Leadership La Porte County honored its Adult Class at a recent luncheon held at Blue Chip Casino & Hotel in Michigan City. Twenty-five community members were recognized at the event for completing the program.

For the 38^th year a group of La Porte County citizens have spent the past 9 months engaging in leadership skill-building, gaining information about La Porte County, and networking with local leaders.  “The annual graduation celebrates and recognizes the leadership class as they prepare to use their knowledge to make a positive change in the community,” explains Monica Komasinski, Executive Director of Leadership La Porte County.   “This year’s class was an exceptional group of passionate and community minded citizens.  We look forward to seeing how they will make their mark on the community.  Many thanks to Jim Jessup, who once again volunteered his time to serve as co-facilitator of the class.”

At the event, the Outstanding Leadership Alumni Award was also presented.  Each year the board of directors of Leadership La Porte County chooses a past graduate of the program to receive the Robert J. Hiler, Jr. Outstanding Alumni Award.  The award recognizes one alumnus who has demonstrated ongoing commitment to his/her profession and to the La Porte County community.  The award is named in honor of Robert J. Hiler, Jr. (now deceased) who served as a board member, benefactor, and was an inspiration for many in the community. 

“Bob Hiler was a true community leader who gave time, talent, and treasure to our organization and many others,” stated Komasinski.  “We are proud to honor Bob’s spirit in recognizing outstanding community leadership.  We are pleased to announce this year’s award was presented to two outstanding community members, siblings Dawn Zigler and Joy Zigler”   

Dawn Zigler, a graduate of the 20^th class of Leadership La Porte County is a La Porte County native, a graduate of LaPorte High School, and holds a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University North Central. Dawn has been with Meridian Title Corporation for 20 years and is currently a Senior Account Manager. Dawn belongs to LaPorte County Association of Realtors (LPCAR), has been involved in many of their community events, including Deserving Children’s Shopping Tour and Auction. She is also, a past LPCAR Affiliate of the Year. Dawn was a 13-year member of the La Porte Jaycees, was President for 3, and served as a JCI Senator (the highest honor for a Jaycee). She also served as Entertainment Superintendent for the LaPorte County Fair for 13 years. Dawn partners with Meridian Title and hosts an annual Alex’s Lemonade Stand every summer. She serves on the La Porte Economic Advancement Chamber Board and is a member of the La Porte Kiwanis Club. Dawn is currently President of the LaPorte Community YMCA Board of Directors and has served on the board for several years. She is a current and founding member of the Roof Sit Committee in LaPorte hosted by Dennis Siddall and WCOE. Dawn resides in Stillwell with her husband, David.

Joy Zigler, a graduate of Leadership La Porte County 28^th Adult class, is also a lifelong native of La Porte County, attended LaPorte High School and graduated from Purdue North Central with an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree. Like Dawn, Joy has been involved with a wide range of activities, organizations, and groups over the years. She was a long-time member of the LaPorte Jaycees and served in many capacities, including president. One of her favorite events was the LaPorte 4th of July celebration, which included the parade, fireworks, and beer barns. When the LaPorte Jaycees faced the inability to continue organizing the 4th of July events, Joy and Dawn took responsibility for running it in 2021, along with the LaPorte Kiwanis Club, and pulled off a great parade, despite last minute deadlines. Joy was instrumental in starting the “Rock the Block” event which provides school supplies and services to families in need. Today, Rock the Block has served over 10,000 kids so far. Joy contributed ideas, support, and hands on work for starting Bethany Church’s “Red Wine, & Brew” events which have donated over $100,000, so far, to first responders in our community. Joy is an Escrow Agent for Meridian Title and works in the Michigan City office. Joy resides in Stillwell where she grew up and currently serves as Pleasant Township Trustee.

Following the award presentation, the luncheon program concluded with the formal recognition of the 38^th class members for completing the program, which included monthly sessions on a variety of community leadership topics, a county bus tour, and team projects.  Board President Carrie Campbell and Vice President Jenn Wozniak distributed commemorative plaques to each graduate.  Monica Komasinski challenged class members to stay connected to each other, to follow their passions, and to continue giving back to the community. She also recognized several class members for outstanding achievement.  Terry Greetham, Carly Levandoski & Amanda Chavez were recognized for outstanding extra-curricular activity.  Kristy Hahn and Terry Greetham were selected as the 38^th class representatives to serve on the Leadership Board of Directors.

Leadership La Porte County’s mission is to inspire, develop, cultivate and connect emerging and existing leaders to serve their diverse communities. With programs for adults, as well as middle school and high school students, Leadership La Porte County is committed to providing a forum for the development of community leaders. For more information on Leadership La Porte County, or to nominate an individual for the 39^th Adult Program beginning in September, contact Leadership La Porte County at 325-8223, or email:  info@leadershiplaportecounty.com.