George Pati was approved to join OE’s Board of Directors. A professor of Valparaiso University, Mr. Pati is the Surjit S. Patheja Chair in World Religions and Ethics and Professor of South Asian Religions and Cultures. When asked why he joined Opportunity Enterprises’ Board, Professor Pati stated, “I chose to join this Board so I can engage, embrace, and embolden people with disabilities and enhance their quality of life.”

In addition to welcoming Professor Pati, OE also recognized and thanked several Board members ending their nine years of service for the organization. These Board members included Michelle Gonzalez of Laciak Accountancy Group, P. C. who, during her volunteer time, served as Chair of OE’s Budget and Finance Committee and a member of the Audit and Risk Management Committee; Mary Liggett of NIPSCO who served as Chair for the Audit and Risk Management Committee and a member of the Facilities Committee; and Christopher Runnion who served on the Budget and Finance Committee and still continues to serve as Chair of the Friends of OE who are a committee that plans and hosts OE’s highly successful One Amazing Golf Outing.

“The time and talent these Board members brought to OE is beyond words. Under their leadership and direction, our organization soared to new heights and I am grateful for their dedication to our mission of maximizing self-sufficiency and quality of life for individuals with disabilities,” states Neil Samahon, president and CEO of OE. “I also am very excited to welcome George Pati to the Board as we continue to build upon our vision of a fully integrated community,” Samahon states further.

John Freyek of Horizon Bank begins his second year as OE’s Board Chair; Natalie Krivas of Valparaiso Community Schools as Vice Chair; Patrick Lyp of City of Valparaiso as Secretary; and Kathleen Smith of Porter Township School Corporation as Treasurer. OE also welcomed former Board member, Rick AmRhein of Valparaiso University, back as the organization’s first Director Emeritus.