WABASH, IN—It is with great honor and excitement that Downtown Wabash, Inc. and its board of directors announced Amy Ford as the 2024 recipient of the Stephen H. Downs Downtown Legacy Award. Presented during a private event with close family, friends and the board of directors on Tuesday, Dec. 17, this honor celebrates individuals or entities that have significantly shaped the growth and vitality of Downtown Wabash.
Amy Ford’s contributions to Downtown Wabash have made an enduring impact. Her leadership and creativity have been instrumental in projects like the beautification of the Rock City Loft Walkway, transforming it into a welcoming and vibrant public space, and the public art installation of Henrietta the Elephant in Mammoth Park, a symbol of community pride and artistic expression.
Ford has long been an active leader in Downtown Wabash’s revitalization efforts. She previously served on the board of directors for Downtown Wabash, Inc. and currently sits on the Design Committee, where she plays a key role in shaping the look and feel of the downtown district. Her dedication to historic preservation and enhancing community spaces continues to inspire those around her.
“Over the years, Amy’s dedication has elevated the spirit of Downtown Wabash,” said Kristen Petruniw, Executive Director of Downtown Wabash, Inc. “Her vision for creating beautiful, functional spaces like the Rock City Loft Walkway and her passion for celebrating art through projects like Henrietta the Elephant have left a lasting legacy. Amy’s work embodies the values of this award, and we’re so fortunate to have her in our community.”
The Stephen H. Downs Downtown Legacy Award, established in 2019 to honor Steve Downs’ decades of service to Downtown Wabash, Inc., recognizes individuals whose contributions have shaped the future of the downtown district.
Reflecting on the honor, Ford shared, “I am honored to be the recipient of the Stephen H. Downs Legacy Award for 2024. Steve’s prior work for Downtown Wabash, Inc. formally Wabash Marketplace, has been an inspiration to me to try and make meaningful civic contributions for the betterment of our historic downtown. Wabash is fortunate to have many individuals and businesses that foster this belief and goal. It is vital to keep the momentum going and further the efforts to make Wabash County a desirable place to live and work.”
Downtown Wabash, Inc. and their board of directors congratulates Amy Ford on this well-deserved recognition and extends its gratitude for her continued dedication to the heart of Wabash.
For more information about Downtown Wabash, Inc., visit DowntownWabash.org.
