Meet Our team!

An image of Cat Edmonds, co-founder and Visionary of Connect 574
Image of Matt Sheldon, co-founder and integrator of Connect 574
Image of Calla Norman, Marketing and Communications Director for Connect 574

Cat Edmonds

Co-Founder and Visionary

 

 

Hometown:

South Bend, IN

 

Why did I co-found Connect 574?

When I first moved back to the community in May ‘22, I was finding it difficult to meet new people who’d want to go with me to cool experiences – and that’s assuming I knew about the experiences before they happened! I decided to take matters into my own hands to make it happen.

 

 

Hidden Gem in South Bend:

Oh Mamma’s— one of the best places for a panini and specialty cheese.

Matt Sheldon

Co-Founder and Integrator

 

 

Hometown:

Lockport, IL

Why did I co-found Connect 574?

The idea behind Connect 574 is something that I noticed after moving back to the area in 2021. I went from having hundreds of friends and people that I would see out on the weekends in college, to a handful of friends who hadn’t moved away, and I found it difficult to find a way to just make friends, not necessarily professional colleagues.

 

Hidden Gem in South Bend:

No. 6 Scratch Kitchen South Bend. Great fresh and rotating menus!

 

Calla Norman

Marketing and Communications Manager

 

Hometown:

South Bend, IN

 

 Why did you choose to live in South Bend?

I moved away from South Bend for school and came back to pursue a job opportunity and stay close to family. I love the 574 for its proximity to nature as well as major urban centers like Chicago, Detroit, and Indy, but what I love most about it here are the thriving arts and food scene.

Hidden Gem in South Bend:

My favorite hidden gem is Dance Society Social Club. It’s a weekly club that does dance classes, aerobics, and dance parties in a fun, low-stakes, and no-judgement environment. 

Alissa Weissman
headshot of Elio Galo
headshot of Kory Meade

Alissa Weisman

Events Manager

 

Hometown:

Fredericksburg, VA

 

What brought you to the 574?

I followed a boy! My husband works for Amazon Web Services (AWS) and is managing the new data centers being built in New Carlisle. My job as a non-profit event manager allowed me to go fully remote. 

 

Hidden Gem in the 574:

The Tipsy Biscuit here in Elkhart. They’re only open Thurs-Sun and while they don’t advertise this, they take reservations. All their biscuits are made in house! 

Elio Galo

Perks Pass Manager

 

Hometown:

Seattle, WA

 

What brought you to the 574?

Seattle transplant living in the 574, I’m an Integrated Media Specialist passionate about community work and food. I’m here to connect, collaborate, and bring fresh perspectives to the local scene! 

 

Hidden Gem in the 574:

The View Tavern

 

Kory Meade

Client Relations Manager

Hometown:

Elkhart, IN 

 

Why did you choose to live in the 574?

I love the 574 because of the people. Growing up here and then returning after college I have had the opportunity to meet incredible people. This area is home to entrepreneurial superstars, dedicated football fans, and generous philanthropists. People here truly help each other and work toward common good. The 574 is full of growth and it a privilege to be a part of the community.

 

Hidden Gem in South Bend:

Steelyard Coffee Co. In Elkhart

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Stay up to date on the latest event updates, meet other members, and stay connected with the Connect 574 Network we are building! 

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