Mad Anthonys names Busse 2016 Red Coat recipient

Mad Anthonys has named distinguished businessman and community leader Keith Busse its Red Coat recipient for 2016.

Busse is a legend in the steel industry, rising through the ranks at Nucor Corp. before co-founding Fort Wayne-based Steel Dynamics, now the nation’s fourth largest steel company. Busse’s entrepreneurial success extends far beyond Steel Dynamics, as he is a founder or early investor in a number of successful local businesses, including Tower Bank (acquired in 2013 by Old National), Hickory Creek Homes, Bridgewater Golf Course, Bill Miller Golf Carts and Freedom Firearms.

“We can think of few people more deserving of this recognition than Keith,” Jim Kelley, president of the Mad Anthonys, said. “His business success has provided high-quality employment to thousands of people throughout northeast Indiana, and he’s been an active and enthusiastic supporter of our region for many years.”

Indeed, Busse’s philanthropic and community-support efforts are as well known and widespread as his business successes. He’s been involved with a number of local and national charities and nonprofit organizations, including Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana and the National Kidney Foundation, as well as serving on the board of trustees of both the University of St. Francis and Trine University. In addition, he’s been a vital supporter of economic-development efforts for the region, serving as a member of the Northeast Indiana Regional Economic Development Partnership and a co-founder of the Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“I am both humbled and excited to be awarded this year’s Red Coat,” Busse said. “It is an unbelievable honor to join such an esteemed and accomplished group – and, most importantly, I am happy to help the Mad Anthonys raise critical funds for the Mad Anthonys Children’s Foundation and Children’s Hope House.”

Mad Anthonys will honor Busse at the annual Red Coat Dinner on June 10; this year’s Mad Anthonys Charity Classic, presented by Lutheran Health Network, will take place June 11. All funds raised from both events will benefit the Mad Anthonys Children’s Foundation and the Children’s Hope House.