NORTH WEBSTER, Ind. (October 28, 2024) – The Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO) recently hosted its annual meeting, celebrating 40 years as an organization and recognizing community and business leaders for their contributions to the local community.
The celebration took place last week at Owl’s Nest Event Center in North Webster.
OrthoWorx CEO Bob Vitoux began the evening with an invocation, followed by a 40-year community reflection delivered by KEDCO Leadership Partner, long-time resident, and philanthropist Suzie Light.
“It was an incredible evening—a chance to connect, reflect on our community’s progress, and celebrate the businesses and leaders making a daily impact here at home,” said KEDCO CEO Peggy Friday. “I’m truly grateful to work alongside such remarkable leaders as we continue moving our community forward.”
Friday shared key updates from the organization, noting how warmly the community has welcomed her since stepping into her role about four months ago. She highlighted the critical role of KEDCO’s ongoing business retention efforts to support and strengthen local, established businesses. She noted the importance of access to resources and support for infrastructure needs when starting and growing a business. She also highlighted KEDCO’s primary focus areas, including entrepreneurship support, talent attraction and retention, and working collaboratively to bring more attainable housing for our workforce.
Featured Speaker Brandon Noll, Director of Plug and Play Indiana shared updates on the Plug and Play Warsaw medtech program. He discussed the mission of Plug and Play, provided a brief overview of the companies involved in the first batch of the medtech accelerator, and shared insights into what’s in store for the second batch. Later that evening, Noll received the Business Impact award, recognizing the significant contributions of Plug and Play in Warsaw and beyond.
Ralph Meyer took the stage as the Keynote Speaker, sharing the remarkable story of his grandfather, Ralph R. Teetor. “Blind Logic,” an upcoming documentary, will highlight the life and legacy of the late Teetor (1890-1982), a visionary, industrialist, and inventor for the automobile industry. Meyer captivated the audience with this inspiring story. Despite being completely blind, Teetor invented cruise control among other innovations, and he inspired others to pursue greatness in all circumstances.
Teetor was once a resident of Syracuse, Indiana, where his grandson, Meyer, spent much of his childhood on Lake Wawasee. Today, Meyer is a part-time resident of Lake Wawasee himself, and resides in his grandfather’s former home.
KEDCO wrapped up the evening with its recognition program highlighting Rising Leader, Business Impact, Community Impact, and Community Catalyst awardees.
The Rising Leader award honors leaders under 40 who are making a significant impact through their own businesses, as outstanding employees, or by serving the local community. Seven leaders were recognized.
2024 KEDCO Rising Leader Awardees
Diana Diaz-Barriga, Zimmer Biomet
Ben Logan, Habitat for Humanity
Michael Pahl, Winona IT
Jessica Shilling, Community Insurance Partners (formerly Clevenger Insurance)
Josh Silveus, Silveus Insurance Group
Casey Trombley, Kosciusko County Jail
Gabriella Tucker, SYM Financial Advisors
This Business Impact award recognizes local businesses for investments in the community including launching or expanding operations, creating jobs, or making unique workplace contributions that increase community prosperity. Five businesses were awarded.
2024 Business Impact Awardees
Core Mechanical Services
Danco Medical
Warsaw Cut Glass
Winona Powder Coating
Plug and Play Warsaw
The Community Impact award highlights projects or special programs that enhance the quality of life and place in Kosciusko County. These projects and programs play a vital role in making our community an even brighter place. Four projects and programs were recognized.
2024 Community Impact Awardees
POLYWOOD – For POLYWOOD Academy
OrthoWorx – Regional Advanced Manufacturing Pathway (RAMP) Program
Kosciusko Leadership Academy – White Paper Projects
Cardinal Services & CTB, Inc. – CTB, Inc. Opportunity Lab at Cardinal Services
Suzie Light was honored with the 2024 Community Catalyst award. The Community Catalyst award honors an individual who stands out as both a business leader and a dedicated public servant. As a difference-maker and catalyst for the community, this person makes positive change happen where we live and work.
“Suzie’s dedication and love for this community shine through in everything she does,” said KEDCO Board Chairman Blaine Conley. “She’s a true advocate for both the present and future of Kosciusko County.”
Conley and incoming co-chairman Brad Jackson presented the award to Light.
KEDCO thanks event sponsors, Brian Peterson Real Estate, Zimmer Biomet, T.L. Jackson Construction, Lake City Bank, DreamOn Studios, and Whittle Strategic Accounting.
View and download photos from the KEDCO 2024 Annual Meeting online via Facebook. Stay connected with KEDCO @kosciuskoedc (Facebook, Linkedin and Instagram) and by visiting www.kosciuskoedc.com.
About Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation
Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO) was formed in 1984 as Kosciusko Development, Inc. to promote economic and community development throughout Kosciusko County. KEDCO is the economic development corporation serving Kosciusko County and all the municipalities therein. Our mission is to convene, build, and show Kosciusko County’s talent, ideas, and capital. Learn more at www.kosciuskoedc.com.
Media Contact:
Katie Donovan (KEDCO) – 574.306.4119 or kdonovan@kosciuskoedc.com
