Clark Named as Brand Champion Winner at NEI Pioneer Awards

Alum Edwin Chow, trustee Tomi Cardin also win Pioneer Awards categories

HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University and Forester Film are proud to celebrate Dr. Lance Clark, dean of the School of the Arts and founder of Forester Film, for being recognized as the Brand Champion category winner during the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership Pioneer of the Year Awards ceremony in May.

Clark (1989) was honored alongside fellow Huntington University alumni Edwin Chow (2017) and Jarod Hevel (2013, 2018) and trustee Tomi Cardin for helping elevate and promote Northeast Indiana through leadership, innovation and community impact. Chow was named as the winner of the Entrepreneur category for his work with Summit City Climbing Co. and Cardin was named as the winner of the Social Impact category for her work with Redemption House. Chow was also recognized as the 2026 Pioneer of the Year.

Through Huntington University’s award-winning digital media arts program and Forester Film’s “living classroom” approach, Clark has helped position Northeast Indiana as an emerging hub for film production, storytelling and creative collaboration. His work has connected students with professional-level feature film experiences while shining a national spotlight on the region’s talent and opportunities.

“It’s an honor to represent Huntington University, Forester Film and the incredible students and creative professionals who continue to believe in the power of storytelling in Northeast Indiana,” Clark said. “This recognition belongs to everyone who has helped build a culture of creativity and collaboration in our region.”

The Pioneer of the Year event, hosted by Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership, celebrates leaders and organizations making a transformational impact across Northeast Indiana.