Maggie Kernan

Maggie McCullough Kernan
Occupation(s)	Executive, community activist
Known for	First Lady of Indiana (2003–2005)

Maggie McCullough Kernan held the position of First Lady of Indiana from September 13, 2003, until January 10, 2005, coinciding with Governor Joe Kernan's term. Prior to assuming this role, she was an executive at 1st Source bank and actively participated in various community efforts in South Bend, Indiana.

First Lady of Indiana

As a dedicated volunteer for many years with Dream Team for Unity, a mentoring initiative within South Bend Public Schools, Kernan launched a statewide effort during her tenure as First Lady to enlist mentors specifically for seventh-grade students across Indiana. Additionally, she managed the completion of a $1.2 million renovation of the Indiana Governor's Residence, funded entirely through private donations. This project, originally begun by her predecessor Judy O'Bannon, focused on improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Personal life

Maggie met Joe Kernan in high school through his sister and later married him in 1974. This was following his service as a Naval Flight Officer aboard the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk during the Vietnam War.

Community activities and politics

In 1979, Kernan played a role in Roger Parent’s campaign for mayor of South Bend. She was instrumental in founding the South Bend branch of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in 2006. Ten years later, she helped establish the South Bend Awesome Fund under the Awesome Foundation umbrella, which provides $1,000 grants to foster innovative entrepreneurial ideas and community initiatives.

During the 2008 election cycle, Kernan and her husband acted as Indiana co-chairs for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, actively participating in efforts leading up to the state primary. Subsequently, she supported Barack Obama in the general election, contributing to his significant achievement as the first Democratic presidential candidate to win Indiana since 1964.