Maggi Spartz, Unity Foundation of La Porte County founding president, recently received the Circle of Corydon Award for her decades of leadership and impact.
State Rep. Jim Pressell presented the award to Spartz. The Circle of Corydon Award honors Hoosiers who have made significant contributions to the State of Indiana. Spartz received the award at a recent event celebrating her lifetime of achievements and service.
Over 200 community members gathered at the event. The evening featured multiple tributes from state and local leaders. It culminated in the presentation of the Circle of Corydon Award and the announcement of a permanent dedication in Spartz’s name at Unity Park.
Spartz has served as Unity’s president since its inception in 1992. She plans to retire later this year. Under Spartz's leadership, Unity Foundation has grown to nearly $60 million in assets and awarded nearly $29 million in grants and scholarships. The foundation works to strengthen nonprofits, enhance education, promote innovation and protect the environment.
“When Unity started 33 years ago, we had no money and only one employee…and that one employee was Maggi,” said Jon Gilmore, Unity Foundation board of directors chair, in a press release. “Today, Unity has nearly $60 million in assets, and through Maggi’s vision and dedication, Unity has transformed itself into a power for good for all the citizens of La Porte County. The effects of her leadership will ripple through our community—now and forever.”
Spartz played a role in protecting, creating and donating Unity Park to the City of La Porte. In recognization of her efforts, a waterfront section of the park will be permanently named the Maggi Spartz Promenade. A series of plaques detailing her story will be installed there later this year.
The ceremony ended with remarks from Spartz, an avid sailor.
“For 33 years, you’ve been my crew and have shown me what is possible when people care deeply about their community,” Spartz said. “You have taught me, challenged me and inspired me. I trust you now more than ever to carry this legacy forward. As I pass the baton into new hands, I know in my heart that this Foundation—our Unity Foundation—is in the best possible hands…because it’s in your hands.”
This recognition follows a momentous year for Spartz, who recently received the Jim Jessup Spirit of Leadership Award (Leadership La Porte County), the Excellence in Leadership Award (Michigan City Chamber of Commerce) and the Paul J. Alinsky Excellence Award (Rotary Club of Michigan City).
