Lechleiters Land Prestigious Award

Outgoing Eli Lilly and Co. Chief Executive Officer John Lechleiter and his wife, Sarah, have been named the recipients of the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee’s 2016 Charles L. Whistler Award. The award honors those who work outside of their chosen professions for civic improvement in Indianapolis.
GIPC Board Chair Jeff Gaither says the Lechleiters "embody the true spirit of the Whistler Award." Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett says the two have "dedicated their energy, time and personal resources to make Indianapolis the place it is today," citing their most recent gift of $5 million to the United Way of Central Indiana to support early childhood education and Centers for Working Families. Late last month, John announced plans to retire from Lilly at the end of the year. Senior Vice President Dave Ricks will succeed Lechleiter as CEO January 1 and become board chair June 1.