October 11, 2023
John Shannon, Ph.D., Trine University president, presented the award to Chuck Nedele, principal and co-owner of Croxton and Roe insurance, following a video presentation featuring images of Nedele throughout his lifetime.
The event was held in the Keith E. Busse/Steel Dynamics Inc. Athletic and Recreation Center.
Reading the introduction to the award, Gretchen Miller, senior vice president and chief operating officer at Trine, described Nedele as “a community advocate, collaborator, and genuinely kind and funny man who quickly becomes everyone’s sincerest friend.”
“We are inspired by Chuck’s spirit, and his sincere and selfless heart,” Miller said. “We are forever appreciative for all that Chuck and Rita have done to further the success of Trine University and our community.”
About Chuck Nedele
Nedele’s father, Roscoe, studied chemical engineering at what was then Tri-State College before enlisting and serving as a navigator on a B24 bomber during World War II.
After several years at Butler University, Chuck Nedele bought Jack Croxton’s share of Croxton and Roe in 1973. In 1975, Nedele married Tri-State College alumna and 2016 Trine University Woman of Distinction, Rita. The couple has three children and two grandsons.
The Nedeles have supported Trine University throughout the years, giving toward Thunder Athletics, the Trine Fund, Scholarship Golf Outings, the T. Furth Center for Performing Arts, the Books and Beyond Scholarship Program and the Scholarship Gala. Chuck also serves on the board of Education One, Trine University’s charter school authorizing body. He also serves on the Board of First Savings Bank.
In addition, the Nedeles support numerous Steuben County organizations, especially the Steuben County Humane Society, Cameron Memorial Community Hospital, Steuben County Community Foundation and the YMCA of Steuben County. Chuck Nedele played an integral role in starting the YMCA along with his partner in community investment and collaboration, Chuck Sheets.
The Pillar of Success award recognizes individuals for their achievements and accomplishments, leadership, service, philanthropy, commitment to their community and profession, and to Trine University. The award has, in the past, honored alumni, friends, faculty, staff and members of the Board of Trustees.
Four projects completed by staff in Trine University’s Office of University Marketing and Communications were recently recognized with 2026 Best of District V Awards by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).
A team of Trine University master of physician assistant studies (MPAS) defeated other physician programs around the state to win the Student Challenge Bowl at the Indiana Association of Physician Assistants (IAPA) conference.
Staff from Education One, Trine University’s charter school authorizer, attended the National Association of Charter School Authorizers (NACSA) Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, from Oct. 27-29.