Joan Bock - Woman of Distinction awardee

A generous woman described as a visionary who works to make a difference was recognized Thursday evening by Trine University. Joan Bock was named Trine's Woman of Distinction for her service and support of Trine. The award was announced during the 18th annual Touchstone Donor Recognition Dinner. Mrs. Bock and her husband, Jim Bock, an alumnus and Trine trustee, have supported the university through an endowed scholarship, the Trine Fund, Thunder athletics, scholarship golf outings and the scholarship gala. The Bocks also host numerous events and work to reconnect alumni with the university.

"This year's recipient is a visionary who goes into the world and sees the possibilities in people, in communities, in business and here at this university," Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., Trine president, said before introducing Mrs. Bock.

Before the award was given, the audience of more than 200 people watched a well-crafted video montage packed with images from Mrs. Bock's life. After her name was announced, she was given a standing ovation.

Mrs. Bock, of Elkhart, also supports Bashor Children's Home, Child Abuse Prevention Services and Women's Care Center.

The Woman of Distinction Award was first given in 2006 to honor Marjorie Bowstrom, a Tri-State University trustee. The award recognizes the powerful contributions of women in the areas of philanthropy, business and education, and is presented annually to a woman adjudged by the university to mirror the attributes represented by Marjorie Bowstrom. It signifies the university's high regard for the lofty achievements of today's female leaders.

The Jim and Joan Bock Center for Innovation and Biomedical Engineering, which was dedicated Friday, is named in honor of their $1 million gift to help fund the building. That generous donation reflects their keen interest in engineering and desire to build a stronger connection between Trine and the biomedical and orthopedic industries.

"Recognizing that Trine is near the orthopedic capital of the world (Warsaw), Jim and Joan helped lead Trine's research into becoming a contributing part of the innovative growth in the region," Brooks said. "Jim and Joan's generous support enables Trine to fulfill our mission of equipping students to succeed, learn and serve."

The Bock Center is home to Trine's Innovation One and myriad laboratories, including labs to support biomedical engineering, that allow students to be better prepared and enhance their experiential learning opportunities. Innovation One offers many services and expertise to aid new and existing businesses, industries and entrepreneurs.