Kentland Community Supporter: Kathryn Weiss

I was born and raised in Brook, Indiana, but spent about half of my childhood here in Kentland, since my grandparents live here. I went to South Newton High School and graduated in 2016. I went on to Purdue University and graduated with my Bachelor of Science in agribusiness management in 2020, and got my Master’s of Business Administration at Purdue Global in 2022. I grew up on a family farm that’s been in my family for more than 100 years, so I really enjoy the small-town community living.

I still live in Brook, but I’m currently transitioning to an Executive Director position at Autumn Trace Communities in Kentland. I started working for the organization in August. Right now, every day is different. I’ve had the opportunity to follow my Regional Director around the six northern buildings she oversees, Kentland included. I have been to Lebanon, Plymouth, Columbia City, Rensselaer, and Attica. Being able to tour the facilities, getting to know residents and the roles of all the employees has really helped me prepare for my role as Executive Director when the Kentland location opens. The Autumn Trace building is scheduled to be done by the end of 2023, and we’re looking at being fully functional within the first few months of 2024.

Mike Davis was a massive driving force behind my decision to join Kentland’s Economic Development Task Force– He is one of my biggest supporters. Being on this team is allowing me to work with wonderful people in one of the most supportive communities that I know. I wanted to be on the Task Force in order to give back to Kentland and make it a better place. If we help it thrive, we can make Kentland’s name stand out even more than it already has.

I think Kentland should be known for its hospitality and support. They’ve got many thriving businesses and I love to see all the improvements that have been made in the last ten years. Buildings and landscaping have been updated; Businesses have moved in and helped with economic development, which in turn has made Kentland thrive. I think this community can go even further, and I love what the Task Force is bringing to the area– I’m so excited to be a part of it and to be able to give back.