“A mind is like a parachute. It doesn’t work if it is not open.” – Frank Zappa
Over the past 10 months, I’ve had the opportunity to open my mind in remarkable ways through my participation in the Hamilton County Leadership Academy (HCLA). I’m filled with immense gratitude for the chance to learn alongside and from so many passionate individuals dedicated to improving our community.
It is difficult to summarize 10 months of an amazing program! During my time with HLCA, I was given opportunities that I would not have had without being a member. Being introduced to local leaders, entrepreneurs, and elected officials grew my personal network. I was able to take behind-the-scenes tours of various places, such as the Fishers Event Center. I was exposed to places and stories that I might not have known about, like Roberts Settlement – an African-American farm community in Northern Hamilton County, or the Great Squirrel Stampede of 1822. We learned about the various parks, trails, and outdoor attractions across the county. I was familiar with some, but like many people, I live within my comfort zone. HCLA helped expand that bubble.
With nearly 1,000 alumni, HCLA continues to make a significant impact across Hamilton County through its program designed to identify and prepare informed leaders. Participants commit their time, energy, and expertise with a shared desire to engage more deeply in the fabric of our community. The experience was nothing short of transformative helping shape my leadership approach, strengthening my skills, and deepening my understanding of what it means to serve.
Each month we met for an immersive full-day session, diving deep into one of these topics. We heard directly from subject matter experts, elected officials business leaders, HCLA alumni, and many other dedicated individuals working to create positive change. These sessions offered a behind-the-scenes look at the systems, challenges, and opportunities in Hamilton County—and equipped us with tools to help shape its future.
I had many amazing experiences thanks to HLCA and the new network of people I have met. During the opening retreat, I was impressed by the diversity of my cohort. We are made up of various ages, backgrounds, careers, and more, but we bonded quickly over our passion for the community we live in and a drive to see it continue to grow and flourish. Even during our meal on the first day, we laughed and told stories as we sat outside at Forest Park in Noblesville. It felt like sharing a meal with old friends, even though we were strangers starting a journey together.
Throughout the academy, it was easy to trust the process and be present, because each session was well designed. Every featured venue enhanced the learning experience, which was fueled by amazing food. It was a privilege to hear from many impactful speakers, all of whom were wonderful! Some of them included:
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- Mike Thibideau with Invest Hamilton County – he has great knowledge of the county and conveyed complex statistical data in plain language, showing how it can be applied to many areas.
- Andrew Adeniyi spoke to us about diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. Everyone in the class agrees: we want to be known as a welcoming and supportive place, where people feel they can grow and make an impact.
- Mayor Scott Fadness and Deputy Mayor Elliot Hultgren shared their backstories, which I enjoyed. They both genuinely want to improve the community. In fact, every elected official who spoke with the cohort tries to prioritize being available for their constituents.
- Doug Church with CCHA and Nancy Chance with the Good Samaritan Network. Both have been working for decades to improve Hamilton County and are true superheroes. The scale of their historic knowledge, connections, and love for our community was inspiring.
One of the sessions that stood out to me included the day we spoke with non-profit organizations serving Hamilton County. Every organization, without exception, said their biggest need is volunteers. Even if you can only give a few hours a month, the impact will have ripples throughout our community. Consider getting involved with a good cause you’re passionate about.
During another memorable session, we heard about Conner Prairie. It seems that everyone in my cohort has a story or personal connection with this amazing place. It plays a huge role in our community as a place for education and recreation, a driver of tourism, a historic site, and an incredible venue. Conner Prairie continues to provide special and memorable experiences to my family year after year.
Personally, my favorite session was visiting Beck’s. Agriculture is important to Hamilton County and Beck’s is a significant part of that, as one of the largest seed companies in the world. The entire Beck family took time out of their day to come meet and talk with our class about the impact of farming on the community, their family traditions, and their goals. They were very welcoming people who are shaping how we feed the world. As a former science teacher, it was amazing to see the technology their company uses: gene manipulation, drone technology, selective breeding, computer science and so much more. Agriculture has changed over time, and thanks to innovators like the Beck family, it will continue to grow and meet our society’s needs.
As the program wrapped, our final retreat at Waycross Camp and Conference Center gave us time to reflect, share key takeaways, and celebrate the journey together. Though we were sad to see the experience end, we left empowered, connected, and hopeful for the future. It felt a little like the last day of senior year in high school: you have to say goodbye to friends, knowing your relationships will change. I know I can always call upon these classmates for help and support. The strangers I met 10 months ago are now inviting me to events, sharing family stories, making plans, and continuing our friendship. My professional and personal network has grown due to the HCLA.
Hamilton County is an extraordinary place, full of opportunity—but there’s always room for growth. I’m proud to be part of a group of emerging leaders committed to making a difference. The lessons, relationships, and perspective I’ve gained through HCLA will stay with me—and guide me—as I continue working to make a meaningful impact.
To anyone seeking to grow their leadership, expand their knowledge, and deepen their connection to our community, I wholeheartedly recommend the Hamilton County Leadership Academy. It’s an inspiring, challenging, and rewarding journey. Viola Davis once said, “All dreams are within reach. All you have to do is keep moving towards them.” HCLA has inspired me to keep moving—and to keep working toward a better Hamilton County.