New Advocates Sworn In, Innovators Recognized at Purdue Northwest

Four new Volunteer Advocates for Seniors and Incapacitated Adults were sworn in during a ceremony held on October 15, 2023, at the Lake Superior Court. This initiative is part of a collaboration between Franciscan Health and the Lake County Courts, aimed at providing support to elderly and incapacitated individuals who cannot represent themselves. The newly appointed advocates are Blanca Aranda from Crown Point, Francine Gildon from Merrillville, Christopher Mignogna from Cedar Lake, and Lauree Pondinas from St. John.

Lake Superior Court Probate Commissioner Ben Ballou officiated the ceremony, highlighting the importance of these volunteers in assisting vulnerable members of the community. The program is supported by grants from the Indiana Supreme Court, Legacy Foundation Inc., and various local and national donors, including individual contributions to the Franciscan Health Foundation. Those interested in volunteering can find more information at www.franciscanhealth.org/VASIA.

2025 Innovators Awards Announced at Purdue Northwest

In addition to the advocacy program, the Society of Innovators at Purdue University Northwest (PNW) has revealed the winners of the 2025 Innovators Awards. The awards recognize outstanding contributions to innovation within the community, with the induction ceremony scheduled for October 29, 2023, at Avalon Manor Banquet Center in Merrillville.

Registration for the annual luncheon is currently open, with individual tickets priced at $50 and corporate table sponsorships available for $600. This year’s honorees include notable figures such as Jose G. (Lupe) Valtierra from Purdue Extension in Lake County and Sean Liu, founder and CEO of PingCares. Other recipients hail from various sectors, including education, local government, and business, showcasing a diverse range of innovative achievements.

Healthcare Expansions and Support Initiatives

In the healthcare sector, Dr. Ailia Ali, a newly appointed rheumatologist, has joined the Franciscan Physician Network in Dyer and is accepting new patients. Dr. Ali obtained her medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine and completed her residency in internal medicine at Wake Forest University Baptist Health Medical Center. She is now available for consultations at the Franciscan Physician Network Dyer location.

Similarly, Dr. Leena Aljobeh, a family medicine physician, is now part of the Franciscan Physician Network in Valparaiso. Dr. Aljobeh earned her degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine and completed her residency at Indiana University Health Arnett Hospital. She is currently welcoming new patients at the Glendale Health Center.

In response to recent storm damage in the region, the Legacy Foundation has partnered with the bp Foundation to provide financial assistance to organizations in Hammond, East Chicago, and Whiting. The new grant initiative will offer up to $5,000 per organization to aid recovery efforts and enhance preparedness for future emergencies. Interested nonprofits, schools, and local governments can apply until November 21, 2023, with notifications of selected applicants expected by December 19, 2023.

As part of community engagement, U.S. Representative Frank J. Mrvan has announced that applications are now being accepted for U.S. military service academies from high school seniors and college students in Indiana’s First Congressional District. The deadline for submission is November 3, 2023. Interested students can contact Mrvan’s office for further information.

Lastly, Purdue Northwest will host a College Goal Sunday event on November 9, 2023, at both its Hammond and Westville campuses. This initiative aims to assist students and their families with financial aid applications, particularly the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is essential for accessing various funding options for college education. The event is scheduled to run from 14:00 to 16:00, providing an important resource for college-bound individuals in the community.

For additional details on any of these programs or initiatives, interested parties are encouraged to visit the respective websites or contact the relevant organizations directly.