Fueling Her Legacy
Katie Lucas Leads Lucas Oil With Heart, Vision & Commitment to Community Impact
DRIVEN TO SUCCEED
UNLIMITED MOTORS BUILDS SUCCESS THROUGH INTEGRITY & COMMUNITY
PUBLISHER
BRANDON BALTZ brandon@townepost.com (317) 514-9522
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
KRYSTAL DAILEY
STEPHANIE DUNCAN
Prevail, Inc.
WOMEN OF WESTFIELD
Local Organization Unites, Inspires & Strengthens Community
DRIVEN TO SUCCEED
Unlimited Motors Builds Success Through Integrity & Community
FUELING HER LEGACY
Katie Lucas Leads Lucas Oil With Heart, Vision & Commitment to Community Impact
IDO Incorporated
New Hamilton County Tourism CEO Karen Radcliff Champions Community & Connection
OF DANCE Jazzercise Carmel/ Westfield Celebrates 10 Years of Fitness, Fun & Community
BARRE & BEYOND Pure Barre Expands With New Westfield Studio
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Taylor Wilhelm
GRATEFUL GIVING
Riverview Health Foundation’s Gratitude Gala Raises Funds for Critical Care
Teresa Howard Shares Her Journey of Hope & Healing
CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING
JULI KNUTSON
RENÉE LARR
NATALIE PLATT
ASHLEY WATTERS
EMILY WHITCOMB
MELISSA WONSER
JULIE YATES
PROUD MEMBER
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.
FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599
PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011
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CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS
EDITOR
JOSH BROWN
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11
IMMI CONFERENCE CENTER
18880 N. EAST STREET
Breakfast will be served from 7:30 - 8:30 a.m., leading into a meaningful ceremony featuring live performances, keynote speeches, recognition of poster and essay contest winners, a special gift for veterans, and more. To enter the contest or explore event details, visit: westfieldin.gov/veteransdayceremony.
This event is free and open to the public.
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PREVAIL, INC.
Writer / Juli Knutson
On the worst day ever, compassionate people are ready to listen and help, 24/7/365.
Every day, local nonprofit Prevail, Inc. is saving lives, restoring hope and empowering survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse or assault.
For nearly 40 years, Prevail has met survivors where they are, with crisis intervention, restorative support services — and compassion. Located in Hamilton County, Prevail provides advocacy and support services, housing assistance and a prevention program. Serving adults, teens and children who have experienced trauma,
Prevail’s scope of services range from immediate practical help to judicial support.
Prevail has served more than 70,000 survivors and their loved ones since 1986, growing in reach and impact over time. Today, Prevail is one of just 18 designated rape crisis centers in Indiana and the only dual rape crisis and domestic violence center in Hamilton County. The organization works with law enforcement, hospitals, the judicial system, local schools and many other partners to ensure survivors have the wraparound services to not just be safe, but to thrive.
Executive Director Tami Wanninger came on board in 2023 with a background in nonprofit organizations and a criminal
justice degree. She feels it is a perfect fit and is passionate about the critical impact of Prevail in Hamilton County and beyond.
“Prevail makes a difference in so many lives,” Wanninger says. “It can be the smallest thing that makes a huge impact. Our nonprofit community is very collaborative. We work together to ensure that residents get what they need.”
Prevail’s free and confidential services include advocacy during a crisis and when navigating various situations with law enforcement, hospitals and courts. One-onone meetings, support groups for adults and children and education on victims’ rights advance the healing journey.
Self-sufficiency support helps survivors to develop goals and links them with resources, such as food banks, free clinics, clothing, furniture, mental health providers and hospitals.
Housing assistance is a primary need. Wanninger believes a fear of homelessness is one of the biggest barriers for Prevail clients— and one that can prevent them from leaving an abusive situation
“Survivors need stable, safe and affordable housing options,” . She says. “Everyone has unique needs, so we work to understand their situation and refer them to the best available option. Then we can focus on supporting the other needs.”
Prevail is exploring housing options as a top priority.
Primary Prevention programs focus on preventing violence through education on healthy relationships. In 2024, Prevail provided prevention programming to more than 7,000 Hamilton County 7th through 12th graders to help them cultivate skills to make smart choices and avoid risky behaviors.
Prevail’s mission is to empower victims of
crime and abuse on their path to healing while engaging the community to support safe, healthy relationships. Clients say:
“I learned so much about the different types of domestic violence. This has empowered me to recognize trauma and grow from here.”
“You have taught me how to handle my emotions and what I should do in tough situations. I feel empowered.”
Prevail wants everyone to know about their free, life-saving services. At events around the county, in the schools and on social
media, Prevail is there. Upcoming events include Autumn Fest and Go Purple with Prevail for Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October.
Wanninger encourages people to spread awareness by wearing purple, taking photos, and posting them on social media—and be sure to tag Prevail.
Together, our community can support safe, healthy relationships and restore hope for a better future.
Prevail is located in Noblesville. You can contact Prevail at 317-773-6942 or visit online at prevailinc.org for general information. For a crisis, call 317-776-3472.
1100 S. 9th Street, Suite 100 Noblesville, IN 317-773-6942 prevailinc.org
WOMEN OF WESTFIELD
LOCAL ORGANIZATION UNITES, INSPIRES & STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY
Writer / Julie Yates
The mission of Women of Westfield (WOW) is to connect and empower women who live and work in Westfield. Although it began under the umbrella of the Westfield Chamber, it is now a separate organization. Its members include full-time businesswomen as well as stay-at-home moms. With the goal of supporting local businesses, WOW also promotes service and activities that positively impact the community.
“Every five to six weeks we have an event that pulls women together and encourages them to get out. Recent activities have been ‘Brave the Barricades,’ where we met at the Westfield Farmers Market and then visited the businesses nearby. In October we had a Coffee Meet Up at The Spark Coffee,” says Janelle Campbell, one of the original founding members and current board president.
“On Nov. 13, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., we will have our seventh annual Be Gathering,” Campbell says. “This year it is titled Be at Peace and will be held at the Westfield Washington Public Library. It is sponsored by Community Health Network. Tickets are $50. VIP members are not charged. The event will feature a keynote speaker with breakout sessions including yoga and sound bath therapy. With 25 vendors of women-owned businesses featuring products for women, it’s a great way to kick off holiday shopping.”
The group offers two options for membership. Social membership is free, and the fee for VIP membership is $50 annually. VIP membership includes a free ticket to the annual Be Gathering event, a free mug with unlimited 25% discounts on single drinks at Rivet Coffee, early registration and discounts to events, and the opportunity to participate in VIP-exclusive events.
VIP-only gatherings have included many behind-the-scenes views of the growing Westfield community. In July, members toured new Old Town Companies apartments, walked the Midland Trail and got an insider peek at downtown’s future. Earlier this year, VIP members visited Westfield Fire Station 381. Other events have included seeing how cider is made and a first look at the new site of the Westfield Washington Library.
“Every single time I leave a WOW event, whatever it was, I always leave feeling filled up,” Campbell says. “The group has so many cool women doing cool things. It’s a winwin.”
For information on membership, upcoming events and to purchase tickets for Be at Peace, visit womenofwestfield.com. View WOW on Facebook and Instagram.
IDO INCORPORATED
Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing
Photographer / Krystal Dailey
Some of the most successful businesses began in the basement of a visionary’s house, such is the case for IDO Incorporated, an interior design organization dedicated to helping people thrive.
Launched in 1992 by Jill Mendoza, the business was born to serve clients’ commercial interior design needs. Mendoza did a beautiful job, and through the years IDO has grown in both staff and client services, completed award-winning projects and relocated to the heart of downtown.
When Amanda Medlen joined the team in 2003, IDO employed seven staff members — today they have 19 employees, including Lee Boyland who came aboard in 2008.
In 2017, Mendoza began sharing her thoughts about succession planning with Medlen and Boyland, who took ownership of the company in October 2023 when Mendoza retired. Now Medlen is Principal/ CEO, Boyland is Principal/COO, and Jennifer Knotts, who joined IDO in 2022, is CFO. Together the three make up the Executive Leadership Team.
Having these three impressive women working together has created synergy that has not only helped the business grow but thrive. “We are working to diversify our portfolio of clients and distribute our work more evenly through our core sectors,” Medlen says.
IDO’s four pillars are health care and life science, higher education, municipality and government, and corporate office. Their services include Interior Design that fulfills an organization’s vision, Workplace Planning that optimizes human interaction, Sustainable Design that makes a positive impact, Lab Solutions that help advance Life Sciences, and Specialized Move Management that maximizes productivity.
IDO has designed for clients such as Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Hospital, City of Indianapolis – Community Justice Center, Eli Lilly & Company, Westville Correctional Facility, Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana University, and YMCA of Greater Indianapolis to name a few.
When an IDO team member meets with a client, it’s an ongoing collaborative process to ensure they meet the client’s needs.
“Once we gather info, we’ll do field verification and work on space plan options, then sit down for a working session with the client in which sometimes adjust things as they talk,” Boyland says.
It’s an integral process in which they are simultaneously working with the client and other disciplines like architecture and engineering to come up with an integrated solution.
IDO’s team holds weekly meetings with
their team of designers where they go around the room, discuss projects they are working on, and assess their current workload. This is key not only to ensure meeting deadlines but also to support a healthy work-life balance.
“If someone says they’re on fire, immediately someone at the table will ask what they can take on,” Knotts says.
Medlen says that IDO’s commitment to preserving a healthy work-life balance has played a big part in her never leaving the company. Through the years she has turned down other job offers because she cherishes the personal connections she has built at IDO.
“The people at IDO have been with me through graduating, getting married, and growing my family,” Medlen says. “They did things that meant a lot to me, like when my father-in-law unexpectedly passed away and
they drove more than an hour to attend the viewing.”
To engage the company’s younger generation, they created something called the “social committee.” This year the social committee chose to do a field day, and their marketing manager asked some reps if they wanted to sponsor it.
“Not only did reps cover the cost of drinks and snacks, but they also participated in field day with us and have asked if they can do so again next year,” Knotts says.
IDO also participates in Spirit Weeks to build company culture.
“Our culture is probably the best thing we have, and anybody that knows us would tell you that,” Knotts says.
“All our favorite memories surround our company culture,” Medlen adds.
This is why the company has experienced zero turnover in two years. Not surprisingly, for the past three years, IDO was named one of the best places to work by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.
Employees also appreciate the communicative nature of IDO’s leadership.
“We’re always transparent with the team, giving updates, sharing graphs of our income and overhead, and explaining what we’ve done and what we plan to do,” Boyland says. “We want our team to truly
understand how we’re doing.”
IDO is committed to giving back to the community. For instance, they are advocates for Purposeful Design, an organization that takes men who have faced trouble in the past and teaches them the art of metalworking and woodworking to get them back on their feet. IDO also gives their team members eight hours of paid volunteer leave each year to do with what they wish. They can choose to volunteer at a nonprofit, a church, their child’s school, or whatever speaks to their heart.
years, they are always looking to spread the word about who they are and what they do.
“We want to show people we are here to help,” says Medlen, who recalls when she first started at IDO how nobody had heard of the company. “It’s fun to see how much that has changed.”
In addition, IDO volunteers with the downtown Indy Boys & Girls Club and participates in the Women Build with Greater Indianapolis Habitat for Humanity. The IDO team always participates in the Indy Chamber’s annual Women in Business retreat, which gives participants a chance to connect with the brightest, most inspirational women in and around Indy.
“The retreat is all about lifting women up as it brings together women from all different fields and stages of careers,” says Knotts, who now helps plan the event by serving on the advisory council. “It’s close to our hearts because that’s how we all [she, Medlen, and Boyland] met.”
Although IDO has been in business for 33
This year IDO has added five new positions, which is amazing for a small company. According to Knotts, they expect IDO to continue to grow considerably over the next 15 years.
“The projections are coming in,” Knotts says. “We are a thriving company, and we’re excited for the future!”
IDO Incorporated is located at 601 North Capitol Avenue in Indianapolis. For more information, call 317-784-6044 or visit idoincorporated.com
CONNECT
601 North Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis 317-784-6044
idoincorporated.com
Hamilton County is known for many things, from the Palladium to Ruoff Music Center to its varied hiking and biking trails. Karen Radcliff, Hamilton County Tourism’s new President & CEO, is one of many who loves to hit the trails.
“I really love the way our parks ramp up to do outdoor concerts for people in the summertime, and they’re all very clean and safe and beautiful,” Radcliff says. “And then the linear park systems, the trails. I really like to hit the trails when I walk or ride bikes or something like that.”
Hired as CEO in March of this year, Radcliff is a 30-year employee of Hamilton County Tourism (HCT) and a 25-year resident of Westfield. She settled in Indiana after grad school, obtaining a job as manager of communications at the Eiteljorg Museum, and was later hired at HCT. Thirty years ago, HCT worked with a fraction of the budget, and her office was in a closet. Since then, Radcliff has served as chief strategy officer, vice president and interim CEO.
As CEO, Radcliff is now working with a whole different side of the company as integral support.
“Rather than working very intimately with our own operations, now I feel like I’m working more intimately with other organizations around the county to do some of the same thing,” she says. “And hopefully I can be more of a support system for some great ideas that we align with and how we get some things across the finish line.”
TRAILBLAZING TOURISM
NEW HAMILTON COUNTY TOURISM CEO KAREN RADCLIFF CHAMPIONS
COMMUNITY & CONNECTION
Writer / Emily Whitcomb
HCT is a nonprofit quasi-government organization that operates under a board and receives revenue from hotel taxes in Hamilton County.
Though many may think only of big destinations such as Paris, London and New York City when the word “tourism” is brought up, tourism is a $1 billion industry in Hamilton County. From leisure travelers to business travelers to sports teams, the county has destinations for all. According to Radcliff, HCT works on creating the image of Hamilton County as a whole before focusing on specific attractions, destinations or restaurants.
Radcliff says being in the tourism business means being in the people business.
“I do conduct business for sure,” she says. “But I think my motivation around that is more because I am very curious. I love what I’m doing. I like to maximize people. And I like to maximize ideas.”
Radcliff has seen the ways tourism changes,
watching trends in other parts of the U.S. and in other countries, being a part of the rise of social media and watching it change tourism in real time, and being part of an ever-growing nonprofit.
Her extensive experience has impacted how she leads.
“As I’ve had leadership roles, I definitely subscribe to this idea of servant leadership, where you tip it upside down and I’m there to actually support people who might report to me,” Radcliff says. “Because if I can support people, remove obstacles, then there’s a team of people getting out there and doing great work, rather than me trying to say, no, run that by me, run that by me, run it by me.”
This fall, Radcliff and HCT will run a campaign to publicize more of Hamilton County’s trails, which have become an integral part of the county’s culture.
For more information on HCT, visit visithamiltoncounty.com.
DECADE OF DANCE
JAZZERCISE CARMEL/WESTFIELD CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF FITNESS, FUN & COMMUNITY
Susan Stidham Dobbs grew up dancing. That passion, combined with fitness goals and an entrepreneurial mindset, led her down the path to Jazzercise. For 32 years, she has been helping others blend a love of dancing with practical fitness, culminating in the opening of Jazzercise Carmel/ Westfield.
Today, as owner and instructor, she is looking forward to celebrating a decade of Jazzercise on the north side of Indy, which she plans to mark with a series of special classes and an exclusive offer for newcomers.
Her journey with Jazzercise is a longstanding one. Fresh out of college in 1985, she became hooked on the fun atmosphere and enamored with the community of
women drawn to the fitness program. Fast-forward to today, and Stidham Dobbs is still dancing to her own drumbeat and helping others live stronger, healthier lives at Jazzercise Carmel/Westfield.
Jazzercise Carmel/Westfield offers a variety of fitness routines that provide a whole-body workout. Class formats vary to help keep motivation high and prevent plateaus. Attendees will enjoy a wide range of music, including Top 40, hip-hop, K-pop, oldies, indie and more. Classes are offered seven days a week to accommodate busy schedules. New choreography is incorporated 10 times per year to keep the dance cardio fresh.
“Jazzercise has been a leader in dance fitness since its inception in 1969,” she says. “We have changed and evolved so much over those 55 years to provide workouts that are challenging, effective and fun.”
If you’re thinking of trying Jazzercise, you can expect to experience the same choreography as others in the program, regardless of location. All routines are reviewed by an exercise physiologist to ensure they are safe and effective. Alongside building strength and resilience, she encourages people to explore Jazzercise to access a powerful community of strong women.
“I don’t have the words to tell you how wonderful the people are that make up our Jazzercise family,” she says. “It is such a blessing to be surrounded by these amazing women every single day. I have the best job in the world.”
Jazzercise Carmel/Westfield also offers childcare options for parents and a staff of 13 certified instructors.
Of her own personal journey, Stidham
Writer / Ashley Watters
Photographer / Krystal Dailey
Dobbs reflects that her success would not be possible without her dedicated staff and family.
Like other small business owners, she has relied on the support of her family to help make Jazzercise Carmel/Westfield a success. Her mother acted as class manager for 20 years, and her father, “Grandpa Bill,” helped babysit for 17 years. Her husband and son have also pitched in to maintain the studio and keep it functional and updated.
“I believe any business owner is only as good as the people she surrounds herself with,” she says. “I would be lost without my wonderful team of instructors, class managers and childcare staff. Every one brings their own special gifts and talents to our studio, and each of them is beautiful inside and out.”
To learn more about Jazzercise Carmel/ Westfield, visit jazzercise.com/studio/in/ carmelwestfield-fitness-center.
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DRIVEN TO SUCCEED
UNLIMITED MOTORS BUILDS SUCCESS THROUGH INTEGRITY & COMMUNITY
Writer / Natalie Platt
Photographer / Stephanie Duncan
Unlimited Motors has become a familiar name in central Indiana, with dealerships in Westfield, Fishers, Noblesville and Elwood. Known for its clean inventory and loyal base of repeat customers, the business has grown steadily since 2006 under the leadership of Adel and Angela Elhaj. What began with six cars on a small lot has developed into a multilocation operation, capped this year by the opening of a 50,000-square-foot flagship in Westfield.
The story of Unlimited Motors is also the story of the couple behind it. Before Angela was co-owning one of the area’s most recognized independent dealerships, she was learning the ropes in her first job in the industry. In 1996, she was answering phones, setting appointments and filling in wherever she was needed. Within a few years, she could handle nearly every part of the dealership, from helping customers and closing sales to arranging financing and marketing. To Angela (Angi, to most), that early experience shaped how she thought about the industry. It wasn’t just about moving cars off a lot — it was about making sure people felt respected when they walked in the door.
Adel Alhaj’s path looked different. He
grew up in Lebanon, then moved to Texas, where his brothers were in the restaurant business. By 2005, he had made his way to Indiana, where friends connected him to a job in a body shop. That same year, Angela brought her car in for repair. The two met, hit it off and dated for 53 days before getting married.
“I was always on the sales side and he was always on the repair side,” Angela says. “We started buying cars, fixing them and selling them on the side. Eventually we had too many cars to keep up with, so we opened our own dealership.”
In 2006, Unlimited Motors opened with six cars. Adel was handling the buying, detailing and photos while Angela managed sales, financing and titles. They were raising their first child at the same time, juggling late nights and long days, with little help beyond each other. What they lacked in scale they made up for in determination.
They also made a decision early on that shaped the company’s future: they would not take on debt.
“No bank loans, no family money, no partners,” Angela says. “If we sold a car, we put the money right back into the business.
We were so against debt. We just reinvested and kept building.”
Nearly 20 years later, Unlimited Motors has grown to four locations in Westfield, Fishers, Noblesville and Elwood. Their newest and largest, the Westfield dealership, opened this year. At 50,000 square feet on nine acres, it has room for both sales and service—a reflection of how far they’ve come from that first tiny lot.
Even with the growth, the core of the business hasn’t shifted. The Elhajs set a high bar for the quality of cars they sell, but more than that, they’ve built a culture around treating every customer the same.
“It doesn’t matter if someone’s spending $5,000 or $200,000,” Angela says. “They should feel comfortable, not pressured.”
Over the years, they’ve watched families come back again and again, moving from starter cars to luxury vehicles and often bringing their kids when it’s time for that first car.
“Seeing that kind of trust develop over time is special,” Angela says.
Part of what makes customers return is the
way the Elhajs handle the process. Buying a car can be intimidating, especially for people who have had financial challenges.
“We don’t want anyone to feel intimidated here or uneasy — we’re always going to be open and honest,” Angela says. “If we can do something, we’ll do it. If we can’t, we’ll say so. It’s that simple.”
The same openness extends to their staff. Employees know they can reach Adel or Angela directly, even late at night. That level of access is rare, but the Elhajs see it as essential.
“We’re not the type of owners who don’t want people to have our numbers,” Angela says. “If something comes up, we want to be available.”
That approach has helped them retain employees and give them room to grow. One worker who started as a lot attendant making $12 an hour now ranks among their top salespeople.
“We’d rather promote from within,” Angela says. “If you show up, learn and put in the effort, we’ll make sure you have the opportunity.”
Community involvement has also been part of the business from the start. Unlimited Motors has sponsored local causes and events, from neighborhood gatherings to Riverview Health’s colon cancer awareness fundraiser.
“We get a lot of requests, and we try to say yes when we can,” Angela says.
This year, they’ve taken that visibility a step further by becoming the official preferred dealership of the Indiana Pacers. The multiyear partnership includes signage inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse, promotions on replay screens and appearances from Pacers players at dealership events. For Angela, the collaboration is about more than exposure.
“It’s a branding partnership, but it’s also fun,” she says. “People get excited when they see the players at events. And yes, the Pacers do buy their cars from us.”
The Pacers hope to be part of Unlimited Motors’ grand opening celebration at the new Westfield location. The event begins Oct. 10 with a private gathering, followed by a public open house on Oct. 11. Pacers players are expected to join during the weekend.
For Adel and Angela, it’s not just about showing off the new building — it’s about marking a moment in the journey they started nearly 20 years ago.
“This building lets us create more opportunities for our team and serve more customers,” Angela says. “It’s a big step for us.”
From the red Pontiac Sunfire that was their first sale to today’s lot of nearly 800 cars, Adel and Angela didn’t take shortcuts
and are proud of the culture and company they’ve built. They see it as a family operation that has grown one step at a time — by showing up, working long hours and treating people fairly.
For more information on Unlimited Motors, visit iumotors.com or call 317-377-1111.
COME VISIT OUR NEW FACILITY FOR OUR GRAND OPENING TO THE PUBLIC OCTOBER 10th. iumotors.com 317-377-1111
For Katie Lucas, leadership is as much about values as it is about vision. A graduate of Noblesville High School and later Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, she always knew she wanted to combine her love of business with a life of service.
“From my parents I saw firsthand the powerful intersection of business and service,” she says. “I knew I wanted to do both in my adult life.”
Her earliest professional roles, in corporate sales with the Indianapolis Colts and as director of business development at Creative Marketing Solutions, gave her a strong foundation in marketing, sponsorships and relationship-building. Those skills helped shape how she approaches Lucas Oil’s brand, engaging new markets while staying true to her Hoosier roots.
Katie joined Lucas Oil in 2012 as a marketing consultant and steadily took on greater responsibilities in strategy, philanthropy and operations over more than a decade. In November 2022, she was appointed chief administrative officer, integrating day-to-day operations with long-term strategic planning. In February 2024, Katie was named president just as her husband, Morgan Lucas, became
FUELING HER LEGACY
KATIE LUCAS LEADS LUCAS OIL WITH HEART, VISION & COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY IMPACT
CEO — marking a new chapter in the familyled business, with both partners deeply aligned in vision.
As president, Katie oversees the company’s operations, long-term strategy and philanthropic initiatives. Her leadership ensures Lucas Oil maintains its global brand reputation while staying true to its heritage.
Lucas recently reflected on her first year as president.
“I have been blessed with a breadth of experience that prepared me for this,” she says. “I started my career managing sponsorships with the Indianapolis Colts where I learned a great deal about building brand partnerships, sales and maintaining solid relationships, which has helped me tremendously in this position. I have also had the ability to work in various roles at Lucas Oil and that has helped me really understand the business and build trust and confidence with our team.”
She also appreciates the professional relationship with her husband, Morgan, outside of their day-to-day lives.
“We both share the same vision for Lucas
Oil, and we are very much aligned on our purpose,” Katie says. “We are both committed to making Lucas Oil and our community better.”
One of Katie’s most influential decisions as an executive was helping guide the relocation of the corporate headquarters from Corona, California, to Indianapolis. The move further strengthened the company’s deep ties to Indiana and brought leadership and operations closer together and to the community where the Lucas family has built its legacy.
“It just makes sense for our headquarters to be here,” Katie says. “Indianapolis is not only where we live — it’s where our business has grown roots. Creating opportunities, attracting talent and contributing to the state’s economic growth has been one of the most meaningful parts of my journey.”
Katie also carries forward the legacy of Lucas Oil founder Forrest Lucas, who passed away in August. Forrest built the company from humble beginnings into a deeply respected international brand. Katie honors his vision while shaping the next generation of leadership alongside Morgan.
Writers / Natalie Platt, Towne Post, & Melissa Wonser, Lucas Oil Products
RECOGNITION AND IMPACT IN THE COMMUNITY
As a leader, Katie is focused not only on overall business strategy but also on community engagement, positioning Lucas Oil as a force for good. She oversees all of Lucas Oil’s community and philanthropic initiatives — efforts that range from pediatric and family heal thcare, mentoring youth and supporting veterans to partnering with local nonprofits to address food and housing insecurity. She emphasizes the company’s core values — service, integrity, passion, courage and teamwork — in everything she does. Service, in particular, is central for Katie.
“I believe we are put on this earth to serve others,” she says.
Katie’s leadership has earned her significant recognition. In 2022, she was named one of the Indiana Business Journal’s “Forty Under 40” for her strategic acumen and community involvement. In 2023, Katie was named Indy’s Best and Brightest and was the recipient of the Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award by the Crossroads of America. In January 2025, she received the Exemplary Service Award at the Champions of Diversity Awards in Indianapolis, honoring her work advancing equity within Lucas Oil and supporting diverse charitable causes, including Wheeler Mission.
This year, she was also named among Indiana’s 250 Most Influential Leaders by the Indiana Business Journal, highlighting her impact on the state’s economic and civic life.
Katie also serves in numerous board roles: board chair of the Ascension St. Vincent Foundation, board member of the Indianapolis Zoo, board member of the Grit & Grace Nation Foundation, on the National Leadership Council of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation, on the Indiana University Women’s Philanthropy Leadership Council, and founding and inaugural chair of Called to Care, a Circle of Impact for Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital.
For Katie, the recognition is less about
personal accolades and more about what it reflects: a community-minded approach to leadership. She often credits her professional inspiration to the strong female leaders she has observed up close — individuals like Allison Melangton, Sue Anne Gilroy and Melissa Proffitt, and of course her mother, Teresa Martz, and mother-in-law, Charlotte Lucas.
LEGACY AND WORK WITH ASCENSION ST. VINCENT
Katie uses her influence and resources to drive enduring community impact. Serving on the Ascension St. Vincent Foundation board since 2017 — and now as chair — she helps steer philanthropic strategy to uplift health care access across Indiana.
This steadfast dedication and decades of support led to the naming of the Lucas Family Brain and Spine Hospital — a stateof-the-art, 109,000-square-foot facility on Ascension St. Vincent’s 86th Street campus — in honor of Morgan and Katie. The hospital, which opened in August, serves as a regional hub for advanced neurological care.
The hospital builds on nearly 20 years of Lucas family support for Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital and Ascension St. Vincent. Through initiatives like the Eric Medlen Memorial Golf Tournament, Katie and Morgan have helped raise more than $2.5M for neurological care and children’s health.
BALANCING WORK, FAITH AND FAMILY
Katie is quick to point out that balance is never perfect.
With two children — Hunter and Austin — and a demanding executive role, she embraces flexibility.
“There are seasons that require more of you — whether it is a major project at work or a family health crisis,” she says. “Balance means giving yourself grace, delegating and accepting help. You can do it all — you just cannot do it all by yourself. You need a team.”
LEAVING A LEGACY
Katie Lucas is a hometown success story. She has taken her Noblesville and Carmel roots to the helm of a global company, championed the relocation of its headquarters to Indiana and built a philanthropic legacy through health care and community service. Katie hopes her leadership reflects a consistent set of values: integrity, teamwork and service.
“I want people to know that Lucas Oil was about more than products,” she says. “That we invested in our people, our community and the next generation. That we left Indiana better than we found it.”
For young women looking to combine career ambition with community purpose, she offers a model worth following.
BARRE & BEYOND
PURE BARRE EXPANDS WITH NEW WESTFIELD STUDIO
Writer / Ashley Watters
Lauren Williamson first walked into a Pure Barre studio in Carmel 13 years ago. The mental and physical challenges quickly hooked her, and she was immediately smitten with the workouts and the community. Today, she owns and operates three Pure Barre locations in Carmel, Zionsville and now Westfield.
More than a decade ago, life changes took Williamson and her husband to Denver,
where she managed and taught at Pure Barre. Coming full circle, she and her husband relocated back to Indy, where she helped launch the Downtown Indy studio in 2017. Fast-forward to 2022, and Williamson seized the opportunity to acquire the Carmel and Zionsville locations.
The natural next step was to expand into nearby Westfield.
“Westfield was a natural fit for our sister studios,” she says. “There aren’t many other boutique fitness options in Westfield, so I saw that opportunity to reach the Westfield community in a new way. We’re very excited to be right in the heart of downtown Westfield and be part of the new growth during this exciting time in the city.”
Pure Barre Westfield opened its doors on July 24 at 170 Jersey St., Suite 188, with offerings to suit every body. Williamson sees
women of every age and fitness level come through her doors.
Pure Barre Westfield offers four different class formats to accommodate women with mixes of strength endurance, cardio fitness and flexibility training.
Williamson expressed gratitude for the overwhelming sense of excitement with which Pure Barre has been received in the Westfield area. Many residents joined as founding members before even trying a class, and the team felt a huge outpouring of support on opening day.
Her goal is to expand the reach of the fitness she loves and create a welcoming and thriving community.
“Opening Westfield has been a long time coming and a true labor of love,” she says. “It’s been incredible to see the excitement build as we approached opening day. We’re so thankful that Westfield has welcomed us with open arms.”
Classes can be used to augment your current fitness routine, support cross-training or be the core of your workout. Options include Classic, which uses light equipment and small isometric movements, Define, a fusion of barre and weight training, Empower, a circuit-style cardio class, and Align, a blend of strength, balance and flexibility training. Williamson encourages anyone wanting to add an invigorating fitness routine and a new group of supportive friends to give Pure Barre Westfield a try.
“I’m excited to watch this community form from the ground up,” she says. “There’s something really special about welcoming people who are walking into their very first class, cheering them on to hit new milestones and creating a community of women who support each other in and out of the studio. I can’t wait to see this studio become a place where people feel stronger, healthier and more connected to themselves and each other.”
To learn more about the new location and class options, visit purebarre.com/location/ westfield-in.
TAYLOR WILHELM
Writer / Renée Larr
For most freshmen, starting high school means adjusting to a larger school, more challenging classes and new friends. But for Westfield High School freshman Taylor Wilhelm, high school has already become a stage to showcase her creativity, compassion and leadership.
Wilhelm says her favorite subject might surprise some — Principles of Entrepreneurship.
“I get to really show my creativity through projects,” she says. “I also just really like my teacher, Mr. Moore. He’s always encouraging us to let our ideas flow and gives me great tips.”
That encouragement has inspired Wilhelm to dream big. Her long-term goal? To become the CEO of a family-friendly, affordable resort.
“I want to own a vacation place where families can relax and make memories without it being too expensive,” she says.
While Wilhelm has an entrepreneurial spirit, her heart is just as focused on serving others. She volunteers with Student Impact, a local after-school program that offers middle and high school students a welcoming space filled with games, art and community.
“I help out with the intermediate schoolers,” she says. “I love being there to make sure everyone feels included.”
Inclusion is a recurring theme in Wilhelm’s life. She is hoping to participate in Unified Cheer, a program that pairs students with and without intellectual disabilities, and she volunteers with the Miracle League, a baseball program for children with special needs. She is also applying to join the Best Buddies program, which fosters friendships between students of all abilities.
“Helping others, especially students with special needs, is really important to me,” Wilhelm says.
Her mother, Stephanie, says it’s one of her daughter’s defining characteristics.
(Formerly Wittler Orthodontics)
“She just has a natural ability to connect and make people feel comfortable,” she says.
Outside of school and volunteer work, Wilhelm has found a unique passion in archery. She first picked up a bow at summer camp and never looked back.
“My camp counselor was so encouraging, and it gave me the confidence to keep going,” she says.
That confidence led to an impressive achievement placing third at a state archery competition. Wilhelm hopes to continue the sport through college and beyond, competing at higher levels as her skills grow.
For Wilhelm, leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about kindness and connection. She makes it a personal goal to reach out to classmates who seem lonely or unsure.
“If I see someone who looks uncomfortable,
I’ll introduce myself and start a conversation,” she says. “Sometimes people just need to know that someone is there for them.”
Her definition of a good leader centers on empathy and collaboration.
“A leader should be confident, but also understanding and willing to help others,” she says. “That’s what makes a school or community better.”
As Wilhelm begins her high school journey, she focuses on maintaining strong grades, surrounding herself with positive friends and building her confidence. With her entrepreneurial dreams, love for archery and passion for helping others, it’s clear she is already well on her way to leaving a mark on her school and community.
At just 14, Taylor Wilhelm is showing that leadership isn’t about age. It’s about heart, kindness and the ability to make others feel seen.
GRATEFUL GIVING
RIVERVIEW HEALTH FOUNDATION’S GRATITUDE GALA RAISES FUNDS FOR CRITICAL CARE
Writer / Julie Yates
The Riverview Health Foundation annual fundraiser, Gratitude Gala, was held Saturday, Sept. 12, at Ritz Charles in Carmel. The black-tie optional event successfully raised more than $350,000 to benefit the Foundation’s current projects, including renovations to the existing wing of the Mindrebo Family Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit. Master of Ceremonies Ryan Ahlwardt, co-host of Fox 59’s lifestyle show “Indy Now,” delighted attendees with his wit as they enjoyed the evening’s entertainment.
Silent and live auctions contributed to the fun as the night began with a VIP reception at 6 p.m., followed by a general reception an hour later. Included in the silent auction were bourbon baskets and experiences such as golf packages. Among the live auction offerings were a men’s custom-made jacket from Tailored Society in Carmel, a weeklong stay at a vacation home in South Haven, Michigan, and a dinner for 12 at Prime 47.
The festive atmosphere was enhanced by
other opportunities of chance. After dinner, casino games of craps, roulette, poker and blackjack added to the high spirits. However, before the “funny money” flowed and the dice rolled, guests participated in a Bourbon and Tequila Pull and the Dessert Dash.
“Board members donated around 70 bottles of bourbon, each worth at least $50, with some being quite a bit more,” says Megan Wiles, vice president, Foundation and Community Affairs. “People picked a miniature barrel. The number on it corresponded to the bottle they won.
The Dessert Dash was a bidding war that continued during dinner. People at each table worked together to be the highest bid. The winning table got their first choice of desserts donated by highly desirable local bakeries.”
Wiles shares that naming the Riverview Health Foundation’s annual fundraiser the Gratitude Gala began last year. It expresses the connection between gratitude and philanthropy. It is also a way to celebrate the accomplishments made possible through donations to the Foundation.
The Riverview Health Foundation began in 1976. Its mission is to provide funding for new health services, programs and equipment for the Hamilton County community served by Riverview Hospital. Since its inception, the Foundation has raised more than $15M. One of its recent projects was the Courtney Cox Cole Infusion Center.
“The current project to improve the Mindrebo Family Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit has been continuing for almost three years,” Wiles says. “The unit serves patients who have suffered a stroke or been in a car accident and still need care and rehabilitation. It is in the oldest section of the hospital. Patients give it great reviews in terms of the care they receive there, but the physical structure and environment are worn out. Phase one of the project was completed early in 2025, but we still need to raise funds to continue to renovate the unit.
“Most importantly, Riverview Hospital is the county hospital for Hamilton County. A portion of the funds the gala raised will go to the Help for Healing Fund. It is a patient assistance fund to ensure no one who needs it will go without medical care.”
To find out more about Riverview Health Foundation or to donate, visit riverview. org/riverview-health-foundation.
Longtime Westfield resident Teresa Howard has served her community and family for many years. In 2020, during a particularly demanding time in her life, she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. Her journey to health included several setbacks and obstacles, but her spiritual gift of faith paved her way forward. With the goal of helping others going through the same experience, she wrote a book, “The Power of Cancer: A Journey of Hope and Faith.”
Published by Christian Faith Publishing, the book encourages readers not to let cancer define them.
“I grew up on a 600-acre farm north of Peru but moved to Carmel when I was in the fourth grade and graduated from Carmel High School,” Howard says. “In the early
FAITH THROUGH CANCER
TERESA HOWARD SHARES HER JOURNEY OF HOPE & HEALING
Writer / Julie Yates
’90s, my husband and I moved our family to Westfield. I served on staff at a local church, Thrive Christian Church, for 20 years. Almost 10 of those years were as director of the church’s preschool program. I left to provide caregiving for my mom. I had to be free to take her to appointments.”
In addition to caring for her mother, her stepfather of 35 years was very ill. It was at this time that a mammogram revealed an abnormality. In May 2020, Howard was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. Considered to be more aggressive than other forms of cancer, it spreads and grows at a rapid rate.
Compounding the stress of figuring out a treatment plan was the death of her stepfather in June. As executor of his estate, she found herself immersed in details.
Howard shared that what followed was 10 months of what seemed like one step forward and five steps backward. In July of that year, an additional tumor was found. She was diagnosed with a lung disease that required three additional surgeries. Her chemotherapy was delayed until she was cleared by her lung surgeon and pulmonologist.
“I went through so much in rapid succession,” she says. “At my first chemotherapy session, I coded. It turned out I was allergic to the drugs. The medication was switched and later I ended up getting a port. Things kept changing, but I kept trusting my care team. My motto was, ‘Get her done.’”
At her family’s urging, Howard kept a journal of her experiences. Mainly for insurance purposes, she also kept a spreadsheet of every appointment, procedure and surgery. Those around her were impressed that no matter how difficult her journey seemed to be, her belief that God would lead her through it was unwavering.
Her son reminded her of what she often told him: “God equips those he sends to be a witness for Him.”
“God told me to write the book to help others and gave me the title, The Power of Cancer — not to glorify cancer but to explain how its trials can strengthen faith,” Howard says. “I have never done anything like this before, and I wrestled with both writing the book and the title. In my life, I pray every day for God to use me, and this is what He chose for me to do. The story isn’t about me — it’s what God did for me and does for others. I could have never done it on my own. My hope is that the book provides hope and a blessing to help someone else.”
Scratch
“The Power of Cancer: A Journey of Hope and Faith” is available at Amazon. com, Barnes & Noble and many other booksellers.
