The South Bend Regional Chamber is celebrating excellence and achievement in the South Bend Region at its Salute to Business event Feb. 5.
The event features networking, a seated lunch, a fireside chat and celebration of accomplishments. The chamber will recognize six award honorees whose leadership, vision and courage have shaped the Region’s success. Mel Raines, Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO, will serve as guest speaker.
Awardees include:
- Distinguished Business Leader: Mark Neal
- Woman of Influence: Laurie Nafziger
- Outstanding Young Business Leader: Kristopher Priemer
- Lifting Voices: Youth Service Bureau of St. Joseph County
- Economic Impact: Beacon Health System
- Small Business of the Year: South Bend Code Works
Raines, a native of South Bend, is in her 11th season with Pacers Sports & Entertainment. She oversees business operations for the Indiana Pacers of the NBA, the Indiana Fever of the WNBA, the Indiana Boom of the G League and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Raines has over 30 years of experience in operations, legislative, political, corporate and public affairs.
Prior to joining Pacers Sports & Entertainment, the IU-Bloomington alum served as chief of staff to Indiana Congresswoman Susan Brooks, managing three offices along with legislative, constituent services and communications teams. Raines played a key role in Indianapolis' 2012 Super Bowl, acting as vice president of government relations and event operations from 2009 to 2012.
Raines has also contributed to six Republican National Conventions, including as chief operating officer for the 2008 event and senior advisor for the 2012 and 2016 conventions. Earlier in her career, Raines was assistant to Vice President Dick Cheney for political affairs. She served in leadership positions at Altria Corporate Services and the Republican National Committee, beginning her professional journey on Capitol Hill with U.S. Senator Daniel Coats of Indiana.
The Salute to Business will take place 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Feb. 5, at the Century Center in South Bend. Learn more here.
