Political science professor recognized as Hoosier Resilience Hero

KOKOMO, Ind. - Lessons learned on his family's northwest Indiana farm taught Andy Tuholski the importance of stewarding the land - lessons he carried into his career at Indiana University Kokomo.

"I had a front-row opportunity to see how my dad emphasized conservation and sustainability as crucial parts of caring for the land instead of just profit maximization," said Tuholski, assistant professor of political science. He noted that his father won several awards for being an early adopter of best practices like no-till, cover crops, and other methods of improving soil health. He also was a 10-year 4-H member, which deepened his interest in sustainability.

"Even though my professional interests led me into academia, I will always be grateful for my upbringing and the values it instilled," he said.

His work as director of IU Kokomo's Office of Sustainability, together with his classroom achievements, led him to be among 12 Indiana residents named Hoosier Resilience Heroes by the Environmental Resilience Institute.

Tuholski said he was surprised and humbled to receive the award, which recognizes his leadership in advancing environmental resilience and sustainability across the state

"I don't see our resilience work as being anywhere close to complete," he said. "But this reflects the students, colleagues, campus staff, volunteers, and community partners who have helped create a culture of sustainability over time. It is an encouragement to keep going and focusing on practical work that we can learn from."

Tuholski was commended for turning sustainability objectives into measurable outcomes for students, campus, and community partners via student-led initiatives and environmental education, including the Green Horizons and Environmental Literacy initiatives. His work advances resilience through tree canopy expansion, habitat restoration, invasive species removal, and support for pollinators and birds.

In the classroom, he brings climate governance to life through environmental policy simulations that help students make decisions under pressure. He also mentors emerging leaders as faculty advisor for the Student Sustainability Council, guiding undergraduates as they organize restoration and community engagement events.

A trained climate reality leader, he also brings statewide experience as former Indiana director for the Alliance for Climate Protection.

Tuholski's professional interest in sustainability came through climate policy, public education, and community organizing.

"As a political scientist, I have always been interested in how people make decisions together, especially around difficult long-term problems like climate change, conservation, and resilience," he said. "In this role, I get to work with students on policy and governance in my Environmental Policy class, then step outside with them and play in the dirt. That combination has been fun for me. I like that students can learn about the scale of the environmental challenges we face - which are massive - but they can also see that their time, labor, and leadership can make a tangible difference."

Additional Hoosier Resilience Heroes include Indra Frank, former director of environmental health and water policy for the Hoosier Environmental Council; Halee Griffey, climate and resilience manager for the City of Lafayette; Bryce Gustafon, program organizer for Citizens Action Coalition; Thomas Hill, GIS coordinator for the City of Richmond; Ellen Ketterson, founding director of the Environmental Resilience Institute; Chris Kline, development manager for Doral Renewables; Ray McCormick, McCormick Farms; Nancy Modenhauer, Michigan City Common Council member; Their Niemier, farming education specialist at Good Shepherd Montessori School; Christopher Norrick, program associate for Solar United Neighbors; and Tatjana Rebelle, director of engagement for Earth Charter Indiana.

The Hoosier Resilience Heroes are acting in their communities - from classrooms to farms to city halls - to address environmental challenges and build a more sustainable and equitable future. This year's honorees include educators, public servants, policy advocates, and scientists working on issues ranging from clean energy and urban tree canopies to regenerative agriculture and community education.

"Each of our 2026 Hoosier Resilience Heroes brings a unique perspective and a deep commitment to strengthening their communities and the state," said Sarah Mincey, managing director of the Environmental Resilience Institute. "The breadth of their work reminds us of the many ways people can contribute to Indiana's environmental health as well as the tremendous impact a handful of committed individuals can have.

"Together, they are not only addressing pressing challenges, but also inspiring others to take part in building a healthier, more resilient and more hopeful future for Indiana."

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