SOLD OUT! Contact Mari Bishop for more, 574.400.4001
Thursday, February 5, 2026 | 11:30AM - 1:15PM | Century Center
Celebrate Excellence & Achievement in the South Bend Region
Join us for THE signature Chamber event of the year—Salute to Business Powered by 1st Source Bank. Gather with us to honor the best in our business community. Enjoy unparalleled networking, a seated lunch, a fireside chat and celebration of remarkable accomplishments. We’ll recognize six extraordinary award honorees whose leadership, vision and courage have shaped our region’s success. Adding to the excitement, CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Mel Raines, will join us for an engaging conversation you won’t want to miss.
Event Timeline
11:00 Doors open/networking
11:35 Please be in your seats
11:35 Event begins; opening remarks
Lunch
Presentation of 3 awards
A Conversation with Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO Mel Raines
Presentation of final 3 awards
1:15 End of event
Awards
Distinguished Business Leader: Mark Neal
Woman of Influence: Laurie Nafziger
Outstanding Young Business Leader: Kristopher Priemer
Lifting Voices: Youth Service Bureau of St. Joseph County
Economic Impact: Beacon Health System
Small Business of the Year: South Bend Code Works
A Conversation with:
Mel Raines: CEO , Pacers Sports & Entertainment
A native of South Bend, Mel Raines is in her 11th season with Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E), where she serves as CEO, overseeing all business operations for the Indiana Pacers of the NBA, the Indiana Fever of the WNBA, the Indiana Boom of the G League, and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. With more than 30 years of experience in operations, legislative, political, corporate and public affairs, Raines brings a wealth of expertise to her leadership role. Her strategic vision has been instrumental in driving the organization's success across sports, entertainment and community engagement.
Prior to joining PS&E, the IU-Bloomington alum served as chief of staff to Indiana Congresswoman Susan W. Brooks, managing three offices along with legislative, constituent services and communications teams. She was a key architect of Indianapolis' acclaimed 2012 Super Bowl, acting as vice president of government relations and event operations from 2009 to 2012. Raines has also contributed to six Republican National Conventions, including as chief operating officer for the 2008 event and senior advisor for the 2012 and 2016 conventions, showcasing her prowess in high-stakes event management and political strategy.
Earlier in her career, Raines was assistant to Vice President Dick Cheney for political affairs, directing his political and domestic outreach efforts. She held leadership positions at Altria Corporate Services and the Republican National Committee, beginning her professional journey on Capitol Hill with U.S. Senator Daniel Coats of Indiana.
Enjoy
- Lunch
- The energy of gathering and connecting with other businesses in person
- A spectacular show full of fun and celebration
- Recognition of 6 deserving honorees
- A fireside chat with Mel Raines
- Business/business casual attire
Cost & Registration
Members
$400 Table of 8
$50 Per Person
Nonmembers
$640 Table of 8
$80 Per Person
Advance reservations only (no walk-ins). No refunds after January 29, 2026. Table assignments will be emailed to registration contacts approximately one week prior to the event.
Questions about registration? Contact Experience Manager Jacee Wesolowski at 574.400.4002.
SOLD OUT! Contact Mari Bishop for more, 574.400.4001
Sponsorships
Sponsorships are sold out. Thank you!.