Thirty-three years ago, I tossed my graduation cap into the air as a proud member of North Decatur High School’s Class of 1992. It doesn’t feel so long ago — until it does. A recent social media post from a friend celebrating her 50th class reunion gave me pause. “Wow,” I thought, “she’s been out of school a LONG time.” Then, like a lightning bolt, it hit me: I’ve been out of school for over three decades myself! Time has a way of sneaking up on you.
Since 1992, the world has undergone seismic shifts, and our little corner of it here in southeastern Indiana hasn’t been immune to change. Nationally, we’ve witnessed the rise of the internet, the advent of smartphones, and the dawn of social media — inventions that have revolutionized communication, commerce, and culture. When I graduated, a cordless phone felt high-tech; now, we carry pocket-sized computers more powerful than anything NASA used to land a man on the moon.
The U.S. economy has seen booms and busts, with manufacturing giving way to a service-oriented landscape and, more recently, a tech-driven gig economy. Social changes have been equally profound. The Class of 1992 lived in a pre-9/11 world, before terms like “social distancing” or “climate change” were part of everyday conversations.
Here in Indiana, the transformation has been no less dramatic. Our state has become a hub for advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and logistics. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Indiana’s economy, but it’s increasingly shaped by technology, with drones and data analytics now as critical as tractors and combines. The Hoosier state’s identity has grown more diverse, too, as communities across Indiana reflect a broader tapestry of cultures and experiences than they did in the early ‘90s.
Looking closer to home, the changes are a mix of subtle and significant. Once primarily rural with small-town charm, these areas have embraced modern conveniences while holding onto their roots. Batesville has expanded its reputation beyond Hillenbrand’s global footprint, fostering a vibrant downtown and community initiatives. Greensburg, with its famous tree-in-the-tower courthouse, has grown into a regional economic hub, attracting businesses like Honda Manufacturing. North Decatur High School itself has seen updates, from facility improvements to curriculum changes that prepare students for a rapidly evolving world. Technology in classrooms — unimaginable in 1992 — is now the norm, with Chromebooks and digital learning tools replacing chalkboards and overhead projectors.
One thing that hasn’t changed? The values of hard work, kindness, and community that define southeastern Indiana. While the pace of life might be a bit quicker and the landscapes dotted with more signs of modernity, the heart of our region remains steadfast. Family farms, local festivals, and Friday night high school football games continue to be cornerstones of our shared experience.
As I reflect on these 33 years, it’s clear that while much has changed, some things are wonderfully enduring. And though the Class of 1992 might be further removed from the halls of North Decatur High School than we’d like to admit, we’ll always be part of its story — just as it’s part of ours.