Our People
Vision. Dedication. Passion. These are the words that define the individuals who make up the CICF team. Together, we’re working every day to support philanthropy and provide leadership to make Central Indiana a better place. To learn more about an individual, click on their photograph.
Senior Leadership
Jennifer Bartenbach
CEO for CICFJennifer Bartenbach
CEO for CICF
(she/her/hers)
Jennifer Bartenbach is the CEO of Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF). CICF and The Indianapolis Foundation, along with Hamilton County Community Foundation, IMPACT Central Indiana and Women’s Fund of Central Indiana, are part of a $1 billion philanthropic collaborative committed to mobilizing people, ideas and investments to make Central Indiana a community where all individuals have equitable opportunity to reach their full potential—no matter place, race or identity. Each organization also has its own unique strategic plan to advance this goal within the communities it serves.
Prior to her role as CEO, Jennifer served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer for CICF for the last 10 years. She has effectively led the recent restructuring and establishment of the philanthropic collaborative. During her time as CFO and COO of CICF, she had direct responsibility over all operations of CICF and 10 consolidating supporting entities. She also co-founded and co-leads IMPACT Central Indiana, a multi-member limited-liability company created to facilitate social-impact investments in the community.
Prior to CICF, Jennifer started her career doing a three-semester co-op at Toyota Motor Manufacturing while finishing her degree at the University of Evansville. She moved to Indianapolis in 2001 to pursue a career in public accounting at BKD, LLP (now Forvis) where she joined the not-for-profit/governmental team. After a quick stop at Sigma Micro, she returned to the philanthropic sector, spending eight years at the Indianapolis Museum of Art (Newfields) – four as CFO and one as the internal interim CEO before joining CICF.
Jennifer earned a B.S in accounting from the University of Evansville and an MBA from Ball State University. Jennifer volunteers at Saint Matthew School where her three daughters are students. She served as a coordinator and fundraiser at two IPS schools for their Blessings in a Backpack program. She was a founding board member and then board chair of Circle City Prep charter school. She has served on the board of Project Home Indy, the finance committee for the Indiana Sports Corp, Leadership Indianapolis and was a member of the Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Class 42.
Lorenzo Esters
President of The Indianapolis FoundationLorenzo Esters
President of The Indianapolis Foundation
(he/him/his)
Lorenzo Lamar Esters is president of The Indianapolis Foundation, one of the oldest community foundations in the nation. He previously served as Chancellor for the Ivy Tech Community College Indianapolis service area. Prior to joining Ivy Tech, he served as Vice President for Advancement and Member Engagement with the Association of American Colleges and Universities, a higher education association representing more than 1,200 two- and four-year institutions located in 50 states, the District of Columbia, three U.S. Territories and 25 countries.
He previously served as Executive Director for Higher Education Partnerships within the Global Education Division of Educational Testing Service, where he led the “Skills for a New Economy Initiative”, an effort focused on creating new solutions for workplace success by visualizing the skills, capabilities and knowledge needed to thrive in a changing economy.
Dr. Esters’ professional experiences have been uniquely centered on generating philanthropic and institutional capacity to support student access, completion, and career readiness efforts, particularly for those from marginalized backgrounds. He previously served as Vice President for Philanthropy at Strada Education Network, a not-for-profit corporation located in Indianapolis, IN. He was the inaugural Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Management at Kentucky State University, where he managed a budget of $12 million and a total of 85 employees responsible for supporting the co-curricular and holistic development of students. There, he led efforts that resulted in increased student enrollment and retention and built partnerships with businesses such as Toyota Corporation that provided paid internship, mentorship, and job opportunities for students.
Dr. Esters previously served as Vice President for the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities’ (APLU) Office for Access. Demonstrative of his entrepreneurial leadership skills, he has developed partnerships between higher education institutions and private and federal agencies, and with institutions internationally in an effort to build student recruitment, study abroad, and research capacity.
He has managed a portfolio of over $17 million in grants to higher education institutions nationally and has secured over $10 million in funding, including to support the development of the APLU Minority Male Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Initiative, an effort designed to incentivize partnerships between two- and four-year institutions toward increasing the numbers of minority males who pursue STEM careers.
Tom Kilian Jr.
President of Hamilton County Community Foundation & IMPACT Central IndianaTom Kilian Jr.
President of Hamilton County Community Foundation & IMPACT Central Indiana
(he/him/his)
As an experienced executive with more than 20 years of professional experience, 18 of those years devoted to philanthropy and fundraising, Tom Kilian, president of Hamilton County Community Foundation and IMPACT Central Indiana, has noteworthy expertise in strategic planning, major and planned gift acquisition, community development and accountability, foundation infrastructure and policies, board management, and innovative revenue generation. Throughout his professional career, Tom has managed the creation and implementation of programs, services, and operations while creating significant internal and external relationships throughout the philanthropic landscape.
In his current role as the president of Hamilton County Community Foundation, Tom has overseen the creation and implementation of the first comprehensive strategic plan of the foundation, ideated and implemented the first Not-for-Profit Collaboration Hub in Central Indiana, and increased assets from 53 million to 120 million in five years. In addition to his role as the president of the foundation, Tom is also the co-creator and president of IMPACT Central Indiana. IMPACT Central Indiana deploys capital to underappreciated communities and invests in the development of entrepreneurs within those communities who do not have traditional access to capital. Since launching in the spring of 2020, IMPACT Central Indiana has invested more than $7 million into the community.
Prior to Hamilton County Community Foundation, Tom’s career largely focused on higher education. Playing leadership roles in the development and execution of several philanthropic campaigns across various campus landscapes. Most recently, as executive director of Ivy Tech Community College Foundation in Central Indiana, where he successfully launched the largest regional campaign in college history. Prior to joining Ivy Tech, Tom had extensive experience raising money in support of large four-year public institutions, as well as a small four-year private institution.
Tom earned a B.S. from Indiana State University, an M.S. from Indiana University, and an executive certificate from the University of Notre Dame. Outside the office, Tom volunteers with several organizations, including sitting on the board of directors for the YMCA of Central Indiana. Both professionally and personally Tom strives to make a difference in the lives he touches. He is a results driven leader, eager to help individuals and organizations pursue their mission, create their vision and strategically achieve their goals. When he isn’t working or volunteering, he enjoys spending time with his wife Jennifer and their daughters, Samantha and Ellison. He loves the culinary scene and tries to spend as much time as possible outdoors.
Tamara Winfrey-Harris
President, Women's Fund of Central IndianaTamara Winfrey-Harris
President, Women's Fund of Central Indiana
(she/her/hers)
Tamara Winfrey-Harris serves as President of Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. Tamara joined CICF in 2016 as vice president of marketing and communications. She has also served as vice president of community leadership and effective philanthropy,
Tamara is a nationally renowned writer and speaker, focusing on issues of race and gender and their intersection with politics, popular culture and current events. Her work has been published in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Los Angeles Times, Ms. magazine and other media. She is the author of the award-winning book, The Sisters Are Alright: Changing the Broken Narrative of Black Women in America (Berrett-Koehler 2015) and Dear Black Girl: Letters from Your Sisters on Stepping into Your Power (Berrett-Koehler 2021). Her essays appear in The Lemonade Reader: Beyonce, Black Feminism and Spirituality (Routledge, 2019); The Burden: African Americans and the Enduring Impact of Slavery (Wayne State University Press, 2018); Black in the Middle: An Anthology of the Black Midwest (Black Belt Publishing, 2020); and other books.
Tamara has been invited to speak on issues of gender, race and social justice at venues across the country, including The Ohio State University, Northern Arizona University and Princeton University and others.
Lacy Wooden
Vice President of People, Culture and BrandCICF
Executive Office
Jennifer Bartenbach
CEO
(she/her/hers)
Jennifer Bartenbach is the CEO of Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF). CICF and The Indianapolis Foundation, along with Hamilton County Community Foundation, IMPACT Central Indiana and Women’s Fund of Central Indiana, are part of a $1 billion philanthropic collaborative committed to mobilizing people, ideas and investments to make Central Indiana a community where all individuals have equitable opportunity to reach their full potential—no matter place, race or identity. Each organization also has its own unique strategic plan to advance this goal within the communities it serves.
Prior to her role as CEO, Jennifer served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer for CICF for the last 10 years. She has effectively led the recent restructuring and establishment of the philanthropic collaborative. During her time as CFO and COO of CICF, she had direct responsibility over all operations of CICF and 10 consolidating supporting entities. She also co-founded and co-leads IMPACT Central Indiana, a multi-member limited-liability company created to facilitate social-impact investments in the community.
Prior to CICF, Jennifer started her career doing a three-semester co-op at Toyota Motor Manufacturing while finishing her degree at the University of Evansville. She moved to Indianapolis in 2001 to pursue a career in public accounting at BKD, LLP (now Forvis) where she joined the not-for-profit/governmental team. After a quick stop at Sigma Micro, she returned to the philanthropic sector, spending eight years at the Indianapolis Museum of Art (Newfields) – four as CFO and one as the internal interim CEO before joining CICF.
Jennifer earned a B.S in accounting from the University of Evansville and an MBA from Ball State University. Jennifer volunteers at Saint Matthew School where her three daughters are students. She served as a coordinator and fundraiser at two IPS schools for their Blessings in a Backpack program. She was a founding board member and then board chair of Circle City Prep charter school. She has served on the board of Project Home Indy, the finance committee for the Indiana Sports Corp, Leadership Indianapolis and was a member of the Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Class 42.
Jeff Bennett
Chief Innovation Officer
Erin Tanner
Chief Financial OfficerErin Tanner
Chief Financial Officer
(she/her/hers)
Erin Tanner joined the CICF team in 2023. Erin says, “For nearly 20 years, I have witnessed the profound impact of CICF in our community. From connecting donors to causes they care about to providing grants to not-for-profits doing incredible work to leading the charge in creating a more equitable community, the role of CICF in Central Indiana is critical to improving the lives of people. I am honored to be part of an organization I have long admired and where my personal passion and professional pursuits align. I look forward to contributing to the team and supporting the mission of CICF.”
Kendra Patrick
Executive AssistantKendra Patrick
Executive Assistant
(she/her/hers)
Kendra joined the CICF team in 1998. She manages the calendar and operations for the CICF executive office. She is also the liaison for the boards of CICF and The William E. English Foundation. Kendra says, “I love being part of an organization that brings so much positive change to our community.”
Development & Strategy
Robin Elmerick
Senior Director of Effective PhilanthropyRobin Elmerick
Senior Director of Effective Philanthropy
(she/her/hers)
As Senior Director of Effective Philanthropy, Robin oversees a team that is dedicated to providing philanthropic advising and support to donor-advised funds, non-profit funds, scholarship funds and major funds. Her team works closely with CICF’s development department to grow assets and identify opportunities to expand philanthropic relationships with donors and not-for-profit organizations.
After several years in sales and marketing roles in the private sector, Elmerick transitioned her career into not-for-profit work. Elmerick previously served as interim president and CEO, and vice president of marketing and development, at Starfish Initiative. Prior to joining CICF, she was a not-for-profit consultant with Social Legends, supporting clients in Central Indiana in areas such as strategic planning and board development.
Sarah Weaver, J.D.
Senior Director of Gift Planning & Legal AffairsSarah Weaver, J.D.
Senior Director of Gift Planning & Legal Affairs
(she/her/hers)
Sarah works to develop and maintain relationships with financial and legal advisors and to support and advise donors on gift planning options.
Prior to joining CICF, Sarah worked at Ice Miller LLP as an attorney in the areas of real estate and environmental law since 2011. She also served on the board of directors for Brooke’s Place for Grieving Young People, a not-for-profit serving grieving children and families in Central Indiana, from 2014-2018, spending two years as the chairman. Sarah currently volunteers for Brooke’s Place as a facilitator of peer-based grief support groups.
Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Sarah moved to Indianapolis after graduating from law school at Washington University in St. Louis, where she was the Managing Editor of the Washington University Journal of Law & Policy and a member of the Order of the Barristers. Sarah received her bachelor’s degree in sociology from Indiana University-Bloomington.
Clayton De Fur
Director of Family Philanthropy, Senior Advisor to the Herbert Simon Family FoundationClayton De Fur
Director of Family Philanthropy, Senior Advisor to the Herbert Simon Family Foundation
(he/him/his)
As a Director of Family Philanthropy, Clayton services a small portfolio of highly engaged fund holders at CICF to advise on their grant making and charitable strategies. As a Senior Advisor to the Herbert Simon Family Foundation, Clayton manages the competitive grants process high-level strategy, and discretionary giving of individual Simon family members.
Clayton’s tenure at CICF dates back to 2016. In prior roles at the foundation, he has worked in community leadership, grant making, special projects, and scholarships.
Clayton attended Indiana University Bloomington, where he received a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree, both concentrated in Nonprofit Management.
Allissa Impink
Director of Family Philanthropy, Senior Advisor to Glick PhilanthropiesAllissa Impink
Director of Family Philanthropy, Senior Advisor to Glick Philanthropies
(she/her/hers)
Joining the CICF team aligns with my personal mission of cultivating meaningful relationships, while positively impacting my community through thoughtful engagement, service, and joy. I have a passion for innovation and ingenuity, and a keen appreciation for equitable systems, processes, and structures. I adore Indianapolis and living in Fletcher Place allows me to lean into the activities I love; walking, eating at locally-owned restaurants, and biking on the Cultural Trail with my husband Matt, and our daughters, Alice, Mari, and Josephine (Jojo) who are twins. Our dog Bailey is 12 years old, and napping is her strongest asset.
Formally, I was the Development Director for UNCF’s ( United Negro College Fund) Indiana Area Offices, where I drove fundraising goals and advised four Leadership Councils in Indianapolis, Ft. Wayne, Evansville, and Northwest, IN. The success of these efforts broke down barriers for families and improved the pipeline of Black college-ready students.
In my recent past, I transitioned out of the classroom to work towards closing the diversity gap between teachers and students by founding an Indianapolis region of Enriched Schools. I cultivated 15+ school partnerships and recruited over 120 educators of color to staff schools, support teachers, and students: while managing, and growing national educator and partnership pipelines, along with special revenue-generating projects.
Jennifer Turner
Director of Fundraising & Campaign ManagementJennifer Turner
Director of Fundraising & Campaign Management
(she/her/hers)
Jennifer joined CICF in 2023.
Janeen Butler
Senior Scholarships OfficerJaneen Butler
Senior Scholarships Officer
(she/her/hers)
Janeen joined CICF in 2020.
Clark Collier
Senior Charitable Gift Planning Officer
Reiya Davis
Donor Engagement Associate
Nora Dietz-Kilen
Donor Engagement OfficerNora Dietz-Kilen
Donor Engagement Officer
(she/her/hers)
In this role, Nora provides exceptional support and high quality philanthropic advising and stewardship to CICF fund holders.
Julian Edwards
Donor Engagement Officer
Dionne Griffiths
Not-for-profit Sustainability OfficerDionne Griffiths
Not-for-profit Sustainability Officer
(she/her/hers)
Dionne Griffiths joined CICF in September 2021. She has over 15 years of professional experience, primarily in the not-for-profit sector. This includes arts administration, higher education administration, and healthcare administration. As an advocate for racial equity and social justice, she has served on racial equity task forces and quorums and implemented diversity initiatives in not-for-profits. She also increased stakeholder engagement and enhanced community relations for not-for-profits.
Dionne relocated to Indianapolis, IN from Louisville, KY. She has lived in and worked in numerous cities and states, which informs her worldview and intentional relationship-building. Dionne believes “To whom much is given, much is required” and she has volunteered and led in the community for over nine years. She practices servant leadership and believes diversity, equity, and inclusion are assets.
Dionne humbly recognizes that she stands on the shoulders of her ancestors as she lives out her dreams and theirs. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa with her Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Women’s Studies from Spelman College. She earned her Master of Arts in Choreography from the University of North Carolina – Greensboro. Wanting to explore the world more and learn about cultures firsthand, she was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to Trinidad. There she researched, choreographed, and performed dance for 10 months. As a lifelong learner and advocate for professional growth, she earned her Master of Science in Business Communication with concentrations in Organizational Leadership and Nonprofit Administration from Spalding University in 2019.
Dionne enjoys watching documentaries, attending cultural festivals, visiting museums, writing, dancing, and striking up authentic conversations with diverse people.
Danielle Humphrey
Donor Engagement OfficerDanielle Humphrey
Donor Engagement Officer
(she/her/hers)
Danielle joined CICF following her work at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites where she served as Director of Corporate Relations. Previously, Danielle worked in donor development at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago and marketing at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. She has a plethora of experience in donor relations and stewardship and is passionate about philanthropy and the ability of a shared mission to unite communities and create positive change.
Danielle is an IU grad and lives in Noblesville with her husband, 1-year-old son and their 10-year-old golden retriever. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, exercising, traveling and cheering on the Hoosiers!
Julie Koegel
Grantmaking Consultant - Central Indiana Senior FundJulie Koegel
Grantmaking Consultant - Central Indiana Senior Fund
(she/her/hers)
Julie Koegel serves as grants officer for Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. She also manages the grantmaking process for Central Indiana Senior Fund.
Morgan Meyer
Scholarships Associate
Joanna Nixon
Consultant - Efroymson Family FundJoanna Nixon
Consultant - Efroymson Family Fund
Brandon Stover
Development AssociatePeople, Culture & Brand
Lacy Wooden
Director of People & Culture
Rebekah Corwin
Marketing & Communications OfficerRebekah Corwin
Marketing & Communications Officer
(she/her/hers)
Bekah joined CICF in 2022
Claire Lash
First Impressions Associate
Finance & Operations
Jennifer Schrier
Senior Director of FinanceJennifer Schrier
Senior Director of Finance
(she/her/hers)
Jennifer oversees the financial reporting, compliance, investments, and overall finances of CICF. Her main goal is providing accurate and timely reporting financial reporting to leadership for informed decision making and moving our mission forward. A licensed CPA, Jennifer has a wealth of experience working with not-for-profits. She was an auditor of not-for-profit organizations with BKD, LLP for nine years and a controller for Newfields for 2.5 years prior to arriving at CICF.
David Donaldson
Director of Information TechnologyDavid Donaldson
Director of Information Technology
(he/him/his)
David Donaldson joined CICF in 2019 and serves as Director of Information Technology. He directs the foundation’s Information Technology strategies and operations. David has both his Bachelor Degree in Radio/TV/Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Informatics from Indiana University.
David started his career in multimedia production, staging, lighting and sound design for large corporate marketing events nationwide, and later found his path to Indiana University where he spent 24 years leading the development of distance education courses, building and supporting technology infused learning environments and computer labs. David served for 8 years as the CTO at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis directing exhibit technology development, business/data systems, communications and IT Infrastructure.
David describes CICF as “an amazing organization, with its mission and focus to change the landscape in Central Indiana.” He states “I am proud to be part of CICF to develop targeted strategies to keep the technology tools operational and secure, and to support the entire staff in their work to fulfill that mission.”
Jena Brooks
Data Systems AssociateJena Brooks
Data Systems Associate
(she/her/hers)
Originally from Colorado, Jena moved to Indiana to attend Earlham College. After graduating with a BA in Human Development and Social Relations, Jena was accepted into the AmeriCorps Public Allies program in Indianapolis. Through the experience of Public Allies and her placement at Health & Science Innovations, she discovered that the intersection of her skills and passions was in the area of data and impact.
Having worked at four distinct nonprofits over the course of the past 8 years and with more than two years of experience working in data, Jena brings an intersectional understanding of human systems and data systems to the CICF team. She believes that clean, accurate, and meaningful data is not only a powerful tool to support staff in doing what they do best, but is also crucial in the work towards more equitable communities.
Bréone Dupree
Staff AccountantBréone Dupree
Staff Accountant
(he/him/his)
Bréone L Dupree believes in a servant leadership style and has dedicated himself to being a resource to others. He has spent the last 10 years honing his accounting skills through bookkeeping, audit, and tax roles. These experiences have created a keen eye for accuracy and a high aptitude for learning. He earned his associate’s and master’s in accounting as well as his bachelor’s in Economics. Along his journey, Bréone has become a licensed realtor in two states, a notary and a licensed massage therapist. He is currently working on becoming an EA on his path to becoming a CPA. He blames his drive to achieve on his modest beginnings in Gary, IN. His thirst for education is to be able to be a resource to those that come from underserved communities like his own. His drive is made all more important because he is the father of three and the uncle to four more whom he strives to be an example for. However, Bréone isn’t all business all the time. When he’s not working hard, he’s playing hard traveling, catching a live show, in a pickup basketball game, or simply having a game night with his loving family.
Greg Hooten
Facilities DirectorGreg Hooten
Facilities Director
Michelle Jordan
Operations AssociateMichelle Jordan
Operations Associate
(she/her/hers)
Michelle obtained a bachelor’s degree at California State University, Fullerton. Her background is in education, and she has been working in operations for four years. She is originally from Illinois, loves live music, and spends her free time on walking trails.
Michelle joined CICF in 2022
Cindie Logan
Operations ManagerCindie Logan
Operations Manager
(she/her/hers)
Cindie has been with CICF since 1995.
Beth Millikan
Assistant ControllerBeth Millikan
Assistant Controller
(she/her/hers)
Beth has been with CICF since 2019.
Tom Poynter
Maintenance ManagerTom Poynter
Maintenance Manager
Cecilia van Wijk
Grants Associate
Adam Vizard
Data Systems ManagerAdam Vizard
Data Systems Manager
(he/him/his)
Adam is the data systems manager and has over four years of direct Salesforce experience, both as a user and administrator.
Prior to joining CICF in 2019, Adam spent three years at a religious not-for-profit working in both fundraising and data administration roles. A certified Salesforce administer, Adam oversees CICF’s CRM operations, including report and dashboard creation, training and onboarding new staff members, and upgrading the visual experience for our users. He works closely with consultants and outside partners to enhance our donor portal, CICF Connect, which currently serves over 550 fundholders. Adam is the lead researcher for new software systems while also administering and championing the following platforms: iWave, Camtasia, Formidable Forms, GiveGab, and many Office365 applications.
He is a graduate of Holy Cross College in Notre Dame, IN with a degree in Business Administration.
Julie Wright
Grants ManagerJulie Wright
Grants Manager
(she/her/hers)
Julie Wright joined Hamilton County Community Foundation as an office manager in 2004 and has worked her way to become the grants manager at CICF.
As the grants manager, Julie processes over 4,000 grant payments annually with accuracy and patience. With a combined total of more than 25 years of experience in not-for-profit, public and government sectors, she understands data integrity and creating efficient procedures for accuracy.
Julie received her Bachelor’s degree in education from Indiana University and later earned an associate degree in business management from Ivy Tech while working full time.
Cami Yehling
Process & Integration OfficerCami Yehling
Process & Integration Officer
(she/her/hers)
As the process and integration officer, Cami works to optimize the processes of CICF. She is passionate about building streamlined processes that foster collaboration, effective decision-making, and maximizing impact.
Prior to joining CICF, Cami implemented processes and systems with many types of grantmakers including private foundations, public charities, and government entities. She recently worked with a private foundation to complete a successful implementation of a cloud-based grantmaking system resulting in enhanced staff productivity, greater visibility for board members, and stronger grantee relationships. Cami completed her BA at Hope College in Holland, MI in 2007.
The Indianapolis Foundation
Executive Office
Lorenzo Esters
PresidentLorenzo Esters
President
(he/him/his)
Lorenzo Lamar Esters is president of The Indianapolis Foundation, one of the oldest community foundations in the nation. He previously served as Chancellor for the Ivy Tech Community College Indianapolis service area. Prior to joining Ivy Tech, he served as Vice President for Advancement and Member Engagement with the Association of American Colleges and Universities, a higher education association representing more than 1,200 two- and four-year institutions located in 50 states, the District of Columbia, three U.S. Territories and 25 countries.
He previously served as Executive Director for Higher Education Partnerships within the Global Education Division of Educational Testing Service, where he led the “Skills for a New Economy Initiative”, an effort focused on creating new solutions for workplace success by visualizing the skills, capabilities and knowledge needed to thrive in a changing economy.
Dr. Esters’ professional experiences have been uniquely centered on generating philanthropic and institutional capacity to support student access, completion, and career readiness efforts, particularly for those from marginalized backgrounds. He previously served as Vice President for Philanthropy at Strada Education Network, a not-for-profit corporation located in Indianapolis, IN. He was the inaugural Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Management at Kentucky State University, where he managed a budget of $12 million and a total of 85 employees responsible for supporting the co-curricular and holistic development of students. There, he led efforts that resulted in increased student enrollment and retention and built partnerships with businesses such as Toyota Corporation that provided paid internship, mentorship, and job opportunities for students.
Dr. Esters previously served as Vice President for the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities’ (APLU) Office for Access. Demonstrative of his entrepreneurial leadership skills, he has developed partnerships between higher education institutions and private and federal agencies, and with institutions internationally in an effort to build student recruitment, study abroad, and research capacity.
He has managed a portfolio of over $17 million in grants to higher education institutions nationally and has secured over $10 million in funding, including to support the development of the APLU Minority Male Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Initiative, an effort designed to incentivize partnerships between two- and four-year institutions toward increasing the numbers of minority males who pursue STEM careers.
Rob MacPherson
Vice President of Development & StrategyRob MacPherson
Vice President of Development & Strategy
(he/him/his)
Rob serves as vice president for development and strategy for The Indianapolis Foundation. He directs the foundation’s asset development strategies and strategy.
Prior to joining CICF, Rob was on staff at the Arts Council of Indianapolis as director of special projects. He led a citywide arts education study, as well as the agency’s strategic planning efforts and development activities. Additionally, as part of the Mayor’s Cultural Tourism Initiative, he coordinated the beginning of a public art master planning process. From 1994-2001, Rob served the Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT) as director of development. He was the senior staff member responsible for managing the annual operating fundraising strategies and directing a $16.5 million capital and endowment campaign, which successfully exceeded its goal. Rob also co-authored two, five-year strategic plans for the theatre and participated in four years of historic renovation projects, led staff development, and created major programmatic initiatives through successful grant proposals at the IRT. Previous career experience at WFYI, the Indiana Arts Commission, and the Oakland Museum of California and as a consultant and advisor to many not-for-profits around the state and country serve as a strong foundation for Rob’s development responsibilities at CICF.
An active member of the community, Rob serves or has served as a board member of the Lacy Leadership Association, Indiana Civil Liberties Union Foundation, VSA Arts of Indiana, Eastside Community Investments, and Dance Kaleidoscope. He is also one of the founders and the executive producer for Spotlight, an annual citywide performing arts benefit for the Indiana AIDS Fund, raising over $3 million in 15 years. He has volunteered in many capacities at Trinity Episcopal Church as a vestry member and in adult, youth, and fine arts programs.
Rob received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Central Michigan University. He earned his Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®) designation from The American College in 2010 and has completed ongoing education at Indiana University’s Center on Philanthropy in Indianapolis. Rob was a proud member of Class XXIV of the Stanley K. Lacy Leadership Series and continues on the SKL Advisory Committee. For seven years, Rob taught an arts administration course, “Securing Your Organization’s Future”, focused on capital campaigns, strategic planning and organizational development as an adjunct professor at Butler University.
Pamela Ross
Vice President of Community Leadership & Equitable InitiativesPamela Ross
Vice President of Community Leadership & Equitable Initiatives
(she/her/hers)
Pamela is Central Indiana Community Foundation’s (CICF) first vice president of opportunity, equity and inclusion. Pamela leads the organization’s internal process of ensuring equitable policies and practices are operationalized and exemplified in all work of the foundation. She’s also responsible for leading CICF’s organizational initiatives that support increased equity, inclusive economic growth and racial awareness in Central Indiana.
Pamela joined CICF September, 2016 as a community leadership officer and was promoted to her current position April, 2018. Pamela has her masters in social work from the University of Georgia with a concentration focused on community development and program evaluation. She has over 25 years of professional experience in the social services field, managing multiple programs dedicated to improving the plight of children and families. Pamela serves on the board for Kennedy King Memorial Initiative and other various committees focusing on disparities in multiple sectors. She is a 2019 Tobias Fellow and vice chair for Indiana Blacks in Philanthropy, an affiliate of Indiana Philanthropy Alliance. She frequently provides presentations, serves on panels of discussion and partners with many organizations delving into issues of race, equity and inclusiveness.
She is a native of Indianapolis but throughout her life, she has lived in other places such as Phoenix, Atlanta, Houston and Iowa. Pam has also traveled to multiple countries in Africa, including an internship in Tunisia for the African Development Bank.
Pamela has a great passion for making a difference in the lives of people often left behind. Above many things, she values her family and living a purposeful life.
Jennifer McCloud
Executive Assistant to the PresidentThe Indianapolis Foundation Community Leadership & Equitable Initiatives
Guadalupe Pimentel Solano
Director of Community Leadership and Equitable InitiativesGuadalupe Pimentel Solano
Director of Community Leadership and Equitable Initiatives
(ella/she/her/hers)
Guadalupe Pimentel Solano works with not-for-profit organizations and initiatives around economic mobility and family stabilization in support of CICF’s new strategic plan. Pimentel Solano has extensive experience in community outreach and not-for-profit leadership as founder of the Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance, co-chair of the Mayor’s Latino Advisory Council and founding member of the Latino Youth Collective. Pimentel Solano also has a legal and public policy background, having served as community outreach director for Indiana State Senator J.D. Ford. She holds a bachelor’s degree from O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at IUPUI.
Alicia Collins
Senior Consultant for the Elevation Grant Program
Wahid Ahmed
Community Leadership OfficerWahid Ahmed
Community Leadership Officer
Wahid joined CICF in 2022
Lena Hill
Elevation Community Relations Consultant
Leslie Moye’
Elevation Compliance Consultant
Okara Imani
Community Leadership & Equitable Initiatives AssociateOkara Imani
Community Leadership & Equitable Initiatives Associate
(she/her), (they/them)
Okara joined CICF in 2022 , and supports the community leadership and equitable initiatives team’s administrative processes and overall team continuity.
Among many things, Okara is a professional musician/vocal artist. She loves community, creativity and service to others. She joined CICF having worked in schools and entertainment venues—utilizing her customer service and administrative gifts.
Leah Nahmias
Community Leadership OfficerLeah Nahmias
Community Leadership Officer
Leah joined The Indianapolis Foundation in 2021 and oversees the foundation’s youth development, youth workforce, and Indy Summer Youth Programs grantmaking. There’s nothing she loves more than sitting down with a partner with a good idea and figuring out how to make it happen.
From 2014 to the end of 2020, Leah served as director of programs for Indiana Humanities. Highlights include directing One State / One Story: Frankenstein, which resulted in more than 600 events at more than 100 Indiana libraries, universities, schools and community organizations; launching the Schwartz Prize-winning Next Indiana Campfires, a statewide series of literary hikes and paddling trips; creating Bookmark Indy, which explores Indianapolis through the eyes of its writers; and guiding the Indiana Women’s Suffrage Centennial.
Previously, as Program Officer at the New York Council for the Humanities, Leah created and administered a national reading and discussion program for veterans called Talking Service in partnership with the Great Books Foundation and managed other adult reading and discussion programs. She worked on the award-winning program Community Conversations and advised on dialogue-based projects including the Guantánamo Public Memory Project and Created Equal, an NEH film and discussion program focused on civil rights history. She also spearheaded an innovative partnership between the council and university-based humanities centers focused on connecting scholars and graduate students to the public.
Prior to joining the NY Council Leah was a resident history educator at City University of New York’s American Social History Project and the Gotham Center for New York City History. Leah started her career in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she taught high school U.S. history at West Charlotte High School. She holds an MA in public humanities from Brown University and a BA in history and East Asian Studies from Indiana University.
Josette' Robinson
Community Leadership OfficerJosette' Robinson
Community Leadership Officer
(she/her/hers)
Josette’ Robinson is a philanthropic professional with a wealth of experience spanning over 18 years in the nonprofit sector. She has dedicated her career to advocating for social and restorative justice, criminal justice reform, diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Currently, she serves as a Community Leadership Officer at the Indianapolis Foundation, where she focuses on public safety, crime prevention, seniors, mental health, substance abuse, and domestic and intimate partner violence. Prior to her current role, she served as a Grants Researcher for the Ivy Tech Foundation.
Josette’ is an enthusiastic proponent of education and a lifelong learner. Her academic background includes attending Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, and the O’Neal School of Public and Environmental Affairs. She graduated summa cum laude and magna cum laude respectively, obtaining degrees in Philanthropic Studies and Liberal Arts, as well as certifications in Travel Studies and Nonprofit Management. Josette’ is a member of Phi Theta Kappa and Nu Lambda Mu International Honor Societies, which recognize her academic excellence.
Josette’ takes pride in being a resident of the Far Eastside community and strives to promote the diverse range of exceptional events, assets, and resources available in the area. She works tirelessly to ensure that the community is aware of these offerings and has access to them.
Josette’s commitment to social and restorative justice is evident in her philanthropic work and volunteerism, both locally and internationally. She is passionate about promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in all aspects of life, and believes in empowering BIPOC leaders and residents to achieve their full potential.
Ben Tebbe
Community Leadership OfficerBen Tebbe
Community Leadership Officer
(he/him/his)
Ben joined The Indianapolis Foundation in 2023.
Jamie Valentine
Community Leadership OfficerJamie Valentine
Community Leadership Officer
(she/her/hers)
Jamie joined The Indianapolis Foundation in 2022 and supports organizations in areas of education, food access and nutrition, the environment, as well as The Library Fund. Jamie is passionate about sustainability, the interconnection between the environment and social justice, and empowering communities to create new systems based on equity and justice for human and non-human life.
Previously, Jamie worked in sustainability in higher education where she incorporated sustainability into university operations, academics, and community culture. She also taught classes on injustice in the food system and using systems thinking to solve complex issues. Jamie has a B.S. in Environmental Studies and an M.S.Ed in Leadership for Sustainability Education both from Portland State University.
In her free time, Jamie emphasizes intentionally connecting to nature through hiking, camping, paddle boarding, and gardening. She also enjoys reading in her hammock, learning new ideas, and dialoging about how to co-create a different collective future.
Fabio Yataco
Community Leadership OfficerFabio Yataco
Community Leadership Officer
(he/him/his)
Fabio Yataco was born in Switzerland to Peruvian parents and has grown up on the Westside of Indianapolis. He recently transitioned from the Mayor’s office of Indianapolis where he served as a Mayor Neighborhood Advocate (MNA) for the last two and a half years. In this role he used his skills in community engagement, proactive strategizing, and building authentic relationships to serve and work with neighborhood residents, community partners, and the business community. Prior to serving as an MNA he served as a social worker for the Public Defenders Agency where he provided intensive support to clients. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at IUPUI and is currently pursuing his Masters In Public Management through the O’Neil School of Public and Environmental Affairs at IUPUI.
Fabio enjoys discovering new ways to grow both professionally and personally. He is passionate about civic/community engagement, addressing equity/access gaps, investing in others, and servant leadership. Fabio’s involvement includes IndyHub’s 1828 Leadership Project, serving on the Mayor’s Latino Advisory Council, serving on the steering committee for the Axis Leadership Program, Census 2020 taskforce, and serving on the YMCA Youth Development Advisory Board.
The Indianapolis Foundation Community Ambassadors
Beatrice Bevelry
representing Martindale-BrightwoodBeatrice Bevelry
representing Martindale-Brightwood
Sayra Campos
representing the Latinx communitySayra Campos
representing the Latinx community
Sayra was born in Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico and has resided in Indianapolis since she was five years old. Since graduating from Broad Ripple High School in 2010 Sayra has been involved in several local and national grassroots immigrant-led movements including work with the Latino Youth Collective and the National Immigrant Youth Alliance. As a founding member of the Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance in 2012, Sayra has experience in nonprofit and community leadership. Sayra currently serves as treasurer for the Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance, board member for the Midwest Immigration Fund Coalition, member of Movimiento Cosecha Indiana and works as a legal assistant at Muñoz Legal.
Growing up as an undocumented immigrant in the United States has pushed Sayra to continue to serve UndocuHoosiers across the state and fight for permanent protection for all.
Valerie Davis
representing Near East SideValerie Davis
representing Near East Side
Tedd Hardy
representing HaughvilleTedd Hardy
representing Haughville
DeAmon Harges
AdvisorDeAmon Harges
Advisor
Cynthia Morraz
representing the Latinx communityCynthia Morraz
representing the Latinx community
Cynthia is a first-generation American and comes from a family of resilient Nicaraguan immigrants. Cynthia is a strong advocate of immigrant rights, language access, and equity.
Serving the immigrant population is not something new for Cynthia, she has volunteered on the west side of Indianapolis registering voters, promoting community resources, and providing language access services.
Her drive, energy, dedication, and passion for advocacy have always made her stand out of the crowd. When she is not working, Cynthia is, trying out a new dish, practicing yoga and working on her classes at IUPUI to achieve a Master of Public Affairs through the O’Neill School.
WildStyle Paschall
representing Riverside (Near West)WildStyle Paschall
representing Riverside (Near West)
Annie Smith
representing Far East SideAnnie Smith
representing Far East Side
The Indianapolis Foundation Racial Equity Advisory Council
- Patricia Payne
- Melita Carter
- Marc Mcaleavey
- Imhotep Adisa
- Karen Dace
Hamilton County Community Foundation
Executive Office
Tom Kilian Jr.
PresidentTom Kilian Jr.
President
(he/him/his)
As an experienced executive with more than 20 years of professional experience, 18 of those years devoted to philanthropy and fundraising, Tom Kilian, president of Hamilton County Community Foundation and IMPACT Central Indiana, has noteworthy expertise in strategic planning, major and planned gift acquisition, community development and accountability, foundation infrastructure and policies, board management, and innovative revenue generation. Throughout his professional career, Tom has managed the creation and implementation of programs, services, and operations while creating significant internal and external relationships throughout the philanthropic landscape.
In his current role as the president of Hamilton County Community Foundation, Tom has overseen the creation and implementation of the first comprehensive strategic plan of the foundation, ideated and implemented the first Not-for-Profit Collaboration Hub in Central Indiana, and increased assets from 53 million to 120 million in five years. In addition to his role as the president of the foundation, Tom is also the co-creator and president of IMPACT Central Indiana. IMPACT Central Indiana deploys capital to underappreciated communities and invests in the development of entrepreneurs within those communities who do not have traditional access to capital. Since launching in the spring of 2020, IMPACT Central Indiana has invested more than $7 million into the community.
Prior to Hamilton County Community Foundation, Tom’s career largely focused on higher education. Playing leadership roles in the development and execution of several philanthropic campaigns across various campus landscapes. Most recently, as executive director of Ivy Tech Community College Foundation in Central Indiana, where he successfully launched the largest regional campaign in college history. Prior to joining Ivy Tech, Tom had extensive experience raising money in support of large four-year public institutions, as well as a small four-year private institution.
Tom earned a B.S. from Indiana State University, an M.S. from Indiana University, and an executive certificate from the University of Notre Dame. Outside the office, Tom volunteers with several organizations, including sitting on the board of directors for the YMCA of Central Indiana. Both professionally and personally Tom strives to make a difference in the lives he touches. He is a results driven leader, eager to help individuals and organizations pursue their mission, create their vision and strategically achieve their goals. When he isn’t working or volunteering, he enjoys spending time with his wife Jennifer and their daughters, Samantha and Ellison. He loves the culinary scene and tries to spend as much time as possible outdoors.
Hamilton County Community Foundation Staff
Danielle Stiles-Polk
Vice President of External Strategy & DevelopmentDanielle Stiles-Polk
Vice President of External Strategy & Development
As the executive director of development for Central Indiana at Ivy Tech Community College, Danielle creates relationships with both internal stakeholders and external constituents to help identify and fund programs, scholarships, and capital needs within the region. Most recently, Danielle assisted in the closing of a $22 million “Closing the Achievement Gap” campaign in Central Indiana which focused on raising funds for scholarships, Hospitality Administration, a new Automotive Technology Training Center, a buildout for ASAP (Accelerated Associate Degree Program), campus improvements in Indianapolis, Franklin, Noblesville, and Greencastle, and growing an endowment for student support services and programs.
Danielle has been working in fundraising for nine years and has experience in annual fund, events, major gifts, and capital campaigns in higher education and also for social service non-profits. Danielle is also an adjunct instructor for the English department at Ivy Tech. Before beginning work at Ivy Tech in 2012, Danielle was the Development Manager for the Foundation for Lutheran Child and Family Services. Danielle earned a B.S. in English from I.U. and her M.S. in Student Affairs and Higher Education Leadership in from Indiana State University.
Danielle is an active member of CASE (Council for Advancement and Support of Education), AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals) and NASPA (National Association of Student Affairs Professionals), and has volunteered for the Junior League of Indianapolis and served on the board of directors for Pathway to Recovery. When she’s not in the office, Danielle volunteers for several local not-for-profits and enjoys traveling with her husband, Shannon.
Tammy Hall
Office ManagerTammy Hall
Office Manager
(she/her/hers)
With decades of experience in implementing, facilitating and connecting, Tammy Hall, Office Manager of Hamilton County Community Foundation, brings a specific set of skills to this new role. Her expertise is in creating systems and processes to streamline tasks and better steward resources, facilitating teams, managing logistics, and fostering authentic connections with others. In addition, Tammy is a coach and strategist for female-owned businesses as well as for women who have faced some hardships and are looking for a new start.
Originally from Georgia, she spent five years in Tennessee before moving to Indiana in 2020. Her passion is for encouraging, empowering and equipping women to live the lives they were meant to live before the world told them they weren’t enough. She currently has a podcast to help share this message which is another of her passions. When she isn’t working with women or at her position with Hamilton County Community Foundation, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, writing and reading, and she never misses the Hallmark Christmas movie season.
Danielle Humphrey
Donor Engagement OfficerDanielle Humphrey
Donor Engagement Officer
(she/her/hers)
Danielle comes to CICF from the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites where she served as Director of Corporate Relations. Previously, Danielle worked in donor development at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago and marketing at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. She has a plethora of experience in donor relations and stewardship and is passionate about philanthropy and the ability of a shared mission to unite communities and create positive change.
Danielle is an IU grad and lives in Noblesville with her husband, 1-year-old son and their 10-year-old golden retriever. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, exercising, traveling and cheering on the Hoosiers!
Anita Rogers
Community Leadership OfficerAnita Rogers
Community Leadership Officer
(she/her/hers)
Anita is the community leadership officer for the Hamilton County Community Foundation. Anita serves as the liaison between not-for-profit organizations, the community, and Hamilton County Community Foundation with a particular focus on our responsive grantmaking strategy.
Anita earned her bachelor’s degree in Government and International Studies from the University of Notre Dame. She was an Indiana Governor’s Fellow and a member of Class XX of the Stanley K. Lacy Leadership Series. Anita held community and customer relations roles in state government and at Duke Energy. She is a member of the Noblesville Plan Commission, Noblesville Diversity Coalition board of directors, and Noblesville Schools Safe Schools Committee. Anita resides in Noblesville with her husband, Steve, and their children, Benjamin and Olivia.
Jeena Siela
Senior Community Leadership OfficerJeena Siela
Senior Community Leadership Officer
(she/her/hers)
Jeena Siela is the community leadership officer at Hamilton County Community Foundation, representing the foundation to the broad community, grantees, donors, and board members. In this role, she serves as liaison between not-for-profit organizations, the community, and the Foundation’s Board; advises on Hamilton County grantmaking and community issues; and serves as a facilitator for foundation-supported initiatives around mental health, family and youth empowerment, and inclusive economic growth in support of the foundation’s strategic plan. Jeena has extensive experience in project management, grantmaking, and not-for-profit leadership. Prior to joining the foundation, she was responsible for leading maternal-child health initiatives and government affairs at March of Dimes and the Indiana State Department of Health.
Jeena holds a master’s degree in public health from the Indiana University School of Medicine and a bachelor’s degree in communication from Purdue University.
Jeena has been with the foundation since 2021.
Women's Fund of Central Indiana
Executive Office
Tamara Winfrey-Harris
PresidentTamara Winfrey-Harris
President
(she/her/hers)
Tamara Winfrey-Harris serves as President of Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. Tamara joined CICF in 2016 as vice president of marketing and communications. She has also served as vice president of community leadership and effective philanthropy,
Tamara is a nationally renowned writer and speaker, focusing on issues of race and gender and their intersection with politics, popular culture and current events. Her work has been published in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Los Angeles Times, Ms. magazine and other media. She is the author of the award-winning book, The Sisters Are Alright: Changing the Broken Narrative of Black Women in America (Berrett-Koehler 2015) and Dear Black Girl: Letters from Your Sisters on Stepping into Your Power (Berrett-Koehler 2021). Her essays appear in The Lemonade Reader: Beyonce, Black Feminism and Spirituality (Routledge, 2019); The Burden: African Americans and the Enduring Impact of Slavery (Wayne State University Press, 2018); Black in the Middle: An Anthology of the Black Midwest (Black Belt Publishing, 2020); and other books.
Tamara has been invited to speak on issues of gender, race and social justice at venues across the country, including The Ohio State University, Northern Arizona University and Princeton University and others.
Women's Fund of Central Indiana Staff
Victoria Petersen Elia
Director of DevelopmentVictoria Petersen Elia
Director of Development
(she/her/hers)
Victoria is the Director of Development for Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. She was only five at the time, but she hung her head out an airplane window and sang, “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” when she moved from her native homeland of Buenos Aires to the United States.
Victoria knew they’d be fine without her because she would become a not-for-profit fundraiser and expert and earn a Certified Fundraising Executive Certificate and a Cornell University Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Certificate. As a not-for-profit leader of more than 23 years, she has become a permanent and prominent figure in the not-for-profit world. Victoria was previously the Strategic Corporate Initiatives Manager at United Way of Central Indiana and helped companies create their strategic corporate engagement strategies that will increase their employee retention, employee recruitment, lift their brand and maximize their impact locally. Her previous experience has included serving many local boards of the 2012 Super Bowl Host Committee, the 2024 Swimming Olympic Trials LOC, the 2024 NBA All-Star Game Host Committee and The Christamore House. While in her former position as Development Officer at Raphael Health Center, she created their community relations and external strategy for patient recruitment and general outreach.
She periodically and proudly Tomahawk chops to cheer on her alma mater, Florida State University, where she received not one but two degrees: in Biology and Psychology.
She is married to Jason, and they have two children, Marco and Katalyna, and one cat, Moriah.
Gerri Pagach
Data and Office ManagerGerri Pagach
Data and Office Manager
(she/her/hers)
Gerri Pagach is passionate about developing productive relationships with donors, board members and coworkers, resolving issues, and assisting the organization in achieving its overall mission. Gerri came to CICF through Women’s Fund in 2016 with over 15 years of administrative experience. Prior to finding her passion in the non-profit world, Gerri worked in the corporate offices of Marsh Supermarkets and Crystal Flash Petroleum. She got her start in not-for-profit work through volunteering, which led to employment at Little Red Door Cancer Agency holding positions including business operations coordinator, volunteer coordinator and executive assistant. Gerri was born and raised on Indianapolis’ Westside. Gerri enjoys staying active in her community by volunteering on the parent committee and boosters of her daughter’s sports teams, serves as a board member for Tanya Isaac Foundation and is on the Breath Easy Speedway coalition. She resides in Speedway, IN with her husband, Douglas and daughter, Kristin.
Julie Koegel
Grantmaking ConsultantJulie Koegel
Grantmaking Consultant
Julie Koegel serves as grants officer for Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. She also manages the grantmaking process for Central Indiana Senior Fund.
Wendy McNamar
OPTIONS & Special Projects ConsultantWendy McNamar
OPTIONS & Special Projects Consultant