Jim Merritt is a lifelong Hoosier whose career has been defined by service, leadership, and a commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Indiana. As Executive Director of the Indiana Nuclear Power Association (INPA), Jim leads statewide efforts to advance nuclear energy policy, strengthen Indiana’s critical infrastructure, and foster an environment where innovation in clean, reliable power can thrive.

Before assuming leadership of INPA, Jim served three decades in the Indiana Senate, representing District 31 from 1990 to 2020. During his tenure, he became widely respected for his integrity, pragmatic approach to governance, and ability to bring people together across political and industry lines. As Chairman of the Senate Utilities Committee and Senate Majority Caucus Chairman, Jim was at the center of major policy discussions shaping Indiana’s energy and utility landscape. He helped guide legislation addressing grid modernization, renewable integration, infrastructure security, and long-term planning for the state’s power generation and transmission systems.

Jim’s deep understanding of the intersection between technology, policy, and infrastructure makes him uniquely equipped to lead Indiana into its next era of energy innovation. At INPA, he is working to position nuclear power as a key pillar of Indiana’s energy portfolio—one that complements existing generation sources, supports industrial growth, and ensures reliability for Hoosier communities and businesses alike.

A champion for forward-thinking policy, Jim believes Indiana’s leadership in advanced manufacturing, logistics, and research provides the foundation for becoming a national model in next-generation nuclear deployment, from small modular reactors to grid-scale innovation partnerships. His work focuses on fostering collaboration among public officials, industry leaders, utilities, and research institutions to prepare Indiana for the coming wave of clean energy investment.

A respected lobbyist and political strategist, Adam Kallick has quickly established himself as one of Indiana’s most capable and connected rising figures in public affairs. Known for his strategic insight, disciplined approach, and deep understanding of the state’s political landscape, he has earned the trust of business leaders, policymakers, and elected officials alike.

Currently he serves as Principal of Sycamore Consulting Group, a multi-client lobby and business development firm. In addition, he is a Partner of VantagePointe Strategies, a federal focused advocacy firm. Prior to this, he served as Vice President of External Affairs for a Fortune 500 company, where he oversaw government and community relations across multiple states.

Mr. Kallick has overseen campaigns for several local and state elected officials and formerly assisted as a regional ambassador for a current U.S. Senator’s campaign.

As a co-founder and inaugural board member of the Indiana Nuclear Power Association, Adam brings his strategic and political expertise to advancing the state’s position as a national leader in energy innovation and independence through the responsible expansion of nuclear power.

James Purucker is a distinguished leader in Indiana’s governmental and political landscape, widely regarded as one of the state’s most effective and respected advocates. As a co-founder and inaugural board member of the Indiana Nuclear Power Association, Mr. Purucker brings decades of strategic experience navigating the intersection of public policy, industry, and governance.

He serves as a principal at John Frick & Associates, one of Indiana’s premier government affairs firms, where he has represented leading organizations in sectors including energy, gaming, alcohol regulation, telecom, and transportation. His deep understanding of the legislative process and his ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders have established him as a trusted advisor to policymakers and business leaders alike.

In addition to his professional practice, Mr. Purucker currently serves on the board of Hoosier for Opportunity, Prosperity & Enterprise (HOPE) and served on Governor Braun’s transition leadership team. His career reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing Indiana’s economic vitality, responsible governance, and long-term energy security.

Evan McMullen serves as General Counsel and Policy Advisor for the Indiana Nuclear Power Association (INPA), where he provides strategic legal and regulatory guidance on matters shaping Indiana’s energy future.

Prior to joining INPA, Evan was the Executive Director and in-house Legal Counsel for Utility Systems, Inc., an OEM manufacturer specializing in electrical utility instrumentation. In that capacity, he oversaw compliance operations within complex regulatory frameworks, including adherence to NERC standards and ISO market requirements, while coordinating with utilities and grid operators across North America. His experience navigating the intersection of engineering, manufacturing, and energy regulation brings a practical and informed perspective to INPA’s mission of advancing nuclear policy and critical infrastructure innovation in Indiana.

Evan’s legal background spans compliance, contracts, state and local municipal law, land use, and zoning. He has advised public entities and private enterprises alike, focusing on lawful modernization and infrastructure resilience. Beyond his professional work, he has served on several nonprofit boards, contributing his governance and policy expertise to organizations strengthening Indiana’s civic and industrial landscape.

Evan combines disciplined leadership with deep technical and legal insight—helping position Indiana at the crossroads of energy innovation, regulatory clarity, and industrial growth.