As the Hamilton County Leadership Academy enters its 25th anniversary year, 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.
Megan Wiles, HCLA Class of 2000
Hometown: Noblesville
Lives and works: Noblesville
Family: Husband, Greg; son Garrett, 15; and daughter, Grace, 13.
Career and community involvement: Executive director, Riverview Health Foundation. She took the job after spending eight years raising her family and doing volunteer work. Before that, she was president of Legacy Fund, Hamilton County’s community foundation. She was elected to the Noblesville Common Council last year and took office Jan. 1.
Favorite HCLA curriculum activity: Visiting Beck’s Hybrids. “I was amazed at the amount of technology that is used in farming.”
What impact has HCLA made? “It has done a wonderful job of educating community members on what is taking place in Hamilton County as well as where there are opportunities to do more. HCLA is encouraging more people to get involved and have an impact … not only for today, but for years to come.”
Most valuable lesson learned through HCLA: “Having lived in Hamilton County almost all of my life, I thought I knew a lot already about this community. After going through HCLA, I learned a great deal more about how different each of our communities are and what we can do to collaborate with one another.”
Last movie you saw? “I am going to see Star Wars, but didn’t make it to opening weekend. I remember seeing the original when it came out.”
Favorite thing to do in Hamilton County: “Go to Conner Prairie. Any time of the year is a beautiful time to be on the grounds — it’s just an amazing place.”
