Kosciusko Leadership Academy

05/05/2026

Big things start with bold ideas and committed leaders. 💡✨

The Community Fieldhouse in Winona Lake is more than a new facility. It’s the result of vision, collaboration, and the kind of leadership that turns ideas into action. 🏗️🤝

This project began as a Kosciusko Leadership Academy white paper and is now becoming a reality through the dedication of community partners, including Grace College , and leaders who saw what was possible. 🎉

Pictured are the individuals behind the Fieldhouse of Dreams white paper project:
Left to right: Allyn Decker (KLA moderator), Angie Summers, Denny Harlan, Chad Hummel, and Carol McGregor.

This is exactly what KLA is about—developing leaders who make a lasting impact in Kosciusko County.

Ready to be in the room where ideas turn into action?
Applications for the 2026–2027 KLA class are OPEN, with the program kicking off in August.
👉 Learn more on our website at www.kosciuskoleadership.org or connect with Ben Rice at [email protected]

04/24/2026

From white paper to reality.

Excited to see this KLA project come to life as Grace College breaks ground on the Community Fieldhouse—marking the first Catalyst Corridor project.

Proud moment for collaboration and community impact!

WINONA LAKE - An idea that started as a Kosciusko Leadership Academy White Paper Project broke ground Thursday at the Miller Athletic Complex on the Grace College campus.

04/22/2026

Another incredible class of leaders 👏

The KLA Class of 2026 is already making an impact, and this year’s Northerner Award highlights a project focused on housing, workforce, and second chances in our community.

Help us celebrate them below ⬇️

NORTH WEBSTER - While the Kosciusko Leadership Academy (KLA) Class of 2026 celebrated its graduation Tuesday night, time also was taken to remember two pillars of the organization who died in the past year - Jean Northenor and Dr. Jeffrey Fawcett.

04/22/2026

Big ideas. Real impact.

One of the most powerful moments from last night’s KLA graduation was the presentation of the Northener Award—recognizing the top white paper project from the Class of 2026.

This year’s award went to the Second Chance Housing Program 👏

Congrats to:
Don Halvorsen, Sam Stewart, Tony Peterson, and Jessica Mikesell

Their project stood out for one big reason:
it addresses a real and urgent need in our community.

The team proposed a tiny home recovery community—creating a path that includes housing, job training, financial literacy, and long-term independence.

Judges highlighted:
• County-wide impact
• Strong partnerships
• Long-term sustainability
• A truly compelling need

The Northener Award will help move this project forward while also bringing visibility to a solution that could impact lives across Kosciusko County.

This is what KLA is all about—turning ideas into action.

04/22/2026

Last night was a special one for KLA

We gathered at The Owl's Nest to celebrate the Kosciusko Leadership Academy Class of 2026—a group of individuals who have spent the past year learning, growing, and leaning into what it means to lead in our community.

But the evening was about more than graduation.

It was about legacy.

This year, we honored Jean Northerner, one of the founding leaders of KLA, whose vision helped shape what this program is today. Her impact continues to live on through every class, every connection, and every leader who steps forward.

We also recognized the lasting influence of Jeff Fawcett, whose passion for this community continues through the foundation established in his honor—supporting leadership and growth for years to come.

KLA has always been about people. People who care. People who step up. People who believe Kosciusko County can be even better.

And last night was a reminder that the future is in really good hands.

More to come as we celebrate this incredible class 👏

04/19/2026

The Kosciusko Leadership Academy hosted its annual Project Proud event Tuesday, April 14 at The Roost, where this year’s cadets presented their white paper projects focused on addressing key challenges and opportunities within Kosciusko County.

04/14/2026

Today was Project Proud with Kosciusko Leadership Academy, and it was such an inspiring morning.

We had the opportunity to hear from this year’s cadets as they presented their white paper projects. Something they have spent months researching, developing, and refining. These projects are more than just presentations; they’re thoughtful solutions and ideas that aim to make a real impact in Kosciusko County.

From workforce development and childcare to housing, innovation, and sustainability, each group brought forward ideas with real potential to strengthen our community.

This is a huge milestone for the cadets and a moment they’ve been working toward all year, with the goal of earning the Northernor Award.

So proud of the time, effort, and passion each group put into their work. Our community is better because of leaders like these.

03/24/2026

The Kosciusko Leadership Academy concluded its 2025–2026 program March 17 with its final regular session.

10/11/2025

This week’s KLA session focused on the power of philanthropy and financial stewardship in shaping our community’s future.

Cadets heard from Stephanie Overbey (Kosciusko County Community Foundation), Rich Haddad (K21 Health Foundation), and Lily Dailey (Lake City Bank), who shared how their organizations work together to create lasting impact through charitable giving, endowments, and estate planning.

From understanding community foundations to exploring corporate trust management, this session gave our future leaders a deeper look at how generosity builds sustainability across Kosciusko County.

📸 Pictured: our speakers with KLA Cadets following the session, and the full class engaged in discussion.

09/09/2025

KLA Class of 2025–26 Kickoff Day Highlights

The Kosciusko Leadership Academy launched its 2025–26 program with a full day of learning, connection, and community experiences!

🚤 Dixie Sternwheeler Ride
Cadets started their journey aboard the historic Dixie in North Webster, enjoying a scenic cruise on Webster Lake while connecting with one another and learning about the importance of preserving local landmarks.

♻️ POLYWOOD Tour
Later, cadets explored innovation in action with a behind-the-scenes tour of POLYWOOD in Syracuse. Guided by KLA alumnus Bryce G***k, the tour showcased how recycled plastics are transformed into sustainable outdoor furniture and how leadership experiences can open doors to lasting careers.

We’re grateful to our hosts for inspiring the next group of leaders right here in Kosciusko County!

📸 Swipe through to see highlights from our kickoff day!