MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. – The Rotary Club of Michigan City recognized EDCMC Executive Director Clarence L. Hulse with the Paul J. Alinsky Excellence Award at a breakfast event at the Michigan City Salvation Army.
The award recognizes community members who exemplify the values that Paul Alinsky lived by as a servant leader as well as those who are shining examples in their chosen profession.
“Michigan City has so much potential – it’s more than just real estate and financial deals, it’s working on engaging people,” Hulse said. “That old adage: ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ – Well, it takes a community to build a city. Everyone in this room and all of the different organizations who are part of our growth … Thank you for allowing me to do what I do. It’s not a job – it’s a calling.”
Hulse was nominated by Angie Nelson-Deuitch, last year’s recipient of the award.
“I have known Clarence since he came here. He is a jewel as he sees what is impactful to Michigan City,” Nelson-Deuitch said. “Being able to engage with the community for development is a direct reflection of Clarence and we appreciate everything that you’re going to do. Continue doing good work here.”
Alinsky’s brother, Jim, said he is honored to attend the event that highlights Paul’s efforts and energy, which were focused on the Michigan City community.
“Paul was very active with the Chamber of Commerce and at the time of his passing in 1997, was working on a collaboration between the chamber and city administration that ended up being the EDCMC,” Jim said. “I know Paul is looking down so thrilled that you found Clarence and his work with the EDCMC. Paul would be so pleased to see what is happening.”
Hulse said he is humbled to be in a group of award honorees who are change agents and servant leaders.
“People ask: ‘Why did you come to Michigan City? Your compass is broken coming up North.’ But before I took the job, I could see all of the assets here: the location, water, interstate, industry, business – so much potential. We are on the cusp of greatness, and I want to be a part of that. So much can happen when you do not fight change but engage and embrace it.”