Ernestine Raclin, the most influential woman in Michiana history, dies at 95
SOUTH BEND, Ind. ― Ernestine M. Raclin, a woman of huge influence and community impact in Michiana, has died at the age of 95.
She was the chair of 1st Source Bank and 1st Source Corporation for more than 20 years and she was known for her focus on the community. She led philanthropic efforts that promoted economic development, education, the arts, and human services.
Raclin was crucial in the development and formation of Indiana University South Bend. The campus school of arts building is named after her.
She was also instrumental in the founding of WNIT-TV, Michiana Public Television Corporation and many other community projects. Her family name is on several buildings in the community as well as at the University of Notre Dame.
“The IU South Bend community is saddened to learn of Mrs. Raclin’s passing. We honor her legacy in naming of our Ernestine M. Raclin School of the Arts. Her passion for the Arts and its transformative power live on, every day, in the programs we offer in Communication Studies, Fine Arts, Music, Theatre and Dance for our students and our community,” states Susan Elrod, PhD, Chancellor of IU South Bend.
Raclin was the first woman in the country to chair a local United Way chapter, to serve on the United Way of America’s National Board of Governors, to serve as Trustee of University of Notre Dame, and to sit on the Board of 1st National Bank of Chicago, MidCon Corp., and NIPSCO.
"She has been a dear friend to me and many, and, while we grieve her passing, we celebrate a life well lived. My prayers and those of the entire Notre Dame community are with her family and friends," said Rev. John Jenkins, president of Notre Dame.
"We are forever grateful for her inspiring community leadership and fierce dedication to public good," said interim CEO of United Way of St. Joseph County Mark Herriman.
Raclin was born and raised in South Bend. She was the youngest daughter of E.M. Morris and she learned her values from her father, who also had a significant impact on the Michiana community, and for whom many buildings are named. The entire family has made its presence felt throughout the area.
Visitation is set for July 18 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
Memorial service will follow at 3:30 p.m.
Palmer Funeral Homes is handling the arrangements.