Northwest Indiana Forum Names Director

Rurode is a graduate of Indiana University.

The Northwest Indiana Forum has named Joe Rurode director of economic development. Rurode succeeds Matt Saltanovitz, who left to become regional director of northwest Indiana for the Indiana Economic Development Corp. 

In his new role, Rurode will be responsible for leading economic development efforts in the seven-county region. He previously served as economic development director for the town of Burns Harbor in Porter County.

"After working across the United States for several years, I wanted to return home to raise my family in Northwest Indiana," said Rurode. "I’m proud to be a part of this organization that is striving to make our region a better place for my children and the generations to follow."

The Northwest Indiana Forum serves Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Starke, Jasper, Newton and Pulaski counties.