Bishop Donald Alford Sr. is a minister, businessman and active member of the community. He founded the Pentecostal Cathedral Church of God in Christ and is prelate of the Fourth Ecclesiastical Jurisdictional Indiana North Central for the Churches of God in Christ. A licensed funeral director, he owns Alford’s Mortuary. His community involvement includes Junior Achievement, Western Avenue Business Corridor Association, South Bend Board of Public Safety and South Bend Redevelopment Commission. (2017)

Janet Allen was the first woman elected to the South Bend Common Council. She was re-elected to the position and then, at age 67, she was the Republican nominee for mayor. Very active in community affairs, she was a vocal critic of matters she believed were not in the interests of South Bend, and she closely scrutinized the budgeting and spending of public funds. A friendly lady who conducted herself with dignity, she was quick to praise achievements of public officials. (1999)

J. Chester Allen Sr. was a community leader and an early ground-breaker in the area of civil rights. He came to South Bend in 1929 after finishing his law degree at Boston College. In 1938, he became the first African-American from the South Bend area to be elected to the Indiana House of Representatives. Following his two terms there, he won election to the South Bend Common Council, then was appointed to the South Bend school board. He worked tirelessly to end segregation in all aspects of city life, including the 19-year effort to integrate the public Natatorium. (2010)

Elizabeth Fletcher-Allen (1905-1994) was a leader in the   African American community for decades beginning in 1931.   She was a tireless supporter of civil rights, housing,   employment and helped confront segregation in the community. Mrs. Allen played a key role in integrating the Engman Public Natatorium. She was the only female practicing attorney during many of those years. She was appointed judge pro tem in 1953, 1955 and 1960. The appointment made her the first woman judge in South Bend. Mrs. Allen was a native of Chicago and graduated from Talladega College in Alabama and Boston University Law School. She married J. Chester in 1928. The Allen & Allen Law firm was established on Lafayette Street in 1939. While working full–time, Mrs. Allen was involved in civic organizations, and kept close tabs on their three children – J. Chester Jr., Sarah and Irving. J. Chester Jr. joined the law firm in the 1950s. She founded a local Red Cross nurses’ aid training and a placement program for black women in the 1940s. Mrs. Allen was a member of the NAACP, Hering House, Planned Parenthood and Black Business and Professional Women’s Organization. (2023)

  Elijah Anderson, a 1962 graduate of Central High School, is the William K. Lanman Professor of Sociology at Yale University. He is considered one of the leading urban ethnographers in the United States.  At Yale, he teaches sociology and directs the Urban Ethnography Project. He has written books and articles on the challenges of inner-city life.  An article in Yale’s Alumni Magazine described Anderson as “perhaps the most important figure to have worked in the field of urban ethnography since (W.E.B.) Dubois.” Anderson has been an adviser to a variety of government agencies, including the White House and Congress. (2015)

Drs. Rafat and Zoreen Ansari. Rafat is a founding member of Michiana Hematology-Oncology and medical director of oncology services at Memorial Hospital. Zoreen, a family physician, gave up her practice to devote her time to her children and charitable work.They have advocated for basic health care for children here and in Pakistan.  They have been active in numerous local, national and international causes, including the American Cancer Society, South Bend Symphony, and Stanley Clark School. (2011)

Morris (Moe) Aronson lettered in football and wrestling at Purdue University. In 1941 he started teaching and coaching in Mill Creek, Indiana. His teaching career, however, was interrupted by four years of service as an infantry officer in World War II. He later became a fixture at John Adams High School, where he taught math and served as head coach for wrestling and assistant coach for football. In 1966 he brought his Adams High School wrestling team to a state championship (1995).

Louis Baker founded the South Bend Boys Club and served as chairman of the board of Camp Eberhart. He was also the founder of the South Bend School Boosters, which later became the South Bend Alumni Association. This organization is dedicated to the funding and support of curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular activities in the South Bend Community School Corporation. Among his honors, Mr. Baker is a recipient of the George Cooper Memorial Award. (1993)

Ideal Baldoni (affectionately known as “Idey” by all) worked at the Bendix Corporation before taking on the responsibility of Democratic precinct committeeman. Subsequently, he was elected to the St. Joseph County Council and served as its president. In 1956 he was appointed Portage Township assessor, then was elected to six additional terms in that office. He served as chairman of the St. Joseph County Council Central Committee, chairman of the 3rd District Democratic Committee, and secretary of the Indiana Democratic Party. Mr. Baldoni also volunteered his talents for such causes as the YMCA, United Way, the Retired Public Employees Association, Portage Manor and the Humane Society. (1996)

Bruce Bancroft has had a long-time passion for helping people and organizations. He has been involved in education, the arts, health issues and community concerns. A native of Michigan, he received a law degree from the University of Michigan. He came to South Bend in 1965 to work for a law firm now known as Barnes & Thornburg. He has been president of the South Bend South Rotary Club, and a board member of the Community Foundation, United Health Services and Chamber of Commerce.   He has volunteered at Memorial Hospital for 26 years and served as chair and secretary of the board of trustees of Memorial Health System. He has been president of the board of directors of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra. (2016)

B. Patrick Bauer has excelled in both the educational field and the political arena since his graduation from Notre Dame. He was first elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 1971 and served as Indiana Speaker of the House from 2002 to 2009. Prior to being named Speaker he was chairperson of the powerful Ways and Means Committee for many years. He has been named State Legislator of the Year more than a dozen times. Pat has served as a member of the advisory boards of Indiana University South Bend and the Urban Enterprise Association of South Bend, Inc. He also has served as dean of external affairs at Ivy Tech State College. (2008)

Bonnie Boilini Baxter has been an inspiration and the moving force for dance in the South Bend area for almost 40 years. She is a founder of the Southold Dance Theater in South Bend. In 1975 she opened the Dancenter in Granger, a studio dedicated to training both modern dance and ballet. Ms. Baxter, who grew up in North Judson, was named artistic director of Southold in 1982 and held that position for many years. In that capacity, Ms. Baxter developed youth concerts, performing for thousands of school children each year. For many of the children, it was their first experience with dance. She used live music through collaborations with the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, Elkhart Symphony Orchestra, South Bend Regional Museum of Art, Firefly Festival and South Bend Heritage Foundation and other organizations.  (2012)

Dantina Bella lived a life of public service that spanned the generations, from serving young people as a teacher and counselor to helping seniors wind down their working lives. She spent 11 years as volunteer executive director of Senior Workers, Inc., an employment agency for older adults. Mrs. Bella was also a recipient of the Better Business Bureau Community Service Award. She served on several boards: Catholic Social Services, the Women’s Career Center and the South Bend Commission on the Status of Women. (2001)

Vincent Bendix was an innovative businessman who had a passion for flying. He founded the Bendix Corporation, where he developed and manufactured components, including the world known Bendix Brakes for autos and aircraft. A large employer in South Bend, the company went through many reorganizations addressing new scientific technologies. There are a number of tributes to his name in the community. (1997)

John Comly Birdsell, Sr. was born to Quaker parents in Westchester County, New York, in 1815. In 1836 he rented a farm near Medon, New York, and later he married Harriet Lunt, and they had four sons. On May 18, 1858, Mr. Birdsell patented an invention he called the Combined Clover Threshing and Hulling Machine, a machine that could separate the seeds of clover plants. In 1865 he moved his factory to South Bend and constructed a five-story brick building, the largest factory building in South Bend at that time. In 1887 the Birdsell company expanded to include the manufacturing of farm wagons. The clover huller went on to sell in dealerships worldwide and was used in every civilized nation in the world.

Charles “Boxcar” Black, a lifelong resident of the LaSalle Park neighborhood, always believed strongly in the family unit. He spent 33 years working with youth in LaSalle Park and at Clay High School and Harrison Elementary School. He felt his purpose in life was to help children grow spiritually, socially, economically, educationally and culturally. Known as a man of vision and vigor, he served the South Bend Recreation Department as assistant director and basketball coach at the LaSalle Park Recreation Center. After his death in 2001, the center was renamed in his honor. (2010)

Paul F. Boehm began his career as a teacher-coach at Madison School and later became assistant director of health and recreation for the South Bend Community School Corporation. He was selected to be the first director of the Public Recreation Commission, and he remained in that position until 1973. He was the first recipient of the Russ Oliver and Sam Wegner awards. He was named “Man of the Year” by the Notre Dame Club of St. Joseph Valley and the Indiana Park and Recreation Association. (1990)

Joseph Boland was a student-athlete at the University of Notre Dame and played for Knute Rockne in the era of the Four Horsemen. He played in the 1925 Rose Bowl. After graduating he was a college football coach. In 1934 he returned to South Bend and was an assistant to Elmer Layden. Joe left coaching and joined WSBT as a sportscaster on radio and television, later serving as sports director. He was the voice of Notre Dame football and the Chicago Cardinals for years and was a gifted speaker who was highly regarded by his peers for his honesty. He was the same if he was broadcasting a Notre Dame national championship game or a high school basketball game between two last place teams; he treated all people with dignity. He had a deep belief in the value of children playing wholesome sports and used his celebrity to promote those values. He has been honored by the city with a public park and street named in his honor and memory. (2007)

Anita F. Boorda served the Broadway Theatre League for more than 36 years as executive director and member on the board of directors. She has served in advisory and fund-raising positions credited with securing acclaimed theatrical productions for South Bend and the restoration of the Morris Performing Arts Center. Mrs. Boorda co-chaired the South Bend Bicentennial Celebration Committee, achieved Sagamore of the Wabash commendation from Governor Frank O’Bannon, and received the Mayor’s Award for her contributions to the community.   (2002)

James C. Borden is recognized as an accomplished artist. His portrait series of Lincoln, Lee, Ulysses S. Grant, Sitting Bull and Custer was accepted by the U.S. Veterans Administration and presented at the White House. He has won numerous art awards: finalist at the National Benedictine Art Awards; first place at the South Bend Art Center Show; Distinguished Oil at the Northern Indiana Artist Competition; and Outstanding Work in Any Medium at Hoosier Salon in Indianapolis. Mr. Borden has taught art at the South Bend Regional Art Center, Fernwood and the Elkhart Art League. (1994)

Eugenia Braboy was a member of the South Bend Common Council and a trustee of the South Bend Community School Corporation. Mrs. Braboy served as a charter member of the Urban League, where she organized and chaired the West Washington Revitalization Association. She was president of the Hansel Neighborhood Center md twice was recognized as the Outstanding Black Woman in the state of Indiana. She has received the United Negro College Fund award for Meritorious Service. (1989)

John Brademas was born in Mishawaka in 1927. He graduated from South Bend Central High School in 1945, served in the military and then graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University. He later received a Ph.D. as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University. He served 22 years as U.S. Representative from Indiana, including four years as the House Majority Whip. He was very influential in writing legislation to support schools, colleges and universities, and to provide services for young children, the elderly and the disabled. Following his elected service he was invited to be president of New York University, where he served from 1981 to 1992 and now holds a position of President Emeritus. He has been recognized for his achievements with honorary degrees from many colleges and universities. He is still active in his work and closely involved with the John Brademas Center for the Study of Congress. (1988)

Thomas Brademas Sr. graduated from South Bend Central in 1946 and then enlisted in the army, where he served in Japan until 1947. In the 1960 s and ’70s, he became interested in the federal government’s subsidized housing program and constructed many housing units in this area to meet the needs of the citizens. He also was responsible for the restoration and conversion of the former South Bend Lathe Works. Continuing his interest in providing necessary housing, he was one of the founding members of the Christmas in April program, now known as Rebuilding Together, which rebuilds houses for low-income families and the elderly. Among Mr. Brademas’ s many awards are the Excellence in Public Service Award from Indiana Vocational Technical College and the E.M. Morris Award from Indiana University South Bend for improving the quality of life in our community. Mr. Brademas was active with many service organizations focused on community welfare. (2006)

Sister Maura Brannick, C.S.C., founded St. Joseph’s Health Center in 1987 with support from St. Joseph’s Medical Center and local residents. Recognizing the need for health care, Sister Maura set out to create a facility that would offer medical services to hundreds of needy people. From the first clinic, located in a converted carriage house, the center has grown to a 10,000 square foot facility. Sister Maura joined the Sisters of the Holy Cross in 1943 and began service as a nurse. Her dedication to assisting the poor started with her work at St. Augustine’s Soup Kitchen. (1998)

Harold Brazier achieved much success in the field of professional boxing. He won the Indiana junior welterweight and welterweight titles, the junior welterweight titles for the Northern American Boxing Federation and International Boxing Federation, and welterweight titles for the U.S. Boxing Association and Mid-American. Mr. Brazier has dedicated much of his personal time to the Boys and Girls Club and to speaking at local schools on the importance of students avoiding illegal drug use. (1994)

Thomas F. Broden Jr., a Notre Dame law professor, was one of the founders of South Bend’s coordinating committee on civil rights. He took a leave from Notre Dame in the 1950’s to serve on the U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Committee and the Federal Office of Economic Opportunity. He was counsel to the Judiciary Committee in charge of the first civil rights bill passed since the post-Civil War Reconstruction Era. He also co-founded the United Religious Community of St. Joseph County, which confronted social issues including poverty and homelessness and offered assistance to people with disabilities. (2003)

John Charles Bryant is a descendant of the Farrow Powell family, one of the first black families to move to the South Bend area in the 1830s. He has traced his family back to 1755. Mr. Bryant has been a collector of black history memorabilia about the South Bend area. Much of his collection has been donated to the Northern Indiana Center for History. He also has donated African-American historical documents to the Mishawaka-Penn Public Library, South Bend Pubic Library Genealogy Department, and the Civil Rights Heritage Center of Indiana University South Bend. He has been active in the religious community, serving on the Council of Churches and the National Conference of Christians and Jews.  (2012)

Howard Buchanon II served for 38 years as a South Bend firefighter, the last five as chief. He retired in 2012. In addition to his extraordinary public service, he has served his community on numerous boards and committees, including Big Brothers/Big Sisters; American Red Cross; Boys Scouts; Boys & Girls Clubs; United Way; 100 Black Men; Goodwill; and Downtown Rotary. His focus has always been on his hometown and its children. His many awards include Fire Chief of the Year in 2011; YMCA Youth Services Mentor of the Year; Community Service Award; Drum Major Community Award; Distinguished Alumni Award from Ivy Tech North Central; and the Ideal Baldoni Distinguished Public Service Award.  (2016)

Thomas Burzynski, president of Hospice of St. Joseph County from 1983 through 1997, created a facility that brings comfort to the terminally ill and their families. Since 1984, his Hospice fund-raising programs have raised more than $3.6 million. One campaign raised more than $2.2 million for a seven-bed inpatient unit, office complex, and an endowment for the agency. He conducted many workshops on fund raising and community relations for national and state Hospice organizations. He has been a teacher and football coach in elementary and high schools, and a field representative and executive director of the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation in South Bend. (1997)

Paul M. Butler was a native of South Bend who received his law degree from the University of Notre Dame. Known for his loyalty and integrity, he was involved in Democratic Party politics at the local, state and national levels. He was elected chairman of the DNC in 1954 and was a man who influenced national policy. A strong believer in civil rights, he put his beliefs in sound policy-making ahead of his personal well-being by ignoring political influences. (2000)

Willie Mae Butts assisted her husband, Dr. Milton A. Butts, in his medical practice for many years. At the same time, she worked as a volunteer for a variety of community organizations, including United Way, Urban League, St. Joseph County Cancer Society and St. Joseph County Mental Health Association. Mrs. Butts was the first woman of African descent to be elected to the South Bend Human Relations and Fair Employment Practices Committee. She is a life member of the NAACP and a board member of the St. Joseph Hospital Auxiliary. (2003)

Dr. Virginia Calvin has served our community as an educator and community leader for over 30 years. Beginning in 1972, Calvin held numerous administrative positions with the South Bend Community School Corporation. When serving as acting executive director of curriculum and instruction, Dr. Calvin initiated a “Valuing Diversity” program. As principal of Muessel School, she led the school to recognition as one of America’s Best Elementary Schools. When in 1993 she was named superintendent of South Bend schools, she was the first woman and first African American to hold that position. While serving as superintendent, Dr. Calvin moved the corporation out of a deficit, initiated various programs for at-risk students, increased school campus security and introduced new programs. Then on July 1, 2000, Dr. Calvin became chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College North Central, where she expanded the college’s mission from a career/ technical institution to a full-service community college. Dr. Calvin serves on the board of directors of several community organizations and holds several honors, including the Indiana state honor, Sagamore of the Wabash. (2006)

James Lewis Casaday designed and directed many theatrical events, from the “Black Box” theater during the depression years to the Michiana Arts and Sciences Council’s production of Offenback’s “Orpheus in the Underworld” to the Bicentennial Pageant in 1976. As South Bend’s “Mr. Theater,” he helped many students acquire solid stage skills and extraordinary theatrical understanding. (1987)

Roland W. Chamblee, a South Bend physician, founded the United Negro Coalition and the Black American Coalition. He served as president of the Catholic Social Service Board, the Catholic Interracial Council and the NAACP of South Bend. Dr. Chamblee also served as a member of the Diocese Corporate Board of Fort Wayne/South Bend, president of Hope Rescue Mission, chairman of the Nurses/Physicians Council at St. Joseph Medical Center, and as a member on the Governor’s Commission for a Drug Free Indiana Advisory Committee. (1990)

  Jack M. Champaigne is a business leader who has a               passion for education, the arts, South Bend schools’ alumni     communities, veterans and STEM. A graduate of Adams High   School (1961) and Purdue University (1968), he started his     business, Electronics Inc., in 1974. The firm is a key player in the field of surface enhancement engineering. He is a leading authority on fatigue and stress analysis and holds 30 U.S. patents. He has had several national and international leadership roles on scientific, engineering and aerospace committees. He is also a supporter of local arts and culture. He served on the board of South Bend Symphony Orchestra since 1990 and has provided support for the Masterworks series, Mosaic series and Musicians’ Lounge. In addition, Champaigne supports the South Bend Museum of Arts, Scholastic Arts Awards and South Bend Civic Theater. (2023)

Horatio Chapin  moved to South Bend in 1831, where he opened a general store on North Michigan Street. He was a banker, theologian, horticulturalist, scientist, businessman and founder of the local First Presbyterian Church. He was instrumental in changing the community’s name from Southold to South Bend. He built a home near the St. Joseph River in what is now known as the Chapin Park neighborhood. His home still exists.  Chapin died in 1871. (2017)

Gregorio Chavez Jr. was born in Texas but moved to South Bend in1972 after 20 years in the Air Force. For 42 years he has been an active leader  in the Hispanic community, campaigning for education, job opportunities and fair housing. Chavez joined the League of Latin American Citizens (LULAC) Council 5001 in 1973, and subsequently served as its president, vice-president, state director and national Midwest vice president.  He was the LULAC State Man of the Year and Midwest Vice President Man of the Year. Through LULAC, he helped to start the area’s first Hispanic radio station, WSBL, Sabor Latino. He has been active with voter registration, VFW 360, Indiana Health Clinic, Center for the Homeless, United Religious Community, Hispanic Leadership Coalition, La Casa de Amistad and South Bend Human Rights Commission. (2014)

Lois Whitacre Clark has devoted her life to reducing violence, hostility and prejudice.  She attributes her activism to her father and grandfathers, who were pastors for the Church of the Brethren. She is a member of the Muslim, Jewish and Christian Women’s Dialogue Group. She has worked with numerous organizations, including the United Religious Community, Parent Teachers Association, South Bend Housing Authority, LaSalle Park Housing, Michiana Peace and Justice Coalition, Concerned Educators Allied for a Safe Environment, Hansel Center, League of Women Voters, Women’s Council for Human Relations and the Iraqi Student Project. She was a charter member of the Martin Luther King Jr. Foundation of St. Joseph County.  She has received numerous awards for her service. (2016)

Schuyler Colfax Vice President under Ulysses  Grant, Schuyler Colfax served as Speaker of the House of Representatives for three terms. He started in local politics, then was a legislative correspondent for the Indiana State Jounral. Colfax later purchased the South Bend Free Press and names it the St. Joseph Valley Register, the Whig organ of northern Indiana. He later was elected as a Republican candidate to Congress. He is interred in South Bend City Cemetery. (1998).

Lynn Coleman has served the city in a number of positions, as a police officer for 23 years and beginning in 2000 as an assistant to the mayor. A former Police Officer of the Year, Coleman’s passion has always been working to improve the lives of children. He has been involved with several youth initiatives, and his commitment to community has inspired a number of grassroots organizations, including “Let’s Turn it Around’’ and “Men of Scars.’’ He has served on numerous boards, committees and commissions on the state and local level and was a founding member of the ALWAYS KIDS Volunteer Advisory Council. He has received the Home Town Hero Award from the Children’s Miracle Network, Citizen of the Year Award from the National Association of Social Workers and the Urban Youth Service Man of the Year Award from the YMCA. An active member of Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, Lynn has said he is grateful that God has given him the opportunity to serve his community. (2009)

Jack Colwell is a Tribune columnist and retired reporter. He came to South Bend in 1960 to work for The Tribune. In 1963 he broke the story about the closing of Studebaker, and in 1965 he was the lead reporter for the Palm Sunday tornadoes. In 1964 he became the paper’s political reporter, a position he held until his retirement in 2003. Colwell has covered twenty national political conventions, including the chaotic 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago. His reporting has received awards from the Hoosier State Press Association, Indiana Associated Press and other organizations. In 2000 he began teaching journalism at the University of Notre Dame as a faculty member of the Gallivan Program in Journalism, Ethics & Democracy. On April 15, 2000, Colwell was inducted into the Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame. (2012)

George Cooper; a long time physical director at the YMCA and director of Camp Eberhart, he once rescued three men from drowning while swimming at a nearby lake. His efforts resulted in establishing several life saving and water safety courses. In his honor a “Hero’s Program” was developed by the American Red Cross locally to recognize heroic life saving acts by people in the community. The Cooper Bridge over the St. Joseph River is named in his honor. (1999)

Jim Coppens was the face and personality of the South Bend Civic Theatre during his 30-year association with it. He served as executive director from 1995 until his retirement in January 2009. During his tenure, he guided the growth of the  theater from the 77-seat Firehouse Theater on Portage Avenue to its current $4 million location on North Main Street. It has two theaters, a scene shop and state-of-the-art technology. Civic Theatre’s season grew from six shows a year to 16, with three devoted to children’s shows and one to ethnic themes. The theater also hosts classes to expand the exposure of school children to theater. Mr. Coppens died on Aug. 11, 2010.  (2010)

Alexis Coquillard A courier in the War of 1812 Coquillard came to the St. Joseph Valley as a fur trader from Detroit. His family had been in Canada since 1670. He helped settlers arriving in the area, including Father Sorin and his band of Brothers. Together with Lathrop Taylor he platted land so it could be sold to new arrivals. (1996)

Stanley Coveleski Stanley Coveleski was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1969. A Pennsylvania native, he lived in South Bend from 1929 until his death in 1984. He had a 215-142 major league record with an ERA of 2.89. Pitching for Cleveland in the 1920 World Series, he pitched three complete games for victories with an ERA of .67. A spitball pitcher when it was legal, he perfected the pitch with devastating accuracy. The home stadium of the South Bend Silver Hawks was named in his honor. (1997)

Pat & Don Cressy have made their name in real estate and left their mark in community volunteerism. Besides contributing financial resources, they have volunteered their time to numerous foundations and non-profit organizations. Don has been active in Big Brothers for more than 31 years, the YMCA, Women’s Care Center, Junior Achievement and Citizens for Community Values. The former state handball champion has received the South Bend/Mishawaka Distinguished Leaders Award and Hospice Helping Hands Award. Pat has supported Prevent Child Abuse of St. Joseph County and served on the board of the Center for Hospice and Palliative Care and Family & Children’s Center. She has volunteered as first director of Leadership South Bend/Mishawaka. They sponsor a Montessori Classroom at the Center for the Homeless. (2009)

Elmer Crockett, the 2012 historical inductee, was a lifelong resident of St. Joseph County from 1844 to 1924.  After graduating from college, he enlisted to serve in the Civil War. Returning from the war, he became integrally involved in practically every facet of South Bend’s rise to economic, social and political prominence for the next 50 years. He learned the printing trade at the Mishawaka Enterprise and later became foreman of the St. Joseph Valley Register. He and his brother-in-law, Alfred B. Miller, co-founded The Tribune in 1872. Mr. Crockett served as postmaster in the 1880s and ’90s. He supported the development of the Northern Indiana Center for History and was a primary contributor to the city’s first comprehensive medical clinic, the South Bend Clinic. (2012)

Fred Crowe is one of the founding partners of Crowe Chizek and Company. He helped to build a company of more than 2,400 personnel with its core purpose ‘Building Values with Values.’ He retired in 1992 and has been tireless in his service in his community and church. He was selected a Knight of Malta, the highest lay honor in the Catholic Church. He is one of the founders of a prison ministry at the state prison in Michigan City and is active in Dismas House, a post-prison society re-entry program. The Notre Dame graduate is a founder of Project Future. He has served on numerous boards, including the St. Joseph Hospital Board of Directors, and was chairman of the Chamber of Commerce of St. Joseph County. Fred is the recient of several awards for service and achievement, including the prestigious State of Indiana Sycamore Award.(2008)

Bishop Joseph R. Crowley was ordained a priest in 1953. In 1965 he served as editor for Our Sunday Visitor and as moderator of the English Language Press Panel for the fourth session of the Second Vatican Council. Bishop Crowley was ordained the auxiliary bishop of the Diocese of Fort Wayne -South Bend in 1971. He has also served as pastor to a Fort Wayne parish and rector of St. Matthew Cathedral in South Bend. He served on the boards of many civic organizations. (1995)

Josephine M. Curtis was a charter member of the South Bend Women’s Council for Human Relations. She was instrumental in the council’s development of fair housing codes, the establishment of employment opportunities for all, and the desegregation of hotel and restaurant accommodations. She served the community in many positions: president of the citywide Parent-Teacher Council, active supporter of the South Bend Chapter of United Nations, trustee of the South Bend Urban League, and board member of the Michiana Arts and Sciences Council. (2000)

Reverend Walentz (Valentine) Czyzewski, C.S.C. came to the United States in 1869 and worked his way west to Indiana as a laborer. He later entered the seminary and was the first priest of Polish ancestry to be ordained by the Holy Cross Order. He founded several churches and schools in Polish sectors of the city and area and developed a night school for laborers. He worked to Americanize the many Polish immigrants in the community and developed their cultural life while sustaining their Polish heritage as he attended to their spiritual needs. He died in 1913. (2007)

Donald A. Dake joined the faculty of Adams High School in 1940. He served as a major in WWII before returning to South Bend. He served the South Bend Community School Corporation in many positions: director of pupil personnel, principal of Riley High School, director of secondary education, assistant superintendent of instruction, and superintendent of schools. A man of many interests, he performed in a leadership capacity for many South Bend civic organizations and was a partron of the arts. (1988)

Robert W. Demaree Jr., utilizing his talents as a dean, conductor, composer, author and lecturer, played a visionary role in the artistic community of Michiana for more than 35 years. Mr. Demaree has been the recipient of many awards recognizing his achievements. He founded and/or directed the South Bend Youth Symphony, Michiana Boys’ Choir, Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, South Bend Symphonic Choir, IUSB Piano Festival, and Toradze Concerto Institute. (1999)

Thomas F. Dennin worked in broadcasting for more than 40 years. He was producer and host of the Notre Dame Football and Basketball Coaches’ Show for WNDU. Later Mr. Dennin served as play¬by-play broadcaster for football, basketball, and Eastern League baseball for Sports Channel, Notre Dame. He was also a member of the American Heart Association and served on the boards of Catholic Social Services and the Governor’s Task Force Against Drunk Driving. He was also a member of the public relations and media committee of the AAU-USA Junior Olympics and Special Olympic Games. (1992)

Ervin Derda was a former World War II bomber pilot and successful business executive. He left his mark on many political and community organizations in the South Bend area. Among his greatest achievements was the work he has done as a board member for Logan Center and the St. Joseph County Council for the Retarded. He excelled as chairman of the 1987 International Summer Special Olympic, held in South Bend, mostly at the University of Notre Dame. It was the largest athletic event in the world that year, involving more than 4,000 athletes from 70 countries. Mr. Derda recruited 20,000 volunteers and raised $4 million, enabling the organization to finish with no debt. Mr. Derda also was instrumental in the growth of Logan Center, including the building of a facility on North Eddy Street, the creation of Logan Industries and initiation of the Logan Foundation. After his term on the Logan board ended, he remained influential in building the newest Logan Center on East Jefferson Boulevard. (2010)

Jesse L. Dickinson served eight terms in the Indiana legislature, including six years in the House of Representatives and two years in the Senate. He served on numerous local boards and commissions and served as director for both the Indiana and the National Association for Mental Health, the South Bend Urban League, Indiana Civil Rights Commission, and State Advisory Commission of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission. (1988)

Greg and Mary Downes have contributed to the enhancement of our community in numerous way. They both taught school before changing their careers. Greg worked in insurance for 33 years, while Mary worked in government in the administration of Joe Kernan, first as mayor then as governor. Their community involvement has included the Community Foundation, South Bend Heritage, the Music Village, DTSB, YWCA, United Way, Boys & Girls Clubs, REAL Services, the Chamber of Commerce, Century Center and the Redevelopment Commission. (2017)

Joseph Doyle became sports editor of the South Bend Tribune in 1951 and served in that position until his retirement in 1981. Doyle served as president of the Council for the Retarded of St. Joseph County for six years during the period when Logan Center and School opened on North Eddy Street. He served in the Air Force Reserve for many years, flying as a navigator to 55 countries on five continents. Mr. Doyle is secretary-treasurer of the Moose Krause Chapter of the National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame (1997)

        Carol Ecker, D.V.M., owner of Clayview Animal Clinic, founded the Purdue Veterinary Medical Alumni Association when she graduated from Purdue in 1964. She has held several key positions in the Purdue Veterinary School and is a member of Purdue’ s board of trustees. As a member and officer of the St. Joseph County Humane Society, Dr. Ecker has been a prominent voice in the passing of several county and city ordinances relating to animal control. (1995)

Edwin S. Ehlers. Voted athlete of the century in 1999, he was a standout high school athlete at Central High School and later played professionally for the New York Yankees and the Boston Celtics and was drafted by the Chicago Bears. Like his high school coach and mentor, John Wooden , he attended Purdue University where he played football, basketball and baseball and earned All-American status. Ed has served the community as president of the YMCA and president of the Parks & Recreation Commission. He also served on the boards of directors of several corporations and Purdue University. As one of the founders and an officer of the South Bend Boosters Organization (currently South Bend Alumni Association), Mr. Ehlers has continued to show interest and support of youth, recognizing their impact on the future of South Bend. (1987)

The Elbel Family emigrated to South Bend from Germany in the 1840s and began a musical legacy that lasted more than 120 years. Brothers John, Lorenz, Henry and Wolfgang started the first choral society in South Bend, and in 1858 created the Elbel Concert Band and Orchestra to bring classical music to the area. Louis Elbel was famous for writing “The Victors,” the University of Michigan fight song, The family operated a music store in downtown South Bend from 1880 to 1970. But family interests also extended beyond music. Richard Elbel served for 27 years as a South Bend park commissioner, and a local golf course is named for him. Frederick Elbel, who died in August 2013, was a local history buff who fought to save the Old Courthouse of 1855 from being demolished.

Albert Erskine was born in Alabama and was an executive with several companies before joining the Studebaker Corporation in 1911. By 1915 he was serving as president and in the 1920s he made the company the fourth largest automobile producer in the country. He was innovative in marketing, design, testing and in the development of automobile safety products. His automobile proving grounds was a model for others in the industry. Like many industrialists, Erskine misinterpreted the economic climate in the late ’20s, and the company was nearly bankrupt. After Erskine’s death in 1933 the company rebounded and produced vehicles and equipment for the WWII and Korean War efforts. The radically creative designs of the Studebaker automobiles following WWII influenced many of their competitors. The company ended production in 1965 in the United States. Streets, shopping centers, a golf course and even a Studebaker model are named in his memory. The name ‘Erskine’ is used in marketing homes and a variety of other products. (1997)

Adolph Eskridge retired in 1991 after 37 years as a youth care worker at Parkview Juvenile Center. He continues to work as bailiff in St. Joseph County Probate Court. While at Parkview, his philosophy was to listen to troubled young people, never passing judgment but instead providing sound advice. He earned the respect of his co¬workers and the young people in his charge. Mr. Eskridge is associated with the boards of the Community Development Foundation and the St. Joseph Hospital Authority. (1997)

Robert J. Fischgrund helped create and preserve the county park system. He became president of the county Parks and Recreation Board when it was formed in 1966 and held that post almost continuously for the rest of his life. He helped establish Potato Creek State Park. For his achievements, Mr. Fischgrund received the Indiana Nature Conservatory Chapter Award, recognition as the Department of Natural Resources Conservationist of the Year, and the U.S. Department of Interior Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service Achievement Award. He also served as president of the South Bend Art Center. (1998)

Joseph E. Fischoff began the South Bend Chamber Music Society in 1961. Consisting of three quartets, the group performed concerts until 1973, when the Fischoff Chamber Music Competition was conceived by Kenneth Geoffroy. With the help and support of Joseph Fischoff, the competition remains an annual event held in South Bend, serves as an international competition and is considered one of the two most prestigious music competitions in the United States. (1988)

Zeal I. Fisher, who taught at both Central and LaSalle high schools, has played viola in several symphony orchestras.He has composed and published music for school and professional orchestras as well as for piano and chamber music. He has served as stage director for both operatic and musical theater productions and has conducted orchestras for many local stage productions. Mr. Fisher was co-founder and president of the South Bend Chamber Music Society and vice-president of the Michiana Arts and Sciences Council. He has served as a consultant for the Fine Arts Department of the South Bend Community School Corporation. (1992)

Lester J. Fox worked as a Studebaker employee and served as vice president of Local 5 of the United Auto Workers. After the Studebaker plant closed, Mr. Fox became director of Project Able, a federal program designed to help unemployed elderly workers. Later he served as a director, president, and CEO of REAL Services, developing and implementing service programs for the elderly. He also administered programming for the elderly in a five county area of North Central Indiana. He has been a consultant to the U.S. Department of Labor and the Senate Committee on Aging, and Mr. Fox has advised White House conferences on aging. He has served on the Model Cities Board and Portage Manor Board. (1996)

Joseph S. Fragomeni Sr., a graduate in the first class at John Adams High School in 1942, earned a football scholarship to Ball State University and won the Indiana Golden Gloves Light Heavyweight title. Drafted in 1943, he served with the Third Army 303rd Combat Engineers. He was seriously injured at the Battle of the Bulge and was a member of Disabled American Veterans. He went on to the University of Colorado where he earned a degree in architectural engineering. In 1953 he returned to South Bend. He worked for Charles W. Cole & Son, the firm he would later own and manage, and developed the company into the largest architectural/engineering firm in Indiana at that time. Mr. Fragomeni was involved in numerous civic activities including the Chamber of Commerce, Urban League, Family & Children’s Center, Historic Landmarks Foundation and Hansel Center. He also is the founder of the South Bend Alumni Association. Among his awards, he was named Sagamore of the Wabash twice and received the F. Jay Nimtz award for civic service. (2002)

Thomas Frederick served a 26-year career assisting troubled young people in the area. While serving as chief juvenile probation officer starting in 1975, he achieved many honors for this area. In 1985 the Juvenile Division of St. Joseph Probate Court was recognized as the most outstanding juvenile court in Indiana. In 1986 Mr. Frederick was named the first recipient of the Henry R. Ferrettie Award as the most outstanding St. Joseph County employee. He served on several boards: CASIE Center, Madison Center, DuComb Center and Youth Service Bureau. (2000)

Jody Freid, a South Bend native, is a consummate community activist whose organizational and fundraising skills have benefited  such causes as the American Cancer Society, Broadway Theatre League, Irish Youth Hockey League, Human Rights Commission, YWCA, YMCA, Stanley Clerk School, College Football Hall of Fame, Temple Beth-El, Sinai Synagogue, Jewish Federation and numerous political campaigns. She was a driving force behind “Friends for Faye,” which was created in honor of Dr. Faye Magneson to raise funds to find a cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). The campaign raised more than $1 million.  (2015)

Capt. Edward Friend hosted “Kids Adventure Zone” on television, focusing on the positive accomplishments of youth and advising young people of the pitfalls they may face. He has also addressed the needs of the elderly and mentally challenged of our community. Serving as a police officer since 1962, Capt. Friend served in every police division. He was responsible for the development of a stress management program for public safety personnel as well as the private sector, which he has presented throughout the U.S. and Canada. (1996)

Zigmont George Gaska has been influential in bringing classical music to many local areas. Professional musicians have been inspired to pursue classical music careers because of Mr. Gaska. Also many citizens cultivated an appreciation for classical music at performances directed by Mr. Gaska. Among the orchestras and ensembles he organized and directed are the Elkhart Symphony, Michiana Symphonette, South Bend-Mishawaka Junior Symphony, Little Symphony of Mishawaka, and the Gaska String Quartet. He taught at Notre Dame, St. Mary’s College and Concordia College in Fort Wayne. (1995)

Van Gates was a naval officer assigned to the Pacific Theater during WWII. He returned to South Bend and became a successful businessman who has made a positive, lasting impression on many area civic organizations. He has committed his time, talent and resources to the Chamber of Commerce, United Way, YMCA, Memorial Hospital Foundation and the Morris Civic Committee, to name some. He earned the recognition Sagamore of the Wabash for his years of service. He has supported education in our community at the high school and college levels. (2007)

Kenneth Geoffroy was instrumental in creating the South Bend Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Fischoff Chamber Music Competition. As a skilled trombonist, Mr. Geoffroy played with the South Bend Symphony and the Midwest Pops. He also was a member of the music faculty at Indiana University South Bend, president of the Indiana Music Educators’ Association, conductor of the Southhold Symphonic Wind Band, and coordinator of fine arts for the South Bend Community School Corporation from 1967 to 1982. Mr. Geoffroy first proposed the idea of a summer musical festival to be held at St. Patrick’s Park, the foundation for the renowned Firefly Festival. (1991)

Dr. Steve Gerber has been practicing at Advanced   Ophthalmology of Michiana for over 30 years. Besides his   practice, he has been     involved in vision care for the homeless,   the poor, children and infants. He is part of the team called “Kindness to Prevent Blindness” that   goes into public schools in St. Joseph and Elkhart counties to provide exams and glasses. More than 1,000 exams were done in 2022-23   and nearly 850 pairs of glasses were provided. He has also partnered with the Center for the Homeless,  establishing an eye exam room at the Sister Maura Brannick Health Center and working with a rotating group of doctors for the center. For 30 years he has been director of ophthalmology at Memorial and St. Joseph for family practice residents and he has taught in the IU School of Medicine for 15 years. He teaches Sunday school and plays the piano at Temple Beth-El. He and his wife, Lisa, have three daughters. (2023)

Rocco Germano has performed as principal violist with several renowned symphony orchestras. He is one of the founders of the South Bend Chamber Music Society, which developed later as the Fischoff International Chamber Music Competition. Mr. Germano also founded the South Bend Youth Symphony and served as its director for 21 years. He retired from the music department of the South Bend Community School Corporation after 24 years of service. (1989)

Jeffrey V. Gibney was committed to South Bend and fought for what he knew was right. He believed success came from partnerships and collaboration. His mission was to make the city a better place. He was director of the South Bend Heritage Foundation, a post he held for 30 years. In 2007, Mayor Stephen Luecke appointed him to be executive director of the city’s Department of Community and Economic Development. Throughout his career he worked to revitalize West Washington and Chapin streets. Major projects he facilitated include the Studebaker National Museum, Kroc Center, Notre Dame Center for Art and Culture, and a new No. 2 Fire Station. He helped create a wide range of housing opportunities, including the award-winning West Washington Street Homes, Robertson’s Apartments and Heritage Homes Southeast. The Northeast Neighborhood revitalization effort, Eddy Street Commons and the Triangle area, along with the conversion of the Natatorium to the IUSB Civil Rights Heritage Center, were signature developments that were key in South Bend being named an All-American City in 2011. Gibney died on April 12, 2014. (2014)

Paul D. Gilbert was a community activist and played a key role in South Bend’s recovery after the closing of the Studebaker plant in 1963. As co-chairman of the Committee of 100, Mr. Gilbert rallied fellow businessmen, convincing them that for their businesses to remain strong, business owners must do their part to keep the community strong. He worked tirelessly to assure the success in rebuilding for the community’s future. (1993)

Howard R. Goodhew, Jr., a native of Wisconsin, served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army during WWII. Assigned to the Pacific Theater, he saw action on Okinawa and received a Bronze Battle Star. He is a life member of the Disabled American Veterans. Actively involved in area Republican politics, he was the party candidate for mayor of South Bend in 1983. The civic offices he has held and organizations he has served are numerous: South Bend School Board, Chamber of Commerce, Crime Stoppers, TRIAD/SALT, St. Joseph County Parks Foundation, Civic Planning Associates and Better Business Bureau. In addition, Mr. Goodhew has been active with environmental programs, with his church and with state organizations. He was chairman of the board of The Ridge Company, Inc. for many years, starting employment there in 1939. In recognition of his many contributions, Mr. Goodhew was named Sagamore of the Wabash in 1976 by Governor Otis Bowen and in 1984 by Governor Robert Orr. (2002)

U.S. District Judge Robert A. Grant entered the legal profession in 1930. Later he served St. Joseph County as a deputy prosecutor. He went on to serve 10 years in Congress, representing the 3rd District of Indiana. Judge Grant also served for a long time as an adult leader in the Boy Scouts. In 1993 the Robert A. Grant Federal Building was named in his honor, and in 1994 he received the University of Notre Dame’s Rev. John J. Cavanaugh, C.S.C., Award. (1994)

Virginia Guthrie served as executive secretary of the South Bend Civic Planning Association from 1946 -1974. As an expert in local government finance, she was determined that tax dollars be spent wisely. Miss Guthrie served as director of the Altrusa Club, secretary of the St. Joseph County American Red Cross, and Civil Defense Deputy Director. She was also a member of the City and County Building Advisory Committee and was active in the Indiana State Chamber of Commerce Legal Budget Study School. (1991)

Sara Haber came to the U.S. in 1967 from Cuba. In 1984 while pursuing a career in education, she founded El Buen Vecino, the Good Neighbor program, to provide educational, health, employment, and emergency services to families in this area. Mrs. Haber supervised 150 community and university volunteers in conjunction with 12 independent programs. She was named Woman of the Year by the South Bend YWCA. She was also a recipient of the City of South Bend Community Service Award and served on the advisory panel for the Indiana Grass Roots Coalition. (2000)

Daniel Harshman grew up in Toledo, Ohio, and graduated from the University of Notre Dame. He played four years of varsity football at Notre Dame and was a member of the 1966 National Championship team. Mr. Harshman began his career as a teacher and then joined Logan Center in 1976. He has been executive director of Logan Center since 1978 and is responsible for its development as a model agency. Several programs for people with disabilities have been initiated under his leadership, and he is highly regarded as a professional in a field that offers assistance to mentally challenged individuals. (2004)

Helen V. Hepler, an energetic and generous advocate for the arts, greatly influenced the success of arts programs in the community. Mrs. Hepler has been instrumental in the growth of Firefly Festival as she served as president and board member, exercising her expertise as planner and fund-raiser. She was a board member of the South Bend Symphony, the South Bend Regional Museum of Art and the Northern Indiana Historical Society (Northern Indiana Center for History). (1993)

Glenda Rae Hernandez has been active in Habitat for Humanity, the League of Women Voters and the Human Rights Commission. She founded study circles to meet periodically to discuss problems concerning racism and race relations. Mrs. Hernandez plays a major role on the Community Religious Effort against Violence and Racism and the Urban Coalition Against Drug and Alcohol Abuse. She also has taught both English and Spanish as second languages and helped establish the local chapter of Tough Love International.

Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C. served as president of the University of Notre Dame for 35 years before his retirement. He held 14 presidential appointments over the years, involving him in a variety of national social issues. The Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, was bestowed on Father Hesburgh by President Lyndon Johnson. He also has received many awards in the field of education, including the prestigious Meiklejohn Award of the American Association of University Professor. (1989)

Joanna L. Hock began teaching at the elementary school level in South Bend Community School Corporation in 1956. In 1981 Mrs. Hock became a Multi-Age Continuous Progress Option team leader and facilitator. In 1987 she joined the Division of Instruction and Curriculum as a facilitator and head of staff development. In 1990 Mrs. Hock compiled and wrote the beginning teacher/mentor induction handbook for the South Bend Community School Corporation. She served as the first full-time president of the Indiana State Teachers’ Association and was instrumental in the passage of the Collective Bargaining Law. (1992)

Timothy Edward Howard came to South Bend in the late 1850’s to study at the University of Notre Dame. The Civil War interrupted his studies when he entered the military. He was wounded at the Battle of Shiloh and discharged. He returned to his studies and later became a law professor at Notre Dame. He practiced law in the area and had a distinguished political career serving in the South Bend City Council between 1878-1913. He was an Indiana State Senator and served for six years as an Indiana Supreme Court Justice. His book ‘History of St. Joseph County, Indiana’ has been regarded as the authoritative source of information on St. Joseph County. (2008)

Hollis Hughes, Jr. has been an advocate of needy people for most of his adult life. He devoted much of his time and energy to improve housing and living conditions of area citizens. He is a retired CEO of United Way and served in executive positions with the Model Cities Program, St. Joseph County Housing Assistance Office, Inc. , St. Joseph County Housing Authority and the Bureau of Housing. He began his career as a teacher-coach in the public school system and served on the Board of Trustees for both the South Bend Community School Corporation and Ball State University. His positive impact in our community earned him a Key to the City from the cities of South Bend and Mishawaka. (2007)

Ernestine Morris Raclin has been active in the community and has served on many boards in both the business and educational areas. She has been board chairman of 1st Source Corp., NIPSCO Industries, and the Midcon Corp. Mrs. Raclin has also served as senior leader of First Chicago Corp. and First National Bank of Chicago. She served on the board of the St. Joseph County Chamber of Commerce, served as chairperson for the $5 million campaign for Project Future, and served as a member of the Regional Approach to Progress. She is a trustee for Notre Dame and serves on advisory boards for Indiana University South Bend and Purdue University. (1994)

Jack Reed is a Riley High School graduate who wanted to be an Indiana State Trooper but had to change his goals and worked for the City of South Bend for 47 years as a firefighter and assistant to the mayor. Appointed to the rank of captain in 1972, he became the first African-American riding chief in the fire department. The current mayor called him a ‘model civil servant’. A man who is full of energy with a big heart,  he is well known for his big smile and warm handshake and can often be seen lending a hand to the needy. He has served on numerous boards and committees including DARE, South Bend Heritage Foundation, REAL Services, Disabililties Rights Commision and Juvenile Justice Center-Child Protection. (2008)

James L. Reinebold became a legend in high school baseball. For more than 25 years, he coached baseball at Clay and Greene high schools and totaled 646 wins. At Clay High School, he compiled 503 wins, securing the record number of wins for any SBCSC coach in any sport. Coach Reinebold’s 1970 Clay High School team became the first South Bend high school to win the Indiana State Baseball Championship. He was honored twice with the title of Midwest High School Baseball Coach of the Year and nominated twice for the title of National High School Baseball Coach of the Year. (1993)

Richard J. “Rick’’ Rice is the retired president and CEO of Teachers Credit Union. During more than 30 years at TCU, most of them as its president, Rice was committed to the credit union’s mission of promoting education and being a positive force in the community. TCU grew during his tenure to become a $1.6 billion statewide business, the largest credit union in the state. He served as a member of numerous boards and organizations, including the Memorial Home Care, CONNECT, Project Future, WNIT-TV, Coalition for Educational Successes in St. Joseph County, United Wayand Junior Achievement. He was the 3^rd District representative to the State Board of Education from 1998-2002 and was on the Holy Cross College Board of Trustees. (2012)

Gabrielle Robinson has shed a bright light on South Bend’s history through her writing. A retired English professor at Indiana University South Bend, Robinson’s books include “German Settlers of South Bend” and “Better Homes of South Bend: An American Story of Courage.” She has chronicled the immigrants from Germany and helped develop a sister city relationship with Arzburg, Germany, home of many of the local settlers.  In “Better Homes,” she tells about the courageous African American homeowners on the northwest side of the city who fought Jim Crow laws and discriminatory regulations in the 1950s. Born in Berlin, Robinson taught at IUSB from 1979 to her retirement in 2005. She was awarded a Sagamore of the Wabash in 2006, the highest award given by the State of Indiana. (2016)

Maritza Robles, director of bilingual education for South Bend Community School Corporation, has participated in many presentations on multicultural issues. She has taught Spanish and English as second languages, in addition to science and mathematics. She has received three times the U.S. Secretary of Education Initiative Award for work with programs for migrant families. Mrs. Robles has served on the boards of Memorial Hospital, Community Foundation of St. Joseph County, CASIE Center, CONNECT, United Way and AIDS Ministries. (1998)

Knute Rockne was an innovative, charismatic teacher and coach of the University of Notre Dame football team from 1918 to 1931. He forged an unparalleled record of 105 wins, 12 losses, 5 ties and coached six national championship teams. His enthusiasm and motivational skills were effective in his coaching and other interests. He not only revolutionized football strategy, but the marketing of interscholastic athletics as well. He fostered intersectional games and rivalries. He designed the Notre Dame Stadium and was the university’s athletic director. Involved in the South Bend community in his lifetime,  many streets, parks, buildings and automobiles are named in his honor and memory.. His image is recognized by nearly every sportspersons in the world. (1995)

Charles “Chuck” Roemer, a retired attorney with Barnes and Thornburg, has been recognized for his leadership talents and his service to the community. In 1975 he was the founder of the South Bend/Mishawaka Chamber Leadership program, which identifies and trains young people to be future leaders in the community. In 1990 Mr. Roemer was co-founder of the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County, a charity that offers financial support to other charities in the community. He served as chairman of the board for two years and continues to serve as a member of its executive committee. He is also an active member of St. Joseph’s Church in South Bend, where he co-founded its Parish Council, and he and his wife Denise started a pre-marriage program which later expanded throughout the diocese. He recently received the Helping Hands Award from the Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. (2006)

Richard Rosenthal first achieved notice as an All-American basketball player at the University of Notre Dame. At the young age of 29, Mr. Rosenthal became president of St. Joseph Bank. When he left the bank after serving as chairman and chief executive officer, the bank’s assets had climbed from $22 million to $1.2 billion. He was a leader in the development of Century Center and Project Future. He has also helped raise major funding for Special Olympics and participated in fundraising for Indiana University and Notre Dame. While serving as Notre Dame athletic director, he witnessed the expansion of the football stadium, enrollment in the Big East Conference in most major sports, the addition of four women’s sports, and the building of Eck Stadium and Jake Kline Field. (1994)

Msgr. John Sabo. P.A.. devoted his life to the Our Lady of Hungary parish. He won high honors for his work in forming the National Organization for Decent Literature, and he helped many Hungarian refugees at the time of the revolution in their homeland in the 1950’s. (2001)

Benito Salazar, son of Mexican immigrants, worked as a migrant field worker in his early years. He moved to South Bend with his family when he was 14 years old to work for Snyder Farms and other large farms on the west side of St. Joseph County. Later, he became a businessman, working as an account executive at Steel Warehouse. He is active in the Catholic Church, serving as director of the Celestial Choir at St. Adalbert Catholic Church. He and his wife also have performed Christian music in Texas, Ohio and Florida. He has represented the Hispanic community in the Fort Wayne-South Bend Catholic Diocese and the Southern Indiana Diocese. A founder of La Casa de Amistad, he served as one of the first directors. He has been a member of the Cesar Chavez Farm Workers Organization, St. Vincent de Paul Society, United Way and Boy Scouts of America. (2015)

Jean Savarese, known as “The Costume Lady,” started her labor of love in costuming in conjunction with the direction of the renowned James Lewis Casaday in 1963. She has been responsible for the organization and preservation of a huge inventory of costumes. The prized collection has been used by numerous individuals and in various theater productions. Demanding accuracy, especially in period pieces, Mrs. Savarese makes every effort to authenticate the costumes for various performances and events. (2002)

George Scheuer was a man of many talents and interests. He was an employee for the South Bend News-Times and South Bend Tribune, and he taught at Indiana University South Bend and Forever Learning Institute. He was a founder of the Midland Academy of Art and a member of the Boy Scouts Council, having served as a leader of Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Explorer Scouts. Mr. Scheuer was also a volunteer in the St. Joseph County Radio Amateur Communications for Emergency Service. He was an active member of Michiana Watershed and, as a volunteer, helped develop the River Walk in South Bend. Also as a volunteer, he assisted the elderly with tax preparation. (1996)

Herbert A. Schiller M.D., as an obstetrician and gynecologist, delivered more than 9,000 babies. One of his most notable achievements was the introduction of fluoridated water in South Bend, a highly controversial program at the time. He served as president of the South Bend Board of Health and board members of the South Bend Symphony Association, Art Center and Mental Health Center. Dr. Schiller was a recipient of the Brotherhood Award of the National Conference of Christians and Jews. (1998)

Franklin D. Schurz Sr. was appointed president of the South Bend Tribune in 1957 and became chairman of the board in 1976. He was a member of the executive council of Harvard University Business School Association and the boards of St. Mary’s College, University of Notre Dame, and Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame. Mr. Schurz was co-chairman of the United Fund of St. Joseph County when it organized in 1951, president of the YWCA, co-chairman of the Mayor’s Committee to Study the Studebaker Problem, and chairman of the St. Joseph County Manpower Development and Training Advisory Committee. (1990)

Franklin D. Schurz Jr. grew up in the newspaper business. After receiving his undergraduate and master’s degrees from Harvard University, he joined the family business, which eventually became Schurz Communications, Inc. A veteran of the Korean War, he was editor and publisher of the South Bend Tribune, and the Morning Herald and Daily Mail in Hagerstown, MD. He has served as CEO and chairman of SCI, which now includes 13 newspapers and numerous television, radio, cable, advertising shoppers and a printing company spread across 12 states. Mr. Schurz has been active in the Indiana Arts Council, Indiana Endowment for Education Excellence, Chamber of Commerce, South Bend Rotary Club, Saint Mary’s College, IUSB, University of Notre Dame, United Way and Nature Conservancy. He established the Opportunity Scholarship at IUSB to assist African-American and Hispanic students.

Mikki Dobski Shidler has been a community organizer, communicator and event specialist for the city of South Bend and numerous charitable organizations. She started her career at the Youth Service Bureau before moving to city government, where she spent 16 years as the city’s events coordinator and community affairs director. Among her efforts was the World’s

Largest Garage Sale, development of Coveleski Regional Stadium and restoration of the Morris performing Arts Center. She has served on many local boards, including South Bend Rotary, YWCA, Chopin Fine Arts, AIDS Ministry, REAL Services, South Bend Heritage Foundation, St. Margaret’s House, Boys & Girls Clubs and Morris Performing Arts Center. (2017)

Kathryn and William Shields worked together since the 1930’s and founded Wells Aluminum in 1940. Then they developed more businesses, including Syscon International and Wells Electronics. In 1989 the Shields established the William S. and Kathryn L. Shields Trust for Education and Healthcare Professionals, one of their many endowments. With a belief in helping people before buying “bricks and mortar,” the Shields have been advocates of education and actively support the cultural life of the community. They serve on the boards of several organizations, and they are the recipients of many honors and recognitions. (2004)

Rabbi Albert M. Shulman was ordained in 1932 and served Temple Beth- El from 1934 to 1967. He was instrumental in establishing the South Bend Housing Authority and served as its chairman for 17 years. Rabbi Shulman was also active in the United Fund of St. Joseph County, National Association for the Prevention of Blindness, Parkview Juvenile Center and the Urban League. He was the first Jewish president of the St. Joseph County Ministerial Association, and his interfaith and interracial civic involvement included participation in the civil rights march on Washington, D.C., in the 1960’s. (1997)

Kurt and Tessye Simon left a mark on the community through their business achievements and generosity. Kurt Simon developed Simon Brothers grocery business into one of the largest wholesale food suppliers in the area. Mr. and Mrs. Simon provided funding for the Education Building at Temple Beth-EI and the community building on the Jewish Federation campus. They have endowed Jewish studies programs at the University of Notre Dame and Indiana University, Bloomington. They also funded the Holocaust Remembrance at Temple Beth-El. (2003)

Charles “Lefty” Smith, longtime coach of the Notre Dame varsity ice hockey team, was a key figure in the formations of the Irish Youth Hockey League and Michiana High School Hockey League. As a charter member of the Ice Skating Institute of America, he helped form the National Sports Festival and introduced hockey to Special Olympics, a program to which he is still dedicated. (1999)

Brother Roy Smith, C.S.C., taught at St. Joseph High School in South Bend. He has had various social work assignments in the Midwest, including serving at Catholic Social Services in South Bend. His community activities include work with the Slice of Life program, the African-American AIDS Coalition, and United Health Services. Brother Smith is coordinator for the Black Catholic Congress for the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, a member of Holy Cross Counseling Group, and a board member of Hannah’s House, a residential facility for pregnant teens. (1996)

Ray Snyder was known for his friendly demeanor and fairness to customers at his station, Portage Sunoco, which he opened in 1957 after serving two years in the Army. But his avocation was baseball, especially Little League. He has served in a variety of roles in the Chet Waggoner Little League since 1970, including coach, custodian and president. The league serves more than 600 children a year, along with 80 disabled children in the Challenger Little League. As president of the league, he has guided and mentored three generations of ball players. He received the Raclin Award in 2002 from 1st Source Bank. It is given to volunteers who have exemplified the leadership qualities of Ernestine Raclin.

Father Edward Sorin, C.S.C., came from France and with three religious brothers of the Holy Cross order founded the University of Notre Dame in 1842. He then served as its president until 1865. A pioneer in local education, he founded St. Mary’s College in South Bend and St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas. He was responsible for the Sisters of Holy Cross staffing St. Mary’s College. (1996)

Kathleen & David Sparks. No matter how demanding the work for Kathleen and David Sparks, community involvement is always among their top priorities, offering generous amounts of both their time and financial resources. They are co-owners of KADA Partnership, which owns and operates McDonald’s Restaurants in the Michiana area. Each year, the Sparks partner with community schools to promote student academic achievement. Kathleen initiated the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northern Indiana and was the first president of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Indiana. She has served on the U.S. Ronald McDonald House Charities Global Advisory Council, the Family & Children’s Center Foundation Board and the Memorial Hospital Foundation Board, to just name a few. David also is a past president of the Ronald McDonald House Charities and has served his community on several boards including past chair of the Salvation Army Advisory Board, South Bend Regional Sports Commission Board and IUSB School of Business and Economics Advisory Board. (2009)

Thomas S. Stanfield was the 2015 historical inductee. He was a key figure in South Bend’s history during the mid-1800s. Born in 1816 in Ohio, he moved here in 1831 as a railroad worker. He brought the first railroad to the territory in the late 1840s. The line from White Pigeon was called the Michigan Southern and Northern Indiana Railroad, which eventually became the Grant Trunk Railroad. Stanfield attended law school in Cincinnati, and his career included serving in the state legislature, as a Circuit Court judge for 11 counties, assistant postmaster and president of the Grand Trunk Railroad. He was a city councilman and one of five organizers of the First National Bank, which eventually became 1st Source Bank. He also was among the founders in 1867 of the Northern Indiana Historical Society. He died in 1885. (2015)

Gwen Stiver was an active member of the South Bend Park Board for 17 years, serving many years as its president. She led development of the East Race and Stanley Coveleski Regional Stadium. Mrs. Stiver chaired the local bicentennial celebration in 1976 and organized South Bend’s first Ethnic Festival. Also as a volunteer, she served as president of the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and as the first woman elder at Sunnyside Presbyterian Church. (1997)

The Studebaker Brothers, Clement, Henry, John, Peter and Jacob, were wagon and carriage makers and supplied products for the nation’s war efforts, beginning with the Civil War. At one point they were the largest manufacturer of horse drawn vehicles in the world. They entered the automobile industry in 1902 and were very innovative in developing safety and stylish vehicles until manufacturing stopped in 1965. The Studebakers were generous in supporting the cultural and economic development of the city. Studebaker was once the largest employer in South Bend. The city has a museum dedicated to the Studebaker family and the corporation. (1995)

Frank Sullivan Jr. Indiana Supreme Court Justice Frank Sullivan Jr. was appointed to the court in 1993. He has been honored for his convictions to improving the opportunities for minorities in the judicial system. Through his efforts, the Indiana courts have made great strides in assuring that the justice system reflects the people it serves. Justice Sullivan came from a background in government service and private law practice. He grew up in South Bend and graduated from Saint Joseph’s High School in 1968. In 1973, Mr. Sullivan managed the South Bend office for Congressman John Brademas and his 1974 reelection campaign. He worked five years for Congressman Brademas.  Mr. Sullivan graduated from IU Mauer School of Law in 1982 and University of Virginia School of Law in 2001. He served in private practice for several years in Indianapolis. In 1988, he was named to the State Budget director by Gov. Evan Bayh. In 1993, Bayh appointed him to the Indiana Supreme Court. Of the 106 judges on the court through the years, Justice Sullivan is only the fourth with ties to South Bend.  Justice Sullivan is active in improving the technology in trial courts. He is a frequent participant in bench, bar and legal education activities.

Lester Sumrall was a native of New Orleans and spent more than 65 years serving the Lord as an evangelist. His LeSea association is headquartered in South Bend. After he was healed of tuberculosis at age 17, he pledged to become a preacher. He was ordained at age 19. Regarded as the ‘Father of Christian Television,’ he secured the first license for 24-hour Christian television from the FCC in 1957, He launched LeSEA’s flagship station WHME-TV and Harvest radio 101.3 in 1968. By the time of his death in 1996 at age 83 he had ministered in more than 110 countries and had written nearly 150 books. In 1987 he established the global outreach , Feed the Hungry. (2008)

Robert Sweeney, MD overcame an impoverished youth and worked his way through medical school. A pediatric physician, he has practiced in South Bend for more than forty years. He was involved in the education and development of children in our community with extensive work with the Boy Scouts of American and served for eight years on the Board of School Trustees for the South Bend Community School Corporation. He and his wife, Betty, are strong advocates for children. (2007)

Martin and Jane Tarnow opened their first grocery store in 1947, beginning a business that now includes 18 stores and employs more than 2,600 people. Over the years, Martin’s supermarkets has helped local schools by giving more than $1 million through Advantages for Education and over $50,000 annually in scholarships. The Martin’s organization has made significant donations of food each year to numerous local agencies, schools, churches, and other non-profit organizations. (2001)

Lathrop Miner Taylor 1805-1893. Lathrop Taylor came to our area in 1827 to trade with the Potawatomi Indians.He was known by pioneers and natives as an honest and fair man. With Alexis Coquillard he is considered the co-founder of present day South Bend. He and Coquillard generously provided for the development of South Bend, donating land for churches, schools and other public needs. Commissioned the first postmaster of ‘Southhold’ by President Andrew Jackson, he later served in other public offices, He was a colonel in the 79th Indiana Militia. A man of vigor and enterprise, he lived to see South Bend develop into one of the leading cities in the new west. (2004)

Lloyd & Nancy Taylor served the public in our community in many ways. Lloyd was a visionary who saw the potential of the East Race and other run-down areas of South Bend in the 1960’s and 70’s. He served as city engineer and director of redevelopment in South Bend and in the Indiana House of Representatives. He and Nancy, a long time area teacher, were instrumental in the Reins of Life program, which has helped hundreds of children and adults with disabilities. In the words of parents, both Lloyd and Nancy have been a ‘godsend,’ instilling self-confidence and self-esteem and helping people in need of social and physical development. (2007)

Viola Robinson conveyed an appreciation and love of art to countless students in the South Bend Community School Corporation. She taught at Central and Jesse Dickinson middle schools, Muessel elementary, and Whitney Young Alternative School, where she was nominated as Teacher of the Year in 1987. Mrs. Robinson also conducted many art workshops at schools throughout the area. Her art works have been shown at St. Mary’s College, the South Bend Regional Museum of Art, and the YWCA. (1996)

Luther Taylor served as South Bend fire chief for 21 years. Mr. Taylor joined the fire department in 1972 and was promoted through the ranks, becoming chief  in October 1985. He held that position for 21 years until his retirement in April 2007. In 2004, Mayor Steve Luecke granted Taylor a one-year leave of absence to serve as director of the State Emergency Management Agency under former Gov. Joe Kernan. He was responsible for maintaining a level of readiness to respond to any emergency that might occur or threaten within the state. He returned as South Bend’s fire chief in 2005.  He served as president of the Indiana Fire Chiefs Association, chair of the Indiana Emergency Response Committee and board member of the local Red Cross. After retirement, he became manager of  emergency preparedness at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center.

Alexander (Lexo) Toradze was born in Tbilisi, Georgia in the former USSR. A child prodigy, he started studying piano at age 4 and won his first competition at 16. He graduated from Moscow’s Tchaikovsky Conservatory, part of the “Russian School” known for it rigid discipline. He won the Van Cliburn silver medal in 1977.  Toradze defected in 1983 and became a Hoosier in 1991, when he came to Indiana University South Bend to occupy the inaugural Martin Endowed Chair of Piano. He created a piano studio that has attracted top international talent. Its students focus on recitals as a central point for learning, collaboration and performance, rooted in the Russian Studio. Toradze has performed as a soloist all over the world with major symphonies, including in London, Boston and New York. His recordings are acclaimed by critics and fans.   (2014)

Bob Towner spent a lifetime as a sports writer and handled the annual All-Eastern Division and All-Northern Indiana for the South Bend Tribune. He was a charter member of the committee that formed the St. Joseph Chapter of the Indiana Hall of Fame and served as its secretary. He was president of the South Bend Press Club and an officer for the South Bend Lions Club and Knights of Columbus. Mr. Towner also is the recipient of the Sam Wegner, Russ Oliver, and George Cooper Foundation memorial awards. (1989)

Florence Troeger 1902-1981. Florence Troeger became the first female golf professional in the state of Indiana in 1943, and she began to teach the sport to youth in the South Bend area. A graduate of South Bend High School, she worked in the offices of the Studebaker Corp. before becoming golf pro at Studebaker Municipal Golf Course. She believed the essence of golf was to build character and integrity through competition, camaraderie and sportsmanship.  An estimated 200 boys and girls learned the game under her tutelage. Known affectionately as “Flo the Pro,” she ran tournaments, gave lessons and sold candy at the golf course. Her legacy lives on through the Florence Troeger Memorial Invitational Golf Tournament, hosted by Riley High School. (2016)

LeRoy S. Troyer was founder, president, and chief executive officer of an architecture and engineering firm in the United State, Canada, and England. Mr. Troyer has served the less fortunate by providing housing through Habitat for Humanity. As an international board member for Habitat for Humanity, he has worked on many Habitat projects with former President Jimmy Carter. He helped organize Habitat affiliates in the local communities of St. Joseph and Elkhart counties. (1994)

Mark & Nan Tulchinsky. Words read at the eulogy for Mark Tulchinsky help explain what Mark and Nan have meant to the community. “It may take a village to raise a child, but Mark and Nan Tulchinsky have taught us that a really good educator can raise a village.’’ Mark and Nan established a reputation as talented, tireless educators devoted to the community, often leaning on each other to handle the myriad of challenges they took on. Mark, who died in 2008, was a longtime principal well-known for his compassion and fairness. Nan was a state Teacher of the Year who went on to become the first female athletic director (LaSalle High School) in city history and later the South Bend Community School Corp. athletic director. She was a coach and the first woman to earn IHSAA basketball officiating status within the St. Joe Valley Association. Both went well beyond their jobs to better the lives of students and adults in the community. Mark, employed by the SBCSC for 39 years, served as a football official and worked a state finals football championship. He served on governing boards for the YMCA, Northeast Neighborhood Council, Urban Youth Services and the Boys and Girls Club. Both volunteered for Special Olympics. Nan has served as a volunteer at the Food Pantry, Our Lady of the Road and as a mentor for students and teachers. (2009)

Virginia Tutt was born in South Bend and attended South Bend schools. She traveled to New York to work in a New York library, but later returned to South Bend where she was one of two staff members at the South Bend Public Library. she eventually rose to the position of head librarian, a position she held from 1903-1927. During her leadership, the library increased its number of volumes from 5,000 to 85,000. She is credited with opening the first library branch in 1918 and with adding library departments, including children’s, juvenile, medical and technical, local history and public documents. Her vision provided the foundation for the modern library system operating in South Bend today.

The Veldman Family have been key figures in the South Bend community since 1952, when Peter and Wilma emigrated from The Netherlands. Other family members followed throughout the 1950s and early 1960s. Their home and the family businesses they founded were located primarily on the city’s West Side. They provided an initial residence and employment for many family members  as they came to America. Brothers Al, Ted, and Willy, and brother-in-law John Wynen became partners with Pete in a service station, auto repair shop, lawn and garden center, and tire, battery and accessory distributorship. Family businesses today include the Tire Rack, All Secure Self-Storage, Hose Assemblies, Midwest Orthotics, Surestep, and WISSCO Irrigation. Family members are great believers in the community and proponents of many educational and community building efforts, especially involving Catholic primary and secondary education.  Already a large family, the Veldmans have adopted 25 children. Henry Veldman played a leadership role in the establishment of youth soccer in the area.

Edward F. ‘Babe’ Voorde was a charismatic and popular leader in South Bend.  ‘Babe’ Voorde lived by his campaign slogan: “For all the People.” He served as Portage Township assessor before being elected twice as mayor of South Bend. He tragically died in an automobile accident in 1960. As his family grew, some of his children continued in public and health service work.  (2001)

Barbara K. Warner grew up in South Bend in a family dedicated to the importance of community. Her mother’s activism in the Children’s Aid Society was inspirational for Miss Warner. She devoted her life to philanthropy through such organizations at the Urban league, Junior League, Logan Center, Public Education Foundation, Community Foundation, South Bend Museum of Art, South Bend Civic Theatre, Northern Indiana Center for History, Center for Hospice Care, South Bend Symphony and IUSB.  The Warner Gallery and Warner Rotunda at the SBMA are named for her. Her donations helped fund the art gallery at IUSB, and the Warner Theatre at the Civic Theatre is named for her. She has endowed a chair with the symphony.

Michael Warren earned a basketball scholarship to UCLA, where he majored in filmmaking and played basketball under Coach John Wooden. He was a two-time All-American, both on the court and in the classroom. After college, Mr. Warren studied acting and performed in numerous television and movie productions. He has also participated in many charitable organizations dedicated to youth, including the Special Olympics, Reading is Fundamental and the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) America program where he served as national spokesman. (1991)

Enoch Weiss is believed to be the only Congressional Medal of Honor recipient from South Bend. He was cited in 1870 for valor against the Apache Indians led by Cochese in the Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona Territory. Born in 1848 in Kosciusko County, he moved to St. Joseph County as a young child. He served in the Union Army during the Civil War and participacted in Sherman’s March to the Sea. After the war he re-enlisted and fought in the Indian Wars as part of the First Cavalry Regiment. He then returned to South Bend, where he raised his family and was a volunteer firefighter. He died in 1917. (2010)

Karen White is truly a lady of personal achievements and service to others. She is associate vice-chancellor for student services/dean of students at Indiana University South Bend and has spoken at numerous conferences. Her service on boards of directors include Urban League of St. Joseph County, Urban Enterprise, African-American Community Fund and Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. Her committee work is extensive and has earned her a ‘Drum Major’ Community Service Award from the City of South Bend as well as ‘Civic Awards’ from the Urban League of South Bend and St. Joseph County. As director of the Summer Leadership Academy at IUSB, she was responsible for developing a program based on the tenets of the Civil Rights Movement aimed at high school and college students. She developed an at-risk progsram for females in the South Bend Community Schools. (2008)

Rev. Dr. Sylvester Williams Jr. & Wanda Williams stand out for their service in our community. Dr. Sylvester is the recipient of the Sagamore of the Wabash Award and has received Keys to the City in South Bend and Mishawaka  for his work in challenging cities to be violence-free. He established the Food Bank of Michiana and the Good Samaritan Workers Action Team to aid others in distress. He helped found the Urban Broadcast System (WUBS) and the Social Workers Forum. In addition to helping with her husband’s work, Wanda was a leader in child care development and became a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society and African Women in Touch. For her work she received the ‘Alive with Pride Award’. Wanda died in 2002. (2007)

James Wilson, M.D. began his practice with the South Bend Medical Foundation in 1947, performing general and lung surgeries in local hospitals. He also treated tuberculosis patients at Healthwin Hospital. Dr. Wilson served as president of the Medical Foundation Board, the county medical society and the county scholarship foundation. He was also chairman of the local American Red Cross chapter. Upon his retirement from his medical practice in 1980, he turned his attention to education. Hew was the founder and principal donor the the South Bend Public Education Foundation. (2003)

Bernie Witucki earned letters in high school football, wrestling and baseball and went undefeated in wrestling. After graduating from George Washington University on a football scholarship, he coached at Washington High School from 1935 to 1943. While coaching at Washington for eight years, Coach Witucki compiled a 60-10-6 record, including mythical state titles in 1937 – 39. Two members of his 1937 undefeated state championship team attained star status: Steve Bagarus with the Washington Redskins and Jim Walker, All-Big Ten conference lineman at Iowa University. (1991)

Lester Wolfson, chancellor emeritus of Indiana University at South Bend, taught at IUSB, the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, the University of Houston, Indiana’s Northwest Campus in Gary, the University of Chicago’s Downtown Center, and was a visiting faculty member of the University of California, Santa Barbara. During Dr. Wolfson’s active years at IUSB, he served on several boards devoted to cultural, social, economic, health and educational causes. While Dr. Wolfson was serving a 23-year tenure at IUSB, the university grew from 2,000 to 6,000 students. (1991)

John Wooden grew up in Martinsville, Indiana and played on the high school’s basketball team that is a part of Indiana history and lore. He entered Purdue University and was a three time basketball All-American. After graduation he taught English and coached basketball and baseball at South Bend Central High School for nine years, with a break for service with the U.S. Navy in WWII. In his nine years at Central, his basketball teams achieved a record of 218-42. In 1947 he accepted the head basketball post at Indiana State University, and many of his former Central players were on his teams. His ISU team record was 47-14. He then moved to UCLA, where his teams set records that may never be matched. Under Coach Wooden his teams won 10 National (NCAA) Men’s Tournament Championships and had a combined record of 219-10. A model for the consummate coach, he was a gentleman among men. (1987)

Maestro Tsung Yeh is bringing music to the world as he presently holds posts as Conductor Laureate of the Hong Kong Sinfonietta, Music Director of the Singapore Chinese Orchestra, and Music Director of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra. In 1991 he was among three conductors chosen for the Conductor Mentor Program of the American Symphony Orchestra League. His interest in contemporary music, both eastern and western, has led to highly acclaimed appearances. Maestro Yeh has made orchestral recordings with several orchestras, participated in broadcasts on radio, and performed in satellite telecasts through Europe and Asia. As music director and principal conductor of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra since 1988, he has brought recognition to the local music orchestra. (2005)

Ernie Zalejski is a football legend in the annals of South Bend football. A three time All-State halfback at Washington High School, he went on to play for four yours at Notre Dame under Frank Leahy, winning three national championships. Because of injuries, Mr. Zalejski had only a brief stint in professional football. Then he began a lifetime of service as a teacher-coach, county official, and for thirty years as a U.S. Treasury Department executive helping raise funds for local charities. (2004)

Harold Zisla served as executive director of the South Bend Art Center from 1957-1966, working to give the Art Center an important place in the cultural life of Michiana. In 1968, he was appointed the first chairman of the fine arts department at Indiana University South Bend. Mr. Zisla has served on the Art Center board of trustees, the acquisitions committee of Purdue University, the Advisory Board of Gallery at St. Mary’s College, and on the Mayor’s Committee to build a Cultural Complex. (1989)