Alex Cornwell
Owner & Publisher of The Waynedale News
Alex Cornwell is a community-focused newspaper publisher and civic leader based in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He is best known as the sole Owner and Publisher of The Waynedale News, a long-running local newspaper serving the Waynedale, Aboite, Southtown, Downtown, & 46807 districts of Fort Wayne. Under his leadership, The Waynedale News has thrived as a positive, community-centered publication, reaching tens of thousands of readers with each biweekly issue. Cornwell’s professional role is deeply connected with his energetic commitment to community improvement, reflecting his passion for uplifting the Waynedale community.
Personal Background & Philosophy
Alex Cornwell was born and raised in the small town of Oregon, Wisconsin, just outside Madison. As a child, he often visited the Waynedale area of Fort Wayne during summers to spend time with his mother. These visits fostered an early connection to the community.
After graduating from high school, Cornwell moved to Fort Wayne to attend the University of Saint Francis (USF), where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts and Marketing, graduating in 2009. During college, Cornwell gained hands-on experience by working for The Waynedale News as a sales representative and graphic designer. This early exposure to the local newspaper industry, combined with his academic background in communications and design, helped set the stage for his future role in revitalizing the community newspaper.
Shortly after completing his studies, Alex Cornwell began a bold entrepreneurial journey in community journalism. In 2009, at only 22 years old, he and a business partner purchased The Waynedale News, a biweekly community newspaper founded in 1932. At that time, the newspaper industry was facing national challenges. Nevertheless, Cornwell became one of the youngest newspaper owners and publishers in the country. He even turned down a high-ranking corporate marketing position with an international sporting goods retailer to focus on this community venture. Cornwell envisioned The Waynedale News not just as a publication, but as a community hub and a vehicle for spreading positive news and civic pride in Waynedale and Fort Wayne at-large.
Today, Alex Cornwell serves as the Owner and Publisher of The Waynedale News, managing all aspects of the newspaper’s operations. His work includes overseeing staff and engaging in extensive community outreach. The newspaper also operates as a family business. Alex works closely with his brother, Jordan Cornwell, who handles advertising and client relations. Under Alex’s leadership, The Waynedale News has grown into the largest, independent community newspaper in Northeast Indiana. It is known for its exclusive focus on positive, hyper-local, family-friendly content that is offered free of charge. This solutions-oriented approach to news has helped shift public perceptions of Waynedale and has strengthened the community’s local identity.
Throughout his tenure, Cornwell has modernized and expanded the newspaper while preserving its nearly 92-year legacy. He has produced hundreds of editions and maintained consistent, free distribution to homes and businesses in the area. He often emphasizes that sustaining a local paper depends on community belief and engagement. As a result, The Waynedale News continues to serve as a trusted source of neighborhood news and a platform for community projects. This continued success directly reflects Cornwell’s vision of using media to make a positive impact on the community.
Outside of publishing, Cornwell continues to be deeply engaged in creative and community-centered pursuits. He enjoys activities that allow him to connect with others and with nature. In his free time, he explores new restaurants, seeks out unique cultural experiences while traveling, and participates in outdoor hobbies like fishing, beekeeping, homesteading and exploring sustainable technologies. These interests reflect his curiosity, his creativity, and his constant drive to engage with the world around him.
At the heart of Alex Cornwell’s philosophy is a strong sense of optimism and responsibility. He often emphasizes that making a difference begins with taking action. “Some people call it volunteering, but I think of it as a social responsibility,” he has said. He urges others to step up when they see something that needs improvement and to “roll up your sleeves… and make it happen.” This proactive, empowering mindset defines his leadership style. Rather than waiting for help from the outside, Cornwell believes in local solutions driven by engaged citizens.
Alex Cornwell plays a multifaceted role as a publisher, innovator, and civic leader in the Waynedale area of Fort Wayne. His official title as Owner and Publisher of The Waynedale News only begins to capture his influence. Through dedication, creativity, and hands-on leadership, Cornwell has preserved a historic local newspaper while also helping to spark a renewed spirit of volunteerism and community pride. From bee conservation and beautification projects to business coalitions and public events, he exemplifies how one person’s passion for their community can evolve into a lifelong mission with lasting impact.
Awards & Recognitions
- University of Saint Francis Distinguished Young Alumnus Award (2012)
At just 25 years old, Cornwell received this honor from his alma mater in recognition of his early career achievements. His unique role as the youngest newspaper owner, community activism, and his stewardship of The Waynedale News contributed to his selection.- Allen County Linda & Jerry Vandeveer Impact Award (2019)
This award is presented to individuals who have committed themselves to extraordinary public service. Cornwell was recognized for devoting countless hours to community transformation, and his nomination emphasized the lasting results of his leadership. He shared the 2019 honor with fellow volunteer Mariesa Rang.- Additional Honors
Cornwell has also received informal acknowledgments from community leaders. Mayor Tom Henry once referred to a member of Cornwell’s team as the “Mayor of Waynedale,” signaling the respect their work commands. Under Cornwell’s guidance, The Waynedale News has celebrated milestones like its 90th anniversary as well as Waynedale’s 100th anniversary, a testament to its resilience and relevance. Cornwell, however, is quick to give credit to the community he serves.
Community Leadership & Initiatives
In addition to his work in publishing, Alex Cornwell is widely recognized for his extensive community involvement and leadership in Waynedale. He has founded or led many local organizations and initiatives aimed at improving quality of life. Some of his key roles include:
- Waynedale 2040 Plan: A City organized initiative addressing branding, community infrastructure, residential needs, and local business growth, where Cornwell is an active committee member.
- Organizer of Area Events: Cornwell works with other community leaders to design, manage and continues to serve by organizing many large scale, 1,000+ person events in South & Southwest Fort Wayne, each fostering community spirit and pride.
- Notable past & present annual events include: Waynedale Shamrock Search, SHOP Waynedale, Santa’s Christmas Trolley Tour in Waynedale, Easter In Waynedale, the Fall Festival, Waynedale Community Picnic, & more.
- Co-Planner / Elmhurst Tour and Meet & Greet (2017): The last public tour for over 3,500 guests of Elmhurst High School before demolition, providing a guided experience and gathering space.
- Organizer / Candlelight Vigil for Perla Nieto (2023): To help over 1,000 community members stand together, mourn, and honor the life of a community member and Kroger employee who was fatally assaulted.
- Trails & Sidewalks Initiative: Advocate for expanding pedestrian access and improving safety in the Waynedale area. Cornwell supports city plans to connect Waynedale to Fort Wayne’s broader trail network. Notably fundraised a $20,000 donation to help install the Bluffton Road trails & sidewalks.
- Emergency Weather Siren: Addressing a crucial need, Cornwell worked with Waynedale Business Chamber members and local municipalities to secure funding where no siren previously existed. The siren can now be heard during adverse weather from its location at Southwest Fire District Station 1.
- Waynedale Corridor Project: Leader of an ongoing initiative to improve infrastructure and aesthetics along Lower Huntington and Bluffton Roads. Cornwell collaborates with city officials to upgrade signage, landscaping, and traffic flow in the area.
- Volunteers 4 Waynedale: Founding member of a dedicated group of Waynedale volunteers who bring neighbors closer and foster a strong, connected community through a variety of local events and community improving initiatives.
- Southwest Honey Co. (2016-2023): Co-founder of this bee conservation and education initiative, launched with partner Megan Ryan. The organization managed local apiaries, conducts K–12 and adult workshops, and sells local honey to fund habitat preservation and conservation education. This reflects Cornwell’s broader environmental values and innovative community outreach efforts.
- Waynedale Business Chamber (2015-2022): Co-founded a business coalition uniting over 90 local businesses to work on community improvement projects. This group differs from traditional chambers by functioning as a service organization that launches beautification and development efforts along Waynedale’s business corridor.
- Waynedale Community Improvement Team (2010-2021): Co-founded this volunteer group, which raises funds and hosts events to enhance the neighborhood. The team gives residents a hands-on way to get involved in public art, cleanups, and other uplifting efforts.
- Avalon Place Civic Organization (2014-2018): Former President of the civic association in the neighborhood of Avalon Place. In this role, Cornwell worked closely with residents, local leaders, and neighboring associations to enhance community engagement and improve the quality of life.
- Southwest Conservation Club (2016-2018): Cornwell contributed to environmental conservation and helps organize recreational events for the community.
- Waynedale Lions Club (2013-2018): Former Membership Chair, Cornwell played a key role in growing the club and coordinating its charitable events.
Through these initiatives, Alex Cornwell has become a catalyst for positive change in Waynedale. He is frequently seen leading community events, rallying support, and volunteering in hands-on ways. His philosophy centers on collaboration and grassroots action. One example includes successfully fundraising to install a much-needed weather emergency siren in the community. Cornwell’s contributions, from neighborhood clean-ups to business networking events, have helped create what many residents now call “Waynedale’s momentum.” By using his newspaper and these organizations as platforms, he has inspired a strong sense of local pride and ownership among residents.
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