As the 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.
Terry W. Anker, HCLA Class of 2014 curriculum dean
Hometown: Near Monticello, Indiana
Lives: Carmel
Works: Countywide
Family: Wife Carolyn; sons Carlton, 20, and Stuart, 15. Anker’s mother, Pat, also shares their home.
Career: Chairman, The Anker Consulting Group; associate editor and partner, Current Publishing LLC; co-founder, Monument Advisors LLC.
Community involvement: Legacy Fund of Hamilton County president; Central Indiana Community Foundation officer. He also serves on several boards, including Conner Prairie Interactive History Park.
Nice to know: Anker grew up in rural Indiana and was the first in his family to pursue higher education.
Biggest HCLA takeaway: “Community matters. Learning to connect, freely giving of our own ability AND accepting the support and ability of others, is now and has long been the key to human flourishing. HCLA understands this concept and brings others to it.”
What impact has the leadership program made on the community? “The impact is both wide and deep. In some cases, the most important element is the broad connectivity. We know each other – or have some shared history, even with strangers. This opens doors and establishes trust in shorthand.”
Most valuable lesson learned through HCLA: “With an open mind and heart, one can learn something from almost every other person and experience.”
What is your vision for the future of Hamilton Co.? “I imagine individuals, connected and self-supporting, understanding both the role of personal freedom and responsibility as a part of a larger community. Such individuals, I am confident, will be prepared to face whatever challenges – social, environmental, external, or otherwise – that may arise in their time.”