August Wabash Valley Contractors Association Dinner Recap: An Evening with Vigo County Superintendent Chris Himsel

The August Wabash Valley Contractors Association Dinner was an event to remember, with industry leaders gathering to network, share ideas, and hear from guest speaker—Vigo County School Superintendent Chris Himsel. Known for his dedication to education and innovative approach to leadership, Superintendent Himsel provided valuable insights into the future of Vigo County Schools, touching on topics that resonated deeply with the audience.

A Glimpse Into Superintendent Himsel’s Background
Superintendent Chris Himsel opened his talk by sharing his personal journey. Growing up on a farm, he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and community—principles that have shaped his career in education. His upbringing on the farm taught him the importance of dedication and grit, values he carries with him today as he leads the Vigo County School Corporation.
Himsel’s professional journey is equally inspiring. With a background in education spanning several decades, he has held various roles that have allowed him to impact the lives of countless students. Perhaps one of the most heartwarming aspects of his story is his role as a father; he and his wife have adopted five children.

Recruiting Talent to Reach More Students
A significant portion of Superintendent Himsel’s address focused on how he has increased the base pay for educators. He emphasized that competitive salaries are essential in attracting and retaining top talent—professionals who can make a real difference in the lives of students. As Vigo County Schools continue to strive for excellence, Himsel made it clear that investing in quality educators is a top priority.

Updates to High Schools: Modernizing HVAC Systems
Himsel also provided updates on the ongoing efforts to modernize the HVAC systems in Vigo County high schools. These updates are not just about comfort; they are critical to creating a conducive learning environment for students. Ensuring that facilities are up-to-date and functioning efficiently is a key component of the broader goal of providing a high-quality education.

Leveraging General Obligation Bonds for School Improvements
Another important topic discussed was the use of General Obligation (GO) bonds to fund necessary updates and improvements to school facilities. Superintendent Himsel explained how these bonds are being utilized to ensure that schools in Vigo County are safe, modern, and equipped to meet the needs of today’s students. This strategic use of resources is part of a larger facility study that aims to identify and address areas of need within the school system.

Facility Study: Planning for the Future
The facility study, which is currently underway, was a major point of discussion. Himsel highlighted the importance of this study in shaping the future of Vigo County Schools. The study will provide critical insights into the state of the schools' infrastructure, helping to prioritize projects and allocate resources effectively. Himsel's approach is data-driven and focused on making informed decisions that will benefit students and the community for years to come.

A Focus on Doing Things Differently
Superintendent Himsel’s talk concluded with a powerful message: the importance of doing things differently. He challenged the audience to think beyond traditional approaches and consider new ways to achieve the goal of educating the next generation. Whether it’s through innovative teaching methods, updated facilities, or strategic financial planning, Himsel’s focus is on making positive changes that will have a lasting impact.

Conclusion
The August Wabash Valley Contractors Association Dinner was a night of inspiration and forward-thinking, thanks in large part to the insights shared by Superintendent Chris Himsel. His dedication to education, coupled with his willingness to embrace change, is setting a strong foundation for the future of Vigo County Schools. As the school system continues to evolve, it’s clear that under Himsel’s leadership, the focus will remain on what matters most—ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.