As part of its mission to continuously improve and provide the best possible advocacy for Valparaiso, the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation recently welcomed Steve Murphy as its newest board member.
Murphy brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the group as both a Valparaiso resident and as director of finance and new development for Luke Family of Brands.
“I’ve been involved in the community through the development and planning of several projects in Valparaiso,” said Murphy.
These include The Waiting Room in Downtown Valparaiso and the development of Cumberland Crossing.
Additionally, Murphy’s long history in the area allows him to see the benefits of the growth the city has experienced and the opportunities available in the future.
“When I graduated from Valparaiso University in 1991, you had to drive to Merrillville to buy most things,” said Murphy. “Today we have dozens of great options, and we’re adding more all the time.”
A lifelong Region resident, Murphy grew up in Schererville.
“After graduating from Valparaiso, I lived for about 10 or 15 years in Chicago and Chesterton,” said Murphy. “We came back to Valparaiso about 12 years ago.”
After graduating from Valparaiso University with a degree in finance, Murphy transitioned from commercial banking to Luke Family Brands.
“I spent about 15 years as a commercial or real estate relationship manager for banks,” said Murphy. “The last bank I worked at had Luke Family Brands as a client, so it was a natural transition to the other side of the table.”
Luke Family Brands and the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation have the same vision–to encourage economic growth and quality of life throughout the city of Valparaiso.
“We're always trying to use our positive attitude for the city and make improvements in Valparaiso,” said Murphy.
For Murphy, the proof of what the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation and its partners have been able to achieve is obvious.
“Just look at all the positive and great things that have happened in this community in such a short period of time,” Murphy said.
In fact, it’s the focus on quality of life that brought Murphy back to Valparaiso and is key to his work with the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation.
“Improvements to areas like downtown and to the parks are what brought us back from Chicago,” said Murphy. “These are the things we want to continue to build for our community–the ones that bring people together.”
As a new board member, Murphy sees his role as one of advocacy and support.
“I hope to use our platform and our ability to help out with projects around Valparaiso to continue the good work throughout the city,” said Murphy.
When not hard at work for the city of Valparaiso, Murphy enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter. Murphy is especially looking forward to the upcoming soccer season for his daughter’s sophomore year at Valparaiso High School.
To learn more about the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation, please visit valpoedc.com.