Melissa Westphal Benefiel comes to us after spending four years as the Development & Marketing Director for Porter County Aging & Community Services. Melissa is a Program Assistant working on marketing, event planning, and more. Melissa grew up and lives in Valparaiso with her husband and six year old daughter. She brings with her a great deal of experience in program development, marketing, and grant writing. When asked what most excites Melissa about this new position, she stated "I am very excited to be a part of South Shore Clean Cities' commitment to a healthier environment in Northern Indiana."
Debra M Zorich, our new Office Administrator, comes to SSCC from Service Lumber Company where she served as an Executive Assistant. Deb brings to our organization a great deal of experience in the trucking business. She has been married for over 29 years and has a 25 year old daughter. Deb is most excited about raising public awareness of the dangers associated with dependence on petroleum to our health and environment. She is also excited "to educate the public on alternative fuels and the latest technologies in retrofitting vehicles and equipment." Deb's enthusiasm and attention to details will be an asset to our organization.
Nan Onest, our new intern serving as a Project Coordinator, has a history of serving as a local leader. Her most recent leadership position was serving as a councilwoman for the Dyer Town Council. Nan has two daughters, ages 12 and 15. She is most excited about "being a proactive catalyst for environmental improvements that will benefit future generations in Northern Indiana." She offers our organization a great deal of marketing experience, networking resources and an understanding of public policy.