Congratulations!

Nikki Geiger

Nikki Geiger has been hired as the new Case Manager and Administrative Assistant for The Lighthouse Shelter, a homeless shelter operated by Interfaith Mission in Whitley County. Geiger began her new position on January 7.

Geiger is a Noble County native and graduate of East Noble High School. She has an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Indiana University. Prior to her new position at The Lighthouse, Geiger was a parent educator for Early Childhood Alliance in Fort Wayne. In her new role, Geiger will continue to utilize her teaching skills as she educates clients on parenting, nutrition, self-esteem, finance and employment during various classes taught at the shelter.

"I'm still getting my teaching fix," Geiger said. She's excited about the new position, saying, "I love it. It's nice to be close to home and there's something new each day here."

Geiger and her husband, Terry, a Whitley County native, live just outside Churubusco in Collins. They have three children -- Michaela, age 18, Jesse, age 16, and Kayla, age 14.

Andrew Zartman

Andrew Zartman, son of Richard Zartman of Columbia City and the late Carole Zartman, graduated in December with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Leadership and Supervision from Purdue University. Zartman is employed as a pharmacy technician at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.

Zartman is a 2001 graduate of Columbia City High School and now lives in Fort Wayne.

Ruth Kirk

Ruth Kirk, former director of the Whitley County Historical Museum and Thomas Riley Marshall Home, retired January 4 after 19 years of service. During her many years at the museum, Kirk created more than 27 programs and introduced thousands of children to Whitley County history. Kirk's lively programs were delightful and inspiring to young minds.

Ruth Kirk and her husband, Tom, are Noble County residents.