Legacy Gala Honored Ball Family
MUNCIE—Among those who paid tribute to the legacy of the Ball family at the 9th annual Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce’s Legacy Gala was Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb. The event, held at Horizon Convention Center also included speakers James A. Fisher, Chairman & CEO of Ball Brothers Foundation; Geoffrey Mearns, Ball State University’s President; Dr. Jeffrey Bird, President & CEO of IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital; and Stephanie Duckmann, great-granddaughter of Edmund B. Ball and a member of Ball Brothers Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Fisher, grandson of Edmund B. Ball, shared insights into the legacy of Ball Corporation, its innovations and values, and how the people of Muncie shaped the future. In his comments, he stated, “There is a tradition of “making” here, a tradition of innovation that lives on today.” The Muncie community, he reflected, is made up of “hard-working, industrious people who will stop short of nothing to accomplish great things.” Having worked for Ball Corporation for over 30 years, Fisher touched on the corporation’s evolution from manufacturing glass jars to engaging in highly technical aerospace projects that helped man to walk on the moon. Fisher thanked the audience for playing an integral role in this remarkable story and expressed his enthusiasm for revitalization efforts underway in Muncie. “Our family is proud to be part of the city’s history,” Fisher reflected, “and even prouder to be part of this city’s great future.”
“No one can deny the incredible legacy of the Ball family in Muncie, Indiana,” said Chamber President Jay Julian. “This year is the Chamber’s 125th Anniversary of serving as the voice of business in Muncie and Delaware County. As part of our celebration, recognizing the Ball family seems especially appropriate,” said Julian.
Dr. Andy Bowne, COO of Ivy Tech Community College and current Chairman of the Muncie Chamber Board of Directors said, “The Legacy of the Ball family is far reaching in our community and has continued long after the five brothers have passed.” The Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award is presented annually to an individual or individuals who have made extraordinary, sustained, and positive contributions to the Muncie-Delaware County community at large, and who have provided leadership in the development of programs, events, and/or new traditions that promote goodwill and community pride.
Open Door Health Service served as the event’s presenting sponsor for the ninth consecutive year.