A number of factors ultimately determine student success at the K-12 level. One that is often overlooked is school district size – and thus the resources that can be invested into the classroom. Recent research provides some startling numbers and offers a compelling case for thinking beyond the status quo.

Celebrating business, government and community excellence is the theme of the Indiana Chamber’s Annual Awards Dinner. The winners, of course, as well as the wide-ranging keynote presenters have outstanding tales to tell. And often there is more to share about our behind-the-scenes interactions. We trust you’ll enjoy a peek behind the Annual Awards curtain.

David Becker has been building successful technology companies since the early 1980s. On those rare occasions when he is told that something can’t be done, rest assured that his motivation soars to new levels. Becker shares secrets to the success of his companies, advice he willingly gives entrepreneurs who come calling and the importance of early education efforts.

It’s no secret that Indiana – and many parts of the nation – are seeking answers to a drug crisis that is tearing apart families and communities, as well as impacting the workplace. Jim McClelland is leading the state’s response but a full team effort is required. Learn more, including how you can help, in this excerpt from the Indiana Chamber’s monthly Policy Issue Conference Call for members.

Phil Powell’s title is associate dean of academic programs for the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. But you might also call him chief advocate for preparing students for their business future. Powell and Kelley colleagues are sharing insights through the ROI Podcast and tackling topics such as leadership, innovation and workplace culture.

OK, the title might be a little confusing. But what we learn from Chris Byers, CEO of Formstack, falls into two camps: How to increase productivity when your employees work in about 75 cities around the world, as well as using technology to improve health care (and other) data and outcomes. Byers shares his insights on these topics and much more.

We’ve pulled some excerpts from our Policy Issues Conference Call with 9th District congressman Trey Hollingsworth. Among the topics: securing talent, growing businesses, CHOICE Act implications and tax reform prospects. And don’t miss his take on his age and becoming a father for the first time.

The new president of Earlham College wants the Richmond school to no longer be one of the “best-kept secrets” in higher education. A graduate of the school, Alan Price says he has come full circle in his career. We talk about a former law school colleague who went on to a different type of presidency, chess, African American leadership in higher education and more in our conversation.

A number of factors have historically come into play in business location decisions. Today, it’s all about talent. Larry Gigerich and his Indiana-based Ginovus firm are working with companies on these choices every day. He identifies hot spots, both in Indiana and nationally, talks incentives and evaluates efforts close to home.

He’s the energetic CEO of a YMCA in Wabash, Indiana. He’s also one of the leaders of an effort to change the way young people – and their families – view the value of education. Clint Kugler brings us up to date on the progress of the Promise Indiana program (www.promiseindiana.org), which introduces college savings accounts to students at an early age and, more importantly, helps build community champions and change attitudes. It’s a local effort that is gaining national and international recognition. BizVoice® magazine first profiled the initial efforts in Wabash County in 2015 (www.bizvoicemagazine.com/media/archives/15marapr/Promise.pdf).