The 1828 Project, sponsored by Citizens Energy Group, is a civic leadership tract for Indy’s young leaders with the goal of fostering intentional relationships with a cross sector of Indianapolis’ thought leaders and decision makers. Cory is a part of 1828’s Class IX– learn more about Cory below!
What is your day job/ how do you spend your days?
I’m the Community Development Manager at Sun King Brewing Company. I’m one of three staff members that solely focuses on our philanthropic giving. I also manage donation logistics, the event staff and co-manage the intern program.
Where are you originally from?
I’m from Cambridge City, Indiana. It is a small town situated on the Historic National Road, U.S. Route 40, in eastern Indiana.
So what made you choose Indy?
Growing up in a small rural town, you always dream about moving to the “big city.” I wanted a city that offered a diverse food and beverage scene, night life and sporting events, but also had the sense of a tight knit community. Indianapolis fits that mold perfectly.
You’re off the clock. What are your favorite things to do when not at work?
I enjoy biking on the Cultural and Monon Trail, going to stand up comedy shows and attending local supporting events.
When thinking about the future of Indianapolis, what are you looking forward to the most and why?
I’m looking forward to the continued growth in mass public transportation. I believe it is important for a city and the surrounding regions to be connected. With the opening of the IndyGo Red Line, the future of mass transportation in Indianapolis is promising.
Are there any local causes that you support? What are they and how might others learn more or get involved?
I honestly couldn’t just choose a few. I’m fortunate to work closely with a portion of our 500+ not-for-profit community partners at Sun King. Their focuses spread between our four philanthropies: 1. people in need, 2. the arts, culture and humanities, 3. youth development programs and 4. nature, recreation, and conservation. If you are interested in supporting one of our partners, I would be happy to connect you with them!
Do you have a favorite local spot that you love going to? Where and why?
Sun King, of course! The proximity to my office may be a factor. Besides my humble plug, I really enjoy visiting King Dough. They haven’t been open a year, but I have tried almost every pie on the menu and still have not found one that I do not enjoy. Also, you can’t go without having their Greco Salad.
Which is your preferred way to get around our city?
I don’t own a vehicle, so I bike or walk the majority of the time. In inclement weather I ride share or bus around the city.
What’s something underrated about Indy that more people should know about?
The public parks that Indianapolis has to offer is underrated. They are spread throughout the city and they all have their own vibe and beauty. They also host great events throughout the year.
What’s a book that has impacted your life most to date?
We have been encouraged to read The Great Game of Business at work. It encourages financial transparency within the company and creates an atmosphere where all staff members are invested in the viability of the company. Every employee can improve processes in their field that ultimately create a better company.
If you had to remove all the apps from your phone except for 3, which would you keep?
Twitter, IndyStar and Amazon.
Is there something incredibly common that you have never done before?
I’m not sure how incredibly common this is, but i feel like a mass majority of people I meet have done this: I’ve never been sky diving. My pops (dad) and I always planned to do it together. Before we could ever plan the trip, we went to King’s Island, in my teenage years, and we rode the Drop Zone together. Let’s just say he did not enjoy the experience and that put a halt to our sky diving trip.
If you had to listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Seven Nation Army by the White Stripes. Put this song on in the morning and it would be the perfect song to get you ready to conquer the day.
Pancakes or waffles?
Waffles. They have built in syrup reservoirs. What more could you want?
