Compiled by Andrea Davis
As Hamilton County Leadership Academy approaches its 25th anniversary in 2016, Current is highlighting local leaders who have helped build and sustain the program, which focuses on strengthening our community by developing informed leaders. In June, another class of engaged citizens will join the 600-plus graduates already working to make a difference.
Nate Lichti, HCLA Class of 2015
Hometown: Shipshewana
Lives: Indianapolis
Works: Noblesville
Family: Wife Jennifer; daughter Sofia
Career: Executive Director, Hamilton County Area Neighborhood Development, Inc.
Community involvement: Vision Noblesville, Social Services Task Force; Hamilton County Domestic Violence Shelter Planning Committee; Fishers Comprehensive Planning Residential Task Force.
Nice to know: Lichti was introduced to community development during a stint with AmeriCorps in Tuscon. “It was the first time for me to write a grant, deal with unhappy neighbors, organize community initiatives, and lobby elected officials for a cause I cared about. Since then, I’ve always been able to work in a field I feel passionate about.”
Biggest HCLA takeaway: “I appreciated the way HCLA provided a comprehensive overview of the multiple facets of the county. We explored the complexities inherent in each sector, whether it was judicial, local government, planning, health care or schools. … The positive, collaborative nature of leadership in this county is really exemplary.”
Most impactful connection made through HCLA—and why: “Adam Campagna of Meyer Najem. Besides being an all-around good guy, he introduced the concept of an Indiana Leadership Exchange, which was our group project. When we started honing this idea, the concept of a conference on neighborhood issues came to mind. We ran with the concept as an organization, and (in November HAND) hosted the Neighborhoods NOW Conference on Housing & Community Development. It was a tremendous success … and we look forward to following up with mini-summits and other trainings.”
Favorite thing to do in Hamilton County: “Sit in my office on Eighth Street and watch the Nickel Plate train roll by.”
