MARION, Ind. (Sep. 4, 2026) — Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) named alumni Lee and Lori Smith recipients of the 2026 Tony Maidenberg Community Service Award in recognition of their career-long service and generosity to Grant County, including their gift of The Wellness Center and The Center for Sports and Physical Therapy.
“As proud IWU alumni, Lee and Lori chose to invest their talents, resources, and lives in the community that they call home,” said IWU President Jon S. Kulaga during the awards ceremony. “Their story reminds us that meaningful success is measured not only by personal achievement but by the impact we make in the lives of others.”
Founded in 1987, The Center for Sports and Physical Therapy quickly became a significant provider of rehabilitation services in Grant County. Five years later, after opening a satellite office in Wabash, the Smiths moved their business to its current location on South Adams Street, next to IWU. There, they created The Wellness Center to expand their services and meet the needs of former patients and other community members.
“Lee and Lori Smith are two exceptional people who, as entrepreneurs, launched a business that would become known as the premier provider of wellness and rehab services in the Grant County community,” said Vice President for University Advancement John Jones. “They have spent their lives finding ways to give back both to the place where they live and the place that provided their education. They exemplify generosity and what it looks like to allow God to work through them to make a Kingdom impact.”
Their commitment to helping patients and clients reach their full potential through compassionate, skilled care, a welcoming environment, and caring relationships aligns closely with IWU’s mission. They have also volunteered their time and services to the IWU cross country teams. In a video message played during the ceremony, Men’s Cross Country Head Coach Brody Beiler said, “Lives are being changed because of the work you both have done.”
“Marion and Grant County are better because of Lee and Lori’s commitment to God’s calling on their lives to serve our community with excellence,” Jones said.
