Don Babcock, Region activist and retired NIPSCO executive, has received the state’s highest civilian honor.
Babcock, who had spent more than four decades with the Merrillville-based utility and retired as director of NIPSCO’s economic development team, was presented with the Sagamore of the Wabash Award. He was presented the award during a recent meeting of the Indiana Economic Development Corp. by Jim Schellinger, Indiana Secretary of Commerce on behalf of Gov. Eric Holcomb.
It is noted on Babcock’s award that he is “distinguished by his humanity in living, his loyalty in friendship, his wisdom in council, and his inspiration in leadership.”
“Very few people exemplify the true meaning of the word ‘leadership’ more than Don Babcock,” Schellinger said. “I don’t take Don’s service to the state of Indiana for granted (and) the impact he’s had on the lives of Hoosiers will be felt for generations to come, and I couldn’t be more proud to call him a friend.”
Babcock spent 43 years at NIPSCO. He worked numerous positions at the company, eventually becoming director of economic development. Through the years he has been involved with numerous organizations including the Michigan City Redevelopment Commission, the Boys & Girls Club of Michigan City, and the Northwest Indiana Forum.
“Don has been a respected team player his entire career,” said Michael Hooper, president of NIPSCO. “His outreach has made a positive impact across the NIPSCO service territory and the entire state. We are proud that Don’s leadership has been recognized by this prestigious award from Gov. Holcomb and the state of Indiana.”
