2026 12 Under 40 Honorees Named

The Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce and the Tribune-Star are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 12 Under 40 Awards, recognizing 12 outstanding young professionals in West Central Indiana for their contributions to their businesses and their communities. This award is sponsored by Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and the West Central Indiana Partnership. 

This year’s honorees represent a wide range of industries and leadership roles across our region. The 2026 awardees are: 

• Ashley Bennett - Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

• Colleen Engle - Parke County Community Foundation 

• Sydney Howell - Thompson Thrift 

• Morgan Leek - Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce

• Lucy Lunsford, CPA - Indiana State University 

• Kaylee Maffioli - Clay County YMCA

• Jordan Marvel - City of Terre Haute

• Dr. Jayme Norris - Dentistry Just for Kids + TK Orthodontics

• Seth Porter - Hannig Construction

• CMSGT Esther Roman - 181st Intelligence Wing 

• Mayor Brandon Sakbun - City of Terre Haute

• Lucas Utterback - Vigo County School Corporation

“The strength of any community is measured by the people willing to lead it forward,” said Kristin Craig, President/CEO of the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s 12 Under 40 honorees represent the very best of West Central Indiana. From emerging leaders who have already embraced lifelong leadership development through our Leadership Academy of West Central Indiana, to those advancing our region’s nationally recognized defense asset, to educators and higher education professionals shaping the workforce of tomorrow. Their achievement reinforces what we know to be true: when we invest in talent, leadership and opportunity, our entire region benefits.” 

The 12 honorees will be recognized during a special ceremony at the Chamber’s 113th Annual Meeting on August 20 at the Terre Haute Convention Center. Each honoree will receive a physical award and will be featured in the 12 Under 40 publication by the Tribune-Star.