Several Hoosiers have recently been recognized for their contributions to the environment by Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute.

“Our heroes are making an important difference in their communities and throughout the state by sharing their knowledge, inspiring others, and advocating for more sustainable and equitable solutions to environmental change,” said ERI Managing Director Sarah Mincey.

Those being honored include professionals, students, and volunteers dedicated to food justice, climate policy, renewable energy, sustainable business practices and more.

“Charting Indiana’s course toward a more resilient and sustainable way of life requires leaders in every community and every corner of the Hoosier state,” Mincey said.

The persons recognized as 2022 Hoosier Resilience Heroes are:

• Tyler Kanczuzewski, vice president of sustainability at Inovateus Solar in South Bend, who promotes solar energy and sustainable practices to clients and industry partners and serves on multiple environmental nonprofit boards.
• Jesse Kharbanda, executive director of the Hoosier Environmental Council, who has led Indiana’s largest environmental policy organization for 14 years and deepened its emphasis on climate solutions and environmental justice.
• Stephanie Goodrid Lawson, executive director of the McKinney Family Foundation, who serves as a liaison for environmental and climate nonprofits in the state and advocates for long-term climate solutions in Indiana.
• Katharine Schertz, a senior at West Lafayette Junior-Senior High School. She is rallying youth across the state to push for climate solutions that will help ensure a thriving Indiana for future generations.
• Allie Skalnik, a senior at University High School in Carmel, whose journalism and communications work has amplified the voices of Indiana youth who are concerned about climate change.
• Brad Talley, the director of Lafayette Renew. He has advanced a vision for public utilities that prioritizes the economic and environmental health of the community.
• Marcia Veldman, the Indiana co-state coordinator of Citizens' Climate Lobby. She engages Hoosier residents, business leaders and elected officials about the need for action on climate change and effective policy options.
• Curtis Whitaker, a pastor and founder of Faith Farms in Gary, whose community garden has contributed to the revitalization of an urban community and helped address local food insecurity issues.
• Ray Wilson, the board chair of Hoosier Interfaith Power & Light. He has dedicated the past decade to promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency in faith communities across Indiana.