NIPSCO Luminary Awards

As part of  NIPSCO's 2012 Centennial Community Celebration, we inaugurated the Luminary Awards, which will be given anually to four leaders or organizations in northern Indiana. These individuals or groups have demonstrated commitment to strengthening our communities in the areas of Education, Environment, Emergency Response and Community Leadership.  

In addition to recognizing the winners for being a positive force in our communities, NIPSCO will make a $1,000 contribution to each winner’s charity of choice.

Winners of the 2012 NIPSCO Luminary Awards:

Community Leadership

Rep. Chester Dobis is being recognized for his 42 years of public service, representing the people of House District 13. This award, however, also reflects the significant impact this individual had in improving the quality of life for the residents of northwest Indiana thorough his vision, leadership and ability to work with all elected officials – regardless of level or party. A $1,000 contribution in Representative Dobis’ name will be made to Cerebral Palsy of Northwest Indiana.

Emergency Response

Retired South Bend Fire Chief, Howard Buchanon is being recognized for his 38 years of dedicated service with the South Bend Fire Department and his willingness to partner with NIPSCO to improve emergency response procedures, natural gas safety training and damage prevention. His efforts have made a positive impact on public safety in the City of South Bend. A $1,000 contribution in Chief Buchanon’s name will be made to 100 Black Men of Greater South Bend.

Education

Purdue University North Central Chancellor James Dworkin is being recognized for the partnerships he has initiated with local school corporations that encouraged and supported science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) projects in grades K - 12. Under his leadership, the Purdue North Central campus has become a change agent, supporting initiatives that emphasize and support STEM education in this region. A $1,000 contribution in Chancellor Dworkin’s name will be made to Purdue University North Central.

Environmental Stewardship

Lake Station Mayor Keith Solderquist is being recognized for championing the use of renewable energy sources for the City of Lake Station City Hall building, which opened in October 2011. By including a roof-mounted solar array, three wind turbines and many other eco-friendly features in this LEED-certified building, he established the City of Lake Station as a leader in being both green and energy efficient. A $1,000 contribution in Mayor Solderquist’s name will be made to the Lake Station Pop Warner League.