Local Wins and Milestones: A Look at Recent Achievements

Education and Technology

Purdue University Northwest's College of Technology has secured over $3 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Defense. This funding will enhance education and workforce development in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

• $3 million allocated to the Center for Cybersecurity
• Programs include AI literacy, cybersecurity administration, and digital forensics
• Free for accepted applicants
• Visit their website for more details

Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association

The Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association celebrated the graduation of their first group of mentees from their mentorship program.

• 6-month program pairs up-and-coming professionals with experienced leaders
• Goal: Career growth, confidence, and advancement
• Graduation ceremony held at the Professional Women’s Conference in Michigan City

Morton High School Student Wins Congressional App Challenge

Josue Pedraza, a student at Morton High School, won the 2025 Congressional App Challenge with his app "RoboticsMuse".

• Educational hub for robotics
• Offers resources and interactive lessons for STEM students
• App will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol and featured on the House.gov website for a year

Cursive Academy Achieves Non-Profit Status

Cursive Academy, run by Terrell and Chelsea Whittington, has achieved non-profit status.

• Teaches basics of cursive handwriting
• Already graduated 83 students
• Free, two-day cursive workshop at the Gary Public Library
• Email Chelsea for more information

Lake County Public Defender’s Office Recognizes Staff

The Lake County Public Defender’s office recognized two staff members with The Chief’s Award.

• Scott Schmal, finance director
• Felipe Sanchez, attorney
• Award created in 2019 to recognize those who share the office’s goals