Our People

Brian Payne

President & CEO of CICF & President of The Indianapolis Foundation

(he/him/his)

Brian Payne is the president and CEO of the $1.1 billion dollar Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) and The Indianapolis Foundation. Since he joined CICF in November 2000, the foundation’s annual grantmaking has more than quadrupled to over $95 million. CICF’s mission is to mobilize people, ideas and investments to create a community where all individuals have an equitable opportunity to reach their full potential—no matter place, race or identity.

Brian is the founder and founding artistic director of the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene & Marilyn Glick. The national consulting firm, Project for Public Spaces, chose the Indianapolis Cultural Trail as the best North American example of a big, bold, transformative project that is changing the way we think of cities and city life. The US Department of Transportation awarded the Cultural Trail a $20.5 million TIGER I grant, one of only 51 grants awarded out of 1,400 proposals submitted in a merit-based competitive process.

Under Brian’s leadership, CICF has made dismantling systemic racism in central Indiana a multi-generational commitment.  CICF has been recognized locally and nationally for the boldness of its commitment and the progress of its early actions.

Brian served as one of six community foundation executives on the design task force of NEON – Nexus for Equity + Opportunity Nationwide and CICF is one of the founding members of this national effort to dismantle structured and systemic racism to achieve economic and cultural mobility.

Brian is the founding board chair of The District Theatre, which is committed to helping incubate a Black professional resident theatre company for Indianapolis.  He is the vice-chair of the IUPUI Advisory Board and serves on the boards of Visit Indy and Indiana Repertory Theatre. He recently concluded a two year term as board chair of the national organization, Forward Cities, an organization committed to helping cities build inclusive economic growth.

Brian is a much sought-after speaker nationally and internationally. His themes include equity in opportunity and dismantling systemic racism; neighborhood empowerment; placemaking and interrupting gentrification; multi-modal transportation, trails, livability and the power of connectivity. He has been the keynote speaker for the Centre City Congress in Calgary, the City Club of Cleveland, the Texas Trails Active Transportation Conference, Trailnet and Great Rivers Greenways, both in St. Louis, Sportsbackers in Richmond, VA, the Akron/Cleveland Association of Realtors and numerous leadership conferences. He has also spoken at national conferences of the American Planning Association, CEOs for Cities, Forward Cities, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Council of Foundations and the United Way. He has consulted with dozens of cities in the US and Canada on urban trail projects.

Brian is the recipient of the Indianapolis Business Journal’s Michael A. Carroll Leadership Award, Visit Indy’s Bill McGowan Leadership Award and the Indiana University Public Policy Institute’s John L. Krauss Award for Innovation in Public Policy. He has also been honored as a Civil Rights Champion by the Indiana Civil Rights Commission, the Indiana Citizen Planner of the Year, and has been recognized as one of the world’s most powerful Hoosiers. In 2016, Brian was recognized as an Indiana Living Legend by the Indiana Historical Society.

BrianP@cicf.org

Tom 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.

TomK@cicf.org

Jennifer Bartenbach

Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer, CICF

(she/her/hers)

As CFO, Jennifer is responsible for the fiscal oversight, regulatory compliance, and operational effectiveness of CICF’s $700 million in assets. She manages three departments within the organization: operations, IT, and human resources. Jennifer has a history of working with not-for-profits; prior to CICF, she worked at the Indianapolis Museum of Art for eight years—four of which she served as the museum’s CFO. “I believe there is no greater satisfaction than giving back to your community,” she says. “I help our donors and agencies feel confident in their investment at the foundation, and I help represent the foundation and its values and brand experience.”

JenniferB@cicf.org

Tamara 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.

TamaraWH@cicf.org

Lacy Wooden

Director of People and Culture

(she/her/hers)

LacyW@cicf.org

Brian Payne

President & CEO

(he/him/his)

Brian Payne is the president and CEO of the $1.1 billion dollar Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) and The Indianapolis Foundation. Since he joined CICF in November 2000, the foundation’s annual grantmaking has more than quadrupled to over $95 million. CICF’s mission is to mobilize people, ideas and investments to create a community where all individuals have an equitable opportunity to reach their full potential—no matter place, race or identity.

Brian is the founder and founding artistic director of the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene & Marilyn Glick. The national consulting firm, Project for Public Spaces, chose the Indianapolis Cultural Trail as the best North American example of a big, bold, transformative project that is changing the way we think of cities and city life. The US Department of Transportation awarded the Cultural Trail a $20.5 million TIGER I grant, one of only 51 grants awarded out of 1,400 proposals submitted in a merit-based competitive process.

Under Brian’s leadership, CICF has made dismantling systemic racism in central Indiana a multi-generational commitment.  CICF has been recognized locally and nationally for the boldness of its commitment and the progress of its early actions.

Brian served as one of six community foundation executives on the design task force of NEON – Nexus for Equity + Opportunity Nationwide and CICF is one of the founding members of this national effort to dismantle structured and systemic racism to achieve economic and cultural mobility.

Brian is the founding board chair of The District Theatre, which is committed to helping incubate a Black professional resident theatre company for Indianapolis.  He is the vice-chair of the IUPUI Advisory Board and serves on the boards of Visit Indy and Indiana Repertory Theatre. He recently concluded a two year term as board chair of the national organization, Forward Cities, an organization committed to helping cities build inclusive economic growth.

Brian is a much sought-after speaker nationally and internationally. His themes include equity in opportunity and dismantling systemic racism; neighborhood empowerment; placemaking and interrupting gentrification; multi-modal transportation, trails, livability and the power of connectivity. He has been the keynote speaker for the Centre City Congress in Calgary, the City Club of Cleveland, the Texas Trails Active Transportation Conference, Trailnet and Great Rivers Greenways, both in St. Louis, Sportsbackers in Richmond, VA, the Akron/Cleveland Association of Realtors and numerous leadership conferences. He has also spoken at national conferences of the American Planning Association, CEOs for Cities, Forward Cities, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Council of Foundations and the United Way. He has consulted with dozens of cities in the US and Canada on urban trail projects.

Brian is the recipient of the Indianapolis Business Journal’s Michael A. Carroll Leadership Award, Visit Indy’s Bill McGowan Leadership Award and the Indiana University Public Policy Institute’s John L. Krauss Award for Innovation in Public Policy. He has also been honored as a Civil Rights Champion by the Indiana Civil Rights Commission, the Indiana Citizen Planner of the Year, and has been recognized as one of the world’s most powerful Hoosiers. In 2016, Brian was recognized as an Indiana Living Legend by the Indiana Historical Society.

BrianP@cicf.org

Jennifer Bartenbach

Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer

(she/her/hers)

As CFO, Jennifer is responsible for the fiscal oversight, regulatory compliance, and operational effectiveness of CICF’s $700 million in assets. She manages three departments within the organization: operations, IT, and human resources. Jennifer has a history of working with not-for-profits; prior to CICF, she worked at the Indianapolis Museum of Art for eight years—four of which she served as the museum’s CFO. “I believe there is no greater satisfaction than giving back to your community,” she says. “I help our donors and agencies feel confident in their investment at the foundation, and I help represent the foundation and its values and brand experience.”

JenniferB@cicf.org

Kendra Patrick

Executive Assistant

(she/her/hers)

Kendra joined the CICF team in 1998. She manages the calendar and operations for Brian Payne and the CICF executive office. She is also the liaison for the boards of CICF, The Indianapolis Foundation and The William E. English Foundation. Kendra says, “I love being part of an organization that brings so much positive change to our community.”

KendraP@cicf.org

Robin 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.

RobinE@cicf.org

Sarah 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.

SarahW@cicf.org 

Clayton 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.

ClaytonD@cicf.org

Allissa 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.

AllissaI@cicf.org

Jennifer Turner

Director of Fundraising & Campaign Management

(she/her/hers)

Jennifer joined CICF in 2023.

JenniferT@cicf.org

Janeen Butler

Senior Scholarships Officer

(she/her/hers)

Janeen joined CICF in 2020.

JaneenB@cicf.org

Clark Collier

Senior Charitable Gift Planning Officer

ClarkC@cicf.org

Reiya Davis

Donor Engagement Associate

(she/her/hers)

ReiyaD@cicf.org

Nora 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.

NoraDK@cicf.org

Julian Edwards

Donor Engagement Officer

(he/him/his)

JulianE@cicf.org

Dionne 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 nonprofit 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 nonprofits. She also increased stakeholder engagement and enhanced community relations for nonprofits.

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.

DionneG@cicf.org

Danielle 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!

DanielleH@cicf.org

Julie 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.

JulieK@cicf.org

Morgan Meyer

Scholarships Associate

(she/her/hers)

MorganM@cicf.org

Joanna Nixon

Consultant - Efroymson Family Fund

Ben Snyder

Senior Director of Marketing & Communications

(he/him/his)

Ben helps tell the story of CICF and works to continue to elevate the transformative power of both philanthropy and community in Central Indiana. Before joining the foundation, Ben studied theatre design and performance at Indiana State University. After spending a few years working onstage and backstage, Ben shifted gears into not-for-profit marketing and communications. Before CICF, Ben worked in marketing with the Indiana Repertory Theatre, the Phoenix Theatre and has volunteered with The Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis. He is a member of the Anti-Defamation League’s Glass Leadership Institute and a mentor with Big Brother Big Sisters of Central Indiana. Ben says, “as Maya Angelou wisely said, ‘when you know better, you do better.’ Through storytelling, we not only learn information— more importantly—we get the opportunity to understand and empathize with someone else’s life experience. And empathy is key to making the world a better place for everyone.”

Ben joined CICF in 2015.

BenS@cicf.org

Lacy Wooden

Director of People & Culture

(she/her/hers)

LacyW@cicf.org

Maggie Adams-Mcbride

Learning, Evaluation and Impact Associate

(she/her/hers)

Maggie joined CICF in 2022

MaggieAM@cicf.org

Laurie Burns

Senior Learning, Evaluation and Impact Officer

(she/her/hers)

Laurie Burns specializes in data impact and analysis for the community leadership team at CICF. She provides support to the Crime Prevention Grant Program and previously administered the scholarship program at CICF. Prior to joining CICF, Laurie provided leadership development and capacity-building training to student organizations on college campuses across the United States. She earned a master’s degree in public affairs, specializing in nonprofit management and policy analysis from Indiana University.

LaurieB@cicf.org

Mikaili Azziz

Marketing & Communications Associate

(she/her/hers)

Mikaili joined CICF in 2023.

MikailiA@cicf.org

Tashi Copeland

Communications Officer

(she/her/hers)

Tashi joined CICF in 2020.

TashiC@cicf.org

Rebekah Corwin

Marketing & Communications Officer

(she/her/hers)

Rebekah Corwin graduated from Anderson University with a double major in Public Relations and Psychology. Her background includes work with Stratavize Consulting, where she provided broad, client-focused marketing and communications support for multiple organizations, including not-for-profits and community foundations. Bekah is originally from Portland, IN.

Bekah loves spending time with her friends, family, and furry companions. She enjoys knitting, listening to crime podcasts and powerlifting.

Bekah joined CICF in 2022

RebekahC@cicf.org

Imani McClendon-Hinkle

Human Resources Associate

ImaniMH@cicf.org

Jennifer Bartenbach

Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer

(she/her/hers)

As CFO, Jennifer is responsible for the fiscal oversight, regulatory compliance, and operational effectiveness of CICF’s $700 million in assets. She manages three departments within the organization: operations, IT, and human resources. Jennifer has a history of working with not-for-profits; prior to CICF, she worked at the Indianapolis Museum of Art for eight years—four of which she served as the museum’s CFO. “I believe there is no greater satisfaction than giving back to your community,” she says. “I help our donors and agencies feel confident in their investment at the foundation, and I help represent the foundation and its values and brand experience.”

JenniferB@cicf.org

Jennifer 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.

JenS@cicf.org

David 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.”

DavidD@cicf.org

Jena 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.

JenaB@cicf.org

Brenda Delaney

Controller

(she/her/hers)

Brenda has been with CICF since 1998.

BrendaD@cicf.org

Bréone 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.

BreoneD@cicf.org

Greg Hooten

Facilities Director

Michelle 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

MichelleJ@cicf.org

Cindie Logan

Operations Manager

(she/her/hers)

Cindie has been with CICF since 1995.

CindieL@cicf.org

Beth Millikan

Assistant Controller

(she/her/hers)

Beth has been with CICF since 2019.

BethM@cicf.org

Tom Poynter

Maintenance Manager

Brandon Stover

First Impressions Associate

(he/him/his)

Brandon oversees the daily operations of the English Foundation Building, CICF headquarters, and serves as the liaison between other non-profit tenants and CICF. He enjoys spending his free time with his wife Kayleigh and two daughters, Ally & Amelia. He received his associates degree in applied science in culinary arts from Harrison College in 2012.

Brandon joined CICF in 2017.

BrandonS@cicf.org

Adam 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.

AdamV@cicf.org

Julie 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.

JulieW@cicf.org

Cami Yehling

Process and 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.

CamiY@cicf.org

Brian Payne

President

(he/him/his)

Brian Payne is the president and CEO of the $1.1 billion dollar Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) and The Indianapolis Foundation. Since he joined CICF in November 2000, the foundation’s annual grantmaking has more than quadrupled to over $95 million. CICF’s mission is to mobilize people, ideas and investments to create a community where all individuals have an equitable opportunity to reach their full potential—no matter place, race or identity.

Brian is the founder and founding artistic director of the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene & Marilyn Glick. The national consulting firm, Project for Public Spaces, chose the Indianapolis Cultural Trail as the best North American example of a big, bold, transformative project that is changing the way we think of cities and city life. The US Department of Transportation awarded the Cultural Trail a $20.5 million TIGER I grant, one of only 51 grants awarded out of 1,400 proposals submitted in a merit-based competitive process.

Under Brian’s leadership, CICF has made dismantling systemic racism in central Indiana a multi-generational commitment.  CICF has been recognized locally and nationally for the boldness of its commitment and the progress of its early actions.

Brian served as one of six community foundation executives on the design task force of NEON – Nexus for Equity + Opportunity Nationwide and CICF is one of the founding members of this national effort to dismantle structured and systemic racism to achieve economic and cultural mobility.

Brian is the founding board chair of The District Theatre, which is committed to helping incubate a Black professional resident theatre company for Indianapolis.  He is the vice-chair of the IUPUI Advisory Board and serves on the boards of Visit Indy and Indiana Repertory Theatre. He recently concluded a two year term as board chair of the national organization, Forward Cities, an organization committed to helping cities build inclusive economic growth.

Brian is a much sought-after speaker nationally and internationally. His themes include equity in opportunity and dismantling systemic racism; neighborhood empowerment; placemaking and interrupting gentrification; multi-modal transportation, trails, livability and the power of connectivity. He has been the keynote speaker for the Centre City Congress in Calgary, the City Club of Cleveland, the Texas Trails Active Transportation Conference, Trailnet and Great Rivers Greenways, both in St. Louis, Sportsbackers in Richmond, VA, the Akron/Cleveland Association of Realtors and numerous leadership conferences. He has also spoken at national conferences of the American Planning Association, CEOs for Cities, Forward Cities, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Council of Foundations and the United Way. He has consulted with dozens of cities in the US and Canada on urban trail projects.

Brian is the recipient of the Indianapolis Business Journal’s Michael A. Carroll Leadership Award, Visit Indy’s Bill McGowan Leadership Award and the Indiana University Public Policy Institute’s John L. Krauss Award for Innovation in Public Policy. He has also been honored as a Civil Rights Champion by the Indiana Civil Rights Commission, the Indiana Citizen Planner of the Year, and has been recognized as one of the world’s most powerful Hoosiers. In 2016, Brian was recognized as an Indiana Living Legend by the Indiana Historical Society.

BrianP@cicf.org

Rob Macpherson

Vice President of Development and 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.

RobM@cicf.org

Pamela 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.

PamelaR@cicf.org

Guadalupe 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.

GuadalupePS@cicf.org

Alicia Collins

Senior Consultant for the Elevation Grant Program

(she/her/hers)

Alicia@cicf.org

Wahid Ahmed

Community Leadership Officer

Wahid joined CICF in 2022

WahidA@cicf.org

Rishard Allen

Equitable Initiatives Officer

(he/him/his)

Rishard Allen is an emerging philanthropic professional with multiple years of experience in grants management and administration, program management, and racial equity initiatives. He currently serves as an Equitable Initiatives Officer at The Indianapolis Foundation (TIF), an affiliate of the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF), and is responsible for managing TIF’s role in a national cohort of community foundations developing a common strategy to dismantle systemic racism—entitled Nexus for Equity + Opportunity Nationwide (NEON)—along with other projects to expand support for grassroots community organizers and to expand TIF’s community leadership into the public policy arena. Formerly, Rishard served as the Director of Grant Services at the Arts Council of Indianapolis and a Program Director at Arts for Learning Indiana prior to that. He has also lent his talents to several working groups and committees at the local and national level, including IndyHub, WolfBrown, Americans for the Arts, Arts Midwest, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Indiana Arts Commission, and newly, the Community Foundation Opportunity Network. Rishard obtained his B.S. in Arts Management from Indiana University Bloomington in 2017 and is currently pursuing his M.A. in Philanthropic Studies at the IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

RishardA@cicf.org

Linda Diakite Karressy

Elevation Grant Compliance Consultant

(she/her/hers)

LindaDK@cicf.org

Danae Freeman

MVMT10K Engagement Associate

(she/her/hers)

Danae is an AmeriCorps Public Ally working with The Indianapolis Foundation through June 2023.

Danae is currently a senior at IUPUI and will graduate in May 2023 with a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. She has nearly 3 years of customer service experience, most recently was in a human resources role. Danae enjoys researching music history, collecting vinyl records, reading memoirs, creative writing, and travel.

DanaeF@cicf.org

Lena Hill

Elevation Community Relations Consultant

(she/her/hers)

LenaH@cicf.org

Okara 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.

OkaraI@cicf.org

Kayla Knox

Equitable Initiatives Officer

(she/her/hers)

In this role. Kayla helps to ensure equitable practices are conducted at Central Indiana Community Foundation, as well as assisting in the development of a new anti-racism platform. Through her research experience studying racism and diversity, as well as her personal experiences, she brings a depth of knowledge. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Indiana University – Bloomington and a Master’s in Sociology from the University of Notre Dame. Kayla is an Indianapolis native and is happy to be back and serving her community.

KaylaK@cicf.org

Leah Nahmias

Community Leadership Officer

Josette' 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.

JosetteR@cicf.org

Jamie 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.

JamieV@cicf.org

Fabio 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.

FabioY@cicf.org

Rob Macpherson

Vice President of Development and 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.

RobM@cicf.org

Beatrice Bevelry

representing Martindale-Brightwood

Sayra 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 Side

Tedd Hardy

representing Haughville

DeAmon Harges

Advisor

Cynthia 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)

Annie Smith

representing Far East Side