The Lehigh Cement Company plant in Mitchell, IN, was recently awarded the Governor鈥檚 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.
Gov. Eric J. Holcomb recognized winners and presented commemorative certificates during the award ceremony at the Indiana Statehouse on April 11, 2018.
鈥淟ehigh鈥檚 rich history in Indiana, along with its dedicated and hard-working employees, is the reason the company stays successful,鈥 said Tom Chizmadia, senior vice president of government affairs and communications for Lehigh Hanson. 鈥淕overnor Holcomb is committed to Indiana businesses. By honoring companies both large and small, he continues to support Hoosiers and strengthen Indiana's workforce.鈥
Lehigh Cement has always worked to create and sustain positive relationships with the Mitchell community and its residents.
鈥淲e share this award and honor with the community of Mitchell,鈥 said Jerry Miller, Mitchell plant manager. 鈥淥ver 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.鈥
Lehigh鈥檚 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鈥檚 other community outreach initiatives include a contribution to renovate local astronaut Virgil 鈥淕us鈥 Grissom鈥檚 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.
In addition to community outreach, Lehigh understands the importance of preserving land. In 1928, the company donated 258 acres east of Mitchell to the former Indiana Department of Conservation. The state eventually developed the property into Spring Mill State Park. Today, the park encompasses 1,358 acres and is an often-used recreational resource for Lawrence County residents and Hoosiers throughout Indiana.
Lehigh understands that residents and local businesses must collaborate and remain aligned for the good of the community and to benefit everyone involved.
鈥淐ommunity involvement and philanthropy continue to be top priorities for Lehigh Cement,鈥 said Miller. 鈥淲e鈥檝e worked hard to create a positive legacy in Mitchell and look forward to continuing it for years to come.鈥