10 MAY / JUNE 2019 COVER STORY Gov. Eric J. Holcomb Taking Indiana to the Next Level When Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb was sworn into office in January 2017, he inherited governance of a state with a balanced budget, thriving economy and a reputation for being business-friendly. How does a leader move forward when conditions are already prime? By moving up to the “Next Level.” In the first year of his term, Gov. Holcomb introduced the Next Level Agenda, a five-pillar initiative for Indiana that aims to: 1. Cultivate a strong and diverse economy; 2. Maintain and build the state’s infrastructure; 3. Develop a 21st century skilled and ready workforce; 4. Address public health and the drug epidemic; 5. Deliver great government service. Gov. Holcomb is quick to credit others for bringing Indiana to its position of strength. In this year’s State of the State address, he recalled a time “not so many years ago” when Indiana lacked reserves and outspent its revenue. “But thanks to you and our predecessors,” he said, “we turned Indiana 180 degrees and set sail on a course to sustainable growth, fiscal strength and a more efficient government.” Holcomb logged extensive public service experience before taking office as governor. In addition to serving as Indiana’s lieutenant governor for 11 months, career highlights include being campaign manager for U.S. Rep. John Hostettler and Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, chairman of the Indiana Republican Party, and state chief of staff for U.S. Sen. Dan Coats. In the community, Holcomb has been active with organizations such as the National Federation of Independent Business, the Indianapolis WWII Round Table, the American Legion and the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. In April he was honored with the Trailblazer Award by TechPoint for championing initiatives that support the tech industry. He also is a six-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, with three years of service in Portugal, and a graduate of Hanover College. A lifelong fan of basketball, Holcomb takes pride in having shot and made a basket in each of Indiana’s 92 counties. The governor’s accomplishments are mirrored by First Lady Janet Holcomb. Besides successfully running a manufacturing business, she has earned advanced degrees in fine arts, has a background in competitive horsemanship, and is a recognized expert in shooting sports and personal protection. Mrs. Holcomb lends her talents to organizations including the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, 4-H and scouting, the Riley Children’s Foundation, the Hoosier Salon and the Indiana FBI Citizens Academy. She has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ball State University. Hoosier Banker recently interviewed Gov. Eric Holcomb about Next Level goals and other initiatives.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==