Having grown up in Hammond on the Robertsdale side near the Amtrak station and within walking distance of the Lake Michigan shoreline, Sherri Ziller developed a deep-rooted passion for economic development and community service.
“Having those two assets literally out my front door—it’s something you don’t realize the value of until you travel or move away. Then you understand that Northwest Indiana is in a unique position, and our number one asset is actually geography,” Ziller said. “That’s what makes us unique. Now, in my current role, I get to play to our geographical advantages.”
Ziller serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA) and has been with the organization since its inception in the spring of 2006.
"When I stepped into the role of CEO, one of my first initiatives was to create a new comprehensive strategic plan,” Ziller said. “I thought it was the right move to look ahead at the next 10 to 20 years—what Northwest Indiana needs in terms of investments and how the RDA can partner with our cities, towns, counties, the state, and the federal government to continue making a larger impact as a lead economic development agency in the Region."
Leading a major organization in a male-dominated field comes with unique challenges, but it’s nothing Ziller can’t handle.
“My advice to any women aspiring to leadership roles is to listen to what people are saying. Adjust where you can, but stay true to yourself and keep on the path you’re going. If I stopped every time someone had something to say about how I was doing things, I would never get anything done,” Ziller said.
Having helped leverage more than $1 billion in investments for Northwest Indiana, Ziller looks back with nothing but gratitude for what she has accomplished in her professional career.
“I see such great value in all of the projects we’ve undertaken. The Hammond lakefront project is especially meaningful to me because it’s in my hometown. I get to see it when I visit family,” Ziller said. “Beyond that, just driving around the Region and seeing the difference over the past 20 years has been exciting and rewarding. Knowing that I played even a small role in any of that is incredibly gratifying."
Giving back to the community that has given her so much, Ziller remains actively involved in various organizations.
“I try to stay connected and active. I serve on a few boards, but I’m very particular about which ones so I can ensure I can dedicate the proper time and attention to giving back to those communities,” Ziller said. “United Way of Northwest Indiana is one of them. Legacy Foundation is another great organization here in Northwest Indiana doing incredible work. I’m always honored when I’m asked to help an organization and guide it in the direction it wants to go.”
Celebrating marriage of 15 years with her loving husband and son, Ziller’s personal life is family-oriented with an emphasis on positivity.
“I like to exercise—it helps keep my mind sharp, lowers stress levels, and allows me to relax and stay focused,” Ziller said. “I try to maintain a regular routine, and I’ve been able to do that for quite a few years now.”
Family trips—especially to Cedar Point—have become a tradition that reminds Ziller of what matters most: family.
“At first, amusement rides seemed terrifying, but my husband and I quickly realized we had been missing out. They’re actually a lot of fun. If it weren’t for our son, we probably wouldn’t be riding roller coasters at this stage in our lives, but now we always look forward to these trips. Along with running and working out, spending time with my family is the best way I’ve found to unwind, reset and focus on what truly matters,” Ziller said.