As the Hamilton County Leadership Academy approaches its 25th anniversary, Current is highlighting local leaders who’ve 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.
David Haboush, Class of 2014
Hometown: Indianapolis
Lives and works: Carmel
Family: Wife Marcy; daughters MacKenzie, 20, and Lily, 9; son Tyler, 23; 1 granddaughter
Career: A professional firefighter who has served the Carmel Fire Department for more than 20 years, Haboush was named Fire Chief in March 2015.
Community involvement: Hamilton County Council on Aging, board vice president; Carmel Rotary Club; Indianapolis Great Banquet team member.
How has HCLA changed your perspective on community leadership? “The word ‘engaged’ says it all. Many groups come together for a common purpose and once the work is completed, go their separate ways. With the HCLA Class of 2014, many of us have actively and purposefully stayed together and have a presence with numerous activities in Hamilton County and HCLA.”
Most impactful connection made through HCLA, and why: “HCLA enabled me to connect with the Hamilton County Council on Aging. … The attraction for me was that this is everyone’s future. If we are fortunate to live long enough, HCCOA will impact our lives. This was an opportunity to pay it forward!”
Last movie you saw? Disney Pixar’s “Inside Out”
Favorite Hamilton County restaurant: Bub’s Burgers in Carmel
Best-kept Hamilton County secret: “West Park in Carmel (2700 W. 116th St.) has 121 acres of everything imaginable, including an awesome sledding hill for winter fun and a great pond to fish out of during the summer.”
For more from Haboush and other HCLA leaders, visit HCLA.net.
