HCLA BLOG
The HCLA Blog allows alumni, community partners, and interested applicants to gain a glimpse into the experiences and connectivity HCLA offers. The HCLA Blog highlights class day experiences, leadership lessons, and Hamilton Connection and alumni spotlights.
Interested in sharing content for the HCLA blog? Email engagement@hcla.net.
Hamilton Connections Spotlight | Bonnie Riley
I often get asked why I reside in Indiana given my daughter and family reside in sunny Tampa, Florida. I admit there are days I wonder the same (mostly December - March) but I always come back to the life I’ve created personally and professionally in Hamilton County,...
Class of 2024 Spotlight | Planning & Infrastructure Class Day
The HCLA Class of 2024 met on October 5th at The Hagerman Group to learn about Hamilton County’s Planning & Infrastructure. As we began our day, a quote stood out to me that best summarizes the impact this day had on me, “We are Hamilton County’s stewards for this...
Hamilton Connections Spotlight | Jennifer Miller
I love fall. I mean, I really love fall. I love the change in seasons, the crisp air, the colors, the clothes, and most of all the apple orchards and festivals. I have always enjoyed the traditions of apples in the fall. Nothing beats fresh hot cider and cake donuts...
Hamilton Connections Spotlight | Carla Hill
My family questioned me dragging them out on a Monday night from Fishers to Carmel to see some sort of light show. I promised them it would be worth the trip. The bonus I had in store was a stop at The Cake Bake Shop in Carmel City Center for some dessert. Even my...
Class of 2024 Spotlight | County & Municipal Government Class Day
As a fairly new transplant to Hamilton County with 20+ years’ experience in government, the County and Municipal Day was a special treat for me! I was glad to see several familiar names on the class day agenda and excited to hear from the panel of presenters who...
Hamilton Connections Spotlight | Sherese Martin
One of the best things about living in Hamilton County is the diversity, not only of the people and cultures but also in the wide variety of activities residents can find to do. A few of my fellow HCLA alumni have shared some of their favorite places and activities...
Hamilton Connections Spotlight | Brian Heaton
I often get asked if our family is planning to take any summer vacations. We travel plenty during other times of the year, but typically we don’t stray far from Hamilton County in the summer because there is just so much to do here that we enjoy. Atop that list, there...
HCLA Class of 2023 Spotlight | Reflections from the Dean
A year ago, during HCLA’s opening retreat for the new class of 2023, thirty-five eager faces gazed around the room, curious to know what lay ahead and excited to embark on the next ten months of learning together. We greeted new friends, shared hopes and goals,...
Hamilton Connections Spotlight | Sarah Buckner
As a lifelong resident of Hamilton County and as a person who spends her days encouraging people to visit the area, I have been lucky to experience so many fun, unique things in my own home county! Each summer, I most look forward to climbing into a kayak on the White...
Class of 2023 Spotlight | Arts, Recreation & Culture Class Day
While just hanging out with my HCLA 2023 classmates is always a great time, rain or shine, I was HAPPY-HAPPY that our final class day was all hot and sunny. It was a beautiful day in Hamilton County! Hands down, this was my favorite day, because art, recreation, and...