction volume. In addition with the BMV. Ticketed Times include the to increasing kiosk locations, the BMV intends to add to available Q: Do individual BMV branches customer’s total time spent inside a BMV branch, also referred to transactions. Customers will also track their wait times? If so, is see upgrades to the myBMV there any “friendly competition” as “customer experience time.” All branches have a goal to online transaction site during the among the branches for who can next few years. achieve the best time? Can you stay under 20 minutes for both share the branch with the lowest Ticketed Visit Times and Total Beyond those mediums, the BMV official wait time? Ticketed Times. Mobile Branch will continue to increase pop-up events hosted A: All BMV branches track their Internal quarterly contests among all BMV branches help keep a by Indiana businesses and customer experience times in two community organizations to areas- Ticketed Visit Times and competitive, but friendly nature among associates. Branches accommodate various customer Total Ticketed Time. Ticketed Visit schedules and needs. Times refer to how long it takes compete for the coveted title of a branch associate to complete champion and bragging rights during quarterly competitions Don’t miss a moment and upgrade to a Real ID at the BMV’s Mobile Branch! As of Oct. 1, 2020, all Hoosiers a Branch’ drop-down menu. You documentation to prove your must have a Real ID to board a may select up to 5 transactions identity, Social Security number, commercial flight or enter certain to complete during your Mobile Indiana residency, and lawful federal facilities. Branch visit. After you click status. Also, if you have had ‘Continue’ make sure to click April a name change, additional State employees can upgrade to a th Real ID at the BMV’s mobile branch 8 on the calendar view to see documentation is required located in the Indiana Government available appointment times. (marriage license, divorce decree, Center South Conference Center Only credit and debit card or court order). during the month of April. payments will be accepted at Plan ahead and check the required Schedule an appointment by this event. Walk-in customers documents list before you schedule visiting in.gov/bmv/2405.htm. are welcome on a first-come, your appointment. Visit REALID. From the page, click “Schedule a first-served basis with limited in.gov for a full list of acceptable Transaction Appointment” and availability. documents in each of the above you will be re-directed to the When: Wednesday, April 8 listed categories. Appointments and Cancellations Where: IGC-S Conference Room 7 Don’t get grounded! Upgrade to a page. Next, click “Make an Real ID before the 2020 deadline. appointment” and then select Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. “ROOM 7 APRIL 8” from the ‘Select Please bring all required The Torch | 10 Nominations now open for Governor’s Awards for Environmental Excellence Do you know an individual, Commissioner Bruno Pigott. “Each The public is invited to submit organization or government agency year the governor and I are proud nominations, and organizations that is remarkable in its efforts of the ingenuity and innovation may self-nominate. Nominations to protect the state of Indiana’s from Hoosiers and organizations are open to all Indiana facilities, environment? around the state.” government agencies, individuals If so, consider nominating them for IDEM and Gov. Eric J. Holcomb’s and other groups that implement the Indiana Governor’s Awards for office will present seven awards, exemplary environmental projects Environmental Excellence. one in each of the following or initiatives with measurable categories: results. An instructional webinar, The Indiana Department of eligibility requirements and details Environmental Management • Energy Efficiency/ about the nomination process are (IDEM) is now accepting Renewable Resources available here. nominations for these awards, • Environmental Education/ Nominations must be received which recognize individuals Outreach and organizations that have by IDEM no later than 5 p.m. EDT implemented outstanding • Five Year Continuous Monday, April 6. Awards will be environmental strategies into their Improvement presented at the annual Pollution Prevention Conference Sept. 16 at operations and decision-making • Greening the Government processes. the Marriott Indianapolis N. For • Land Use/Conservation questions about the nomination “These are Indiana’s most • process, contact Cameron prestigious environmental Pollution Prevention Maschino at 317-233-5434 recognition awards,” said IDEM • Recycling/Reuse or [email protected]. Be a VIP, learn about Hoosier S.T.A.R.T. ASAP YOU’RE A VIP… a Valued Indiana Participant! Join plan advisors from the Hoosier S.T.A.R.T. Deferred Compensation plan and Empower Retirement for monthly events designed to help you save for the future and reach your dream retirement. Each month this year, you’ll have a chance to learn more about your Vanderburgh County Library To register for this event or to learn 457(b) deferred compensation Central Branch. This all-day event about other VIP in-person events plan, also known as Hoosier will allow plan participants to meet and online webinars, visit www. S.T.A.R.T. On March 20, Hoosier one-on-one with a Retirement Plan HoosierSTART.IN.Gov and click on S.T.A.R.T. will host an in-person Advisor to discuss investment and “register for open houses.” VIP Open House at the Evansville- retirement goals. Support Team IHCDA! members, friends, and co-workers Click here to donate to one of the The Indiana Housing and to participate in a non-competitive two IHCDA teams: Community Development bowling tournament to raise Authority (IHCDA) is participating the much-needed funds to Team 1 – click here in the 2020 UNCF Bowling for support UNCF students. The only Team 2 – click here Scholars Bowl-A-Thon Saturday, competition is for the prizes, which March 7. go to a team and/or individuals The UNCF Bowl-A-Thon is a based upon the amount of funds community fundraising event raised. in which you can recruit family The Torch | 11 Indiana Grown adds to long list of maps, trails and guides Indiana Grown in February of the state,” said Lt. Governor released its newest map of local Suzanne Crouch. “Our hope is that . artisans, theIndiana Grown Hoosiers, and more broadly all Distillery Trail. Americans, will realize the quality This guide adds to the previous products Indiana has to offer to five maps, trails and guides Indiana those near and far.” Grown has created over the past The Distillery Trail is the latest two years to highlight the various resource added to the wide segments of agriculture within selection of maps Indiana Grown their membership. has to offer. Released in May of The Distillery Trail features 18 2018, the Indiana Grown Wine Trail was the first of its kind for distilleries and their craft spirits, “Our hope is that with each map, such as whiskey, vodka, and gin. the program and featured 31 member wineries. Its success has trail and guide, an opportunity is Participants will discover members created for consumers to discover like Old 55 Distillery, which is since resulted in the Wine Trail’s expansion to nearly 50 wineries. and connect with a new area of Indiana’s only sweet corn distillery, our membership.” and Hotel Tango, a veteran-owned Most recently, the Indiana Grown distillery whose name pays tribute Brewery Trail launched Jan. 30 In addition to the Wine Trail and to the owner’s military service. highlighting 21 Indiana Grown Brewery Trail, Indiana Grown The distilleries are all members of member breweries. From pilsners has developed a number of Indiana Grown and many choose to porters, these breweries are other guides, including a map of to partner with Indiana Grown located all around the state and Christmas Tree farms, a Winter member farms as well for their are using local ingredients to Farmers Market map and a Protein ingredients. This creates a unique create delicious brews. Guide listing producers who sell collaboration that is purely Indiana “We are proud that our Wine Trail proteins directly to consumers. from grain to glass. has become the largest in the Indiana Grown plans to continue developing new guides throughout “Indiana has a wealth of Midwest, and the overwhelming positive response we have received the year for Hoosiers and our agritourism destinations and by visitors to enjoy. creating these resources, Indiana from members and consumers Grown is helping shine a spotlight has our entire team working to You can find more information on their members who can attract meet the demand for more of about the program and all of the consumers both inside and outside these trails” said Indiana Grown Indiana Grown maps, trails and program director Heather Tallman. guides at www.IndianaGrown.org.

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The Torch | 12 Employee Central Special delivery IHCDA can drive helps small-town Pictured are Mable Capps (far left, food pantry meet community needs holding child) and other Cunot Food Pantry volunteers along with For the better part of the last three IHCDA staff members Dave Pugh, years, Mable Capps and a small Jack Powell, Kellie Gunnell and crew of dedicated volunteers have Debra Swinson. IHCDA staff col- been working to meet the needs lected 1,862 canned goods for the of a growing number of people in small community food pantry. a tiny rural community in west- central Indiana. Capps, her husband Edward and never more so than around 26-year-old son, Steven, are part Thanksgiving when the pantry of a handful of volunteers who served more than 60 families in a There just isn’t enough to go provide canned goods and other single day. around. non-perishables, meats, and dry “We got hit hard,” Capps said. Having collected for the Hoosier goods to people in need each Mable took to her organization’s Veterans Assistance Fund in 2018, Wednesday and Thursday morning. Facebook page for help. IHCDA executive director Jake The pantry offers evening hours “Our funds only come from Sipe planned to mobilize again on the second Thursday of each the 80 or so IHCDA employees to month in order to “make sure donations that people, churches, businesses, etc. give us,” she start collecting canned goods for people who work [during the day] Canstruction. have a chance to come in,” Mable wrote. “We have struggled all said, noting that the modestly-sized year, so I’m asking you. We know When staff learned of Cunot’s pantry that has served the Poland that there is a need for this small plight, however, they took it upon and Cunot communities for more pantry, so please help us out themselves to take can collecting than 30 years continually seeks to because Christmas is coming too. It to the next level. help as many people as possible. is a rough time for a lot of families “It was a small group that looked and we are doing our best to help.” The Capps family’s friends, Linnie like they could use some help,” said Shields and Judy Acton, serve as What Mable didn’t know at the Dave Pugh, lead grant manager board treasurer and secretary and time was that help – much more for IHCDA’s Real Estate Production round out a big-hearted group than she might have imagined – division. dedicated to doing all they can to was on the way. Pugh and IHCDA Real Estate make sure the people of Cunot A different kind of ‘Canstruction’ Production division funds are able to put food on the table. management and reporting It’s not a full-time job for anyone Having participated in a fun food pantry restocking activity specialist Debra Swinson soon took involved, by any means, but it’s the lead, using just about every certainly one that never truly ends. in 2018, the Indiana Housing and Community Development option at their disposal to collect “This is my goal in life,” Mable said. Authority (IHCDA) was eager to get more and more cans. They spoke “I love to be able to help people.” involved in the contest’s expected with Mable Capps and learned of sophomore showing in late 2019. her organization’s dire need, which That’s life at the Cunot Food touched them both on a personal Pantry, which serves upwards of The annual “Canstruction level. 150 families every month at no Competition,” however, was cost, no questions (other than pushed back a bit on the heels “She’s serving five counties and those legally required) asked. of an extended State Employees people are walking to her pantry,” said Swinson. “I couldn’t fathom Some days and months are busier Community Campaign (SECC) that raised more than $1.6 million for that they come there just for a than others of course, but as few cans and groceries. It became the 2019 holiday season got into charitable institutions. Recognizing the impact food pantries and soup personal. I became determined; I full swing, the pantry found its was going to do something.” shelves mostly empty, its stock in kitchens have on people in need the grateful hands of people who in their respective communities, With the help of colleagues like otherwise might not have had Canstruction returned in early Kellie Gunnell and Jack Powell, the necessary ingredients for an 2020 with the goal of restocking Debra and Dave got to work. adequate Thanksgiving dinner. those nonprofits after the holidays Their passion for the program – a time, as Mable Capps alluded But as the food supply diminished, proved to be contagious as the to her in Facebook post, that often group pulled out all the stops to the need did not and it quickly sees pantries struggle to match became clear that the ever more- community members’ needs. bare shelves at Cunot desperately (Continued on page 14) needed to be re-stocked. It was The Torch | 13 Employee Central (Continued from page 13) Special Delivery keep the IHCDA team engaged. contest with a grand total of 1,862 important the work IHCDA had just “I told them, ‘I’m going to get on cans. completed truly was. everybody’s nerves,’” Swinson said Pugh kept in weekly contact with “It just felt right,” said Swinson. with a laugh. Capps so that she was aware of “That’s just the way I was brought The idea was that constant gentle IHCDA’s efforts and so that staff up.” reminders could go a long way in could coordinate buying the goods Like Mable Capps, it was clear the getting employees to buy-in to the that were needed most. They went IHCDA crew’s collective heart was program. Swinson and Gunnell shopping in their free time and in the right place. When people were the architects behind several took advantage of online shopping like Dave Pugh and Debra Swinson types of games such as bingo, golf, services to get exactly what was step up to lead, as they did in this and Price is Right-inspired activities needed in the shortest amount of canned food drive, the results can that kept the can drive on the time. far exceed expectations. minds of all of those reporting to With too many items to fit in And the end result is plenty of work at 30 S. Meridian in Indy each an ordinary vehicle, the team touched hearts. day. rented a cargo van and made the approximately one-hour trip down “We need people like Deb and They printed “Jake Bucks” with Dave to lead these things,” Brad executive director Sipes’ face on I-70 to Poland/Cunot to meet a very grateful food pantry crew. Meadows said. “We have to have them that could be redeemed for people that care and want to drive IHCDA merchandise and other An offer you ‘Cunot’ refuse it. It was more than just providing prizes. Cans or money donated Rolling up in a van filled with those reminders to the staff who to spend on cans could be traded enough non-perishables to feed generally have a good heart and for jeans days, and players who a small army, Debra, Dave, Kellie, want to help; it was about how did well in the games earned Jack, and IHCDA communications passionate they were about certificates they could display director Brad Meadows met wanting to help.” at home or on the walls of their Mable in person for the first time cubicles. Meadows said he hopes these and immediately got to work re- types of activities are something all “We kept it fun,” Swinson said. stocking the pantry’s nearly-empty state agencies and employees will Walking into work each morning, shelves. It didn’t take long for the choose to support. formerly-bare cupboard to be filled employees were also greeted “It’s really about connecting, by a massive illustration of a to the brim with vegetables, soups, canned meat, and other goods. making those local connections,” thermometer. The goal was to he said. collect 1,500 cans, but the group’s Mable and the rest of the Cunot efforts blew away that mark by Food Pantry crew were more than What’s next for IHCDA? That’s a wide measure, closing out the grateful for IHCDA’s contributions. currently undecided, but one certainty is that it will have a “I was tickled to death,” positive impact on Hoosiers. Mable said. “They have no idea how much it touched You can bet your “Jake Bucks” on our hearts, they really don’t. that. It really touched our hearts, “Around November, Jake gets that big time. I went home and twinkle in his eye,” Pugh said. “We just cried.” try to get ahead of it, but there’s Swinson said she identified no telling what he’ll come up with.” with Mable’s plight, and Sipe, in turn, lauded his team for meeting her may have their efforts. helped forge an ongoing friendship. “I’m so proud of Dave, Debra, and the whole team for what they “I have a large family and accomplished,” he said. I do understand how it is trying to make ends meet To see a short video chronicling and things of that nature,” IHCDA’s canned food drive on said Debra. YouTube, click here. To assist the Cunot Food Pantry, contact Mable Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority Learning of Capps’ Capps at mablecapps50@gmail. (IHCDA) employees delivered more than 1,800 canned heartfelt commitment com. to helping others moved goods to the Cunot Food Pantry in January. The pantry Story by Brent Brown, INSPD serves as many as 200 families per month and was in Debra and further desperate need of supplies after the holidays. solidified for her how The Torch | 14 Employee Central Canstruction Competition collects thousands of canned goods for nonprofits, brings state employees together The winner for most The State of Indiana’s Canstruction cans collected was Competition brought out the best the Indiana State in employees as they collected Fair Commission, canned goods and additional which gathered an items in order to help restock local astonishing 5,087 food pantries around the state in cans! In honor January. of hosting the Horizon Basketball Using those same cans and, Championships in some cases, craft materials at the Indiana and other items to make each Farmers Coliseum project as unique as its creators, next month, State employees from across the state Fair personnel took the food drive – and the arranged the cans building competition – to the next into the shape of a level! basketball going into Each Canstruction stood out for a hoop. The Tippecanoe team arranged one reason or another, but in their cans into the shape of the the end it was a creation by the The creative array of Canstructures state of Indiana. They donated Indiana State Fair Commission proved once again that state their items to Lafayette Transitional that was named Best Structure. employees are at their best when Housing. Wilson noted that the they work together. Through the nonprofit assists area families, The Canstruction team put 2020 Canstruction Competition, including those serviced by DCS. together an image of a basketball food pantries in just about every sailing through a hoop in honor corner of the state of Indiana will Another team that ended up of the Indiana Farmers Coliseum receive a welcome boost to their building more than just a tower hosting the Horizon Basketball available non-perishable goods of canned goods was the Indiana League Championships in March. stock. Bureau of Motor Vehicles Office located on S. Meridian St. in The winning creation used 5,078 For some offices, the event was a Indianapolis. cans! team-building exercise. Angela Baker, a senior driver That astonishing total led to the “We had a lot of fun with it by examiner for BMV Region 8, State Fair Commission garnering making it a competition within captained the “Roadrunners” who the award for Most Cans as our office,” said Jamie Wilson, a added a graphic of the famously well. The final total collected by family case manager supervisor fast Looney Toons bird to their stop the 49 participating teams was for the Tippecanoe County Indiana sign “Canstruction.” The creation 23,620! Department of Child Services read “Stop Hunger.” The Office of Gov. Eric Holcomb, (DCS). “It was really cool to see the competition and excitement “Our team really came together on Indiana Department of Child this project,” remarked Baker. Services Director Terry Stigdon, of our office whenever someone and Indiana State Personnel would bring a big batch of items Emily Wann, Project NextDOR Department Director Britni in. An uproar of amazement and director for the Indiana Saunders served as the panel of excitement would erupt each time Department of Revenue judges who selected the creation and you could see many people (DOR), summed up her team’s as the winner among a crowded of the office coming together, participation this way: “We had a field of entries. building bonds, and raving about blast!” the number of items.” Employees referenced pop culture Some teams are already getting characters and properties like In all, the team collected 1,059 ready for a potential 2021 Star Wars, Super Mario, and canned food items. Wilson said she Canstruction Competition as well. SpongeBob, and in other cases was “incredibly inspired” by her Linda Mahlie, a forensic scientist paid homage to subjects as wide- teammates. for the Indiana State Police ranging as the Roman Colosseum, “As a whole, they found time to Laboratory, joked that she hoped the American flag, state of Indiana give back even after giving so much agency logos, important local to the community by keeping (Continued on page 16) landmarks, and so much more. children safe,” Wilson added. The Torch | 15 (Continued from page 15) Employee Central Canstruction Competition collects thousands of canned goods for nonprofits, brings state employees together her team’s double helix DNA continually make a structure would hold together difference in their until their expected donation date. communities. They’re readying for next year after See all of the putting the finishing touches on 2020 Canstruction another of this year’s most original Competition entries entries. here. “This is a great idea and a fantastic Story by Brent Brown, way to support a good cause,” she INSPD said. After judging was completed, the structures were disassembled and the cans were distributed to each participant’s chosen “It’s a-me!” Super Mario, perhaps the most popular videogame character in history, food pantry. That’s another was one of the 2020 Canstruction Competition’s most original entries. Nintendo’s great example of how State of famous plumber was joined by the iconic first Mario game’s opening stage, enemies, Indiana employees give back and and end-of-level flagpole and castle in this colorful creation by the Plymouth BMV.

Happy trails to state’s oldest employee Chief surveyor Bob Vollmer, age impossible to replace. We will also 102, left the Indiana Government be losing his 100 years of stories. Center South as an employee for He will be missed greatly, and we the last time the morning of Feb. 6. wish him a long and enjoyable Vollmer worked for the Indiana retirement.” Department of Natural Resources Many of his stories involve being (DNR) for 57 years, mostly in the part of three combat operations in field or out of his home office in the South Pacific. Returning there Brown County. Vollmer exited the is part of his extensive retirement building after a two-hour reception plans. with fellow employees. His last day “I want to visit some of the of working in the field, surveying in islands I was on, visit some of the Clinton, in Vermillion County, was cemeteries,” Vollmer said. “I also Wednesday, Feb. 5. might build myself a swimming DNR honored Vollmer with an pool, and I want to help my three invitation-only retirement dinner great grandsons build some party Feb. 7. Earlier in the week, things.” the state’s senior employee had pie Indiana DNR Chief Surveyor Bob Vollmer Vollmer, whose mother, Anna formally retired from his position after 57 and coffee with Gov. Eric Holcomb Francis Vollmer, lived to 108, says and DNR director Cameron Clark at years on the job Feb. 6. Vollmer began he believes in working, but his working for the state of Indiana in 1963. Abe Martin Lodge at Brown County body told him it was time to go. Now 102, the World War II veteran plans State Park. “There’s a lot of things I want to do to read and travel in his retirement. Vollmer, who started with the but I gotta slow down,” he said. “I agency as project engineer at just can’t get around like I used to, Which, to him, means staying Glendale Fish & Wildlife Area in but I bet you I do.” active. 1963, is older than the DNR itself— the agency turned 100 last year. He attributes his success to the “I don’t have a reverse gear in my help he’s received along the way. transmission,” he said. “You don’t “From his service to the country in want to quit — when you quit, World War II to his service to the “I’ve been lucky all my life,” he said. “I got a lot of people to you’re confined to the rocking people of Indiana, Bob exemplifies chair, and that’s where you die. what it means to serve,” Clark said. thank—I can’t remember them all. If I can continue with the luck I’ve When I go down, I want to go “He will take with him decades down swingin’.” of knowledge that will be nearly been having, I’ll have a real good retirement.” The Torch | 16 Employee Central Deputy Secretary of State named to Indiana Business Journal’s 2020 ’Forty under 40’ Chief of Staff and Deputy Secretary Q: From practicing law to working Valerie Warycha, ran point of State Brandon Clifton was one to ensure fair and secure elections, on the nomination, which I of two state of Indiana employees is your current position as Deputy understand was rather substantial named to the Indiana Business Secretary of State where you might in effort. She acquired letters of Journal’s prestigious ’Forty under have envisioned yourself during recommendation from Secretary 40’ list for 2020. your days as a student at Wabash Lawson, former Secretary of College? Clifton joins Office of Career State Ed Simcox, Greenwood Mayor Mark Myers, Hirons Connections and Talent Secretary A: I thought I was going to be a Blair Milo on a list that includes Communication Tom Hirons, and teacher. After a week of student Dewand Neely, former Director young professionals continually teaching, I realized my place striving to make the Hoosier State of Information Technology for the was elsewhere. I’ve always been State of Indiana. an amazing place to live, work, and interested in politics and found play. motivation in the work. I enjoy It took a considerable amount A Lafayette native and Wabash the strategy and the action in this of time to work up the courage College graduate, Clifton served space. to sit down and read the as assistant general counsel letters. Perhaps that is an Q: You’ve cited Secretary of State indication of the honest humility for the Indiana Department of Connie Lawson as a mentor and a Administration and as counsel I experienced throughout this close friend. How has her guidance process. The friendship, let alone and policy advisor at the Indiana helped shape your career? Is there Department of Education prior to the recognition of this group of a particular bit of advice she’s people was an enormous moment joining the Office of the Secretary given you that you’d like to share? of State in 2014. In his current role, for me. Clifton serves as senior advisor to A: Secretary Lawson has made an That said, most important to me Secretary of State Connie Lawson enormous impact on my life. I’m and of the greatest value was surrounded by what I call the recognizing the amount of time ‘pentagon of women’. It used to and effort my friend, Valerie, be a square, but I keep adding invested into this process. She’s amazing women to my circle become a great friend and of influence. The most recent knowing she put this much effort addition was my daughter, who and coordination into recognizing is now 2-years-old. a colleague means the most. She’s a great example of the quality The Secretary puts her family we enjoy in the Secretary’s first. When thinking about my office. From the Secretary to our future, she’s solidified the fact interns, there is a consistent spark that nothing is more important throughout the office. Our staff than family. Second, the works hard on behalf of Hoosiers Secretary impressed upon me and they are some of the brightest the importance of surrounding and kindest I’ve come across. yourself with people with excellent personalities and Q: You’ve mentioned the possibility trusting them to do great work. of returning to school to learn and represents her in official more about cybersecurity. If capacities. Q: Being recognized alongside you do so, how do you feel that Named to IBJ’s annual list in other young Hoosier professionals educational opportunity will help February, Clifton said he felt such as Secretary of Career you in your position as Deputy “incredibly humbled” by the honor. Connections and Talent Blair Milo Secretary of State, and how will He shared the information below and Indiana Pacers all-star Victor staying up-to-date on changes in with the Indiana State Personnel Oladipo in IBJ’s annual 40 under 40 technology impact Hoosier voters? profile is quite an honor. How did Department, commenting on his A: The elections space has friendship with Secretary Lawson, you feel when you found out you’d been named to this prestigious experienced an extraordinary his gratitude for those who amount of change over the last nominated for the honor, advice list? for young people, and even some A: The award was a tremendous (Continued on page 18) of his hobbies. honor. My Deputy Chief of Staff, The Torch | 17 Employee Central (Continued from page 17) Deputy Secretary of State named to Indiana Business Journal’s 2020 ’Forty under 40’ four years. I fully expect similar, keep you humble and sharp. do you hope to upgrade it? What if not more aggressive changes Q: What is a challenge you face in are some YouTube videos you’d before the next presidential your professional career and how recommend our readers check election cycle. The cybersecurity are you working to meet it? out? work we do requires leadership that can fold inputs from highly A: I wouldn’t say that this A: I own a white Jeep Wrangler technical personnel into executive necessary a challenge, but Unlimited. It’s awesome. I’ve put level decisions. That’s why I a reality of working in this a lot of work into it already, but think it’s important to consider space: Working in a political the project is never-ending. I’ve additional education. office means our time together put on suspensions, lights of Q: What advice would you give a as an office will come to an end nearly every kind, a winch and young person who is considering at some point. This is a reality many, many more accessories. It’s trying to follow a career trajectory in our peaceful transitions of rather addictive in its possibilities similar to yours? power. That means we have to be as it’s an adult-sized Lego. mindful of what comes next and With regard to YouTube, I’m a A: Be more interested in the preparing for that eventuality. fan of fail compilations, relaxing footballs you drop rather than the sound channels, restoration Q: You told IBJ that some of your touchdowns you score. If you’re channels and nearly anything hobbies include upgrading your only focused on what you’re Jeep related. Everything I’ve done Jeep Wrangler and watching supposed to be doing in the first to my Jeep was first studied on YouTube videos. What type of place, you can’t grow. Focusing on YouTube. You can learn nearly Wrangler is your favorite, and how what you can improve upon will anything on YouTube. Secretary of Career Connections and Talent Blair Milo named to IBJ ‘Forty under 40’ As the very first Secretary of Career Gene Black as a mentor, saying he Connections and Talent in Indiana, “has been a constant example to Blair Milo leads a group working to me of servant leadership as well find just the right talent to fill an as a trusted mentor.” How has estimated one million job openings Rear Adm. Black’s leadership and before the end of this decade. commitment helped shape your A Navy officer and a former mayor, military and civilian careers and Milo’s long list of achievements, how do you put that wisdom into which include adding more practice in your daily life? than a thousand new jobs in A: Admiral Black is the kind of her hometown of LaPorte and leader you’d walk through fire earning the 2017 American for because you just don’t want Legion Military Person of the Year to let him down. Anyone who has (Reserve Category) award due to the blessing of serving with and her distinguished naval service, learning from him feels his loyalty, behind this is that even if you were more than enough to earn as he consistently challenges and end up being wrong, which will a spot on the 2020 roster of the encourages his team to reach happen, if as a leader you do Indianapolis Business Journal’s their maximum potential by everything you can to support vaunted ‘Forty under 40’ list. sharing the importance of the each member of your team and In the wake of that honor, mission and everyone’s critical give them the opportunity to Secretary Milo took time to discuss role in achieving it. Admiral succeed, then you’ll create an her mentors, people who inspire Black and his wife Lori are an environment where most will. This her, and some of her career impressive partnership, as she is something I strive to do when aspirations as she continues to would always go out of her way I have the opportunity to serve lead a team dedicated to providing to serve and support the family a team because the only way we great government service to members of every command he accomplish big things is together. Hoosiers. has led or been a part of. One of Q: What advice would you give to the many leadership lessons he a young person hoping to follow Q: During your interview with taught me was to “always err on IBJ, you mentioned Rear Adm. the side of the sailor.” The idea (Continued on page 19) The Torch | 18 Employee Central (Continued from page 18) Secretary of Career Connections and Talent Blair Milo named to IBJ ‘Forty under 40’ in your path of helping create jobs Through the 21st Century Talent and love people. I don’t always and growing new employment Regions initiative, self-defined get it right, but thankfully God opportunities for Hoosiers? regions with participants from forgives and is willing to meet A: As Purdue University President a variety of sectors - business, me midway. If there’s anything I Mitch Daniels says, “Government local government, K-12 and can be proud of, it’s the times I’m doesn’t create jobs. Government higher education, economic and able to answer God’s call for my at its best creates the conditions workforce development, and life - to love people through my in which men and women of non-profit - all come together to passion for public service aimed enterprise create wealth in and first map out regional partners at ensuring equal opportunity amongst themselves.” Access and initiatives already in place to life, liberty, and the pursuit of to quality schools, healthcare for attracting, developing, happiness for all. and infrastructure, affordable and connecting talent. They Q: If you are ever part of a ’50 utilities and safe communities then collectively identify data- under 50’ profile of successful are just a few of those critical driven goals and strategies 40-somethings (or another type components needed to create an for achieving them in order to of similar spotlight years in the environment in which business grow the population, increase future), what do you hope to have and jobs can thrive. There are postsecondary educational accomplished in your professional any number of career and/or attainment, and raise median life by that time? service opportunities where we household income. So far, five regions across Indiana have A: During a period of time when need the ideas and dedicated st I felt unsure of what I needed to efforts of young people to grow earned the 21 Century Talent Region designation with nine be doing in order to progress my that positive business climate, career development, one of my so I would encourage anyone more in progress, covering almost 86 percent of all counties. mentors provided me with some interested in creating jobs to words of encouragement: “If you think about what it is they are Q: Who are some people who do the best you can in the job passionate about and pursue continue to inspire you? (Note: this you’re in, the right opportunities it, as its positive outcomes will could be anyone – from a family will present themselves at the inevitably contribute to creating member to a teacher or even a right time.” I can’t say what a community and state where favorite sports star or actor.) opportunities I’ll have the blessing business and jobs will grow. A: Senator [Richard] Lugar’s of participating in over the next Q: What is the biggest challenge commitment to well-informed, 10 years, but I hope to continue you face in your current position thoughtful, inclusive public working with a team dedicated and how are you working to meet service; [Indiana Commission for to building equitable access to it? Higher Education Commissioner] opportunity for all people, and A: The greatest challenge is that Teresa Lubbers’ visionary serving the broader ideals of there is a lot of information, leadership and dedication to inalienable rights of life, liberty, programs, and opportunity for ensuring a quality education for and the pursuit of happiness on individual Hoosiers and Hoosier all Hoosiers; and Fred Rogers’ which our Republic was founded. businesses to leverage, but it kindness and thoughtful approach Q: You jokingly told IBJ that doesn’t all exist in any one single to equipping kids (and adults) being part of Gov. Holcomb’s place, making it both easier and with tools to positively engage staff requires that you “up your more difficult to leverage. On with one another. game” when it comes to cowboy the reverse side of any challenge Q: If there is one aspect of your boots (the governor’s signature is opportunity, and we have the career of which you are most footwear) and you even wore a opportunity to connect data to proud, what would it be? pair to the IBJ photo shoot. Is there decision-makers, resources to A: Pride is a funny thing, in that, a friendly competition among leaders and opportunity to our it’s important to celebrate wins cabinet members and staff to try students, schools, communities and accomplishments, particularly to keep up with – or even outdo – and businesses when everyone when it requires hard work. At the governor’s formidable “boot works together. We’re working to the same time, I know that any game”? meet this challenge in a variety of progress that has been made A: There isn’t to my knowledge, ways, most specifically through a through service to my hometown, but perhaps there should be! It partnership connecting the IEDC, Indiana, or this country came from may be unwinnable, but it would Office of Career Connections and st those times I was able to carry out be a fun competition to watch. Talent and Civic Lab called the 21 the commandments to love God Century Talent Regions initiative. The Torch | 19