Zachary “Zack” Nondorf is a Valparaiso High School and Purdue University graduate who’s spent his career moving around the Midwest—living in Grand Rapids, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati—before making his way back home. He’s had a nontraditional career path that started in operational leadership, moved through sales management and project work, and eventually led him to human resources. A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Zack brings a practical, data-driven approach to leadership and problem-solving.

Zack and his wife Abbie recently returned home to Valparaiso after a decade away to be closer to family. He is proud of his family’s deep roots in public service and labor leadership in the community—and Abbie continues that tradition as a third-grade teacher in Merrillville. His father served as Valparaiso’s Fire Chief under Mayor Costas, where he worked across the aisle to strengthen public safety and community partnerships. His grandfather was a lineman and union president at NIPSCO, while his father and brother both served as presidents of the Valparaiso Fire Fighters Local. His mother has dedicated many years to Valparaiso Community Schools.

Zack believes politics should be about service, not point-scoring. He wants to see leaders who focus on solving problems, put community above self, and treat public office as a responsibility—not a game.