Community Updates: Events, Achievements, and New Faces

Legacy Foundation Sets Events

The Legacy Foundation has scheduled two events in the coming weeks to engage residents and build growth, according to a release.

New Veterinarian Joins Hebron Practice

Dr. Cory Dehnart has joined the Animal Medical Center of Hebron, according to a release.

Nursing Student Wins Franciscan Scholarship

A 2020 LaPorte High School graduate has won the annual Maria Petti Scholarship from Franciscan Health, a release said.

Summer Interns Join CLH

Two aspiring accounting professionals are gaining real-world experience through summer internships with CLH, CPAs & Consultants, a release said.

Dunes Learning Center Exec Honored

The Association of Nature Center Administrators has announced that Heather Hahn Sullivan, Executive Director of Dunes Learning Center, is the winner of the 2025 ANCA Nature Center Leadership Award, according to a release.

Jarka Named 2025 Duneland Distinguished Woman

Christy Jarka, director of the Duneland School Corp. Trojan Learning Center, has been named the 2025 Duneland Distinguished Woman by the Duneland Chamber of Commerce, a release said.

Parks Director Certified

Matt Slack, facilities and maintenance director for Valpo Parks, recently earned Certified Playground Safety Inspector certification, making him the second CPSI-certified professional on the Valpo Parks team, a release said.

PNW Sets School Supplies Giveaway Aug. 7

Purdue University Northwest will host the “Roaring Back to School” school supplies giveaway events from 4-6 p.m. Aug. 7, on both the Hammond and Westville campuses.

Legacy Foundation Sets Engaging Events for Community Growth

MERRILLVILLE, IN — The Legacy Foundation is gearing up to foster community engagement and growth with two exciting events scheduled in the coming weeks. According to a recent release, these initiatives are part of the 2025 Community Leadership Series aimed at empowering local residents and nonprofit organizations.

The first event, titled “Team Building,” will take place on August 7 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Legacy Foundation office located at 370 E. 84th Drive, Suite 100, Merrillville. Presented by Purdue Extension educators from Lake and Porter counties, this workshop is designed for Lake County residents and nonprofit staff eager to enhance their team-building and leadership skills. Registration is available for $10 per person.

Following that, on August 13 from 9 to 10 a.m., the Legacy Foundation will host the Executive Director Coffee and Conversation at the Indiana Youth Group, located at 6400 W. Lincoln Highway, Schererville. This informal gathering invites nonprofit executive directors for a morning filled with conversation, peer support, and networking opportunities.

For more details on both events, visit Legacy Foundation’s website.

New Veterinarian Joins Hebron Practice

HEBRON, IN — The Animal Medical Center of Hebron has welcomed Dr. Cory Dehnart to its team, according to a recent announcement. Dr. Dehnart, a Purdue University graduate with both an undergraduate degree and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, brings advanced training in restorative dentistry, laparoscopy, and abdominal ultrasonography.

Joining Dr. Carrie LaMere at the practice, Dr. Dehnart will contribute to the center’s comprehensive care offerings for dogs and cats, which include wellness visits, dental care, surgery, diagnostics, and specialty services like laser therapy. For inquiries, call 219-996-8387.

Nursing Student Wins Franciscan Scholarship

MICHIGAN CITY, IN — Tristen Poe, a 2020 graduate of LaPorte High School, has been awarded the Maria Petti Memorial Scholarship from Franciscan Health Michigan City. Established in 2009, this scholarship honors the legacy of Maria Petti, a dedicated nurse and peri-operative director at Franciscan Health for 35 years.

The scholarship aims to support educational excellence among undergraduate students in LaPorte and Porter counties, providing up to $5,000 for those pursuing surgical careers. Poe has gained valuable experience at Franciscan Health while working towards his nursing degree, serving in various roles including patient companion and student talent acquisition intern.

Summer Interns Join CLH

MICHIGAN CITY, IN — Aspiring accountants Charlotte M. Dombrowski and Kristina I. Sherpitis are gaining hands-on experience through summer internships at CLH, CPAs & Consultants. Dombrowski, a senior at the University of Minnesota Crookston, and Sherpitis, a junior at Indiana University, are both double majoring in finance and accounting.

This internship program is part of CLH’s strategy to cultivate top talent in the accounting profession, providing students with invaluable real-world experience.

Dunes Learning Center Exec Honored

CHESTERTON, IN — Heather Hahn Sullivan, Executive Director of Dunes Learning Center, has been awarded the 2025 ANCA Nature Center Leadership Award by the Association of Nature Center Administrators. Sullivan, who has been with the center since 2018, will be recognized during the Leadership Award Ceremony on August 27 at the ANCA Annual Summit.

Jarka Named 2025 Duneland Distinguished Woman

DUNELAND, IN — Christy Jarka, director of the Duneland School Corp. Trojan Learning Center, has been named the 2025 Duneland Distinguished Woman by the Duneland Chamber of Commerce. This award honors women who demonstrate humanitarian spirit and contribute significantly to their fields.

With nearly 30 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and director, Jarka leads various educational programs at the Trojan Learning Center, including early learning initiatives and online schooling.

Parks Director Certified

VALPARAISO, IN — Matt Slack, facilities and maintenance director for Valpo Parks, has earned the Certified Playground Safety Inspector certification, making him the second CPSI-certified professional on the Valpo Parks team. This certification, offered by the National Recreation and Park Association, ensures comprehensive training in playground safety.

PNW Sets School Supplies Giveaway Aug. 7

HAMMOND & WESTVILLE, IN — Purdue University Northwest will host the “Roaring Back to School” school supplies giveaway on August 7 from 4-6 p.m. at both the Hammond and Westville campuses. This event is free for families with K-12 students from local school districts, providing essential supplies for the upcoming academic year.

Students are encouraged to attend and bring a backpack or bag to collect items such as notebooks, pens, and crayons. For more information, visit PNW’s website.

These events and initiatives highlight the vibrant community spirit and commitment to growth in the region, showcasing the collaborative efforts of local organizations and individuals.