The 2026 Class will be revealed on April 28.

The Michiana Forty under 40 program is a prestigious recognition initiative celebrating 40 remarkable young professionals, adults, executives and leaders under the age of 40 who demonstrate exceptional leadership, career success and a strong commitment to making a difference in their communities. The program honors individuals who not only excel in their fields but also dedicate their time and talents to enriching the Michiana region through service and innovation.

By showcasing these dynamic leaders, innovators and changemakers, Michiana Forty under 40 serves as an inspiration for others, highlighting the diverse talent and dedication that are shaping the region's present and future. Celebrating its 20th class in 2026, the program reflects the vibrant spirit of the Michiana community and its commitment to fostering excellence.

The program is brought to you by the South Bend Regional Chamber, Young Professionals Network South Bend, in collaboration with program presenting sponsors Community Foundation of Elkhart County, First State Bank and the Mendoza College of Business at Notre Dame, along with chambers of commerce in the Michiana region.

Meet the Class of 2026!

Erica Albertin 
Saint Mary's College

Kevin Cassidy
University of Notre Dame

Coy Brown III
Donovan Hawkes State Farm Insurance

Aubrey Danielson
Five Star Life

Ashley Dejonge
Lippert

Michelle Edmonds
Beacon Health System, Inc.

Riley Ellingsen
Earth Designs Real Estate

Chisara Ezie-Boncoeur
Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Tony Gaipa
Gibson

Bri George
South Bend Police Department

Kristin Givens
South Bend Heritage Foundation

Abraham Gordillo
Reliable Roofing and Construction

James Gunter
Present Pillars Foundation

Micah Horner
Horner Roofing & Siding LLC

Yana Jones
Gibson

Brandon Kastner
Holy Cross Village at Notre Dame

Rory Langton
IU South Bend

Dr. Jamila Lee-Johnson
University of Notre Dame

Ashley Lehman
Ember Recreational Vehicles

Taryn Liechty
IU South Bend

Joshua T. Lugg
Golden Legacy Partners, LLC

Elliot Lusk
Everwise Credit Union

Francisco Macias
Franky's Tacos

Annie Maguire
St. Margaret's House

Jeanie Mitchell
Penn-Harris-Madison School Corp.

Paige Niles
1st Source Bank

Elizabeth Paice
IU South Bend

Liz Pina
Michigan City Chamber of Commerce

Brandon Reed
Cartoon Connect Studios

Jordan Richardson
Inner City Development

Nichole Rodriguez
Primary Care Partners of South Bend

Tyler L. Roots
Michigan State Police

Bashar Saleh, Esq.
Bashar Saleh, Esq.

David Saleh
enFocus

Joshua Short
WNDU-TV

Annie Gawkowski Smith
Indiana Michigan Power

Emily Voorde
INTO Strategies

Claire Walker
Candescent Health and Wellness

Courtney Watts
Kruggel Lawton CPAs

Matthew Wetzel
Bradley Company

Michiana Forty under 40

2026 Recognition Luncheon

Join us as we honor our 2026 recipients at a Friday, May 29 Recognition Luncheon, sponsored by Beacon Health System, at The Lerner Theatre (Crystal Ballroom). Support your fellow colleagues and friends. Open to the public. Advance reservations only. More Details | Register

2026 Recognition Luncheon

Nomination Criteria (2026)

  • Initiative and dedication in pursuing their career
  • Proven success and achievement in their job/career
  • Investment in and service to others through their involvement in civic, charitable and/or religious organizations
  • Passion for their community, giving back because of that passion
  • Under the age of 40 on May 15, 2026 (For 2026 class). Minimum age is 22
  • Live and work in Michiana (LaPorte, St. Joseph, Elkhart, Starke & Marshall counties in Indiana; and Cass & Berrien counties in Michigan). A P.O. Box is not proof of residence.
  • Lived in the Michiana region (LaPorte, St. Joseph, Elkhart, Starke & Marshall counties in Indiana; and Cass & Berrien counties in Michigan) for a minimum of two consecutive years at time of nomination
  • Nominees may be eligible in these and other industry sectors: education, health care, business/professional, social services/not-for-profit, government/public service, financial, services, IT, trades, manufacturing, logistics, retail and more
  • Self nominations are not accepted
  • Individuals under H1B work authorization are eligible as long as other criteria is met



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