Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb recently awarded the Lehigh Cement Co. plant in Mitchell, Ind., the Governor’s Century Business Award, which honors Indiana businesses that have remained in operation for at least 100 years and have demonstrated a commitment to community service.
“Lehigh’s rich history in Indiana, along with its dedicated and hard-working employees, is the reason the company stays successful,” said Tom Chizmadia, senior vice president of government affairs and communications for Lehigh Hanson. “Governor Holcomb is committed to Indiana businesses. By honoring companies both large and small, he continues to support Hoosiers and strengthen Indiana’s workforce.”
Lehigh Cement has always worked to create and sustain positive relationships with the Mitchell community and its residents.
“We share this award and honor with the community of Mitchell,” said Jerry Miller, Mitchell plant manager. “Over the past 116 years, community members have supported Lehigh Cement, and they continue to make us proud to be a part of the southern Indiana community.”
Lehigh’s community involvement is vast and includes the building and maintenance of Lehigh Fields to promote youth activities. Today, Lehigh Fields is a public space that hosts spring baseball games, community events and the annual Fourth of July fireworks show in Mitchell. Located adjacent to plant operations, it is a clear example of how industrial manufacturing safely co-exists with local interests.
Lehigh’s other community outreach initiatives include a contribution to renovate local astronaut Virgil “Gus” Grissom’s boyhood home in Mitchell, a grant to the Mitchell Community Recreational Association for playground equipment as well as a donation to help the association reach its Lilly Endowment Challenge Goal, and the donation of a new 15-passenger van to transport senior citizens.
“Community involvement and philanthropy continue to be top priorities for Lehigh Cement,” said Miller. “We’ve worked hard to create a positive legacy in Mitchell and look forward to continuing it for years to come.”