Horn, Walls Named Man & Woman Of The Year
January 30, 2025 at 10:07 p.m.
WINONA LAKE - Leon Horn and Becky Walls received the 2024 Man and Woman of the Year awards Thursday night at the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce’s 113th Annual Awards Dinner.
The two awards, sponsored by 1st Source Bank and the Times-Union, concluded the awards portion of the event at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center in Winona Lake.
In presenting the Man of the Year Award to Horn, Doug Hanes, 1st Source Bank, said, “Our Man of the Year has quietly shaped the fabric of Kosciusko County, using his wisdom, integrity and generosity to make our community a better place.”
Horn started his career as a teacher and coach at Warsaw Junior High School. “His focus was always on building character, helping his students become stronger and more capable individuals,” Hanes said.
After transitioning out of education, Horn turned his focus to helping local businesses grow. “This is where his influence has been felt for decades,” Hanes said.
Horn has served on many local nonprofit boards, including Youth for Christ, Kosciusko County Fair, Home Healthcare, The Builders Association, Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club and many more.
He has spent years advising well-established companies, such as Paragon, Grossnickle Eye Center and others.
“His financial guidance and strategic advice were pivotal in helping these companies thrive,” Hanes said.
Horn has also been involved in community development. He played a pivotal role in the development of Heritage Lake Park, a neighborhood envisioned as a lasting legacy for families. The community is home to over 70 families.
“His commitment to enriching local education also left a lasting mark when he made the decision to sell part of the family farm to Lakeland Christian Academy, enabling the school to expand and build its current campus,” Hanes continued.
Agriculture has always remained close to Horn’s heart, and he remained deeply involved in the 4-H program, where he was a proud 10-year member as a young man. Beyond supporting the program, Horn has served on numerous committees, worked to enhance 4-H experience for youth and continues to sponsor livestock awards, “ensuring the next generation of farmers and leaders are recognized and encouraged,” Hanes stated.
One nominator said of Horn, “For anyone who has spent time walking around Kosciusko County with him, it’s immediate apparent how deeply he’s embedded in the community. The number of people he knows and the conversations he shares with them are a testament to his far-reaching influence, yet despite all of his accomplishments, he remains remarkably humble, never seeking recognition or accolades for his efforts. He is always quick to offer a smile and a joke, making everyone he meets feel valued.”
Upon receiving the award, Horn said, “Well, this is a shock, to say the least. I’m not quite as old as that 1880 barn, but I’m pretty close. You always know when you’re getting old when the first thing you get in an email is remember when ... gas was 20 cents a gallon, milk was 30 cents a gallon and ice cream cones were 10 cents. Those were the good old days.”
He said he lived in Kosciusko County his whole life, but “Kosciusko County has moved on from those days back in the ’40s and ’50s.” He did mention there were a lot more friendlier folks in Kosciusko County than in Indianapolis, and he’s glad to be living here in Kosciusko County.
“So, again, I’m quite humbled, and thank you very much,” Horn concluded.
In presenting the Woman of the Year Award to Walls, Times-Union Managing Editor David Slone said Walls “is a truly exceptional individual whose dedication, compassion, and leadership have transformed countless lives in Kosciusko County. To understand the depth of her impact, one must look at the history of the Kosciusko County Special Olympics and the extraordinary role this woman has played in shaping the lives of athletes and families in our community.”
In 1973, Walls’ mother founded the Kosciusko County Special Olympics to provide opportunities for children with developmental disabilities. Her involvement began at a young age, helping with events and fundraisers. In 1988, she became a Unified bowling partner, and after her mother’s passing in 1996, Walls took over the league, which now serves over 100 athletes and runs year-round.
In 1997, she introduced the Summer Games, taking athletes to Terre Haute. By 1999, she became county coordinator and expanded the program, adding new sports like softball, bocce ball, flag football and corn hole. Today, under her leadership, the program serves 121 athletes and 50 volunteers across several sports.
“The contributions made by our Woman of the Year go beyond organizing events and managing logistics,” Slone said. “She has been a tireless advocate, cheerleader and friend to each athlete, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Her passion for inclusion and her dedication to the athletes are evident in everything she does.”
In addition to her work with Special Olympics, Walls has received several Area 5 awards for her roles as a coach, volunteer and Unified Partner. She has also made a profound impact outside of the program.
One nominator said, “If one had even half the passion and dedication that she has for the Special Olympics, they would still be an extraordinary force for change. Her unwavering commitment is truly unmatched, and she sets a standard for leadership, compassion and perseverance that inspires everyone around her. Her efforts not only uplift the athletes but also challenge all of us to strive for greater empathy and support for those who need it most.”
Concluding, Slone stated, “For her extraordinary leadership and tireless commitment to others, please help me welcome to the stage our 2024 Woman of the Year, Becky Walls.”
Upon accepting the award, Walls stated, “I appreciate this. I don’t do it for the award. I love my athletes.”
She said she had to resign this month, but Kim Parrett is taking over for her and she’ll do a good job.
The awards presentation portion of the dinner began after David Findlay, Lake City Bank, interviewed Vanessa Green Sinders, president and CEO of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.
Rob Parker, Chamber president and CEO, presented the Legacy Impact Award to Lake City Bank.
Leslie Friedel, Stillwater Hospice, presented the LaunchPad Award to Kosciusko County YMCA.
Catherine Hill, PNC, presented the Main Street Impact Award to Atelier.
Rich Haddad, K21 Health Foundation, presented the Making a Difference Award to Cardinal Services.
Sonja Hesser, Horizon Bank, presented the Rising Star Award to The River Coffeehouse.
Sandra Parra, Old National Bank, presented the Community Development Award to The Barn 1880.
Chris Wiggins, Lake City Bank, presented the Business of the Year Award to Parkview Health.
Lauren Twombly, Chamber of Commerce, presented the Ambassador of the Year Award to Stacey Leek, Stillwater Hospice.
John Warren, Crossroads Bank, presented the Young Adult Professional of the Year Award to Leo Patiño.
Tabitha McDonald, Zimmer Biomet, presented the Government Excellence Award to Winona Lake Town Manager Craig Allebach.
Leo Patiño received the Young Adult Professional of the Year Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by John Warren (R), with Crossroads Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union
The River Coffeehouse received the Rising Star Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Sonja Hesser (R), with Horizon Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union The River Coffeehouse received the Rising Star Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Sonja Hesser (R), with Horizon Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union
Kosciusko County YMCA received the LaunchPad Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Leslie Friedel (R), with Stillwater Hospice. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union
Craig Allebach received the Government Excellence Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Tabitha McDonald (L), with Zimmer Biomet. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union
Parkview Hospital received the Business of the Year Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Chris Wiggins (L), with Lake City Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union
Stacey Leek received the Ambassador of the Year Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Lauren Twombly, with the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union
Atelier received the Main Street Impact Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Catherine Hill (L), with PNC. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union
Lake City Bank received the Legacy Impact Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Rob Parker, with the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union
The Barn 1880: Historic Venue received the Community Development Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Sandra Parra (R), with Old National Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union
WINONA LAKE - Leon Horn and Becky Walls received the 2024 Man and Woman of the Year awards Thursday night at the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce’s 113th Annual Awards Dinner.
The two awards, sponsored by 1st Source Bank and the Times-Union, concluded the awards portion of the event at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center in Winona Lake.
In presenting the Man of the Year Award to Horn, Doug Hanes, 1st Source Bank, said, “Our Man of the Year has quietly shaped the fabric of Kosciusko County, using his wisdom, integrity and generosity to make our community a better place.”
Horn started his career as a teacher and coach at Warsaw Junior High School. “His focus was always on building character, helping his students become stronger and more capable individuals,” Hanes said.
After transitioning out of education, Horn turned his focus to helping local businesses grow. “This is where his influence has been felt for decades,” Hanes said.
Horn has served on many local nonprofit boards, including Youth for Christ, Kosciusko County Fair, Home Healthcare, The Builders Association, Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club and many more.
He has spent years advising well-established companies, such as Paragon, Grossnickle Eye Center and others.
“His financial guidance and strategic advice were pivotal in helping these companies thrive,” Hanes said.
Horn has also been involved in community development. He played a pivotal role in the development of Heritage Lake Park, a neighborhood envisioned as a lasting legacy for families. The community is home to over 70 families.
“His commitment to enriching local education also left a lasting mark when he made the decision to sell part of the family farm to Lakeland Christian Academy, enabling the school to expand and build its current campus,” Hanes continued.
Agriculture has always remained close to Horn’s heart, and he remained deeply involved in the 4-H program, where he was a proud 10-year member as a young man. Beyond supporting the program, Horn has served on numerous committees, worked to enhance 4-H experience for youth and continues to sponsor livestock awards, “ensuring the next generation of farmers and leaders are recognized and encouraged,” Hanes stated.
One nominator said of Horn, “For anyone who has spent time walking around Kosciusko County with him, it’s immediate apparent how deeply he’s embedded in the community. The number of people he knows and the conversations he shares with them are a testament to his far-reaching influence, yet despite all of his accomplishments, he remains remarkably humble, never seeking recognition or accolades for his efforts. He is always quick to offer a smile and a joke, making everyone he meets feel valued.”
Upon receiving the award, Horn said, “Well, this is a shock, to say the least. I’m not quite as old as that 1880 barn, but I’m pretty close. You always know when you’re getting old when the first thing you get in an email is remember when ... gas was 20 cents a gallon, milk was 30 cents a gallon and ice cream cones were 10 cents. Those were the good old days.”
He said he lived in Kosciusko County his whole life, but “Kosciusko County has moved on from those days back in the ’40s and ’50s.” He did mention there were a lot more friendlier folks in Kosciusko County than in Indianapolis, and he’s glad to be living here in Kosciusko County.
“So, again, I’m quite humbled, and thank you very much,” Horn concluded.
In presenting the Woman of the Year Award to Walls, Times-Union Managing Editor David Slone said Walls “is a truly exceptional individual whose dedication, compassion, and leadership have transformed countless lives in Kosciusko County. To understand the depth of her impact, one must look at the history of the Kosciusko County Special Olympics and the extraordinary role this woman has played in shaping the lives of athletes and families in our community.”
In 1973, Walls’ mother founded the Kosciusko County Special Olympics to provide opportunities for children with developmental disabilities. Her involvement began at a young age, helping with events and fundraisers. In 1988, she became a Unified bowling partner, and after her mother’s passing in 1996, Walls took over the league, which now serves over 100 athletes and runs year-round.
In 1997, she introduced the Summer Games, taking athletes to Terre Haute. By 1999, she became county coordinator and expanded the program, adding new sports like softball, bocce ball, flag football and corn hole. Today, under her leadership, the program serves 121 athletes and 50 volunteers across several sports.
“The contributions made by our Woman of the Year go beyond organizing events and managing logistics,” Slone said. “She has been a tireless advocate, cheerleader and friend to each athlete, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Her passion for inclusion and her dedication to the athletes are evident in everything she does.”
In addition to her work with Special Olympics, Walls has received several Area 5 awards for her roles as a coach, volunteer and Unified Partner. She has also made a profound impact outside of the program.
One nominator said, “If one had even half the passion and dedication that she has for the Special Olympics, they would still be an extraordinary force for change. Her unwavering commitment is truly unmatched, and she sets a standard for leadership, compassion and perseverance that inspires everyone around her. Her efforts not only uplift the athletes but also challenge all of us to strive for greater empathy and support for those who need it most.”
Concluding, Slone stated, “For her extraordinary leadership and tireless commitment to others, please help me welcome to the stage our 2024 Woman of the Year, Becky Walls.”
Upon accepting the award, Walls stated, “I appreciate this. I don’t do it for the award. I love my athletes.”
She said she had to resign this month, but Kim Parrett is taking over for her and she’ll do a good job.
The awards presentation portion of the dinner began after David Findlay, Lake City Bank, interviewed Vanessa Green Sinders, president and CEO of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.
Rob Parker, Chamber president and CEO, presented the Legacy Impact Award to Lake City Bank.
Leslie Friedel, Stillwater Hospice, presented the LaunchPad Award to Kosciusko County YMCA.
Catherine Hill, PNC, presented the Main Street Impact Award to Atelier.
Rich Haddad, K21 Health Foundation, presented the Making a Difference Award to Cardinal Services.
Sonja Hesser, Horizon Bank, presented the Rising Star Award to The River Coffeehouse.
Sandra Parra, Old National Bank, presented the Community Development Award to The Barn 1880.
Chris Wiggins, Lake City Bank, presented the Business of the Year Award to Parkview Health.
Lauren Twombly, Chamber of Commerce, presented the Ambassador of the Year Award to Stacey Leek, Stillwater Hospice.
John Warren, Crossroads Bank, presented the Young Adult Professional of the Year Award to Leo Patiño.
Tabitha McDonald, Zimmer Biomet, presented the Government Excellence Award to Winona Lake Town Manager Craig Allebach.
Leo Patiño received the Young Adult Professional of the Year Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by John Warren (R), with Crossroads Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union The River Coffeehouse received the Rising Star Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Sonja Hesser (R), with Horizon Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union The River Coffeehouse received the Rising Star Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Sonja Hesser (R), with Horizon Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union Kosciusko County YMCA received the LaunchPad Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Leslie Friedel (R), with Stillwater Hospice. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union Craig Allebach received the Government Excellence Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Tabitha McDonald (L), with Zimmer Biomet. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union Parkview Hospital received the Business of the Year Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Chris Wiggins (L), with Lake City Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union Stacey Leek received the Ambassador of the Year Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Lauren Twombly, with the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union Atelier received the Main Street Impact Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Catherine Hill (L), with PNC. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union Lake City Bank received the Legacy Impact Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Rob Parker, with the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union The Barn 1880: Historic Venue received the Community Development Award at Thursday’s 113th Kosciusko Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by Sandra Parra (R), with Old National Bank. Photo by Jackie Gorski, Times-Union