Society of Innovators, The Times

innovationthe society of innovators recognizes ingenuity and creativity in the region

a special publication of the times media company2 society of innovators . march 26, 2010

Congratulations Innovators

a special publication of the times media company society of innovators . march 26, 2010 3

Dear Friend of Innovation:

Welcome to this special publication of The Times celebrating the individuals and project teams of “The 2009 – 2010 Class” of The Society of Innovators. These innovators are re-imagining ways to do things better, faster and differently for the good of their organizations and our region. In most cases, these innovators go unheralded. This is the reason the work of The Society is important!

The Society of Innovators inducted new Members with innovative ideas, from health care to manufacturing, from residential developments to underground utilities. The “2009 – 2010 Class” was remarkable on several levels. Our most recent class represented the largest number of single

nominations since The Society was launched by Ivy Tech NW and our partners. Also, the scale of innovation was impressive. For example, our Chanute Prize co-recipients for Team Innovation consisted of projects launched by the largest dairy in the United States and, respectively, the largest steel company in the world. There is nothing small about innovation in the seven counties of Northwest Indiana. But you will also read about other innovations of all varieties from our newest Members – individuals as well as project teams!

Most important, this gives us an opportunity to say thank you to deserving individuals and organizations. First, we thank the Times for this wonderful insert. Next, we thank our Board of Governors who render great service and countless hours, along with Committee Members and other volunteers who help The Society in so many ways. Next, we thank our “Principal Sponsors” that are listed below for their continuing support. Last but not least, we thank all of you across this region who support The Society, our ”Innovators Cafes” and other creative projects through the Gerald I. Lamkin Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center. Our purpose is to promote growth and innovation across our Northwest Indiana Region. Please join us in encouraging innovation in your workplace and community!

Sincerely,

‘innovation is the lifeblood of our region!’

principal sponsors

J. Guadalupe ValtierraChancellorIvy Tech Community College of Indiana Northwest

O’Merrial ButcheeInterim ChairThe Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana


governors of the society of innovators of northwest indianaThe Society of Innovators is governed by a volunteer group of leaders representing Northwest Indiana. We are grateful for the service of those who serve as elected Governors, as well as those who serve on Committees.

board of governors

committee members

a special thank you!Roy E. Evans, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Civil Engineering at Purdue University Calumet and Tom Cera, Chief Operating Officer, Court Holding Limited, have served as Chairs of the Society of Innovators. We thank them for their outstanding service, countless hours, and inspired leadership in support of The Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana

Michelle Golden, 2008 - 2009 Member, The Society, Golden Studios

O’Merrial Butchee, Interim Chair, The Society, Director, Gerald I. Lamkin Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center

Richard Sussman, Ph.D., Interim Vice Chair, The Society, General Manager, Global R&D Center, North America, East Chicago

Richard Marrell, 2005 - 2006 Fellow, Interim Secretary/Treasurer, The Society, RLM Prosthetics, Valparaiso

Mitch Barloga, 2007 – 2008 Member, The Society, Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission

Gayle Faulkner-Kosalko, 2006 - 2007 Fellow, The Society, Editor of Whiting’s Write Stuff, Times Columnist

Kathy DeGuilio-Fox, Executive Director, Purdue Technology Center of Northwest Indiana

Rich Barnes, Ph.D., 2006 - 2007 Member, The Society, Hokey Spokes International

Cal Bellamy, 2006 - 2007 Member, The Society, Partner,Krieg DeVault Law FirmSchererville

Janice Tazbir, Member, 2007 Member, The SocietyAssistant Nursing Professor, Purdue University Calumet

Eric Horon, Advertising Operations Manager, The Times Media Company

Maggi Spartz, President, Unity Foundation of LaPorte County

Roy E. Evans, Ph.D., Chair, The Society of Innovators (2007 – 2010)

Tom Cera, Chair, The Society of Innovators (2005 – 2007)

Mike Worosz, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, Regional WED Academic Services, De LaGarza Campus, East Chicago; Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana NW

Keith Kirkpatrick, KPM Group & Executive Director, Leadership Northwest Indiana


facts about the society of innovators of northwest indiana - our fellows, members & chanute prize recipients

Individuals and Project Teams are nominated to The Society of Innovators. They are selected through a rigorous process by regional leaders who confer upon them the honor of Membership. Each Member receives a Certificate of Membership. Our purpose is to celebrate those among us who are distinguished by their capacity

to innovate so that we can encourage a “Region of Innovation.”

2009 - 2010

“The Society of Innovators celebrates the creativity and diversity ofNorthwest Indiana by seeking out and recognizing innovators from

all sectors of our economy who contribute to our quality of life.”

”Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana Northwest is proud to have launched The Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana with our Principal Partners listed below. Innovation is recognized as the lifeblood of organizations. The purpose of The Society of Innovators is to inspire innovation across all walks of life as our contribution to Making Indiana Great.” J. Guadalupe Valtierra, Chancellor

The Chanute Prize for Team Innovation is dedicated to promoting 21st Century innovation in the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors. It was created to honor the path-breaking glider flights of Octave Chanute and his team in 1896 whose historic flights helped get the Wright Brothers off the ground seven years later. The Chanute Prize is sponsored by Krieg DeVault Law Firm.

The Society selects up to six outstanding innovators each year as Fellows from among our Members. Our Fellows must live or work in Northwest Indiana and can be found across all walks of life. The innovation must demonstrate a new way, a different way, or a better way, and have a positive effect on our quality of life. ArcelorMittal sponsors the Fellow Awards. In the event a teacher rises to the level of a Fellow, The Center of Workforce Innovations sponsors this award.

The Society honors Gerald I. Lamkin who for over 40 years had the “cherished dream” of a truly comprehensive community college for Indiana, which has been realized today with Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana. It is with great pride and our hope to encourage future dreamers, visionaries, and innova-tors that we establish this regional award to be given for outstanding achievement in innovation and service to our community, region and world.

The purpose of The Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana is to 1) Celebrate Innovators, 2) Promote innovation across the seven countiesof Northwest Indiana, and 3) Encourage innovation across the generations.


Dear Business & Community Leader:

For nearly a quarter of a century, I have had the good fortune and great privilege to assist outstanding leaders in improving our quality of life in times of historic change. From the early days of the Northwest Indiana Forum to helping launch the Quality of Life Council to organizing The Society of Innovators with Ivy Tech NW, I have been a helper to leaders in regional initiatives to encourage fresh, imaginative and creative approaches. Many individuals and organizations have worked diligently for the greater good of Northwest Indiana through hard work, sacrifices and countless contributions.

During these years, I have experienced the consequences of at least three inflections. The first had occurred just before I returned to the region with the loss of thousands of steel worker jobs which adversely impacted workers who had depended for years on accessing steady jobs in the mills. This caused a loss of confidence and a negativity that infected our belief in ourselves and capacity to effect positive change. The second inflection occurred as the first wave of globalization led to hard choices to improve our efficiencies and effectiveness. No better example than when the five mills along our lakeshore became two giant mills. This continued to shrink our workforce, but also sustained and even improved our capacity in steelmaking as well as in other industries. Today, we are entering a time of hyper-change in which innovation can help find newer, better and faster ways to do business. Let us continue to put aside the old ways and become the “world-class” region envisioned in the “Dare to Dream…” initiative. This is led by the Gerald I. Lamkin Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center of Ivy Tech NW and supported by all 7 colleges and universities and other partners.

Today, there are 1000 stories of innovation in great and small ways in established as well as new industries. No more are we just a steel or refining economy, but an economy in which steel, refining and other traditional industries are showing the way through new and innovative approaches that embrace a skilled workforce that increasingly values education. There are also new and different industries taking their place in our economy. No surprise if you have been in business over the years, you are an innovator today! Still, we have much work to do to build this region and take the steps necessary to be globally competitive. Let innovative thinking be our beacon in the 21st century!

‘1000 stories of innovation in northwest indiana!’

John DaviesManaging DirectorSociety of Innovators of Northwest Indiana

“Let innovative thinking be our beacon in the21st century!”{ }


Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana Northwest joins with the Gerald I. Lamkin Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center and the Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana in saluting the forward-looking organizations below for hosting our “Innovators Café” over the past five years.

Our purpose has been to familiarize NWI leaders with out-of-the box thinking and innovation in all sectors in Northwest Indiana as we work toward becoming a “Region of Innovation.”

We thank these organizations and their leadership teams for hosting a “Café” and for generously encouraging innovative best practices while opening their doors to visitors in the spirit of celebrating outstanding creativity in

our workplaces:

thank you to 13 organizations for hosting ‘innovators cafes!’

April 11, 2006

May 25, 2006

September 14, 2006 January 25, 2007 May 31, 2007

September 20, 2007

January 10, 2008June 19, 2008

September 25, 2008

January 22, 2009 September 24, 2009 January 14, 2010 September 23, 2010


Frank Brummett is founder, BerylMartin, Griffith. On visiting his printing operation, a 747 cockpit can be seen on the exterior of the building. Frank was nominated for his “Feed

the Future” initiative hosting massive Christmas parties over several years free for thousands of urban children in Gary and East Chicago. These parties involved big name bands and legends such as the late Koko Taylor. He is perhaps better known for creating the near lifesize “Statue of Liberty.” More recently, he has launched a new funeral casket business nationwide. Frank is a former merchant seaman, entertainer, and entrepreneur. Congratulations to Frank Brummett!

Frank Brummett was nominated by Gayle Faulkner-Kosalko, retired Chamber Executive, a Governor for The Society, and a Fellow. “Frank has produced a program called ‘Feed the Future’ that is performed for the entire Gary and East Chicago school systems. He provides most of the money plus conceptualizes and directs the shows. He builds fabulous sets that go into school gyms and provides

age-appropriate gifts for each student at no cost to the school system. In addition, a number of students are randomly selected to receive a professional drum set or piano.”

Award sponsor: ArcelorMittal

Frank Brummett2009 – 2010 fellow the society of innovators of northwest indiana

society of innovators // cLass of 2009 & 2010

Gerald I. Lamkin Innovation & Entrepreneurship CenterIvy Tech Community College of Indiana Northwest

1-800-843-4882 Ext/ 4428

©2009 Bukva Imaging Group www.bukvaimaging.com

Dr. Peter Kesling2008-2009 fellow

Unity Foundation of LaPorte County

A Proud Supporter of Innovation

www.arcelormittal.com


T. Clifford Fleming, an attorney and developer, created the nation’s first green residential community – The Village in Burns Harbor. This community is visible on

I-80/94 by the brightly colored homes. Cliff was inspired by growing up in a Gary neighborhood. He realized that this neighborhood encouraged a “sense of community.” When he saw a 60-acre parcel available in Burns Harbor, he recognized the opportunity to create a community unlike any other. This new urban design community is located in a place many thought unusual, but he knew it was just right. His vision was an affordable, environmentally-sound community that would send a message that anything is possible in Northwest Indiana. The Village in Burns Harbor became the first development to be certified under the National Homebuilders Ansi-approved National Green Building Program. Congratulations to T. Clifford Fleming!

Cliff was nominated by Don Babcock, NIpSCo, and Bryce pickering, porter County Builders Association. “Cliff Fleming has set a benchmark for home and land development in Northwest Indiana. He has earned the distinction of becoming the first residential development in the nation to be certified under the

National Association of Homebuilders’ Ansi-approved National Green Building program. He has had another first: His development hosted the first-ever ‘Green Homes on parade.’”


society of innovators // class of 2009 & 2010

T. Clifford Fleming2009 – 2010 fellowthe society of innovators of northwest indiana

Cliff and Joyce Fleming

sarah H. Givens2008-2009 fellow


1-800-843-4882 Ext/ 4428




A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA COMPANY10 Education GuidE . MaRcH 12, 2010

Mark C. Kime is Director of Cardiology and Neuroscience at Porter Health, Valparaiso. He created several

medically-motivated inventions. The I-Cart™, along with the Endoscope Cleaner/Sterilizer, are both patented and sold to the medical market, including sales as far away as Australia. Porter has benefited from his “test site,” getting firsthand benefit of his innovative thinking. For example, as inventor of the I-Cart, this was designed to solve a problem. Several employees were facing job shifts because they were physically unable to move heavy equipment necessary to complete their jobs. He developed a device using an electric motor drive coupled with an accelerator that enabled employees to move large carts

—and even beds—easily. His I-Cart is helping many other employees worldwide. This became the world’s first detachable moving invention. Congratulations to Mark C. Kime!

Mark was nominated by Jonathan Nalli, CEo, porter Health. “Mark Kime uses his talent and imagination to make life better for patients and employees. His position has inspired Mark to create several medically-motivated inventions. No better example than his I–Cart in which he fashioned a device using an electric motor drive coupled with an accelerator that enabled employees to move large carts as easily as steering a wagon.”



Mark C. Kime2009 – 2010 fellow the society of innovators of northwest indiana


1-800-843-4882 Ext/ 4428


robert steingass2008-2009 fellow



A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TIMES MEDIA COMPANY Education GuidE . MaRcH 12, 2010 11

John “Jack” Moreland is visualization specialist for the Visualization Lab of Purdue University Calumet. Using technology, he helps unravel the complexities of problems affecting engineering, business and the sciences. He has collaborated on

projects that have allowed corporations to get people to think in a new way in seeing a problem or find a solution. Experts and novice alike step into a virtual world using 3D glasses and interact with computer-generated imagery that simulates data of complex industrial processes and concepts. Working with diverse organizations such as steelmakers and the European Space Agency, he draws on a unique combination of knowledge, human ingenuity, and the capacity to draw information from teams to solve real-world problems. Congratulations to John “Jack” Moreland!

He was nominated by Regina Biddings, purdue University Calumet, and Chenn Zhou, ph.D., who is also a Fellow in The Society. “Jack sees complex problems from engineering, business and the sciences on a daily basis. Using cutting edge visualization technology, he helps unravel the complexities of a given problem

and gets people to see things in a new way. Jack helps others—including faculty and students—see data in a more natural and intuitive way, helping them learn a new generation of immersive and 3D technologies .”



John “Jack” Moreland2009 – 2010 fellowthe society of innovators of northwest indiana


1-800-843-4882 Ext/ 4428


Lee Botts2008-2009 Gerald i. Lamkin fellow




A Driving ForceWith five hospital campuses, 47 affiliated clinic

locations, over 1,050 physicians and 5,900 employees, the Northern Indiana Region hospitals

of the Sisters of St. Francis are a driving force in healthcare today. Our hospitals are not only highly ranked by national ratings experts,

but they provide compassionate care guided by principle and mission. In 2008, we provided

over $142,650,000 in community benefits and will continue to work with all

the communities we serve with purpose and superior care.

Saint Anthony Medical Center, Crown Point • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Stroke – Eight Years in a Row (2003-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Hip Fracture Repair – Three Years in a Row (2008-2010) • Ranked

among the Top 5 in Indiana for Overall Orthopedic Services – 2010 • Recipient of the 2009 HealthGrades Patient Safety Excellence AwardTM • Ranked among the Top 5% in the Nation for Patient Safety – 2009

Saint Margaret Mercy Healthcare Centers, Hammond • Best in Gary, IN Region* and Only Specialty Excellence Award Recipient for Cardiac Surgery 2010 • Recipient of the 2010

HealthGrades Cardiac Surgery Excellence AwardTM • Ranked Among the Top 10% in the Nation for Cardiac Surgery – 2010 • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Overall Cardiac Services – Two Years

in a Row (2009-2010) • Ranked Among the Top 5 in IN for Cardiac Surgery - 2010 • Recipient of the 2009/10 HealthGrades Women’s Health Excellence Award™ – recognizing excellence in vascular,

cardiovascular, orthopedic, stroke and pulmonary care for women • Ranked Among the Top 5% in the Nation for Women’s Health – 2009/10 • Five-Star Rated for Women’s Health – 2009/10

Dyer and Hammond • Recipient of the HealthGrades Pulmonary Care Excellence Award™ – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) • Ranked Among the Top 10% in the

in a Row (2009-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of

Pneumonia – Three Years in a Row (2008-2010) • Received the Highest Possible Star Ratings for Treatment of Pneumonia – 2010 •

Saint Anthony Memorial, Michigan City • Recipient of the 2010 HealthGrades Gastrointestinal Surgery Excellence Award™ • Only Recipient of the 2010 HealthGrades

Gastrointestinal Surgery Excellence Award™ in the Region** • Ranked Among the Top 10% in the Nation for GI Surgery – 2010 • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN

for GI Services – 2010 • Ranked Among the Top 5 in IN for GI Surgery – 2010 • Five-Star Rated for GI Surgery – 2010 • Five-Star Rated for Cholecystectomy – 2010

Franciscan Physicians Hospital, Munster • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010)

Nation for Overall Pulmonary Services - Two Years in a Row (2009-

2010) • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Overall

Pulmonary Services – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) •

Dyer Campus • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Cardiology

Services – 2010 • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure – Four

Years in a Row (2007-2010) • Received the Highest Possible Star Ratings

for Treatment of Heart Failure – Three Years in a Row (2008-2010) •

Ranked Among the Top 15% in the Nation for

Treatment of Heart Failure – Three Years in a Row (2007-2009) •

Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Overall Cardiac Services – 2009 •

Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Cardiac Surgery – 2009 • Ranked

Among the Top 10% in the Nation for Overall Pulmonary Services –

Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for

Overall Pulmonary Services – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) •

Five-Star Rated for Overall Pulmonary Services – Two Years in a

Row (2009-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – Four Years in a Row (2007-

2010) • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Pneumonia – Two Years in a

Row (2009-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Hip Fracture Repair – Two Years

in a Row (2008-2009) • Ranked Among the Top 15% in the Nation

for Hip Fracture Repair – Two Years in a Row (2008-2009)

• Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Spine Surgery – 2009 •

Hammond Campus • Ranked Among the Top 5 in IN for

Cardiac Surgery – 2010 • Five-Star Rated for Coronary Bypass Surgery

– 2010 • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure – Three Years

in a Row (2008-2010) • Received the Highest Possible Star Ratings


Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Cardiology Services – 2009

• Five-Star Rated for Hip Fracture Repair – Five Years in a Row (2006-

2010) • Ranked Among the Top 15% in the Nation for Hip Fracture

Repair – Four Years in a Row (2006-2009) • Recipient of the Healt-

Grades Pulmonary Care Excellence Award™ – Two Years in a Row

(2009-2010) • Ranked Among the Top 5% in the Nation for Overall

Pulmonary Services – 2010 • Ranked Among the Top 5

in IN for Overall Pulmonary Services – 2010

• Five-Star Rated for Overall Pulmonary Services – Two Years

* As defined by the federal government’s Office of Management and Budget. **Region is Michigan City–LaPorte, IN as defined by the federal government’s Office of Management and Budget.

Sisters of St. Francis Health Services Northern Indiana Region

Leading the Way with Distinction

V I S I O N | I N N O V A T I O N | P R E C I S I O N For more information, call 219/933-2087

or visit www.smmhc.com

The da Vinci Si Surgical System, now available at St. Margaret Mercy’s Hammond Campus and at Saint Anthony Memorial Health Centers in Michigan City, and available through referral from the other hospitals in Sisters of St.

Francis Health Services Northern Indiana Region, consists of a sophisticated robotic platform that is designed to enable complex surgery using a minimally invasive approach.

According to the manufacturer, California-based Intuitive Surgical Inc., da Vinci Si consists of an ergonomic surgeon’s console, a patient-side cart with four interactive robotic arms, a high-performance 3-D HD vision system and proprietary EndoWrist instruments. Powered by state-of-the-art robotic technology, the da Vinci system is designed to scale, filter and seamlessly translate the surgeon’s hand movements into more precise movements of the EndoWrist instruments. The result is an intuitive interface with breakthrough surgical capabilities.

The system’s main features include Intuitive motion, high-resolution 3-D vision and the EndoWrist instrumentation. Intuitive motion refers to the System’s interface, which helps make da Vinci surgery look and feel like traditional “open” surgery. But this is where the similarities end.

A high-resolution 3-D stereo viewer is designed to provide surgeons with an immersive experience. Unlike conventional approaches, the target anatomy appears in high magnification, in brilliant color and with natural depth of field. To perform a procedure, the surgeon uses the console’s master controls to maneuver the patient-side cart’s four robotic arms, which securely hold the patented EndoWrist instruments and high-resolution endoscopic camera.

The EndoWrist instruments’ jointed-wrist design exceeds the natural range of motion of the human hand; motion scaling and tremor reduction further interpret and refine the surgeon’s hand movements. da Vinci also offers what it calls a fail-safe design, incorporating multiple, redundant safety features designed to minimize opportunities for human error when compared with traditional approaches.

da Vinci has been called a remarkable improvement over conventional laparoscopy, in which the surgeon operates while standing, using hand-held, long-shafted instruments, which have no wrists. With conventional laparoscopy, the surgeon must look up and away from the instruments to a nearby 2D video monitor to see an image of the target anatomy. The surgeon also must rely on his/her patient-side assistant to position the camera correctly.

In contrast, the da Vinci’s ergonomic design allows the

surgeon to operate from a seated position at the console. To move the instruments or to reposition the camera, the surgeon simply moves his/her hands.

da Vinci makes it possible for more surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures involving complex dissection or reconstruction. This ultimately raises the standard of care for complex surgeries, translating into numerous potential patient benefits.

The procedure, for which individual results may vary, allows patients potential benefits of a minimally invasive procedure, including less pain, less blood loss and less need for blood transfusions. It also can make for a shorter hospital stay, a quicker recovery and faster return to normal daily activities.

Doctors, patients see benefits from robotic technologyda Vinci Si Surgical System comes to Sisters of St. Francis Health Services Northern Indiana Region

Left photo (from left): Melissa Ortiz, RN; Sandi Christian, OR tech; Sally Pustai, RN/OR supervisor; Sara Velligan, OR tech; and charge nurse Kelly Mendez, RN; will assist surgeons during da Vinci procedures at Saint Margaret Mercy. Right photo (from left): Dr. Lisa Hendricks, Dr. Michael Messina and Dr. Alfred Pamintuan show the da Vinci unit at Saint Anthony Memorial Health Centers.

“Saint Anthony Memorial and the Sisters of St. Francis have always been most committed to women’s health. Another example of this commitment is the recent purchase of the da Vinci Surgical platform. This will allow more patients to undergo surgical procedures in a minimally invasive fashion, resulting in less pain, quicker recovery time and shorter disability time from place of employment. This is cutting-edge technology and as a regional health system, we remain at the forefront of women’s care”

Lisa Hendricks, MD, OB/GYN, Saint Anthony Memorial medical staff president

For more information about Sisters of

St. Francis Health Services Inc.,

visit www.ssfhs.org


A Driving ForceWith five hospital campuses, 47 affiliated clinic

locations, over 1,050 physicians and 5,900 employees, the Northern Indiana Region hospitals

of the Sisters of St. Francis are a driving force in healthcare today. Our hospitals are not only highly ranked by national ratings experts,

but they provide compassionate care guided by principle and mission. In 2008, we provided

over $142,650,000 in community benefits and will continue to work with all

the communities we serve with purpose and superior care.

Saint Anthony Medical Center, Crown Point • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Stroke – Eight Years in a Row (2003-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Hip Fracture Repair – Three Years in a Row (2008-2010) • Ranked

among the Top 5 in Indiana for Overall Orthopedic Services – 2010 • Recipient of the 2009 HealthGrades Patient Safety Excellence AwardTM • Ranked among the Top 5% in the Nation for Patient Safety – 2009

Saint Margaret Mercy Healthcare Centers, Hammond • Best in Gary, IN Region* and Only Specialty Excellence Award Recipient for Cardiac Surgery 2010 • Recipient of the 2010

HealthGrades Cardiac Surgery Excellence AwardTM • Ranked Among the Top 10% in the Nation for Cardiac Surgery – 2010 • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Overall Cardiac Services – Two Years

in a Row (2009-2010) • Ranked Among the Top 5 in IN for Cardiac Surgery - 2010 • Recipient of the 2009/10 HealthGrades Women’s Health Excellence Award™ – recognizing excellence in vascular,

cardiovascular, orthopedic, stroke and pulmonary care for women • Ranked Among the Top 5% in the Nation for Women’s Health – 2009/10 • Five-Star Rated for Women’s Health – 2009/10

Dyer and Hammond • Recipient of the HealthGrades Pulmonary Care Excellence Award™ – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) • Ranked Among the Top 10% in the

in a Row (2009-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of

Pneumonia – Three Years in a Row (2008-2010) • Received the Highest Possible Star Ratings for Treatment of Pneumonia – 2010 •

Saint Anthony Memorial, Michigan City • Recipient of the 2010 HealthGrades Gastrointestinal Surgery Excellence Award™ • Only Recipient of the 2010 HealthGrades

Gastrointestinal Surgery Excellence Award™ in the Region** • Ranked Among the Top 10% in the Nation for GI Surgery – 2010 • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN

for GI Services – 2010 • Ranked Among the Top 5 in IN for GI Surgery – 2010 • Five-Star Rated for GI Surgery – 2010 • Five-Star Rated for Cholecystectomy – 2010

Franciscan Physicians Hospital, Munster • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010)

Nation for Overall Pulmonary Services - Two Years in a Row (2009-

2010) • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Overall

Pulmonary Services – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) •

Dyer Campus • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Cardiology

Services – 2010 • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure – Four

Years in a Row (2007-2010) • Received the Highest Possible Star Ratings


Ranked Among the Top 15% in the Nation for

Treatment of Heart Failure – Three Years in a Row (2007-2009) •

Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Overall Cardiac Services – 2009 •

Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Cardiac Surgery – 2009 • Ranked

Among the Top 10% in the Nation for Overall Pulmonary Services –

Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) • Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for

Overall Pulmonary Services – Two Years in a Row (2009-2010) •

Five-Star Rated for Overall Pulmonary Services – Two Years in a

Row (2009-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – Four Years in a Row (2007-

2010) • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Pneumonia – Two Years in a

Row (2009-2010) • Five-Star Rated for Hip Fracture Repair – Two Years

in a Row (2008-2009) • Ranked Among the Top 15% in the Nation

for Hip Fracture Repair – Two Years in a Row (2008-2009)

• Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Spine Surgery – 2009 •

Hammond Campus • Ranked Among the Top 5 in IN for

Cardiac Surgery – 2010 • Five-Star Rated for Coronary Bypass Surgery

– 2010 • Five-Star Rated for Treatment of Heart Failure – Three Years

in a Row (2008-2010) • Received the Highest Possible Star Ratings


Ranked Among the Top 10 in IN for Cardiology Services – 2009

• Five-Star Rated for Hip Fracture Repair – Five Years in a Row (2006-

2010) • Ranked Among the Top 15% in the Nation for Hip Fracture

Repair – Four Years in a Row (2006-2009) • Recipient of the Healt-

Grades Pulmonary Care Excellence Award™ – Two Years in a Row

(2009-2010) • Ranked Among the Top 5% in the Nation for Overall

Pulmonary Services – 2010 • Ranked Among the Top 5

in IN for Overall Pulmonary Services – 2010

• Five-Star Rated for Overall Pulmonary Services – Two Years

* As defined by the federal government’s Office of Management and Budget. **Region is Michigan City–LaPorte, IN as defined by the federal government’s Office of Management and Budget.

Sisters of St. Francis Health Services Northern Indiana Region

Leading the Way with Distinction

V I S I O N | I N N O V A T I O N | P R E C I S I O N For more information, call 219/933-2087

or visit www.smmhc.com

The da Vinci Si Surgical System, now available at St. Margaret Mercy’s Hammond Campus and at Saint Anthony Memorial Health Centers in Michigan City, and available through referral from the other hospitals in Sisters of St.

Francis Health Services Northern Indiana Region, consists of a sophisticated robotic platform that is designed to enable complex surgery using a minimally invasive approach.

According to the manufacturer, California-based Intuitive Surgical Inc., da Vinci Si consists of an ergonomic surgeon’s console, a patient-side cart with four interactive robotic arms, a high-performance 3-D HD vision system and proprietary EndoWrist instruments. Powered by state-of-the-art robotic technology, the da Vinci system is designed to scale, filter and seamlessly translate the surgeon’s hand movements into more precise movements of the EndoWrist instruments. The result is an intuitive interface with breakthrough surgical capabilities.

The system’s main features include Intuitive motion, high-resolution 3-D vision and the EndoWrist instrumentation. Intuitive motion refers to the System’s interface, which helps make da Vinci surgery look and feel like traditional “open” surgery. But this is where the similarities end.

A high-resolution 3-D stereo viewer is designed to provide surgeons with an immersive experience. Unlike conventional approaches, the target anatomy appears in high magnification, in brilliant color and with natural depth of field. To perform a procedure, the surgeon uses the console’s master controls to maneuver the patient-side cart’s four robotic arms, which securely hold the patented EndoWrist instruments and high-resolution endoscopic camera.

The EndoWrist instruments’ jointed-wrist design exceeds the natural range of motion of the human hand; motion scaling and tremor reduction further interpret and refine the surgeon’s hand movements. da Vinci also offers what it calls a fail-safe design, incorporating multiple, redundant safety features designed to minimize opportunities for human error when compared with traditional approaches.

da Vinci has been called a remarkable improvement over conventional laparoscopy, in which the surgeon operates while standing, using hand-held, long-shafted instruments, which have no wrists. With conventional laparoscopy, the surgeon must look up and away from the instruments to a nearby 2D video monitor to see an image of the target anatomy. The surgeon also must rely on his/her patient-side assistant to position the camera correctly.

In contrast, the da Vinci’s ergonomic design allows the

surgeon to operate from a seated position at the console. To move the instruments or to reposition the camera, the surgeon simply moves his/her hands.

da Vinci makes it possible for more surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures involving complex dissection or reconstruction. This ultimately raises the standard of care for complex surgeries, translating into numerous potential patient benefits.

The procedure, for which individual results may vary, allows patients potential benefits of a minimally invasive procedure, including less pain, less blood loss and less need for blood transfusions. It also can make for a shorter hospital stay, a quicker recovery and faster return to normal daily activities.

Doctors, patients see benefits from robotic technologyda Vinci Si Surgical System comes to Sisters of St. Francis Health Services Northern Indiana Region

Left photo (from left): Melissa Ortiz, RN; Sandi Christian, OR tech; Sally Pustai, RN/OR supervisor; Sara Velligan, OR tech; and charge nurse Kelly Mendez, RN; will assist surgeons during da Vinci procedures at Saint Margaret Mercy. Right photo (from left): Dr. Lisa Hendricks, Dr. Michael Messina and Dr. Alfred Pamintuan show the da Vinci unit at Saint Anthony Memorial Health Centers.

“Saint Anthony Memorial and the Sisters of St. Francis have always been most committed to women’s health. Another example of this commitment is the recent purchase of the da Vinci Surgical platform. This will allow more patients to undergo surgical procedures in a minimally invasive fashion, resulting in less pain, quicker recovery time and shorter disability time from place of employment. This is cutting-edge technology and as a regional health system, we remain at the forefront of women’s care”

Lisa Hendricks, MD, OB/GYN, Saint Anthony Memorial medical staff president

For more information about Sisters of

St. Francis Health Services Inc.,

visit www.ssfhs.org


Mike Sanders is President of CPX Inc., of Kentland Indiana, which is one of Newton Counties largest employers. Mike

came from humble beginnings. He ‘grew up’ visiting the city dump and collecting parts to make go carts. He gained a passion to learn and a tenacity to succeed. Perhaps his best known story happened years ago when as a young tool and die maker he proved to GM engineers how to manufacture a part that they had designed but couldn’t figure out how to make. His company got the business! More recently, he solved a problem in his own company causing 30% waste that involved injecting a decoration label on GE washers. Though the solution eluded engineers, he figured out that air was being trapped under the label. So he had a brush installed on robotic arms to squeeze out air. This has become standard practice in the industry. Mike’s capacity to solve complex problems is almost legendary in Newton County. Congratulations to Mike Sanders!

He was nominated by Larry K. Dowty, Kentland Bank. “Mike learned to ‘think outside the box’ long before that became a cliché phrase. He never understood that some things just weren’t supposed to be possible so he was never discouraged about taking on projects that other thoughts to be unobtainable. In his early career, Mike devised a way to manufacture a part

that Detroit engineers said was impossible to do, particularly by someone with no more extensive background, education and experience as Mike. He proved them wrong and they left scratching their heads!”



Mike Sanders2009 – 2010 fellow the society of innovators of northwest indiana


1-800-843-4882 Ext/ 4428


alan Harre2008-2009 fellow




Patrick A. Wilkins is founder and president of Boss Industries, LaPorte. His company introduced a rotary screw PTO air compressor integrated within a truck chassis

that is safe, dependable and practical for the underground utility industry. He took an existing technology and took it to the next level creating benefits to the utilities industry that includes less equipment, lower liability, improved safety, and savings. Traditional air compressors are typically pulled behind trucks or dangling from cranes, and are free standing units. By contrast, the Boss compressor is built into the truck chassis. This has reduced the “footprint” on the job site because less equipment is required by the utility. Today, Boss Industries has 60% of all rotary screw PTO compressor sales to the utility and municipal markets. Headquartered in LaPorte, this corporate facility is a state-of-the-art complex with over 50,000 square feet. Today, Boss innovations are found on every continent. Congratulations to Patrick A. Wilkins!

He was nominated by Maggi Spartz, president, Unity Foundation of Laporte County and a Governor for The Society. “patrick Wilkins has successfully taken an existing technology and is innovative in applying it to new applications and meeting needs of their customers worldwide. patrick has been innovative in three fundamental ways: 1) to start his own company in his 30’s based upon his dream for the future; 2) to get the right people on the bus in the right seats and

keep them dedicated to the vision—especially a trusted and competent brother paul; and 3) solving his customer’s complex problems. one innovation saved workers from injuring themselves on the job.”



Patrick A. Wilkins2009 – 2010 fellowthe society of innovators of northwest indiana


1-800-843-4882 Ext/ 4428


richard Bender2008-2009 fellow


Patrick Wilkins with model of PTO rotary screw air compressor.



The co-recipient of the Chanute Prize is the ArcelorMittal Global R&D Team, North America based

in East Chicago that helped develop the advanced high strength steel hydroformed structures project. This enabled Ford to engineer the 2009 F-150 truck with a new hydroformed steel body structure that included an industry-first use of tubular ultra-high strength steel, earning a top safety rating. This collaborative effort by multi-disciplinary teams involved Ford, ArcelorMittal and Vari-Form in the United States and Canada, which led to the development of the second generation reverse mechanism body structure design for trucks. This project earned the Henry Ford Technology Award, effectively utilizing ArcelorMittal’s advanced steels meeting or exceeding FMVSS 216 requirements for roof crush resistance. This also earned new business for the Indiana Harbor Plant in East Chicago. Congratulations to the ArcelorMittal Global R&D, North America Team!

The ArcelorMittal Global R&D Team, North America based in East Chicago was nominated by engineer Ravir Bhatnagar. “Demonstrating expertise in materials and applications technology, ArcelorMittal R&D executed several enabling technology projects to help Ford engineer the 2009 F–150 truck, with an all-new hydroformed steel body structure including an industry-first use of tubular ultra-high strength steel. The all-new body shell structure is more weight efficient and easier to manufacturer.”

Award sponsor: Krieg DeVault Law Firm


ArcelorMittal Global R&D Team, North America co-recipient of the chanute prize for team innovation


The co-recipient of the Chanute Prize for Team Innovation is Fair Oaks Farms. This remarkable destination is

owned by 9 families who operate 10 dairies, with 450 employees and 100 employees who staff the Dairy Adventure Center. It is the largest dairy farm in the United States and the premier agricultural destination in Indiana that attracts 400,000 visitors a year. At a time when most Americans no longer have an opportunity to visit a farm, Fair Oaks Farms offers a wonderful opportunity. Its uniqueness is not only celebrated as a ‘showcase’ for agriculture, but Fair Oaks Farms is also visited by leading business organizations that want to learn about Fair Oaks’ leading energy and environmental features. Fair Oaks Farms has upwards of 25,000 acres and 32,000 cows. Launched in 1998, it was established by dairy farmers who relocated here from out west because this location met the objectives of a business model for a dairy to be successful in the 21st century. Congratulations to the Fair Oaks Farms Team!

Fair Oaks Farms was nominated by Jennifer Whaley, Director, Economic Development, Newton County. “FOF is an approved component of the National Dairy Farmer promotion program and represents Indiana’s largest agri-tourism destination. These are large dairy operations, each barn a quarter of a mile long, but thanks to this investment

at Fair Oaks, children, adults and families can re-connect with agriculture, which remains one of Indiana’s and the nation’s most important industries.”

Award sponsor: Krieg DeVault Law Firm


Fair Oaks Farmsco-recipient of the chanute prize for team innovation


1-800-843-4882 Ext/ 4428

©2009 Bukva Imaging Groupwww.bukvaimaging.com

The Chanute Prizefor Team Innovation

for 2008-2009!

community Healthcare system


Robert Koval, Principal, Evans Elementary School, Lake StationHe led a six-year initiative that turned an asphalt area into an award-winning outdoor environmental classroom.

Leon Dombrowski, Accucraft Imaging, Hammond He launched interchangeable signage, filling a void with adaptable, affordable, and accessible products.

David Cook, Hoosier Bat, Valparaiso This co-owner invented, patented and manufactured a more durable wood bat made of an ash handle, hickory hitting area and soft maple on the barrel end, giving more durability in the hitting area.

Denise Koebcke, Media Specialist, Jefferson Middle School, Valparaiso She launched the Team Lead Program that encourages student leadership among bystanders to cope with bullying behavior.

Myra Spearman, Gary This survivor of domestic violence for 18 years launched “The Weaker Vessel,” the nation’s only online data base of domestic violence abusers to save lives and prevent domestic abuse.

Mary Hunter, Gary This grandmother invented “Mary’s Marinating Stick” to enhance the flavor of meat that is now available to chefs throughout the country which solved the problem of overnight marinating.

John P. Hodson, Kouts He launched a longterm R&D project between the Kankakee Valley Historical Society and the Department of Anthropology at the University of Notre Dame with a unique grassroots focus using archaelogy to help preserve and interpret local history.

T. Clifford Fleming, Village in Burns Harbor - Fellow He launched the first residential development in the nation to be certified under the National Homebuilders Green Building Program next to steel mills and interstates.

Robert Rivers, Ph.D., Purdue University Calumet Dr. Rivers, Dean School of Education, launched a curriculum called “Mission Ocean, Exploration Earth” for middle school students featuring deep-sea submarine research and research computer simulation in three states.

Dan Plath, Westville He created new ways to explore Northwest Indiana through underutilized waterways and launched the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association, including the Burnham to Marquette Water Trail Expedition.

Thomas E. Carroll, President, Lakeshore Public TV & Radio He brought a new energy to the station, making Lakeshore a unifying force to regionalism and connecting people, ideas, and information through

multiple media, including public radio.

John (Jack) Moreland, Visualization Specialist, Purdue University Calumet - Fellow He uses cutting edge visualization technology to better understand complex challenges from engineering, business, and the sciences that help unravel daunting problems and inspire people to see things in a new way.

Mark C. Kime, Director, Cardiology & Neurology, Porter Health - Fellow He makes life better for patients and employees, creating several inventions used in other states and countries such as the world’s first single-wheel movable machine.

Bart J. Wolf, Ph.D., Director, Department of Geography and Meterology, Valparaiso University He created a scientifically rigorous and nationally recognized meterology program for students, including the annual storm-chasing trips to the Great Plains.

David J. Saylor, President, Utility Services Corporation, Valparaiso He patented technology to isolate restrictions in collection systems and help small communities rehabilitate their storm sewer and sanitary collection systems at a much lower cost.

Diha Feije, Ph.D., President, Euclid Diagnostics, LLC This business is developing methodologies to detect gene-specific technology to reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies performed for routine prostrate cancer screening.

Patrick A. Wilkins, President, Boss Industries, LaPorte - Fellow His company introduced a rotary screw PTO air compressor system integrated within a truck chassis that was safe, dependable and practical for the underground utility industry.

Robin Bisseker, President True Blue Pool Products, Valparaiso He launched “Pool Python,” a patented pool skimming device that

northwest indiana innovators2009 - 2010 members of the society of innovators of northwest indiana

2009 - 2010

“The Society of Innovators celebrates the creativity and diversity of

Northwest Indiana by seeking out and recognizing innovators from

all sectors of our economy who contribute to our quality of life.”

members


reduces energy consumption, water consumption and chemical usage for cleaning swimming pools.

Carvel Hoffman, retired engineer, ArcelorMittal Global R&D, East Chicago He engineered first-in-the-world products, including the first tomographic sheet profile gauge for measuring modern steels that was inspired by how astronomers look at objects.

Steve Douglas, retired art instructor, North Newton High School, Morocco His creative techniques such as the recreation of “Whooville” out of pottery sparked student’s interest, promoted reading, and encouraged scholarship.

Reggie Flesvig, Porter Township Schools He uses “technology innovation” as a method of engaging students in authentic learning practices, tapping into digital experiences to help underachieving students.

Gregory Simms, Sr., a teacher at Washington Township High School He integrates history into his teaching, such as creating a dodgeball game that simulated World War II that became a highly popular and an interactive teaching tool.

Elizabeth Ridenour, a teacher at Kesling Middle School, LaPorte She launched the Dino Dig curriculum in which student “palentologists” dig up “dino” artificats from three tons of sand to study science in her classroom.

W. Dennis Hodges, Merrillville His advocacy in encouraging 21st century high speed passenger travel through the Indiana High Speed Rail Association.

Robert Vellines, Jr., Gary He created a ground fault circuit interrupter for swimming pools that

is designed to shut off a circulation pump motor in a drain using sensors to save lives.

Mike Sanders, President, CPX Plastics, Kentland - Fellow His “out of the box thinking” has made him almost legendary for coming up with solutions that have even stumped GM engineers and helped make his company one of the largest employers in Newton County.

Mark Reshkin, Ph.D., Valparaiso He did pioneering work, not only as a geologist, but also with Lee Botts in co-founding the Indiana Dunes Environmental Learning Center and the Quality of Life Council.

Kristin Sievers-Banks, Scott Middle School, Hammond This Teacher of the Year as recognized by the LakeShore Chamber of Commerce uses innovative techniques to help students grasp science.

Jason Lenig, Teacher, New Rolling Prairie High School He launched a new patented baseball called “Hitters Eye” for training pitchers that represents “the only idea accepted from the outside every 5 years” by Rawlings Sports Corporation.

team membersJupiter Oxygen Corporation, Hammond This company invented a high flame temperature combustion heat transfer technology working with the DOE National Energy Technology Laboratory that saves fuel, reduces carbon emissions, and cuts fossil fuel usage in recycling aluminum products.

Highland Redevelopment Commission, Highland The Bult Oil Phytoremediation Project involved the planting of poplar trees on the site of the refinery, a brownfield development strategy that cleaned up

the site at one quarter of the cost of other remediation.

Dage – MTI, Michigan City John and Peggy Moore, co-owners, turned around the oldest camera manufacturer in the United States in a two-year initiative to develop the “next generation” digital camera for microscopes by laboratories around the world for bio/medical research and other uses.

Wristband Safety Project, School of Nursing, Purdue University Calumet A capstone course for nursing students launched a statewide color-coded system for patient identification with the help of Northwest Indiana Hospitals and the Indiana Hospital Association that standardizes wristband colors for patients to save lives.Fair Oaks Farms, Newton County

– Chanute Prize Co-Recipient Fair Oaks Farms developed a 21st century business model that includes educating the public through the Dairy Adventure Center and developing a “closed loop” system that includes utilizing cow waste products as a “green” strategy for biomass energy.

Advanced High Strength Steel Project – Chanute Prize Co-Recipient ArcelorMittal Global R&D in East Chicago was involved in a three-company project in two countries to develop a new hydroformed steel body structure earning a top safety rating for the 2009 Ford F-150 truck.

Building and enhancing community and business investmentin workforce, education, and economic development

Optimizing Talent, Strengthening Communities


This insert is dedicated to individuals and teams working in organizations, communities and government to make the seven counties of Northwest Indiana a “Region of Innovation” in the 21st Century!

Innovation! let innovation be our beacon of the future

M E D I A C O M P A N Y


2009 - 2010 FellowsT. Clifford FlemingAttorney & DeveloperVillage in Burns Harbor

Mark KimeDirector of Cardiology and Neurology, Porter HealthValparaiso

John “Jack” Moreland Visualization Specialist, Purdue University CalumetHammond

Frank BrummettPresident, BerylMartinGriffith

Mike SandersPresident, CPX, IncKentland

Patrick A. WilkinsPresident, Boss Industries LaPorte

Chanute Prize for Team Innovation Co-RecipientAdvanced High Strength Steel Project for Ford F-150 TruckArcelorMittal Global R&D, East Chicago

Chanute Co-RecipientFair Oaks Farms, Fair Oaks

MeMbeRsW. Dennis Hodges Indiana High Speed RailMerrillville

Robert Koval, PrincipalEvans Elementary SchoolLake Station

Mark Reshkin, Ph.D. Professor EmeritusValparaiso

Kristan Sievers-BanksScott Middle SchoolHammond

Steve Douglas (retired)North Newton High School Warsaw

David CookHoosier Bat CompanyValparaiso

Denise KoebckeThomas Jefferson Middle School, Valparaiso

Reggie FlesvigPorter Township SchoolsValparaiso

Myra SpearmanThe Weaker Vessel, Gary

Robert J. Vellines, Jr.Gary

Mary Hunter, Gary

Leon DombrowskiAccucraft, Hammond

John HodsonKankakee Valley Historical Society, Kouts

Gregory J. Simms Sr.Washington Township High School, Valparaiso

Robert Rivers, Ph.D.Purdue University CalumetHammond

Elizabeth RidenourKesling Middle SchoolLaPorte

Dan PlathNorthwest Indiana Paddling Association, Westville

Thomas E. CarrollLakeshore Public Television & Radio, Merrillville

Bart Wolf, PhD.Department of Geography and Meteorlogy, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso

David SaylorPresident, Utility Services Corporation, Valparaiso

Diha Freije, Ph.D.Euclid Diagnostics LLC Purdue Technology Center, Crown Point

Jason J. LenigNew Prairie School Corporation, New Carlisle

Robin BissekerTrue Blue Pool Products, LLCValparaiso

Carvel D. Hoffman (retired)ArcelorMittal Global R&DEaston, PA

TeaM MeMbeRsJupiter Oxygen CorporationMark Schoenfield, Hammond

Wristband Safety Project Janet LandrumSchool of Nursing, Purdue University Calumet

Dage – MTIJohn and Peggy MooreMichigan City

PhytoremediationCecile L. PetroHighland Redevelopment Commission, Town of Highland

Fair Oaks Farms Gary Corbett, PresidentJulie A. BasichGeneral ManagerFair Oaks, IN

Advanced High Strength, Hydro-Formed Structures Project – F-150 TruckRichard Sussman, Ph.D.General ManagerArcelorMittal Global R&DEast ChicagoRavir S Bhatnagar

Platform Manager, Product ApplicationsArcelorMittal Global R&DEast Chicago

2008 – 2009FellowsLee Botts – Gerald I. Lamkin Fellow, EnvironmentalistGary

Richard Bender Science Teacher Thomas Jefferson Middle School, Valparaiso

Alan Harre, Ph.D.Retired PresidentValparaiso UniversityValparaiso

Dr. Peter C. Kesling, D.D.S., Sc.D., Orthodontist, LaPorte

Robert Steingass Director of ResearchTask Force Tips, Valparaiso

Sarah H. GivensPrincipal, Banneker Achievement Center, Gary

Chanute Prize RecipientCommunity Healthcare System, “Breast Care: Same Day Results” ProjectMunster

MeMbeRsGeoff AndersonCalumet College of Saint Joseph, Whiting

Jeremy WilliamsMerrillville Intermediate School, Merrillville

Robert Beigh“Project Lead the Way”Portage High SchoolPortage

Chief Michael BricknerValparaiso Police Department, Valparaiso

Frank Brummett President, BerylMartinGriffith

Mike BucyRed Devil Training, Portage

Chancellor James D. Dworkin, Ph.D., Purdue North Central, Westville

Lincoln EllisBoys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana, Gary

Michelle GoldenBooks, Brushes and Bands Hammond

Gary GrayValparaiso High SchoolValparaiso

Joe GrossbauerGGNet & The Grossbauer Group, Chesterton

Indra Gupta, Ph.D.(retired), ArcelorMittal Global R&DMunster

Judge Mary HarperPorter County Circuit CourtValparaiso

Richard Hengst, Ph.D. Purdue University North Central, Westville

Dean KaesbierCo-Alliance LLPDanville

Eric Kundich Science TeacherEast Chicago Public SchoolEast Chicago

Carolyn Langlie-LesnikNurse, Crown Point

Daniel Lowery, Ph.D.Calumet College of Saint Joseph

U.S. Senator Richard LugarWashington, D.C.

Larry McAfee, DVM(North Central Veterinary Emergency Center)McAfee Animal HospitalValparaiso

Akilia McCainOpera Singer, Gary

Robert J. McShane First Precision LLCPurdue Technology CenterCrown Point

Gus Olympidis Family Express, Valparaiso

Dick Parrette President, Packaging LogicLaPorte

Kathi PavlouTickelbug Baby Changing KitHobart

Michael RippeyArcelorMittal U.S.A.Burns Harbor

Frank SchillingShrine of Christ’s PassionSt. John

Dean Schroeder, Ph.D.Associate Dean & Director of College of Business AdministrationValparaiso UniversityValparaiso

Donna Spivak TeacherGrimmer Middle SchoolSchererville

Era TwymanGary Literacy CoalitionGary

Jim WalkerKing Headz, Inc., Valparaiso

Floyd Williams Corsair GraphicsGary

Jon Ziulkowski Resident of PortageSwift Enterprise, Ltd.West Lafayette

Greg Karas Science TeacherParkview Elementary SchoolValparaiso

Thomas M. McDermott, Jr. College Bound ProgramMayor, City of HammondHammond

TeaM MeMbeRsArcelorMittal Global R&DRichard Sussman, Ph.D.General ManagerEast Chicago

Bird-Brain Brother Birdhouses, Nickolas & Andrew MendozaMerrillville

Chanute Aquatorium SocietyGreg Reising, Gary

EDIS, Edgewater Systems for Balanced Living Danita Johnson-Hughes Gary

Great Lakes/St. Lawrence River Water Resources CompactKay NelsonNorthwest Indiana ForumPortage

Hilltop Housing Partnership for FamiliesPaul Schreiner Valparaiso

Larry BaasValparaiso UniversityValparaiso

“I Need a Hug Program” – Valparaiso University Girls Softball TeamRandy Schneider, CoachDepartment of AthleticsValparaiso University

George Rogers Clark MS/HS George Zimniak, English Teacher

Kozy Team, Whiting

Lundquist CNB Race TeamCharlie & Cindy LundquistHebron

Portage Lakefront Park & RiverwalkMayor Olga G. VelazquezCity of Portage

Constantine DillonSuperintendentIndiana Dunes National LakeshorePorter

Jones Elementary School Mitch Miller, Principal Promote Summer Writing for Kids, Portage

South Haven Elementary School Reading SpecialistsTammy Zack, Casandra Green & Connie White

Sucromalt Operations TeamJim Fritz, Hammond

Community Healthcare System “Breast Care: Same Day Results”John Gorski, Senior Vice President, Hospital OperationsDr. Mary NicholsonDr. Brenda EriksenMylinda CaneMunster

Whiting Shared ServicesDr. Sandra MartinezSuperintendent, Whiting

Structured Learning Staff Joian Machuca, Assistant DirectorWest Lake Special Education Cooperative, Schererville

2007 - 2008Fellows Shirley CaylorThe Crisis Center, Gary

Roman Dziarski, Ph.D.IUN School of Medicine, Gary

Bill KeithSunRise Solar, St. John

Johnny Mathis, Jr.Livemercial, Valparaiso

Ivan Nesch, Ph.D.Nesch LLCPurdue Technology CenterCrown Point

Emerson SpartzHarry Potter Website, LaPorte

Chanute Prize for Team InnovationCo-Recipient Application of Lean Six SigmaSisters of Saint Francis, Northern Indiana RegionHammond

Eugene C. DiamondRegional President

Chris Vanni, Regional Director of Performance

Co-Recipient Team Hammond RoboticsSponsored by Bemcor Division of Beatty International Inc.In FIRST Competition

William BeattyPresident, Beatty BemcorHammond

MeMbeRsLarry AltMerrillville

Bala ArshanagalapalliIndiana University Northwest,Gary

Mitch BarlogaNorthwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, Portage

Pinaken Chaubal, Ph.D. (retired)ArcelorMittal Global R&DEast Chicago

Chancellor Howard Cohen, Ph.D. , Purdue University Calumet, Hammond

Eugene DiamondRegional PresidentNorthern Indiana RegionSSFHS,Hammond

Paul Hannah, M.D., Gary

Charles HughesExecutive DirectorGary Chamber of CommerceGary

Judy JacobiPurdue University North Central, Westville

J. Christoph LichtenfeldIndiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Porter

Ludmilla LudkovskyBeverly Shores

Stewart McMillanPresident, Task Force Tips

Rev. Stephan K. MunseyFamily Christian CenterMunster

Robert Palumbo, Ph.D.Valparaiso UniversityGellerson College of Engineering, Valparaiso

Dave ParryMichigan City

Art RabyFind A Buyer, Inc. Valparaiso

Shawn-Kristin ReynoldsSchererville

Janice TazbirPurdue University CalumetSchool of NursingHammond

Doug Tougaw, Ph.D.,Valparaiso UniversityGellerson College of Engineering, Valparaiso

Dennis Trinkle, Ph.D.Indianapolis

Julie ZazadaCedar Lake

Teams Recognized for Innovation Traffic Routing and Control SystemsRobert WichlinksiPurdue Technology CenterCrown Point

2006 - 2007FellowsGreg Ludkovsky, Ph.D. – Gerald I. Lamkin FellowArcelorMittal Global R & DEast Chicago

Arie Donkersloot, Sr. – Gerald I. Lamkin Fellow, LaPorte

Daniel HayesHealthcall, Purdue Technology Center, Crown Point

Gayle Faukner – Kosalko (retired)Whiting/Robertdale ChamberWhiting

Brandon Griffin For Young Entrepreneurs, By Young Entrepreneurs (FYEBYE), Purdue University Calumet

Robert Cornwell, M.D. Fairfield, IL

MeMbeRsMike McCloskeyFair Oaks FarmsFair Oaks, IN

U.S. Cong. Peter J. ViscloskyWashington, D.C.

Kevin NightengaleArc Bridges, Gary

William BeattyPresident, Beatty BemcorHammond

Mark Wellensiek ArcelorMittalEast Chicago

Joi Patterson, Ph.D.Calumet College of St. Joseph, Whiting

David CieplyValparaiso

Ken JaniaSargent ElectricEast Chicago

Ross PangereRoss Group, Portage

Richard Barnes, Ph.D.Hokey Spokes InternationalGary

Don PowersBriar Ridge, Schererville

Michael E. SchragePresident & CEOCentier CentreMerrillville

Sen. Edward CharbonneauValparaiso

Cal BellamyKrieg-DeVaultSchererville

America L. McAlpinValparaiso

Herb Bigelow BeeHive HangersSt. John

Bob WichlinskiPurdue Technology CenterCrown Point

Gary MitchellOpportunity EnterprisesValparaiso

Bill WellmanSenior Vice PresidentCommunicationsWhiteco IndustriesMerrillville

Mary L. WellnitzCEO, Figment GroupLaPorte

Tom GryzbekPresident, St. Margaret Mercy Heath Care, Hammond

Linda WoloshanksyCenter of Workforce InnovationsValparaiso

Kelly ManningKnox High SchoolKnox

Roger D. SimsSims Professional EngineersHighland

Diana Underwood-Gregg, Ph.D., Purdue University CalumetHammond

2005 – 2006FellowsRichard L. MarrellRLM ProstheticsValparaiso

Panayotis Iatridis, M.D., D.Sc.Zionsville

Chenn Zhou, Ph. D.College of EngineeringPurdue University CalumetHammond

Mark SpencerWest Side Theater GuildGary

Penny Yelkovac Teacher (retired)Flint Lake School Valparaiso

Christopher KlocekGriffith

members of the society of innovators


teachers inducted into the society• Kristin Sievers-Banks, Scott Middle School, Hammond• Steve Douglas, North Newton High School, Morroco (retired)• Reggie Flesvig, Porter Township Schools, Boone Township

High School, Valparaiso• Greg Simms, Sr., Washington Township High School, Valparaiso• Jason Lenig, New Prairie High School, New Carlisle• Robert Beigh, Teacher, Portage High School – Project Lead the Way• Eric Kundich, Science Teacher, West Side Jr. High School, East Chicago• Jeremy Williams, Merrillville Intermediate School• Gary Gray, Engineering/Technology, Valparaiso University• Greg Karas, Science Teacher, Parkview Elementary School• Richard Bender, Science Teacher, Thomas Jefferson Middle School• Elizabeth Ridenour, Kesling Middle School, LaPorte• Donna Spivak, Teacher, Grimmer Middle School, Schererville• Penny Yelkovac, Flint Lake School, Valparaiso (retired)

The Society of Innovators welcomes nominations from all walks of life for individuals and project teams in the seven counties of Northwest Indiana: Jasper, Lake, LaPorte, Newton, Porter, Pulaski and Starke Counties.

seeking nominations for the 2010 – 2011 innovation awards, including nominations for teachers

The Newspaper in Education Department of The Times proudly joins with Ivy Tech NW, The Society of Innovators, and the Center of Workforce Innovations (CWI) to encourage educators to nominate innovative teachers for the 2010 -2011 Innovation Awards.

It is important to note that all professions are eligible for nomination. If a teacher is nominated and

rises to the level of a Fellow, this teacher can be inducted as a Fellow in The Society. This teacher will then receive an award sponsored by CWI. The award consists of a $500 cash award and a plaque. The teacher’s school will also be recognized. All other awards for Fellows are sponsored by ArcelorMittal. Nominations for teachers in the 7-county region open early on April 15, 2010.

NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR ALL INDIVIDuALS AND PROJECT TEAMS : MAY 12 TO JuLY 15, 2010*

to submit a nomination:www.ivytech.edu/northwestTo nominate a teacher starting April 15th, remember that nominations

are only accepted online. To make your nomination and receive your confirmation number, go

to Ivy Tech NW’s home page at www.ivytech.edu/northwest and look for the flashing light blub at the bottom of the page. Click on the “Call for Nominations” form link and follow instructions. For questions, call O’Merrial Butchee at (219) 981-4942 or John Davies at (219) 981- 1111, Ext. 2292.

The principal Sponsors of The Society of Innovators of

Northwest Indiana are: ArcelorMittal, Bukva

Imaging, Horseshoe Casino, Ivy Tech NW, Krieg DeVault Law Firm, and The Times Media Company.

two teachers inducted as fellows For 2008 – 2009, Richard Bender, an 8th grade science teacher at Thomas Jefferson Middle School in Valparaiso, was selected as a Fellow as one of the “winningest” coaches in Regional and National Science Olympiad Competition. Then for 2005 – 2006, Penny Yelkovac, a retired teacher from Flint Lake Elementary School in Valparaiso, was also inducted as a Fellow. She inspired generations of children as a teacher whose students still consider her the most influential teacher in their lives. Also, a number of teachers have been nominated and inducted as Members in The Society of Innovators.

*Teachers across NWI can be nominated starting April 15, 2010


thank you to our principal sponsorsIt is through their leadership and support in which the light of innovation continues to gleam in Northwest Indiana and beyond.


the society of innovators

presents

pride & pedestalpass the torch of innovation

M E D I A C O M P A N Y

Join us for keynote remarks from Society Member Stewart McMillan, President, Task Force Tips. He will talk about innovation as vital to the growth and survival of organizations today.

After this presentation, we are inviting 10 Innovators to showcase their innovations “on stage!” Each Member will have three minutes to share his or her innovation. At the conclusion of these presentations, the audience will participate in a robust networking event on both floors of the theater. Each speaker will demonstrate “pride” in the spark of ingenuity, and then display his or her innovation on a symbolic “pedestal.” This will allow our audience to interact with our Presenters, learn from one another and encourage more innovation in Northwest Indiana!

Admission: Free to Members, $10 each general public. Tickets only sold in advance. Please make checks payable to the Ivy Tech Foundation and send to 1440 E. 35th Avenue Gary, IN 46409. Cash bar and Hors d’ouevres provided.

RSVP (219) 981-4942 or at [email protected] on or before April 2, 2010.

APRIL 8, 2010 | 5:30 to 8 p.m. TOWLE THEATER | 5205 Hohman Avenue, Hammond

Program starts at 6 p.m.

Event Sponsors

Society of Innovators, The Times

Documents

Transcript of Society of Innovators, The Times