Northwest Indiana’s biggest cheerleader, Don Babcock, recently retired director of NIPSCO’s Economic Development team, was given the State’s highest honor, the Sagamore of the Wabash. The award was presented by Indiana Secretary of Commerce, Jim Schellinger on behalf of Governor Holcomb during the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s (IEDC) board meeting.
The Governor later met with Don to congratulate him in person. The Sagamore of the Wabash award was created in the late 1940’s and is Indiana’s highest civilian distinction.
The award states that the honoree is "distinguished by his humanity in living, his loyalty in friendship, his wisdom in council, and his inspiration in leadership."
“Very few people exemplify the true meaning of the word ‘leadership’ more than Don Babcock,” said Secretary Schellinger. “I don’t take Don’s service to the state of Indiana for granted. The impact he’s had on the lives of Hoosiers will be felt for generations to come, and I couldn’t be more proud to call him a friend.”
Babcock retired after a fulfilling 43-year career at NIPSCO. Moving through numerous positions and ranks of the public utility company, Babcock became Director of Economic Development, where his commitment to cultivating the future of Northwest Indiana flourished. His professional commitment and community involvement reaped many awards and accolades over the years but his impact can be seen brightest through his work on the Michigan City Redevelopment Commission, the Boys & Girls Club of Michigan City, his tireless work on the Managing Board of Directors of the Northwest Indiana Forum, the seven-county regional economic development organization and as chair of the Ignite the Region – Northwest Indiana’s strategy for economic transformation. Ignite the Region is the first economic development plan that is broadly supported by the entire northwest region.
"Don has been a respected team player his entire career. His outreach has made a positive impact across the NIPSCO service territory and the entire state.” States Michael W. Hooper, President of NIPSCO. “We are proud that Don’s leadership has been recognized by this prestigious award from Governor Holcomb and the State of Indiana."
Photo caption:
Governor Eric Holcomb (State of Indiana), Don Babcock (Sagamore of the Wabash recipient).