MAY 16 & 17, 2024
NOW VIRTUAL
SPARK CHANGE
THIS EVENT IS NOW VIRTUAL
All presentations will be live-streamed from across the region.
See the schedule of presenters below.
COUNTDOWN to Event Day, May 16, 2024 | 9:00am
SPARK CHANGE
Project Mission: Be The Spark
At the heart of SPARK CHANGE lies a simple yet profound mission: to empower individuals to make positive change in their communities. Presenters will share their expertise in a live-streamed event.
Spearheaded by Folia Nova, LLC’s founder, Maria Davis, SPARK CHANGE is more than a community project -it aims to offer engaging information to inspire. Maria’s distinctive approach at Folia Nova, interweaves creativity with dedication to the community.
Information Comes First
We strive to provide a platform that supports understanding of issues and ideas in areas such as Economic and Community Development, the Environment, Historic Preservation, and the Arts.
Empowering the Individual
Each person has power, regardless of organizational affiliation. It’s not just about connecting minds but also about celebrating the individual power that we carry within ourselves.
Whether you’re a professional or a volunteer who already works to create positive change in your community, or you’re looking for ways you can be better informed and involved, this online event is for you.
THE STREAM
About SPARK CHANGE
We look to this experience to provide viewers with information and insight on Community and Economic Development, Environment and Ecology, Historic Preservation, and the Arts.
Engage with Experts
The online event features a series of educational presentations, with those who have or are working in their respective fields. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions during the livestream.
Tour Historic Downtown Angola and Reception
For those willing to travel, an in-person guided tour of historic downtown Angola offers an intimate look at the profound impact of preservation efforts, and the vibrancy of Angola’s unique history. The tour starts at 3:00pm followed by a reception on Thursday, May 16th.. Open to all registrants, it offers a chance to relax, and create connections with like-minded people. Registration is required for these events. The tour will last approximately 45 minutes.
While you’re here, visit these local merchants
MEET OUR PRESENTERS
Beth Neu
Community/Economic Development
Beth Neu spent the majority of her career in the Economic/Community Development field with over 25 years of service in various local government positions. In addition, she worked for the Catholic Diocese of Richmond as their first Director of Pastoral Planning… more
Rev. Nikki Shaw
Purpose/Meaning/Spirituality
Rev. Nikki Shaw is the Pastor at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Angola, IN. She has been serving in Angola since 2020 and has been serving in the United Church of Christ since 2012…more
Todd Zeiger
Historic Preservation
With a degree in historic preservation from Roger Williams University, Certificate of Executive Management from the University of Notre Dame and a minor in business, Todd Zeiger has built upon his passion for historic buildings over his 35 years in the field…more
Kristen Thomas
Environmental Management
Kris Thomas is the current MS4 Coordinator for the City of Angola. MS4 stands for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System. MS4 Programs are intended to improve our nation’s surface waters by reducing the quantities of pollutants that are picked up by runoff and transported into storm sewer systems during rainfall events….more
SIX DISCIPLINES
EIGHT SPEAKERS TO HELP YOU
SPARK CHANGE
VIEW THEIR LIVE STREAM UNDER THEIR BIO.
VIE
Dan Ross
Arts
Dan Ross has been with Arts United since 2009, currently serving as President & CEO. Mr. Ross previously held the positions of Vice President of Community Development and Executive Director of Cultural Advancement Projects, LLC, a subsidiary of Arts United focusing on providing fiscal agency support for community cultural projects…more
Darlene Vassil
Art
Serendipity: The effect by which one accidentally stumbles upon something truly wonderful. I was an elementary school art teacher motivated by the serendipitous creativity of children. I have a master’s degree in art education and count myself very lucky to have worked 35 years for the Crown Point Community Schools…more
Mari McHenry
Health Equity
Drawing from a background of supporting international students and scholars at esteemed institutions such as Georgetown University and Trine University, Mari McHenry has transitioned her focus to advocating for health equity at Cameron Memorial Community Hospital…more
Adam Toering
Historic Preservation
Adam Toering is currently a Program Coordinator with two preservation-oriented nonprofit organizations – Indiana Landmarks and South Bend TradeWorks – where he helps both organizations by encouraging traditional trades through training, hands-on preservation projects, and deconstruction/salvage initiatives…more
LIVE STREAM SCHEDULE
The schedule may be subject to change.
THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2024
9:00AM – 9:45AM – Rev. Nicole Shaw
10:00-10:45AM – Mari McHenry
10:45AM – 12:15- BREAK
12:15PM – 1:00PM –Darlene Vassil
1:15- 2:00PM – Adam Toering
3:00 – 4:00PM – DOWNTOWN ANGOLA TOUR – Must Register
4:00PM-6:00PM – Networking Event – Must Register
FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2024
9:00AM – 9:45AM – Kris Thomas
10:00-10:45AM – Todd Zeiger
10:45AM – 12:15 – BREAK
12:15PM – 1:00PM – Dan Ross
1:15- 2:00PM – Beth Neu
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any prior knowledge in community development, environment, historic preservation, or the arts to attend this event?
No. Our presentations and tour are designed to educate, inform, and inspire everyone to spark change whether you are a professional or a seeker of knowledge.
Can I register my attendance on the day of the tour and reception?
No. A count of attendees is needed prior to the tour and reception.
Can I attend the event remotely?
Yes. Speaker presentations are now going virtual. The historic tour and the networking reception are the only thing that is live. You’ll be able to access the streams under the images of each presenter.
What should I wear for the tour and reception?
Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
Will food and beverages be provided?
There will be appetizers and beverages available at the reception. You must register for that event. Location will be sent to those who register.
CONTACT US
Sign up for updates
Let us know about subjects you’d like to learn about to SPARK CHANGE in your life.
A CREATIVE PROJECT PRODUCED BY
THANKS to the following businesses and organizations for their participation and support.
