Appointments, Accreditations and Community Impacts in Northwest Indiana

New OB/GYN Joins Franciscan Network in Munster

Dr. Leah Butler, an obstetrician/gynecologist, has joined the Franciscan Physician Network in Munster. She is welcoming new patients at the Women’s Specialty Center in Munster. Dr. Butler graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago and completed her residency at the University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago.

Tolbert & Tolbert Attorneys Gain Top Recognition

Partners Michael E. Tolbert and Shelice R. Tolbert from Tolbert & Tolbert have been named to The National Black Lawyers Top 100 list. This accolade celebrates their dedication to providing outstanding legal representation and serving their Gary community. Their office is located at 1085 Broadway in Gary.

Jodi Jackson Appointed as Valparaiso Parks Foundation Director

Jodi Jackson has been appointed as the new director of the Valparaiso Parks Foundation. With over 30 years in nonprofit and community leadership, Jackson transitions from her role at Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa. She will work on advancing fundraising and organizational initiatives in collaboration with community partners.

State Position Appointments Announced

Governor Mike Braun has announced new state board appointments, including Lexi Westerfield to the Statewide Independent Living Council. Mike Simpson, Cheryl Evans, and Kay Nelson have been reappointed to the Great Lakes Commission. David Wickland and Todd Williams continue with the Judicial Nominating Commission for Lake County.

Valparaiso University’s Program Receives Accreditation

The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences has extended accreditation to Valparaiso University’s medical laboratory science certification program until April 2030. This recognition highlights the program’s quality and success in workforce training for healthcare professionals.

Leadership Expansion at United Way Northwest Indiana

Barry Tyler Jr. has been named Chief Community Impact Officer of United Way Northwest Indiana. With experience in public service and regional philanthropy, Tyler will focus on aligning community resources and supporting impactful programs across several counties.

PNW’s College of Technology Involved in Federal Grant Project

Purdue University Northwest’s College of Technology will partake in a $3.19 million HUD grant. The SCALE-HOME project aims to explore robotics and AI in affordable housing, with research collaborations with Lightspeed Build Technologies.

Centier Bank Awarded Business of the Year

Centier Bank has received the Business of the Year Award from Opportunity Enterprises. The award recognizes Centier’s support and volunteer efforts in promoting equitable opportunities for all abilities. The bank has contributed significant funds and volunteer hours to the organization over the past decade.