Northern Indiana is full of people working hard every day to make their communities a better place. Since 2011, GreatNews.Life has been putting the spotlight on the people spreading this positivity in the Region with our Life in the Spotlight series. New articles are published every Wednesday, so be sure to check back often to learn more about the stories of great people doing great things in Northern Indiana.
Faith Cooper makes it her mission to leave a lasting impression in people’s lives. As an English teacher at Portage High School, Cooper’s motivation in her life stems from making a difference in students’ lives and ensuring they are...
Jordan Bucy’s lifestyle is a challenging but important one: saving people in need in times of crisis. After working as a firefighter/paramedic at the Portage Fire Department for eight years, Bucy knows how vital safety is for the community. He...
The daughter of restaurant owners, Jeni Tourloukis grew up with an entrepreneurial spirit and today strives to imprint her business demeanor throughout Northwest Indiana. She and her sister, Lilli, own Valparaiso-based Just Sisters Boutique, and...
Courtney Brown is the Kids Ministry Director for Real Life Community Church of the Nazarene. Brown went to school for nursing but realized that she was truly passionate about working with kids and wished to make that her...
“My true passion is developing the next generation and being someone they can rely on.” This is what Zachary Rudd had to say about his work at Real Life Community Church in Portage. Working as the Worship and Student Ministry Director there for...
Preserving your own personal stories through oral expression is a tradition mankind has practiced for thousands of years. For Anne Koehler, sharing her life’s many stories has become synonymous with visiting with others. At 85 years old, Koehler...
“I’ve always tried to do good for all people.” This is what Robin Wilkening had to say about her role as a Portage Township Trustee. Working for the Portage Township for nearly 11 years now, Wilkening was recently promoted to Director of the...
When it comes to stimulating the minds of students and cultivating their interests, Kate Bieker of Willowcreek Middle School would tell you that reading and literature are vital components to success. Working as the Media Specialist for Portage...
Trent Howard is a man dedicated to the shaping of children’s lives all over the City of Portage. As a School Resource Officer (SRO), Howard works to serve as an exemplary role model for youngsters and encourages them to do their best in life....
A veteran in the education field, Michelle Hellwege is the current principal of Saylor Elementary School. Having worked in a variety of Lake County school districts over the years, Hellwege’s current position is her first in...