Kathy Williams Honored with One Impact Award from OneZone Chamber
Hamilton County, IN – January 30th, 2025 - OneZone Chamber is proud to present the esteemed One Impact Award to Kathy Williams in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Hamilton County and the State of Indiana. With a career spanning over four decades, Williams has left a lasting mark on public office, civic leadership, and election administration, shaping the landscape of government and community engagement. The One Impact Award, presented by OneZone Chamber, honors individuals whose leadership, service, and dedication have made a lasting impact on Hamilton County and beyond. This prestigious award recognizes those who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to community growth, civic engagement, and meaningful contributions that extend far beyond their professional roles. Recipients of the One Impact Award exemplify the values of leadership, mentorship, and advocacy, shaping the future of the region through their influence and dedication. Whether through public service, business leadership, or nonprofit work, awardees embody the true spirit of impact, leaving a legacy that strengthens and elevates the communities they serve. Williams began her career in 1976 in the Hamilton County Clerk’s Office, rising from Deputy Clerk to Chief Deputy, before being elected Clerk of the Circuit Court in 1984. Serving three terms, she spearheaded significant improvements in county services and court administration. In 1992, she took on the role of Election Administrator for Hamilton County and was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives, serving District 29 until 2018. Williams was a trailblazer for women in politics, becoming the first female Caucus Chairman for Indiana House Republicans and holding leadership positions as Assistant Republican Leader and Assistant Caucus Chair. Her expertise and dedication played a pivotal role in shaping policies on elections, judiciary matters, and local government. Throughout her career, Williams led key initiatives, including the Help America Vote Act’s Team Indiana project and chairing committees such as the Governor's Task Force on Election Integrity and the Census Data Commission. Her election administration work earned her accolades, including the Outstanding Election Administrator Award and the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash honor from Governors Pence and Holcomb. Beyond public office, Williams has been an unwavering force in community development. She has served on boards including the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce, Hamilton County Historical Society, and Northern District Clerk’s Association, where she was President in 2021. Her civic impact extends to education and public safety, with involvement in the Noblesville Schools Education Foundation and the Hamilton County Traffic Safety Task Force. She has also played a significant role in major projects like the Noblesville Riverwalk Committee and the Hamilton County Bicentennial. “Kathy’s impact goes far beyond the four walls of the Statehouse and the County Building—it extends to anyone and everyone she has worked with, mentored, and supported throughout her career,” said Jack Russell, President & CEO of OneZone Chamber. “She is the true definition of this award, embodying leadership, service, and a deep commitment to the betterment of our community.” Williams’ legacy includes numerous accolades, such as the Outstanding Clerk of the Year Award and the Hamilton County Service Award for 45 years of dedicated public service. A devoted member of the First Christian Church of Noblesville, she values time spent with her husband Perry, their daughters, and grandchildren. OneZone Chamber is honored to celebrate Kathy Williams’ lifetime of service and her profound impact on Hamilton County and beyond. About OneZone Chamber OneZone Chamber serves as a collective voice for businesses in Hamilton County, fostering economic growth and community development through advocacy, education, and collaboration. The One Impact Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication and influence in shaping the region’s future. For more information, visit onezonechamber.com. CARMEL, IN – OneZone Chamber is proud to announce Soula Banich's appointment to its 2025 Board of Directors. Soula serves as Vice President and Chief Operations Officer for Indiana University Health, North, and Saxony Hospitals' Indianapolis Metro Region.
Soula brings extensive expertise in healthcare operations and community engagement to OneZone's mission of fostering a thriving business environment in Hamilton County. Her leadership experience and dedication to health and wellness will help strengthen OneZone's role as a key resource for businesses and community leaders. "I am honored to join OneZone's Board of Directors," said Soula Banich. "It's a privilege to take the IU Health mission outside the walls of our hospitals, and I'm looking forward to partnering with OneZone to continue fostering a vibrant, healthy, and prosperous community." Jack Russell, President & CEO of OneZone Chamber, expressed his enthusiasm for Soula's addition to the Board: "We are thrilled to welcome Soula to our Board of Directors. Her exceptional leadership at IU Health and her commitment to enhancing the well-being of our communities align perfectly with OneZone's vision. We look forward to her insights and contributions as we continue to build a stronger, healthier Hamilton County." The OneZone Chamber Board of Directors comprises diverse leaders who help guide the organization's strategic priorities, programs, and initiatives. Soula's appointment reinforces OneZone's commitment to driving innovation, collaboration, and positive impact across the region. For more information about OneZone Chamber and its Board of Directors, visit onezonechamber.com. About OneZone Chamber of Commerce: OneZone Chamber of Commerce is a trusted partner and advocate for businesses in Hamilton County. With a mission to foster economic growth and community engagement, OneZone provides resources, programs, and connections to support a thriving business environment. Hamilton County, IN – OneZone Chamber is proud to announce the appointment of Kirk Klabunde to its 2025 Board of Directors. Klabunde, Senior Vice President of Commercial Banking at First Merchants Bank, brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to fostering business growth and community development.
“OneZone is an engaged team that works well for our business community. I am excited to join the board and work to further the success of our local businesses,” said Klabunde. Jack Russell, President & CEO of OneZone Chamber, shared his enthusiasm for the new appointment, “Kirk Klabunde’s leadership and dedication to our business community make him an exceptional addition to the OneZone Chamber Board. His expertise in commercial banking and passion for supporting local businesses align perfectly with our mission to drive economic success across the region.” The OneZone Chamber Board of Directors comprises influential business and community leaders who provide strategic guidance and champion initiatives that support workforce development, innovation, and regional prosperity. For more information about OneZone Chamber and its Board of Directors, visit www.onezonechamber.com. About OneZone Chamber OneZone Chamber is the go-to business organization in Hamilton County, providing advocacy, resources, and connections to drive regional prosperity. With a focus on fostering relationships between businesses, local government, and the broader community, OneZone Chamber is committed to shaping a vibrant and thriving economic landscape. OneZone Chamber is proud to announce the appointment of Deana Haworth to its 2025 Board of Directors. "I am honored to join the OneZone Chamber Board of Directors, an impactful, proven organization." Noted Deana Haworth, CEO of Hirons. "A strong business climate in Hamilton County strengthens the entire central Indiana region, and I am proud to be a part of that critical work. I look forward to working alongside the talented and dedicated OneZone team and members."
"I am thrilled to welcome Deana Haworth to our Board of Directors," said Jack Russell, President & CEO of OneZone Chamber. "Deana's incredible impact on our county, region, and state is evident through her leadership, innovation, and dedication to building stronger communities. Her expertise and vision will be instrumental in driving Hamilton County forward as the premier place to live, work, and do business. We are excited for the value she will bring to our board and our mission." The OneZone Chamber Board of Directors comprises influential business and community leaders who provide strategic guidance and champion initiatives that support workforce development, innovation, and regional prosperity. For additional details about OneZone Chamber and its Board of Directors, visit onezonechamber.com or call 317.436.4653. About OneZone Chamber OneZone Chamber is the go-to business organization in Hamilton County, providing advocacy, resources, and connections to drive regional prosperity. Focusing on fostering relationships between businesses, local government, and the broader community, OneZone Chamber is committed to shaping a vibrant and thriving economic landscape. CARMEL, IN – OneZone Chamber is pleased to announce that Nicole Pence Becker has joined its 2025 Board of Directors. Nicole brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will help drive OneZone Chamber's mission to advance business and community in Hamilton County.
Nicole is the Owner and Operator of Pence Media Group. Nicole has more than 15 years of experience as a journalist, communications, media production, social media, and public relations. Nicole founded Pence Media Group in 2017 to bring together experts to build brands + tell stories. Nicole has won 4 Emmy Awards as a broadcast journalist, 3 Telly Awards as an executive producer, 6 MUSE Awards as a creative director and 3 PRSA Pinnacle Awards as a public relations + marketing expert. “OneZone Chamber continues to thrive because of the dedicated leaders, like Nicole, who serve on our Board of Directors,” said Jack Russell, President & CEO of OneZone Chamber. “We are thrilled to welcome Nicole to the board. Her insights, experience, and passion for our community will undoubtedly enhance our ability to serve our members and promote economic growth throughout Hamilton County.” Nicole shared her enthusiasm, stating, “Being part of the OneZone Chamber Board of Directors is both an honor and a natural extension of my love for our community. Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible impact OneZone has in fostering connections, championing local businesses, and driving meaningful growth in Carmel and Fishers, specifically. Having had the privilege to lead workshops and moderate events with OneZone, I’m excited to bring my passion and experience to the board as a business leader of our all-female team at Pence Media Group and to continue supporting this vibrant organization.” The OneZone Chamber Board of Directors is a distinguished group of 35 business and community leaders who guide the organization’s strategic vision. Together, they champion initiatives that foster workforce development, business innovation, and regional collaboration. For more information about OneZone Chamber and its Board of Directors, visit OneZonechamber.com. About OneZone Chamber OneZone Chamber is the go-to business organization in Hamilton County, providing advocacy, resources, and connections to drive regional prosperity. With a focus on fostering relationships between businesses, local government, and the broader community, OneZone Chamber is committed to shaping a vibrant and thriving economic landscape. CARMEL, IN – OneZone Chamber is proud to announce the appointment of Tim Haak to its 2025 Board of Directors. Tim brings extensive expertise and a deep commitment to advancing business and community development in the Hamilton County region.
Tim serves as is the Vice President of Business Development for First Farmers Bank & Trust over the past two years. "I'm thrilled to join the OneZone Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. As the preeminent chamber in Indiana, OneZone is uniquely positioned to make Carmel, Fishers, and Northern Hamilton County the best places to work and live in Indiana." Jack Russell, President & CEO of OneZone Chamber added “We are excited to welcome Tim to the board. His passion and leadership will strengthen our efforts to create opportunities for businesses and individuals across Hamilton County and our region.” The OneZone Chamber Board of Directors is comprised of influential business and community leaders who provide strategic guidance and champion initiatives that support workforce development, innovation, and regional prosperity. For additional details about OneZone Chamber and its Board of Directors, visit onezonechamber.com. About OneZone Chamber OneZone Chamber is the go-to business organization in Hamilton County, providing advocacy, resources, and connections to drive regional prosperity. With a focus on fostering relationships between businesses, local government, and the broader community, OneZone Chamber is committed to shaping a vibrant and thriving economic landscape. Brian Henning, Sr. Vice President Corporate Banking at Old National Bank, has been named Chair of OneZone Chamber’s 2025 Board of Directors. Brian Henning is a Senior Vice President in Corporate Banking for Old National Bank (“ONB”). Since 2012, Henning has been the leading producer for the Corporate Bank and has served in a variety of leadership and management roles. He also previously represented the Indianapolis market on the ONB Foundation Board.
Henning joined ONB in 2006 as a Vice President in Corporate Banking. Prior to ONB, he spent 10 years working with Chase Bank in their Corporate Audit and Middle Market Commercial Lending Divisions, primarily out of the Chicago Office. Henning graduated from the Indiana University Kelly School of Business with a degree in Finance and became a certified public accountant in the State of Illinois in 1999 during his tenor in Corporate Audit. “It is a honored to serve with an organization highly focused on the success and growth of our local businesses. I am proud to serve as the chair of OneZone Chamber to support our mission to foster a thriving business community in Hamilton County." Noted Brian Henning. In addition to his role with OneZone Chamber, Henning is currently serves as Treasurer of the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee (“GIPC”), past Board Chair of the Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity, and is a past Treasurer of the Salvation Army’s Indiana Advisory Board. Brian is a past president of Indy Chamber Ambassadors and was subsequently awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by this organization for his leadership. Brian also has served on a variety of committees for local organizations, including, Indiana Landmarks, Local Initiative Support Corporation, and Southeast Neighborhood Development. Hamilton County, IN — OneZone Chamber is excited to unveil its new logo, revamped programming, and strategic initiatives as part of its new branding launch, marking a bold step forward as the chamber prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2025.
Under the leadership of President & CEO Jack Russell, OneZone Chamber has been redefining its mission and vision to better serve Hamilton County’s business community. This comprehensive update reflects months of strategic planning and innovation designed to position OneZone as the place to do business in the Hamilton County. Key highlights include:
These changes underscore OneZone’s dedication to innovation, leadership, and fostering a dynamic business environment. For more information about OneZone Chamber and its new initiatives, visit www.onezonechamber.com. |