Greater Fort Wayne Inc. Inspires Young Future Leaders at Third Annual Best in Class Summit

More than 200 students, educators, and community leaders gather to explore opportunities to build their futures in Allen County

Greater Fort Wayne Inc. hosted its third annual Best in Class Summit on Tuesday, November 10, at the Parkview Mirro Event Center, bringing together more than 200 high school seniors, school administrators, and community leaders to showcase the opportunities available to young people in Fort Wayne and Allen County.

The annual event recognizes some of Allen County’s top high school seniors and encourages them to consider returning to the community after college or military service to build their careers, establish roots, and become the next generation of local leaders.

“Allen County’s future depends on our ability to attract, develop, and retain talented individuals who will lead our businesses and strengthen our community,” said John Urbahns, president and CEO of Greater Fort Wayne Inc. “These students represent the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, employees, and community leaders. Through the Best in Class Summit, we want them to recognize that they don’t have to look elsewhere to find exciting careers, a high quality of life, and opportunities to make an impact. They can build an incredible future right here in Allen County.”

The event began with a welcome from Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker, followed by a keynote presentation from Ben Burkle, economic development associate at Greater Fort Wayne Inc. A lifelong Fort Wayne resident and graduate of Purdue University Fort Wayne, Burke shared his personal experiences and passion for building a career and life in the community he calls home.

Throughout the event, students participated in interactive activities highlighting the affordability, career opportunities, and quality of life that make Fort Wayne and Allen County an attractive place for young professionals. The activities encouraged students to think about their futures and explore the advantages of choosing Allen County as the place to live, work, and lead.

“One of the biggest opportunities we have is helping young people see what’s possible here in Allen County,” said Brandon Porter, economic development project manager at Greater Fort Wayne Inc. “Whether these students choose to pursue higher education, enter the workforce, serve in the military, or explore other paths, we want them to take pride in where they’re from and know that there’s a place for them here as they build their futures. The Best in Class Summit is about planting that seed now and showing them that the opportunities to succeed are closer than they might think.”

The event also featured a $500 scholarship presentation by Questa Education Foundation, reinforcing the importance of investing in the educational and professional success of Allen County’s young people.

Brenda Gerber Vincent, chief growth officer of Greater Fort Wayne Inc., concluded the summit by challenging students to recognize that leadership doesn’t have to wait until graduation or the start of their careers. She encouraged them to seek opportunities to get involved, make connections, and contribute to their community today.

Now in its third year, the Best in Class Summit is part of Greater Fort Wayne Inc.’s continued efforts to strengthen Allen County’s talent pipeline and connect the next generation of leaders with the opportunities available in their hometown.

The 2026 Best in Class Summit was made possible through a grant from the Lincoln Foundation, with additional sponsorship support from 3Rivers Federal Credit Union, Purdue University Fort Wayne, and Questa Foundation.