Hamilton County’s growing profile as a premier sports destination will take center stage at the Hamilton County Leadership Academy (HCLA) Leadership Summit, scheduled for Tuesday, June 24, at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in Noblesville.

The public event, running from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., will explore how sports are shaping the region’s economy, community identity, and quality of life. The discussion comes at a time when the county is home to a growing number of professional teams, top-tier facilities, and major events drawing national attention.

Panelists at the summit include Tim Bawmann, Team President of the Noblesville Boom; Steve Henke, owner of Henke Development Group, LLC; and Indy Ignite player Carly Skjodt. The group will share insights on how strategic investment in sports is building stronger communities across Hamilton County.

The event will also feature the presentation of HCLA’s annual Distinguished Alumni and Honorary Alumni Awards, which recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the organization and the wider community.

This year’s Distinguished Alumni Award will be presented to Karen Radcliff, President and CEO of Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. Over the past 30 years, Radcliff has played a key role in building tourism markets across multiple sectors, including golf, youth sports, and leisure travel. Her work was instrumental in the creation of Grand Park Sports Campus, now the nation’s most visited multi-sport venue.

Sonny Beck, CEO of Beck’s Hybrids, will receive the 2025 Honorary Alumni Award. Under his leadership, the company has become the largest family-owned retail seed company in the U.S., serving farmers across 19 states.

Registration for the Leadership Summit is open through Friday, June 13. Tickets and table sponsorships can be secured at HCLA.net.