Sharon and Chuck Nelson

2025 Civic Legacy Award Recipient

Sharon and Chuck Nelson are lifelong educators and civic leaders whose dedication to South Bend spans over 40 years. Sharon taught for 41 years, pioneering ESL and individualized learning programs, and was honored with the NEA Community Service Award and as a Teacher of the Year finalist. Chuck began in special education, later earned a law degree, and became the first executive director of the Judd Leighton Foundation. Together, they’ve served on numerous boards and championed projects like the Children’s Museum and neighborhood revitalization. Active in Little Flower Church, they’ve mentored, taught, and served with compassion and purpose.  Their shared legacy reflects a deep-rooted commitment to education, service, and the betterment of their community.

Alex Ann Allen

2025 Civic Visionary Award Recipient

Alex Ann Allen is a traveling artist and curator based in South Bend, IN, specializing in portraiture and large-scale geometric color portals that merge abstraction and realism. Passionate about the transformative power of public art, she is recognized for her work with youth, schools, colleges, and libraries, using murals to inspire hope and creativity. Alex is the founder and lead curator of Mural Mania, an annual festival that brings artists nationwide to her hometown. Driven by a commitment to connection and empowerment, her work celebrates neighborhood pride and the unifying power of art in communities across America.