SPEA honors Massey, Ridlen, Nichols, and Walker
April 6, 2006
KOKOMO, Ind.—Four individuals who have made significant contributions to their north central Indiana communities will be honored Thursday, April 27, at Indiana University Kokomo. Robert P. Massey of Howard County, Philip V. Nichols of Tipton County, Julian L. Ridlen of Cass County, and James R. Walker of Miami County will each receive one of the School of Public and Environmental Affairs’ (SPEA) inaugural Public Service Awards at an 11 a.m. luncheon.
District 23 State Representative William C. Friend will deliver a keynote address on public service during the event in the Kelley Student Center, Room 130. Admission is $30 per person ($15 for IU Kokomo students). Proceeds will benefit scholarships to outstanding SPEA students. RSVP by April 15 by contacting Joyce Webb at jwebb@iuk.edu or (765) 455-9417.
SPEA Assistant Dean Robert Dibie, Ph.D., said the Public Service Award winners all employ the leadership mentality, skills, and processes taught in the School of Public and Environmental Affairs. “By honoring their actions, we encourage our students–the future leaders of this region–and all citizens to use their abilities in greater civic engagement.”
Robert P. Massey
With more than 30 years’ experience in the banking profession, Robert P. Massey is regional president of Salin Bank and Trust Company, with responsibilities in a four-county area. He serves on the boards of the Kokomo/Howard County Development Corporation, the Kokomo Downtown Association, the City of Kokomo Revolving Loan Fund, and the Howard Regional Health System Foundation. An active volunteer for several decades with United Way of Howard County, Massey chaired that agency’s 2005 fundraising efforts. He restructured the campaign process and recruited new volunteers, resulting in total contributions of $2,090,000, 95 percent of the original campaign goal. “Bob Massey demonstrates the highest levels of caring and commitment to
Kokomo and Howard County,” said Steve Owens of United Way, who nominated Massey for the Public Service Award. “His great leadership skills and vision for the community have resulted in countless contributions to civic and non-profit organizations, and created many lasting and positive changes in the quality of life for all whose lives he has touched over the years. As a graduate of IU Kokomo (B.S. in Finance, 1976), he serves as a perfect example of how one person can make a positive, measurable, and sustainable difference in the community.”
Philip V. Nichols
A lifelong resident of Tipton County, Philip V. Nichols is owner/president of Young-Nichols Funeral Home in Tipton. A past treasurer for the Tipton County Republican Committee, Nichols was elected to five terms as county coroner. He has also been an active volunteer for the Tipton Youth Football League, Tipton County Foundation, Sisters of St. Joseph Finance Committee, Elks Lodge, St. Johns’ Catholic Cemetery, Knights of Columbus and Fraternal Order of Police. “Mr. Nichols is a person I have the utmost respect for, someone I can turn to for his knowledge, advice, and guidance,” said Tipton Police Chief Gordon Tocco, who nominated Nichols for the Public Service Award. “Mr. Nichols was instrumental in establishing Tipton County’s first paramedic ambulance service. Through his family business, he established the Young-Nichols Business Award, which is presented annually through the Tipton County Economic Development Corporation. He, along with his wife Mary Alice, delivers Meals on Wheels.”
Julian L. Ridlen
Julian L. Ridlen has been a strong advocate for troubled youth as judge of the Cass Circuit Court and in his two terms on the Indiana Juvenile Justice Improvement Commission. “Judge Ridlen has worked diligently to provide programs for juveniles that are in need of additional attention,” said Annette Russell, president of Security Federal Savings Bank, who nominated Ridlen. “Most recently he was instrumental in developing a mentoring program for at-risk children. His leadership has helped provide a safe, structured environment for the youth of Cass County.” Other juvenile offenders programs developed through Ridlen’s efforts include the Out of School Suspension program, court-appointed child advocates a revamped community service plan, and the alternative school, Two Rivers Academy.
Ridlen has also served in leadership capacities with the local Mental Health Association, American Red Cross, United Way board, Youth Service Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, Cass County Bicentennial Exposition, and the Cass County Historical Society.
James R. Walker
Before being elected mayor of the City of Peru in 2004, James R. Walker served 12 years as a member of the Peru Common Council. He was also area manager for SBC Communications, serving most of northern Indiana. Jim Tidd, executive director of the Miami County Economic Development, called Walker “a visionary leader in the community.”
“His positive attitude and approach towards improving educational opportunities for Peru/Miami County citizens, enhancing community appearance, instilling community pride, and furthering community heritage and the arts are truly exemplary. A man who does not like to receive individual recognition for his accomplishments, Mayor Walker is truly deserving of this award.”
A city education committee formed by Walker recently sponsored a Youth Leadership Summit at IU Kokomo for all Miami County eighth and ninth graders.
Walker helped restore the former train depot that now houses the Ole Olsen Memorial Theater. He is currently assisting in efforts to restore the Peru birthplace of legendary composer Cole Porter.
Dibie expressed his thanks to the SPEA Advisory Board members for their help in coordinating the award nominations, scholarship donations, and the luncheon.
