Randy Wheeler
For nearly 30 years, Randy Wheeler has reported on local happenings, shakeups, and milestones. One reason for his longevity: He has a voice that never goes out of style. The award-winning WIKY radio newsman still comes to press conferences in a suit. The wardrobe isn’t for his audience. He’s on the radio, after all. The suit reminds sources he’s the constant professional dedicated to reporting news his listeners need to know.
Amy Walker
Since 1985, Evansville’s Public Education Foundation has awarded millions of dollars for programs at local schools. Heading that 26-year tradition is Amy Walker, the PEF’s executive director. From teacher development courses to a summer musical to a citywide, student-driven music concert, Walker’s aid adds depth to the classroom setting.
Liz Mumford
Liz Mumford — a New Harmony, Ind., native — gave the Under the Beams concerts, held in a historic stone and clay brick building with a soaring ceiling, powerful headlining acts. Last year, she played a new tune as the new producing artistic director of Tales & Scales, Evansville’s traveling music-telling troupe. In 1986, the troupe — then in its first year — earned nationwide acclaim. Mumford’s the perfect fit to maintain the group’s prominence.
Ronald Rochon
When Linda Bennett became the third president of the University of Southern Indiana, she soon named Rochon her replacement as the provost and called him “enthusiastic and energetic.” Now, his enthusiasm is a major contribution to a student body of more than 10,000. His goal: to transform the youth into critical-thinking professionals ready for the workforce.
Sharon Kazee
Her husband, Thomas Kazee, may have landed the role of the University of Evansville’s 23rd president last year, but Sharon is a standout in her own right. The former vice president for arts and academics and dean at the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities has been an educator for 30 years. In Evansville, she has attended board meetings and nonprofit luncheons. Like any great educator, Kazee used these visits as research — a way to determine how she can help the most. Already she’s committed to Signature School as a director, as well as the Evansville Public Art Commission.