ABOUT ONE REGION
One Region is Northwest Indiana’s premier convener for innovation, growth, and collaboration. We unite leaders across sectors to turn shared priorities into strategic action. By driving cross-sector initiatives, advocating for policy advancement, and promoting regional investment, we’re not only shaping the future of Northwest Indiana. We’re influencing progress statewide and nationally.
DRIVING ECONOMIC GROWTH
We accelerate growth through initiatives that attract investment, expand job creation, and position Northwest Indiana as a hub for technology, infrastructure, and talent. Leveraging the collective influence of our members, we translate ideas into outcomes that strengthen our economy and workforce.
BUILDING THRIVING COMMUNITIES
From revitalizing downtowns to expanding connectivity and transportation, our projects create opportunities and enhance the quality of life, establishing Northwest Indiana as a model of regional collaboration and sustainable development.
COLLABORATING FOR THE GREATER GOOD
We bring together local governments, educational institutions, and industry partners to maximize impact. Through shared vision and alignment, we amplify our region’s competitiveness and collective voice.
SHAPING POLICY AND ADVOCACY
Our thought leadership drives state and national dialogue on infrastructure, workforce readiness, and economic competitiveness. We work to ensure Northwest Indiana’s voice leads the conversation on innovation and growth.
BE PART OF THE MOVEMENT IN THE REGION.
WHERE WE STARTED
Born from a legacy of industrial innovation, One Region was established to address the economic challenges and opportunities of Northwest Indiana. As industries evolved, we led the charge to diversify the economy, strengthen infrastructure, and align public and private efforts. Today, by leveraging our proximity to Chicago, we’re positioning Northwest Indiana as a key player in shaping the Midwest’s innovation economy.
Our Leadership
President & CEO
Matthew Wells, President and CEO of One Region, leads the organization’s vision to position Northwest Indiana as a center for innovation, growth, and opportunity. As Chief Engagement Officer at Purdue University Northwest and architect of the Greater South Shore Initiative, Wells champions cross-sector collaboration that turns strategy into action. Recognized nationally for his leadership through the Concordia Summit and AEI’s Leadership Network, he exemplifies the future-focused, coalition-driven approach that defines One Region
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jeff Ban
President, DVG Inc.
Michael Bergerson
Partner, Barnes & Thornburg
Ben Bochnowski
President & CEO of Peoples Bank
Sunny Lu Williams
President, TechServ Corporation
William A. Hasse
President, Hasse Construction
Kenneth C. Holford
PhD, Chancellor, Purdue University Northwest
Ken Iwama
Vice President for Regional Campuses and Online Education, Indiana University
Robert Johnson, III
President & CEO of Cimcor (Chair-Elect)
Jeff Lewis
VP and Principal, Shive-Hattery
Stewart McMillan
Chairman, MAAC Foundation
Vince Parisi
President, NIPSCO
Monica Rubio
Market President, Old National Bank
Tom Schager
President, The Times Media Company
(New board chair for 2024-25)
Michael Schneider
SVP, Wintrust Bank (NIROC Liaison)
Violet Sistovaris
Executive Vice President & Chief Experience Officer, NiSource (ret.)
Jeff Strack
CEO, Indiana Grocery Group