Northwest Health – Porter has appointed Dan Doherty as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective October 27. With nearly 20 years of leadership experience in healthcare systems across Chicago and Wisconsin, Doherty will manage daily operations while emphasizing quality patient care and strategic growth initiatives. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of Ascension Alexian Brothers Medical Center in Chicago. Following his appointment, Dr. Thomas Rohs will resume his role as Chief Medical Officer.
In addition to the leadership change, several community events are set to take place in the region. Franciscan Health Michigan City will host a free Way to Grow baby shower for expectant families and new parents on October 25. The event will be held from 10:00 to 12:00 at Franciscan Health Michigan City, located at 3500 Franciscan Way in the Maria Theresia Conference Room. Participants can expect information on car seat safety, prenatal care, and safe sleep practices, along with tours of the Family Birth Center, a breakfast buffet, and giveaways. Registration is required, and interested individuals can call 1-800-931-3322 to sign up.
Economic Outlook Conference and New Medical Personnel
On October 31, a free Business and Economic Outlook conference will be held from 08:00 to 12:00 at Ivy Tech Community College, located at 3100 Ivy Tech Drive, Valparaiso. A panel of regional business and economic experts will provide insights into industry trends for 2026. Presenters will include Sherri Ziller from the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority, Emily W. Easton from the Chicago Quantum Exchange, and other notable figures. Registration for the event is available at NWIBRT.org.
Furthermore, Dr. Jin Young Hwang has joined the Franciscan Physician Network and is now accepting new patients in Michigan City. Dr. Hwang earned her medical degree from Yonsei University College of Medicine in Seoul, South Korea. She completed her residency in internal medicine at Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago, followed by a fellowship in sleep medicine at the University of Chicago.
Recognition and Support Services
In academic achievements, Purdue University Northwest has been recognized as a top public regional university for academic quality and social mobility in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings. The university ranks 37th among public Midwestern regional universities, with its undergraduate engineering programs listed among the top 50 nationally at No. 46. Additionally, the bachelor of science in nursing programs improved to No. 74 among peers.
In community support initiatives, the Lake County Clerk’s office has opened two child support cash payment centers to facilitate in-person payments. Residents can visit the Clerk’s office at 15 W. 4th Ave. in Gary or 2293 N. Main St, Room All3, in Crown Point. For more information, individuals can contact the office at 219-755-3000, option 5.
Methodist Hospitals has also earned recognition as a High Performing hospital in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Hospitals edition for various medical conditions, including COPD, diabetes, heart failure, kidney disease, and stroke. This recognition is designed to help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding care.
Finally, Franciscan Health is collaborating with the Lake County Health Department to launch a free four-week outdoor walking program called Path to Wellness. Scheduled from 10:00 to 11:30 on Mondays and Fridays from October 27 to November 21, registration begins at 09:45 at the Lake County Health Department, 2900 W. 93rd Ave. in Crown Point.
These initiatives reflect a commitment to enhancing community health and well-being while fostering economic growth in the region.