New leadership takes HUB helm
The HUB of Porter County announces a planned leadership transition as Dawn Pelc steps down from her role as executive director and assumes an advisory position with the organization, according to a release.
Chuck Harris, the HUB board president, is the new executive director. Harris brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience, having worked with organizations including Porter-Starke Services, United Way of Northwest Indiana and the VNA of Northwest Indiana. Tim Beach will become the group’s president, the release said.
The HUB of Porter County’s mission is to connect individuals affected by substance use disorder with resources, support and hope, the release said.
Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission adds Clapp
Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas recently named Dale S. Clapp to the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission, a release said.
Rob Thorgren, a commission member since 2015, has left the board, Costas said.
Clapp has more than 40 years of banking experience and has been with First Merchants Bank for the past 17 years. He is currently executive director for Community Banking, the release said.
He is also serving as chairman of the Valparaiso Economic Development Corp; is the immediate past chair of the Valparaiso University National Athletic Council, the current treasurer for Mental Health NWI and an active board member with St. Mary’s Hospital (Powers Health). For more information on Valparaiso’s RDC, visit Valpo.us.
Casino makes $15K donation
In recognition of National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana recently donated $15,000 to the Raindrops Rising Foundation for the second consecutive year, a release said.
The mission of the Raindrops Rising Foundation is to inspire hope, raise awareness, advocate for survivors of sexual assault and human trafficking, and support them at every step of their journey, a
release said.
Methodist Foundation appoints executive director
The Methodist Hospitals Foundation recently appointed Celina A. Weatherwax as its new executive director, a release said.
Weatherwax brings more than a decade of experience in philanthropic leadership, nonprofit management, and community engagement to the role. She most recently served as president and CEO of the MAAC Foundation, where she led strategic growth initiatives, strengthened community partnerships and helped secure philanthropic investment.
Weatherwax’s professional background also includes experience in government relations and communications, having served with U.S. Sen. Richard G. Lugar, R-Indiana, and U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Gary, where she led advocacy, communications strategy, and regional outreach efforts.
Parks director joins Porter County Foundation
Valparaiso Director of Parks Kevin Nuppnau has accepted a leadership position with the Porter County Community Foundation, according to a release.
Nuppnau joined Valpo Parks in 2018 and was appointed director in 2023. During his tenure, he helped lead projects including Creekside Trails, Flounder & Friends Skatepark, the $10 million RePlay initiative and the Valpo REC.
Tristan Leonhard, assistant director, has been named Acting Director. Leonhard joined Valpo Parks in 2023 after previously serving as Director of Campus Recreation & Well-Being at Valparaiso University.
To learn more about Valpo Parks, its properties, programs, and projects, visit valpoparks.org.
