Lane Ralph Named Indiana Rural Champion
ANDERSON, Ind. – Lane Ralph, a long-time aide to Senator Richard G. Lugar, was named the 2007 Mayor William Graham Rural Champion Award recipient for his tireless efforts to strengthen rural communities in Indiana. The Indiana Rural Development Council, Inc. (IRDC) presented the award
during the Indiana Rural Development Conference, December 6, in Anderson.
Ralph is a long-time board member of the Indiana Rural Development Council, serving on behalf of Senator Lugar.
“Lane sees Indiana, especially rural Indiana, as abounding in opportunities,” said IRDC Vice President Mike Schultz during the presentation. “From agriculture to energy, transportation to infrastructure, Lane works hard to connect community leaders to resources and make a difference in the lives in Indiana’s citizens and the places they call home.”
He currently serves as Deputy State Director of Senator Dick Lugar’s Indiana staff with a number of varied responsibilities involving federal grant assistance, local government programs, transportation and environmental concerns.
“I am humbled by the recognition and have always been appreciative of the opportunity to work with Hoosiers and the IRDC in all portions of rural Indiana,” said Ralph about the award. “The IRDC continues to serve as an important voice for rural Hoosiers wanting to advance their progress in a global economy. I am particularly pleased to receive an award named after the IRDC's longtime leader William Graham, Mayor of Scottsburg, Indiana.”
Born and raised in Gary, Lane attended Indiana State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, followed by his Master of Public Administration degree. During college, Lane was twice elected Vice President of the Student Government Association and served as a representative to the University Board of Trustees. He was instrumental in getting the Indiana General Assembly to establish the 2-year term, student trustees position for all of Indiana’s state universities.
From 1975 to 1978 Lane worked for Indiana Vocational Technical College before joining the staff of Senator Richard G. Lugar. In his role as Special Projects Assistant, he was responsible for environmental and energy issues, coordination with state and local government officials, sewer and water system programs, soil and water conservation programs, grants, loans and transportation issues.
Lane served as Assistant State Director for both of Indiana's U.S. Senators from 1981 to 1997. Along with Senator Lugar this included Dan Quayle from 1981 to 1988 and Dan Coats when he became U.S. Senator for Indiana in 1989 through 1998.
“For nearly 30 years, he has traveled throughout Indiana visiting communities large and small,” added Phillip Anderson, IRDC Executive Director. “Lane understands the unique challenges facing communities and is always seeking innovative ways to help rural Indiana prosper. He is a true rural champion.”
Sources:
- Lane Ralph 317-226-5555 Lane_Ralph@lugar.senate.gov
- Phillip Anderson 317-275-2245 panderson@ruralindiana.org
- Mike Schultz 219-362-0390 mgotgreen@comcast.net
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