As Hamilton Co. Leadership Academy celebrates its 25th anniversary, Current is highlighting local leaders who have helped build and sustain the program, which focuses on strengthening our community by developing informed leaders. In June, another class of engaged citizens will join the 600-plus graduates already working to make a difference.
Corby D. Thompson, HCLA Class of 1994
Hometown: Indianapolis
Lives and works: Fishers
Family: Wife Julie; twin sons Cole and Cooper, 20.
Career: President, Thompson Land Co. Inc. and K.E. Thompson Inc.; owner, Boomerang Development LLC, Hamilton Southeastern Utilities Inc. and SAMCO Inc.
Community involvement: Legacy Fund of Hamilton Co. board; Central Indiana Community Foundation board; Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis board; Hamilton Co. Economic Development Corporation board; Fishers Rotary Club.
Biggest HCLA takeaway: “The Academy has highlighted the willing engagement of so many citizens who want be deeply involved in the advancement of our entire county.”
How has the program changed your perspective on leadership? “Leadership comes in all shapes and sizes and from so many different perspectives. Finding the appropriate style for the appropriate time is the challenge.”
Most valuable lesson learned: “We’re all in this together.”
What will Hamilton Co. leaders be saying about our community 25 years from now? “Given what they had to work with, they left a darn good foundation.”
What is your vision for the future of Hamilton Co.? “A completely sustainable community where reinvestment is made in neighborhoods before any structural or social decay occurs.”
What is one change you would love to see that would improve our community for everyone? “We have to become truly pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly—in every sense of the word ‘friendly!’”
Favorite Hamilton Co. restaurant, park, venue, etc.: Pizzology. Ritchey Woods. Nickel Plate Amphitheatre (when I’m not volunteering for trash pickup).
