Northwest Health-Porter Appoints New CEO and Community Events Announced
Northwest Health-Porter has appointed Dan Doherty as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective October 27. This announcement marks a significant leadership change for the hospital, as Doherty brings nearly two decades of experience in healthcare systems across Chicago and Wisconsin. He will be responsible for overseeing daily operations and steering the hospital’s strategic growth initiatives focusing on quality patient care. Prior to this role, Doherty served as President and CEO of Ascension Alexian Brothers Medical Center in Chicago. Following his appointment, Dr. Thomas Rohs will resume his duties as Chief Medical Officer.
In addition to leadership changes, the region is seeing various community-focused events. Franciscan Health Michigan City is set to host a free baby shower for expectant families and new parents. Scheduled for October 25 from 10 a.m. to noon, the event will take place at the Franciscan Health facility located at 3500 Franciscan Way. Attendees will have access to information and education on prenatal care, car seat safety, and community resources, as well as a breakfast buffet and giveaways. Registration is required by calling 1-800-931-3322.
Economic Outlook Conference is another key event on the horizon. A panel of regional business and economic experts will convene on October 31 from 8 a.m. to noon to discuss industry trends for 2026. This free conference, hosted by the Northwest Indiana Business RoundTable and the Construction Advancement Foundation, will be held at Ivy Tech Community College in Valparaiso. Presenters include notable figures like Sherri Ziller from the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority and Emily W. Easton from the Chicago Quantum Exchange. Registration details can be found at NWIBRT.org.
In academic news, Purdue University Northwest has received recognition from the U.S. News & World Report as a top public regional university for academic quality and social mobility. In the 2026 Best Colleges rankings, PNW is ranked 37th among top public Midwest regional universities. Additionally, its undergraduate engineering programs are listed among the top 50 nationwide, ranked at No. 46.
The local healthcare sector continues to expand, with Franciscan Physician Network welcoming Dr. Jin Young Hwang to its team. Dr. Hwang is accepting new patients in Michigan City, having completed her medical degree at Yonsei University College of Medicine in South Korea. She will focus on sleep medicine and is located at the Coolspring Health Center.
On the financial front, Lake County Clerk Michael A. Brown announced the opening of two cash child support payment centers. These facilities are located at 15 W. 4th Ave. in Gary and 2293 N. Main St. in Crown Point, providing residents with convenient options for making payments in person.
Lastly, Methodist Hospitals has been recognized as a High Performing hospital by the U.S. News & World Report in its 2025-2026 Best Hospitals edition. This designation highlights the hospital’s excellence in treating conditions such as COPD, diabetes, heart failure, kidney disease, and stroke.
As community initiatives and healthcare leadership evolve, the Northwest Indiana region continues to focus on enhancing quality of life for its residents through strategic healthcare advancements and engaging local events.
