ELKHART, Ind. (WNDU) – Eleven entrepreneurs were inducted into the Business Legacy Hall of Fame during an event that drew more than 200 local business owners and entrepreneurs to the Crystal Ballroom at The Lerner Theater.
The event was hosted by Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana and emceed by WNDU’s Gary Sieber.
The hall of fame honors entrepreneurs who have made a positive impact on the community.
Jessica Hillary, director of Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana, said the recognition provides inspiration for young people in the area.
“I would encourage every youth to think about what makes this community great and to contribute to make it better,” Hillary said. “We are what makes Elkhart County great as individuals. And when we come together to celebrate that, it’s just amazing.”
Hillary said all money raised from the event will fund Junior Achievement programs, including BizTown, a simulated town where students gain real-life job experience.
The 2025 honorees for the 11 awards were recognized under the following categories:
- The Havilah Beardsley Recognition for Young Entrepreneur (under 40): Joel Lederman, Elevation Park Model
- The Guy David Gundlach Recognition for Community Impact: Frank and Marsha Martin
- The Thomas I. Atkins Recognition for Minority In/Owned Business: Jess Koscher, Write Connections
- The Helen Murray Free Recognition for Woman In/Owned Business: Mayor Gina Leichty
- The Dr. Franklin Miles Recognition for Leadership in Healthcare: Dr. Patrick Russell, neurologist
- The C.G. Conn Recognition for Manufacturing Excellence: Don Clark, Grand Design
- The Herman F. Borneman Recognition for Distribution, Retail & Logistics: Jeffrey New, Mid-City Supply
- The Clarence C. Moore Recognition for Technology: Tim Haynie, Bond Technologies
- The J. Lawrence Burkholder Recognition for Leadership in Education: Phyllis Tubbs, Elkhart Community Schools
- Business as a Force of Good: The Electric Brew
- The Patricia G. and Arthur J. Decio Lifetime Achievement Award: David and Nancy Smith
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