What started as an apprenticeship with RTC Communications, designed to show a young person what a career could look like with a rural fiber internet provider in the Indiana Uplands, soon grew into a lasting relationship. Bringing with him a sincere curiosity, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn, Ryder Craig, an UpSkill … Continue reading From UpSkill apprentice to essential employee: Ryder Craig celebrated
Earlier this month, the town of Ellettsville cut the ribbon on its newest gift to the community: the Heritage Center at Stewart Park. The Heritage Center honors the history of Stewart Park while looking to the future, transforming the footprint of the historic barn into a gathering place and cultural facility where the community can … Continue reading A welcome holiday gift: Ribbon cut on Ellettsville Heritage Center
Since 2017, ROI’s Ready Schools initiative has supported 18 school districts in implementing transformative, long-term strategies that prepare students for success in post-secondary education and high-demand careers. By engaging local stakeholders and employers, this initiative drives systemic change and aligns K-12 curricula and programs with the region’s evolving workforce needs. Participating school districts focus on … Continue reading Academy launches to elevate Ready Schools collaboration and impact
This winter will be bright for Ayla and Gabe Lindsey as they watch their two young sons experience the magic of the holidays in their new home nestled in the French Lick Klondike Subdivision. Not far from Ayla and Gabe, Lori Atsedes looks forward to hosting holiday parties in her new home, where she can … Continue reading New home for the holidays: Meet Klondike Subdivision’s newest residents
The STEM adventure has begun for Regional Opportunity Initiatives' latest STEM Fellows cohort! Last week marked the official launch of the 2025-2026 STEM Fellowship, a yearlong journey of innovation, discovery, and professional growth for elementary and middle school educators across the Indiana Uplands. The STEM Fellowship is a 10-month professional development program to support elementary … Continue reading STEM Fellowship launches year of innovation
Muralist Adam Long was busy in the Indiana Uplands region this month. In fact, Long keeps busy in the Uplands almost every month, filling nearly every county with color and light as he drapes the sides of buildings and walls of businesses with his bright, unique artistic style. This month’s project: the first phase of … Continue reading Creating community connections: Muralist fills region with color
Shoals High School student Isaac Johnson’s experience at ROI’s free Soldering Camp led him to the realization that this precise, hands-on skill would help him if he wanted to work in engineering – or more specifically: On airplanes. “This camp changed the way I think about technology and future careers,” Johnson said. Johnson was one … Continue reading Igniting knowledge: High schoolers, parent reflect on soldering camp
This school year, career connections will continue to grow for students in the Indiana Uplands as Regional Opportunity Initiatives welcomes the newest cohort of the Career Coaching Fellowship. Twenty-one individuals serving across the Indiana Uplands as school counselors, career coaches, work-based and internship coordinators, and Preparing for College and Career teachers have stepped up to … Continue reading Twenty-one educators join ROI’s Career Coaching Fellowship
Photo courtesy of Jason R Greene Photography. As Loogootee Mayor Brian Ader stood on a hot summer evening, looking out at the annual Summerfest, his attention was drawn to the new Downtown Park Pavilion filled with kids laughing and playing, adults dancing, and families gathered together enjoying this snapshot of summer. This is what the … Continue reading Vacant lot to vibrant hub: Loogootee celebrates new Downtown Pavilion
Eighth STEM Fellowship cohort launches with 19 educators and five mentors Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI) is proud to announce its eighth STEM Fellowship cohort and a new mentorship program. The 19 selected educators in Cohort 8 will begin their fellowship year in August 2025, bringing the total number to 149 Fellows working to grow high-quality … Continue reading ROI’s STEM Fellowship newest cohort announced, program expands with mentor program
With one final pour of concrete, READI 1.0-funded upgrades at West Baden Springs Community Park in Orange County will be complete — just in time for spring. READI 1.0 funded the improvements at the park, including multi-use trails, playground equipment, a concession stand, lighting, sidewalks, and flood mitigation.
Despite a snowy start, the Regional Opportunity Initiatives Annual Report to the Region warmed up the French Lick Resort Event Center on Feb. 18, bringing together leaders and changemakers from across the Indiana Uplands region to celebrate progress and innovation. Kicking off the day, ROI President and CEO Tina Peterson shared inspiring success stories, highlighting … Continue reading Photo Gallery: 2025 ROI Annual Report to the Region
Over the past five years, INvets has helped bring 150 new residents to the Indiana Uplands, with every county in the region welcoming new neighbors through these efforts. Their work in ensuring the post-service success and happiness of military vets and their families made them a great choice for this year’s Indiana Uplands Talent Innovation … Continue reading 2025 Indiana Uplands Talent Innovation Award: INvets
Students in Dubois County are quite literally reaching new heights thanks to a Southridge High School Aviation Program, making it a standout choice for this year’s Indiana Uplands STEM Innovation Award. Regional Opportunity Initiatives Vice President for Economic and Community Development Julie Halbig, ROI President and CEO Tina Peterson, ROI Board of Directors President Doug … Continue reading 2025 Indiana Uplands STEM Innovation Award: Southridge Aviation Program
What started with an undeveloped corner has become a unique gathering space attracting residents and visitors alike to downtown Washington. Regional Opportunity Initiatives Board of Directors President Dough Kellam, ROI Vice President of Talent Development Michi McClaine, Washington Mayor David Rhoads, Bob Grewe of Daviess County Economic Development Corporation, and ROI President and CEO Tina … Continue reading 2025 Indiana Uplands Quality of Place Attraction Award: City of Washington The Commons
