10th annual Good Life Awards honors positive leaders driving community and connection throughout Northern Indiana

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS FOR THE GOOD LIFE AWARDS TODAY BEFORE THEY’RE GONE

The notion of celebrating the good in Northern Indiana that began almost 17 years ago has led to the creation of the largest library of positive stories, photos, videos, and events in the region. Years ago, GreatNews.Life (GNL) launched an awards event honoring the people who have impacted that mission in a significant way and helping to make that library of good possible.

This year, GNL is honoring those inspiring individuals on November 19 at the 10th annual Good Life Awards. This special ceremony will induct a new class of six people – adding to the current alumni list of 54 leaders – and will recognize them with a custom-crafted, solid steel Good Life Award.

“This award has been one way to recognize positive impact people that embrace the premise of our mission,” said GNL Founder Chris Mahlmann. “This year, with the growth of our team, a common thread is how these recipients embrace, support, and align with our Lifers. This began as my mission, and Natalie and I are blessed that a legion of Lifers live that mission everyday.”

Winners of the Good Life Awards are hand-selected by Mahlmann for embodying the positivity he sees throughout northern Indiana. Mahlmann looks for the qualities that make up the fabric of all the stories GNL covers: hard work, service to others, positive attitudes, and people who are drivers in improving the world around them.

The 10th annual Good Life Awards will return Uptown Social in Michigan City after a successful event in the venue last year. Attendees will be treated to an evening of appetizers, conversation, and connection as they celebrate the people in the community that make good news possible.

The 54 previous winners of the Good Life Awards include nonprofit, city, and community leaders, legendary Lifers, and beacons of good that have connected with our team and our mission.

“The Good Life Awards is one of those events that really hits home,” said Jenny Craig-Brown, Executive Director of GreatNews.Life. “Recognizing the incredible people in our community who dedicate themselves to spreading positivity and making a real impact is truly priceless. We’re fortunate to have such a strong and inspiring group of individuals driving our mission forward. I wholeheartedly invite everyone to be part of this special night. Together, we can continue to uplift our community and celebrate these outstanding leaders.”

Tickets for the Good Life Awards are available and can be purchased online at the event’s page! For information on purchasing a table or sponsorship, contact Kami Tupiak at Kami@GreatNews.Life or (219)707-5023.

2025 Good Life Award Honorees

John Jordan, Owner & President, CertaPro Painters of Northwest Indiana

“John was raised by parents, coaches, and teachers that installed in him the values he demonstrates in his work, in his community, and every organization he involves himself with. He has a winning attitude that impacts everyone he works with,” said Chris Mahlmann.

Bill Marshall, Head Football Coach, Valparaiso High School

“Bringing old-school discipline that is essential to the development of young men while nurturing through all the challenges that a high school student may bring to the team requires a rare combination of strength and flexibility that I have watched Bill Marshall deploy consistently for years. Rare Air,” said Chris Mahlmann.

Andy Kostielney, Director of Business Development and Marketing, DLZ

“I followed Andy Kostielney online for 10 years before I met him. He struck me as a reasonable family, faith, and community-oriented leader. He has been the most helpful person in all of Michiana, and he has nothing to gain and no favors to ask. He has introduced me to leaders across parties and communities simply because he likes our premise of focusing on what is good,” Chris Mahlmann said.

Kami Tupiak, Partnership & Office Coordinator, GreatNews.Life

“Kami has led with her heart and a service mindset in all she has done in so many different forms with our partners, our events, and, most importantly, our people.  She is kind, selfless, humble, has an infectious smile and laugh, and truly cares. I trust our reputation is in her good hands and heart every day at Camp Life,” said Chris Mahlmann.

Austin Bonta, Mayor, City of Portage

“It’s rare to find a leader as candid and communicative as Austin Bonta,” Mahlmann said. “I admire his willingness to speak to people — in person, at meetings, in city hall, at the park, on the phone, walking the parade, and all over Facebook. He is earning respect one post and handshake at a time. Being known for your honesty is one heck of a way to make a mark.”

Julie West, Founder, Play for Jake Foundation

“Julie turned pain for her family into preparedness for young athletes all over Indiana after losing her son. The resilience, courage, strength, and power of positive persuasion not only changed practices but state laws and funding, leading to safer kids for generations to come,” Mahlmann said.

Positive Spark Awards

Forged in the same spirit as the original steel Good Life Award, the Positive Spark symbolizes the ignition of good, the spark that lights the way for others. This new award recognizes additional community members who embody positivity, leadership, and compassion in their everyday lives.

Our past Good Life Award honorees nominated someone in their life, work, or community who represents those same values, someone whose spark inspires others, brings people together, and shows the best of what’s possible when positivity leads. Their nominations help us continue celebrating the incredible people who make a difference across our communities. 

Philip Bolton, Marketing & Social Media Coordinator, Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ

Jillian Koeneman, Director of Marketing & Community Engagement, Goshen Health

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS FOR THE GOOD LIFE AWARDS TODAY BEFORE THEY’RE GONE