Building the Future: COM’s Summer Interns and Workers Leave Their Mark
By Matthew Lentsch, City of Mishawaka
At the City of Mishawaka, we take pride not only in the services we deliver, but in the next generation we’re helping to grow. This summer, we had the privilege of welcoming three exceptional young professionals—Zane Kiruu, Madilyn Makowski, and Jayden Cosey—who brought talent, energy, and enthusiasm to City Hall and beyond. More than interns and summer staff, they became valued team members helping us serve the Princess City while preparing for their own bright futures.
Zane Kiruu: Engineering Beyond the Classroom
Zane Kiruu is entering his sophomore year at Purdue University Fort Wayne, where he is pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. A Penn High School graduate, Zane has immersed himself in hands-on learning through his internship with the City’s Engineering Department and Mishawaka Utilities.
From conducting field inspections to contributing to GIS mapping and even visiting key utility sites, Zane’s experience has spanned departments and disciplines. He has partnered with internal teams and external firms such as Lawson-Fisher Associates and DLZ Corporation, gaining insight into water and wastewater systems, traffic flow, and infrastructure projects citywide.
“This internship opened my eyes to how much work goes on beneath the surface—literally and professionally,” said Zane. “Touring facilities, walking active sites, and learning directly from engineers gave me a real-world understanding that no classroom could match.”
When he’s not working or studying, Zane pursues his love of soccer through the Northern Indiana Express and volunteers with TOPSoccer, a program for youth with disabilities. His discipline, heart, and dedication are unmistakable.
Madilyn Makowski: Communicating the Mishawaka Story
Madilyn “Maddie” Makowski returns for her second year as our Social Media and Communications Intern. A junior at Indiana University Bloomington majoring in Media Advertising, Maddie has once again brought her creativity, drive, and marketing savvy to the City.
From writing web content and managing social media posts to organizing city-wide photo contests and implementing the City’s brand guidelines, Maddie has helped tell Mishawaka’s story with clarity and heart. She has highlighted the people behind the scenes who make our city special and celebrated our shared spaces through engaging visuals and messaging.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time interning with the City of Mishawaka under the supervision of Matthew Lentsch,” Maddie said. “This internship has been an amazing opportunity to apply what I’ve learned at IU to real projects and to contribute to the community of Mishawaka.”
Her work has touched thousands of residents and has helped elevate the City’s communications in meaningful, lasting ways.
Jayden Cosey: Engineering His Future
Jayden Cosey, a South Bend native and John Adams High School graduate, is entering his junior year at Purdue Northwest where he is majoring in Mechanical Engineering Technology. He serves as President of the university’s National Society of Black Engineers and is making his mark as an Environmental Engineering summer worker with the City of Mishawaka.
Jayden’s analytical mind and strong work ethic have been evident throughout the summer. He’s the nephew of Kavin Howard, the City’s night-time custodian, and has proudly carried forward his family’s commitment to public service.
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These interns and summer workers represent more than just short-term help—they are a testament to what’s possible when a city invests in its youth. Through real work, real mentorship, and real impact, the City of Mishawaka is helping shape tomorrow’s leaders in engineering, communications, and civic life.
To Zane, Maddie, and Jayden: thank you. Your efforts have not only made a difference this summer but have added to the momentum and excellence that defines the Mishawaka Way
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