JCEDO Leadership

Sara DeYoung started with JCEDO in the Spring of 2023. She earned her BS in Environmental Science from Purdue University and BA in Creative Writing.  Her career began in communications for an international mineral mining company based in Hunt Valley, MD. She returned to the area when she and her farming husband became engaged. When Sara came back to Indiana, she was curious about what made some small towns and rural areas evolve and thrive while others became dilapidated and destitute. Being married to a farmer, she knew that the only way she could improve the world around her, was to change it, as farm ground doesn’t travel well. So, Sara started asking questions and learning everything she could about community and economic development. She worked in local government, volunteered with the Jasper Newton Community Foundation, Farm Bureau, Northwest Indiana Paddlers, 4-H and several other local groups. She graduated from Ball State’s Community and Economic Development Course. She is the past director of the Remington Wolcott Community Development Organization. Sara’s parents owned and operated a family gas station in Brook, IN for over 40 years, so small businesses are very close to her heart. She is thrilled to be part of JCEDO and continue the work its staff and board has collaborated on. She added,

“Jasper County has incredible assets, not just its infrastructure, but the people. There are people in every town that have huge ideas and are willing and able to put the work and time in to make them a reality. That’s an amazing thing.
There is a sense of collaboration and communication. There is no one silver bullet or person that can solve all of the problems. It takes me, it takes you, it takes all of us in capacities large and small to create resilient communities that evolve and thrive.”

Krystal joined JCEDO in the fall of 2025. She has worked for the City of Rensselaer’s Building Department and Community State Bank. Krystal is passionate about Jasper County’s potential, she is excited to contribute her hands-on experience to site development and community endeavors. Beyond her professional life, Krystal enjoys riding side-by-sides and going fishing along with spending time with her husband and two young children.

Christy started with JCEDO in the fall of 2022 as the office administrator. She is a lifelong resident and small business owner in Rensselaer. As the organization has grown and introduced a new Welcome Center through our Tourism Commission, she’s taken on the role of Community Engagement Manager. She comes to us with 9 years of previous experience working in Jasper County Government.  Christy has been actively involved in the Rensselaer Area Chamber of Commerce/Retail Merchants and a volunteer for the Jasper County 4H program.  She is excited to be a part of the Jasper County Economic Development team to advance local tourism, small business support, workforce development, and the development of long-term sustainable growth for our communities.

Tori Krzyston joined JCEDO in the spring of 2026. She earned her BA in Journalism and Public Relations from Indiana University and began her career as a communications specialist at a media company in Crown Point, IN. She later began her own photography and videography business, where she has been able to dive more deeply into her love of storytelling and develop a strong appreciation for small businesses. She is excited to be part of the JCEDO team and to continue the organization’s dedication to supporting Jasper County’s businesses and residents.

Rodney Urbano has served on the JCEDO Board since 2008, currently leading the organization as Board President. A graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Civil Engineering, Rodney is the owner of Town & Country Paving, Inc.. His career is a testament to the power of family-owned enterprise; after gaining experience building power plants, he returned to his roots in 1993 to grow the family business into a regional employer that provides quality jobs and essential benefits to roughly 50 people.

With 33 years of connection to Jasper County, Rodney’s leadership is defined by a deep-seated commitment to generational prosperity. He views economic development not just as a professional goal, but as a means to preserve a community where children and grandchildren have the opportunity to live, work, and thrive. His extensive local involvement includes past presidencies with the DeMotte Chamber of Commerce and the DeMotte KV Rotary Club, as well as service on the boards of the Trails Club and The Connection Center.

Rodney is a passionate advocate for business retention and the strategic attraction of new industry. By championing great schools, strong infrastructure, and community amenities, he works to ensure that Jasper County remains a vibrant home for families and a robust environment for local businesses to succeed for decades to come.

David Del Principe joined the Jasper County Economic Development Organization Board of Directors in 2017 and currently serves as Treasurer. With a career rooted in small business ownership and entrepreneurship, David brings practical business experience and a strong financial perspective to the Board. AT Del Principe & Allie CPA’s, he has spent his career helping individuals and businesses achieve long-term financial success while supporting economic growth throughout the region.

Throughout his career, David has developed a deep appreciation for the role local businesses play in creating vibrant communities. He believes that supporting entrepreneurs, strengthening the local economy, and encouraging thoughtful development are essential to Jasper County’s continued success. His experience working closely with businesses of all sizes has given him valuable insight into the opportunities and challenges facing the county’s business community.

As a member of the JCEDO Board of Directors, David is committed to fostering sustainable economic growth while preserving the qualities that make Jasper County an exceptional place to live and work. He is proud to contribute his financial expertise to initiatives that strengthen local businesses, attract investment, and support a thriving future for the county.

Brett Schwab joined the JCEDO Board in 2025, bringing a wealth of entrepreneurial experience and a 38-year connection to Jasper County. A Purdue University graduate in Industrial Management, Brett has spent his career cultivating a passion for small business, having successfully owned and sold multiple ventures over the years. Currently, he serves as President of Presidio Group LLC, where he leads property development efforts focused on small-town revitalization.

With deep professional and personal roots in the region, Brett is a firm believer in the importance of community service. His expertise in real estate and entrepreneurship fuels his focus on business retention and attracting new industry to the area. Brett’s service is driven by a desire to leave a lasting legacy, operating under the principle that it is essential to give back so that “the next generation has more opportunity than we did”.

Jonathan Cripe joined the JCEDO Board in 2016 and has since become a cornerstone of the organization’s leadership, serving as a member of the Executive Board since 2018 and holding past roles as both Vice-President and President. As the Town Manager for the Town of Remington, Jon brings a wealth of expertise in local government and public policy to the board. His leadership is defined by a 25-year connection to Jasper County and a career dedicated to the sustainable growth of its communities.

Jon is a passionate advocate for the vital intersection between quality of life and economic prosperity. He believes that local park systems, trails, and recreational amenities are powerful, often overlooked tools for economic development. For Jon, these assets are not just community perks—they are essential factors that businesses weigh when relocating and are key to attracting and retaining the skilled workforce that families need to thrive.

His commitment to the region is further evidenced by his long-standing service on the Remington Main Street Board, where he served for 15 years, including a term as President, and his ongoing role on the Kankakee-Iroquois Regional Planning Commission (KIRPC) Executive Board. Through his work with JCEDO, Jon continues to champion investments in community assets that create a competitive advantage and drive meaningful, long-term economic growth for all of Jasper County.

Jeffrey S. Phillips joined the JCEDO Board in 2025, bringing a lifetime of dedicated public service to the organization. Currently serving as the Mayor of the City of Rensselaer—a role he assumed in January 2024—Jeff has spent his career fostering community safety and growth. His professional background includes 30 years as a police officer, with 18 of those years served as the Chief for the Rensselaer Police Department, as well as a 25-year combined career in the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserves.

Beyond his leadership in local government and public safety, Jeff has been a fixture in the local school system as a high school football coach for 29 years. This deep-rooted connection to Jasper County is further reflected in his active involvement with the American Legion Post 280 and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP).

Jeff is driven by a vision of collaborative progress that enhances the quality of life for all residents. He is particularly passionate about downtown revitalization, including the expansion of facade grants in Rensselaer, and is focused on the strategic development of housing, infrastructure, and the attraction of new industry. Through his role on the board, Jeff seeks to strengthen the synergy between city government, local schools, and the business community to ensure a prosperous future for Jasper County.

Noelle Weishaar joined the JCEDO Board in 2020, bringing over five decades of deep-rooted connection to Jasper County and a distinguished career in real estate and public service. As a Real Estate Broker with Jenkins Realtors, Inc. and a dedicated City Councilwoman for the City of Rensselaer, Noelle possesses a unique dual perspective on the intersection of private development and public policy. Her professional expertise is further informed by her extensive background in local government and her commitment to fostering a thriving, sustainable community.

Noelle’s service is defined by a lifelong dedication to the people and places of Jasper County. Beyond her professional roles, she has held numerous leadership positions, including serving as a past Treasurer for the Jasper County Fuller Center for Housing (formerly JASPO) and as a member of the Board of Deacons at Brooks Ridge Church. Her involvement with the Rensselaer Central Building Trades Advisory Board underscores her commitment to workforce development and the physical growth of the region.

Driven by a vision of collaborative progress, Noelle is a passionate advocate for supporting local businesses and continuing the vital work of downtown revitalization. She believes in the power of partnership to shape an environment where businesses can succeed and residents truly want to live and play. Through her role on the JCEDO board, Noelle works tirelessly to attract new opportunities to the county while ensuring that existing enterprises have the support they need to flourish for generations to come.

JoAnn McElfresh brings over 35 years of deep-rooted real estate expertise to the JCEDO Board, specializing in residential, commercial, and agricultural property markets within Jasper County. As the Managing Broker and owner of Jenkins Realtors, Inc. in Rensselaer, she has dedicated her career to navigating the complexities of local land use, from farm auctions to industrial development. Her professional background is further bolstered by extensive experience in the lending and finance sectors, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of the economic drivers necessary for community growth.

A long-standing advocate for the region, JoAnn’s commitment to Jasper County extends beyond real estate. She has served in various leadership capacities, including roles with the Jasper County REMC and the Jasper County Fuller Center for Housing. On the JCEDO Board, JoAnn is particularly passionate about business retention and ensuring that the county’s agricultural heritage remains a cornerstone of its economic future. Her vision is centered on fostering a prosperous environment where local industry and small businesses can thrive for generations to come.

Jeremy Scheitlin joined the JCEDO Board in 2018, bringing a robust background in construction and real estate development to the organization. As the President of Titan Construction & Engineering Services, Jeremy applies his extensive industry knowledge to support the physical and economic growth of Jasper County. His professional expertise is underpinned by a Bachelor of Science degree, providing him with the technical and strategic foundation necessary to navigate complex development projects.

A dedicated professional and family man, Jeremy is deeply invested in the long-term success of the region where he lives and works with his wife and four children. His commitment to the board is driven by a desire to see Jasper County thrive as a vibrant community for future generations. Through his leadership at Titan and his service with JCEDO, Jeremy continues to be a key voice in shaping the infrastructure and industrial landscape of the county.

Quentin Overbeck joined the JCEDO Board in 2021, bringing a lifelong commitment to the agricultural and community development of Jasper County. A graduate of Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science in Crop & Soil Management, Quentin currently serves as a Manager at Remington Farms, LLC. His deep professional expertise in agriculture and land management provides the board with essential insights into the industries that form the backbone of the regional economy.

With 47 years of connection to Jasper County, Quentin’s dedication to local service is vast and varied. He is the founding member and current President of the Growly Patch Learning Center, serves as President of Jasper EMS, and is a member of the Carpenter Township Advisory Board. This extensive involvement reflects his belief that active participation in community planning and development is vital for ensuring that local towns remain places where families can thrive and be proud to call home.

Quentin is a passionate advocate for quality-of-life improvements and the strategic retention of both businesses and residents. He is particularly focused on business selection that enhances the community’s character and supports a high standard of living. Through his work with JCEDO, Quentin strives to ensure that Jasper County continues to be a destination that attracts both industry and individuals by fostering a vibrant, welcoming, and well-planned environment.

Karen McLean serves as a vital link between regional infrastructure and local prosperity on the JCEDO Board. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Indiana Wesleyan University, Karen currently serves as the Public Affairs Manager for NIPSCO. Her professional career is defined by over a decade of experience in public affairs and economic development, during which she has cultivated deep, collaborative relationships across Jasper County.

At the heart of Karen’s work is the belief that open communication and mutual understanding are the foundations of community growth. She has been instrumental in facilitating significant regional initiatives, including the electric generation growth at the RM Schahfer Generation Plant. Her expertise in agriculture and infrastructure provides the board with a sophisticated perspective on the essential services that power local industry and residential life.

Karen’s commitment to Jasper County is rooted in a ten-year history of active service and a vision for long-term economic resilience. She is a passionate advocate for business retention and the strategic attraction of new industry, recognizing that these elements are key to advancing the county’s role within the broader regional economy. Through her role with JCEDO, Karen continues to champion the partnerships necessary to ensure a vibrant and sustainable future for all residents.

David Fischer joined the JCEDO Board in 2025, bringing a specialized background in finance, accounting, and agricultural management. A Purdue University graduate, David serves as the Controller for Dairy Management Group. His expertise in navigating the financial complexities of the agricultural sector provides the board with a vital perspective on one of Jasper County’s cornerstone industries.

Having grown up in Jasper County, David possesses a profound, lifelong connection to the region. His service is rooted in a commitment to ensuring local communities remain strong, vibrant places for families to thrive. Through his firsthand experience with family-owned businesses, he understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing small enterprises today.

David is a passionate advocate for thoughtful growth and business retention. He is particularly dedicated to downtown revitalization efforts that sustain local character while ensuring long-term economic vitality for all residents of Jasper County.

Justin McCormack joined the JCEDO Board in 2025, bringing a specialized focus on industrial modernization and operational excellence to the organization. As the Plant Manager for Conagra Brands, Justin possesses extensive expertise in large-scale manufacturing and chemical engineering. His professional background is anchored by a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Purdue University, providing him with a sophisticated understanding of the technical and strategic demands of the modern industrial sector.

With over 12 years of connection to Jasper County, Justin is deeply invested in the region’s long-term economic resilience. His service on the board is fueled by a desire to share manufacturing insights that can enhance existing job opportunities while positioning the county for future growth. He views his role as a vital link between the industrial sector and local economic development, ensuring that Jasper County remains competitive in an evolving global market.

Justin is a passionate advocate for manufacturing development and the modernization of local industry. By championing projects that improve infrastructure and create high-quality employment, he works to secure a prosperous future where both businesses and families can thrive in Jasper County.

Thomas Carroll brings to the JCEDO Board a distinguished career defined by transformative leadership and a mastery of the telecommunications and broadcast industries. As a seasoned SVP and CEO, Tom has a proven track record of driving dramatic revenue growth and navigating complex market shifts. His expertise spans from the technical foundations of production to high-level strategic initiatives that have expanded audience reaches from two million to ten million, demonstrating a profound ability to scale organizations and create lasting economic value.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, History, and Economics from the State University of New York at Albany, Tom’s professional perspective is anchored in a deep understanding of the societal and economic structures that allow communities to flourish. His career has been marked by a commitment to innovation, earning him recognition as a Lifetime Member of the Northwest Indiana Society of Innovators.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tom is a dedicated community advocate with an extensive history of service across numerous boards and associations, including the American Red Cross and various educational foundations. His work with JCEDO is fueled by a desire to leverage his decades of operational and strategic experience to foster a robust business environment. Tom is committed to ensuring that Jasper County remains a forward-thinking region where advanced technology and community-focused development intersect to provide a prosperous future for all residents.

Deborah Norberg joined the JCEDO Board in 2025, bringing over 30 years of deep-rooted connection to Jasper County. As the Clerk Treasurer for the Town of Wheatfield, Deborah possesses extensive expertise in finance, local government, and public policy. Her professional background is further distinguished by her active support of local planning commissions and her leadership in developing the Park Planning Board for the Town of Wheatfield.

Deborah is a passionate advocate for small-town vitality, with a specific focus on the revitalization of downtown Wheatfield. Her service on the board is driven by a desire to ensure her community is well-represented, keeping local citizens informed of new projects and events while advocating for the town’s unique needs within the broader county.

Motivated by a vision for sustainable growth, Deborah is dedicated to attracting new businesses and supporting local enterprises within town borders. By fostering strong connections between local government and economic development initiatives, she works to secure a vibrant and prosperous future for Wheatfield and all of Jasper County.

Hinnerk Wolters joined the JCEDO Board in 2022, bringing a specialized focus on the vital role of agriculture in Jasper County’s economic landscape. As the Vice President of Agriculture and a Broker for Hageman Group and Hageman Realty, Hinnerk possesses extensive expertise in real estate development, small business entrepreneurship, and agricultural economics. His professional background is anchored by a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University, providing him with a sophisticated understanding of the market forces that shape rural communities.

With a decade of personal and professional connection to Jasper County, Hinnerk is deeply committed to the region’s long-term prosperity. His service on the board is fueled by a genuine passion for rural life and a desire to guide the county toward thoughtful, sustainable progress. He views his role as an opportunity to give back to the community by ensuring that economic growth aligns with the unique needs and values of the local agricultural sector.

Hinnerk’s vision for Jasper County centers on a balanced approach to development that includes infrastructure improvements, business retention, and the strategic attraction of new industry. By leveraging his expertise in land and agriculture, he works to ensure that Jasper County remains a place where both traditional industries and new enterprises can flourish, securing a resilient future for all residents.