Trine University recognized for Innovation in Education

FORT WAYNE — Trine University’s ability to adapt and thrive during the COVID-19 pandemic earned it a spot among northeast Indiana’s top innovators, honored during a June 25 ceremony.

Trine received the 2021 Innovation in Education award given by Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly during its annual Innovation Awards, held at Ceruti’s Catering in Fort Wayne.

The university was cited particularly for its work to support local businesses through Trine innovation 1 and for continuing to offer its popular STEM with Storm program online during the pandemic.

Lou Phelps, CEO of Business Weekly publisher KPC Media Group, said the awards’ judges singled out individuals, businesses and organizations that developed solutions.

“The pandemic forced us all to change, to adapt, to be resilient, and we did that by coming up with solutions to challenges,” she said.

“We looked for those ideas that we felt had the greatest impact during a time when many were struggling within the region to survive,” said Lisa Long, editor of Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly, “but what we found was that many of you knew how to thrive.”

Jason Blume, executive director of Trine innovation 1, accepted the award on behalf of the university and took part in a panel discussion following the ceremony on how organizations managed to adapt and innovate.

A special section included in the June 25 edition of Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly recognized the winners.