Meridian is offering dental exams

Meridian Health Services will offer free dental exams for children ages 1 through 14 at its Meridian Dental sites on Monday, Feb. 17.

The free exams will be offered from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the American Dental Association’s national “Give Kids a Smile” event. Participating locations include Portland, Muncie, Richmond and Marion.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged to avoid wait times. To make an appointment, call (866) 306-2647.

University honored

U.S. News & World Report ranked six Ball State University online programs among the best 25 in the nation.

BSU’s highest ranking was seventh for its master’s in curriculum and educational technology. Other top programs were master’s in special education (11th), graduate educational administration (13th), master’s of business administration (16th), graduate programs in education for veterans (24th) and bachelor’s degrees (25th).

“These rankings highlight the exceptional academic programs and the engaging learning environment available to our online students,” said Trudi Weyermann, assistant provost for learning initiatives at Ball State, in a press release. “From the expertise of our faculty to the dedicated student support resources we deliver, our focus is on empowering students to succeed in their education and careers. We take great pride in being a trusted choice for learners seeking quality, flexibility, and value.”

Program awarded

Insight Into Diversity magazine recently named Indiana Wesleyan University as a 2025 Inspiring Programs in Business Award winner for its doctor of business administration program.

Each student in the program is assigned a research chair for mentorship and guidance. It also connects alumni with current students.

“Located at Indiana Wesleyan University, the DeVoe School of Business actively supports underrepresented groups through specialized programs, mentorship, and partnerships,” said Shelley Webb, chair of IWU’s DBA program and Division of Business, in a press release. “The school is dedicated to developing leaders who can drive positive change in the business landscape, all while adhering to a Christian worldview and emphasizing the importance of ethical and virtuous principles in the marketplace.” 

Hospital recognized

Healthgrades named Reid Health to its America’s 250 Best Hospitals for 2025.

The rankings are based on patient outcomes, with Healthgrades evaluating risk-adjusted mortality and complication rates. Reid joined Franciscan Health of Indianapolis, IU Health West of Avon and Franciscan Health Lafayette East among the Indiana hospitals on the list.

"To fulfill our mission to lead our communities to well-being, one person at a time requires a team that's driven to provide the highest quality of care," said Craig Kinyon, Reid Health president/CEO, in a press release. "This national recognition reflects what we've long known about our team's unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care."

This is the second consecutive year Reid has been on the 250 list.

Promotions made

Commonwealth Engineers announced the promotion of Andrew Robarge to its board of directors last week.

Robarge is a partner and project manager at the firm’s Crown Point office. In addition to joining the board of directors, he was also promoted to vice president.

Other promotions include Chris Limcaco to partner and Natalie Schelling and Cierra Heckaman as associates.

Director named

The Indiana Arts Commission announced Thursday that Eric Ashby has been promoted as its new director of programs.

Ashby previously served as the commission’s grants and research manager. He has also worked at the Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement.

Leadership announced

Indiana Manufacturers Association last week announced Angie Holt as its board chair for another year, with Paul Perkins as vice chair.

Holt is president and CEO of Rathburn Precision Machining of Auburn. She is also treasurer of the Community Foundation of DeKalb County.

Perkins is president and co-founder of Amatrol of Jeffersonville, president of DACW Worldwide and president of Bayport Technical.

Financing closed

Invenergy recently closed financing on $1.1 billion for solar projects in Indiana, Ohio and Tennessee.

The Indiana project that will move forward is the 200-megawatt Trade Post Solar Energy Center in Sullivan County. Also part of the financing are the 240-megawatt Cadence Solar Energy Center in Ohio and the 150-megawatt Yum Yum Solar Energy center in Tennessee.

“As Invenergy continues to develop world-class energy solutions that address growing electricity demands across the country, it is important to partner with premier financial institutions that share our commitment to strengthening the grid with cleaner energy,” said Brian Bortman, Invenergy’s senior vice president, in a press release. “This is a significant transaction, and we thank our lending partners for their continued confidence in Invenergy and our ability to build top-of-the-line energy centers.” 

Invenergy is developing Skycrest Solar in northwest Jay County.

Lilly donates

Eli Lilly and Company donated $1.1 million for scholarships at Howard University.

The funding will fund up to 12 Lilly Bison Scholarships of up to $10,000 per year. They are available to incoming freshmen, sophomores, juniors and transfers.

"The gift from Eli Lilly will enable Howard University to continue producing students for transformative careers," said Ben Vinson III, president of Howard University, in a press release. "With partners like Eli Lilly, we are preparing scholars to tackle global challenges and ensure scientific and technological advancements benefit all communities." 

Ranked No. 1

Fortune ranked NextEra Energy No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry on its World’s Most Admired Companies list.

The honor marked the 17th time in the last 19 years that NextEra has topped its industry. The list is based on ratings from executives, directors and analysts on innovation, people management, use of corporate assets, social responsibility, quality of management, financial soundness, long-term investment value, quality of products/services and global competitiveness. 

"This recognition would not be possible without the relentless dedication, creativity and hard work of our more than 16,000 employees, who constantly uphold our company's 100-year legacy by driving innovation and excellence in our industry," said NextEra chairman, president and CEO John Ketchum in a press release. "Energy demand is growing exponentially, and we have the scale, experience and technology to deliver." 

NextEra owns and operates Bluff Point Wind Energy Center in southern Jay County and northern Randolph County.

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