Highlights from Indiana

Andrae Marak Joins IUN as Executive Vice Chancellor

Indiana University Northwest (IUN) appointed Andrae Marak as the Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs beginning June 1. Marak brings extensive leadership and teaching experience from institutions across the U.S. Previously, he was Provost at Roosevelt University in Chicago. His roles also included Dean positions at Governors State University, a Division Head at Indiana University Columbus, and more. He replaces Cindy Roberts, who is retiring. Marak holds a Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico.

Franciscan Michigan City Hosts Free Car Seat Safety Event

Franciscan Health Trauma Services will host a car seat safety event on May 28 in Michigan City. The event takes place from 3-9 p.m. and is free to Indiana residents. Certified technicians will demonstrate proper car seat installation. Children using the car seat must be present. Reservations are needed and can be made online or by phone. Additionally, high school seniors Jennifer Serrano and Alyssa Tracy received scholarships to support their healthcare education.

Medical Scholarships Awarded to Aspiring Healthcare Professionals

Two seniors from LaPorte County, Jennifer Serrano and Alyssa Tracy, received medical scholarships from Franciscan Health Michigan City. Tracy plans a career in pediatrics after attending Saint Mary’s College. Serrano will study health sciences at Valparaiso University, aiming to become a physician’s assistant. The scholarships are supported by the Franciscan Health Foundation.

Funding for Law Enforcement Approved by House Committee

Rep. Frank J. Mrvan announced that the House Appropriations Committee approved Community Project Funding for Indiana’s First Congressional District. To be enacted, the measure needs approval from both legislative houses and the President. Allocated funds include:

• Cedar Lake Police: $300,000 for radio equipment.
• Gary Police: $187,000 for tactical gear.
• Hammond Police: $772,700 for technology upgrades.
• Highland Police: $475,000 for portable radio equipment.
• La Porte Police: $500,000 for portable radio equipment.
• Lake Station Police: $170,000 for in-car computers.
• Long Beach Police: $65,000 for portable radio equipment.
• Merrillville Police: $500,000 for equipment upgrades.
• New Chicago Police: $250,000 for technology upgrades.
• Portage Police: $772,700 for portable radio equipment.
• Porter County Sheriff’s Office: $105,000 for body cameras.
• St. John Police: $80,000 for a 3D scanner for crash reconstruction.

Women Take the Field Networking Event

The Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association will host ‘Women Take the Field’ on June 15 at US Steel Yard in Gary. The event features a suite game experience with the South Shore RailCats versus the Chicago Dogs. Attendees can walk or run the bases and enjoy ballpark food. Tickets are $25, and organizations may register for free to get a custom link for their group.