Councilman Mike Kluesner honored with Distinguished Hoosier Award

Dubois County Council President Mike Kluesner was presented the Distinguished Hoosier Award at Monday’s meeting with his family present.

It was a surprise for the second-term council member who was nominated for the award by Commissioner Chad Blessinger with the help of State Representative Shane Lindauer.

In presenting the award, Blessinger recognized Mr. Kluesner for his 21 years of military service in the Indiana National Guard and Army Reserve, his business acumen and his volunteerism with his church, Holy Family, and other civic organizations in Dubois County.

Kluesner was first elected in 2016 and has since served on numerous boards and committees as part of his duties on the council. These include Dubois Strong’s board of directors, the Regional Sewer District committee, and the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program committee.

“One thing I find admirable by Mr. Kluesner is that he doesn’t just fill a seat on these committees or boards that he is part of,” Blessinger said. “He takes ownership and deeply considers the issues…he does this all to the great benefit of Dubois County government and Dubois County citizens.”

State Representative Lindauer said that when he received the recommendation for nominating Kluesner, it was an “easy yes.”

“I don’t think there’s ever an event in Dubois County that I go to that you are not there,” Lindauer said, adding that Kluesner’s service is what helps give his district its exceptional nature.

In receiving the award, Kluesner said he was completely surprised.

“I enjoy every day,” he said. “Every day I look forward to serving people.”

Blessinger presented the award, saying, “The state owes him a debt of gratitude for the military, civic and public service he has given over a lifetime.”

Governors have awarded the Distinguished Hoosier for over fifty years to recognize outstanding Indiana residents. The award recognizes an individual for significant contributions to their communities and whose qualities and actions endear them in the hearts and minds of Hoosiers.

Individuals can be nominated through a member of the General Assembly, and the governor issues the award at their judgment and discretion.