The beauty of the Region is the way that it can lead so many people back who have been here before. Kayla Ooms has lived in a variety of places in Northwest Indiana and has always felt that this is her true home. On top of living most of her life in...
Andrea Hogan has had an inspiring journey, from being a former student in the School City of East Chicago Public Schools to becoming the principal of Washington Elementary School. Hogan's roots in the city run deep – she went to Washington...
Nothing beats the feeling of helping out others that need it the most. That’s the theme for Gretchen Mercer as she helps guide children of Northwest Indiana in the right direction. Mercer was born in a small town called Huntingburg in the southern...
Marie Buckingham transformed a personal tragedy into a positive change through the creation of Victims of Impaired Driving (VOID) and the Ryan Adam Kelly Foundation. She channeled her grief into action by honoring the memory of her son through an...
There’s always room to grow or learn more about something that keeps the mind entertained. When it comes to Jethroe Smith, working in the field of dentistry has been filled with exhilarating moments and evolution over time. Born on the southeast...
Finding a strong passion at an early age is a great feeling. Krystle Dionne Simmons found her passion for dance in the early years of her childhood and has carried it with her to this day. Born and raised in Gary, Simmons has had an appreciation for...
Abby Bodinet possesses an inspiring journey of leaving behind her corporate job to pursue her passion for entrepreneurship. Through her company Bubble Trouble Foam Party, she has created a captivating experience filled with fun and excitement,...
After moving across the country multiple times and various learning experiences, Dr. Sonia Bennett determined what she wanted her story to be. Bennett grew up in Virginia attending a variety of schools that included private, public, and even...
Building a growing community for something you’re passionate about is a great way to make new connections. Brian Grabinski has been able to see how people throughout the Region have grown to love what he has helped develop. Grabinski originally...
Some people are born with a natural passion to pursue something they enjoy from an early age. That’s been the case for Seth LeBlanc, an 8-year-old from Crown Point. The passion that he has quickly become drawn to is motocross racing. “He...
