Questa Education Foundation hosted its first Annual Talent Convening, “Your Future Workforce: How Education Changes Are Shaping Tomorrow’s Employees,” at STAR Financial. The event, sponsored by STAR Financial, brought together regional employers and business leaders for a forward-focused conversation on how evolving K-12 and college pathways are reshaping workforce readiness.

This event is part of Questa’s Regional Talent Investor model, which engages employers and community partners in strengthening Northeast Indiana’s talent pipeline through philanthropic investment. By convening stakeholders and supporting student success, the model helps ensure a more prepared and sustainable workforce for the region.

Featured speakers Dr. Kent Dekoninck of Southwest Allen County Schools and Dr. Rob Pepper of Huntington University shared perspectives on innovative approaches within their institutions and how these efforts are preparing students for long-term success. Their observations emphasized the importance of collaboration between education and industry to strengthen local talent pipelines.

“As both a Questa board member and a community partner, I have seen firsthand the impact of investing in education-to-career pathways,” said Thomas Marcuccilli, director of marketing and communications at STAR Financial. “We are proud to support Questa and other local talent initiatives that are helping build a stronger, more prepared workforce for our region.”

“This convening created space for meaningful discussion between education and industry,” said Dr. Elizabeth Bushnell, president & CEO of Questa Education Foundation. “By coming together, we are better equipped to align our efforts and support the next generation of talent in our region.”

The Annual Talent Convening reflects Questa’s ongoing commitment to increasing postsecondary educational attainment and supporting a strong, sustainable workforce. By connecting key stakeholders, the organization continues to explore solutions that benefit both students and the regional economy.

For more information about Questa’s Regional Talent Investor membership, visit www.questafoundation.org/partner-with-us.