The City of Valparaiso is inviting the community to attend the Valparaiso Community Conference on Thursday, April 17, 2025, noon to 5:00 pm at the Harre Union, Valparaiso University. “This first-ever Community Conference is for anyone who wants to be more involved in the Valparaiso community. Research shows the more you get involved in the community where you live, the more likely you are to stay,” said Maggie Clifton, Director of Community Engagement for the City of Valparaiso. “Whether you’re new in town or you’ve lived here for a while, it is our goal that every participant finds one or more meaningful ways to engage in our community, offering pathways to build connections and contribute to the community’s growth,” she said.
The Community Conference will include insightful speakers, active networking and ways to plug into the Valparaiso community. Mayor Jon Costas will serve as keynote speaker, sharing thoughts on “Using Civility to Promote Productivity” with insights on how to find common ground and move forward productively in an era of heightened polarization.
Other speakers include:
- Bill Higbie, President and CEO of the Porter County Community Foundation – “The Role of Philanthropy in Community Development”
- Patrick Lyp, City Attorney for City of Valparaiso – “City Government: How the Pieces Fit Together”
- Jesse Harper, Center Township Trustee – Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Tips to Lend a Helping Hand”
- Celina Weatherwax, President and CEO for MAAC Foundation, Inc. and Mackenna Schon, Director of Programming for MAAC Foundation, Inc. – “Advocacy in Action: Meeting Needs Through Community Building”
In addition to the presentations, the Community Conference will include a “speed networking” segment, introducing Valpo clubs and organizations seeking members and volunteers. The Valparaiso Community Conference is open to all ages and backgrounds. Admission is $15, which includes lunch. To learn more and register, visit tinyurl.com/CommConValpo.