November/December 2017 – BizVoice/Indiana Chamber
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university and business leaders. While
McKinnis has also been involved with the
local chamber of commerce among other
pursuits, he has a strategic approach to his
investments of time and resources.
“There are many different philosophies
on volunteering. I have chosen to be involved
in few volunteer activities but with a large
amount of contribution,” McKinnis reasons.
“IIN has been the case with much support from
my employer, my great interest in the cause
and significant benefits for Purdue University
students. For me, this opportunity is very
rewarding and I’ve enjoyed it very much.”
McKinnis explains the greatest responsibility
of serving on a board of directors is to ensure
the organization’s mission is efficiently and
productively carried out. Part of that
responsibility includes confirming the
strategic plan aligns with the mission, metrics
are on track and the organization is engaged
in ongoing and new funding initiatives.
He confirms that the decision to contract
with the Indiana Chamber is fundamental and
significant to the success of IIN.
Mark Lawrance, Indiana Chamber vice
president of engagement and innovation
policy, serves as a liaison to Indiana
INTERNnet and has worked closely with
McKinnis on aspects of the program.
“David has provided great leadership for
Indiana INTERNnet for many years. It comes
from his genuine passion to help young
people get real-world job experience to
supplement their education,” Lawrance
offers. “He adds a lot of value to the program
by thinking strategically and collaborating to
bring out the best with various stakeholders.”
Personal time
Outside of the office, McKinnis enjoys
just that – being outside. He bikes, hikes, golfs,
sails and more. On a recent trip to Colorado,
a perfect place for outdoor adventures, he
jokes that his golf bag weighed much less on
the way home.
Continued on page 93David McKinnis has been Indiana INTERNnet board president for more than 11 years.