22 Distinguished Hoosiers Chosen for 2026 Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute

Indiana Philanthropy Alliance has announced the selection of 22 exceptional leaders for the 2026 class of the John M. Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute.

Now in its fifth successful year, this initiative continues to strengthen Indiana’s philanthropic landscape by equipping rising leaders with the skills they need to drive meaningful change. Each cohort reflects the diverse and dynamic nature of the sector, bringing together professionals who share a deep commitment to their communities.

Rooted in the visionary contributions of John M. Mutz to IPA, the program not only honors his legacy but also empowers participants with the insight, wisdom, and inspiration to elevate their leadership. Through this experience, they develop a renewed passion for philanthropy and a powerful commitment to advancing community improvement across Indiana.

“We want to imbue the individuals who graduate from our program with a lot of knowledge and wisdom,” shared John Mutz. “But more importantly, what we want to do is build a fire under philanthropy, and under government, and under business in this state so we can be better than we are.”

This year's class comprises a vibrant mix of professionals from a wide range of sectors. Each brings unique expertise and perspectives, yet all are united in their shared commitment to driving meaningful, positive change across Indiana.

The following have been chosen for acceptance into the class of 2026 Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute:

1. Karrie Baxter Howk, Director of External Engagement, Mary Rigg Neighborhood Center
2. Lisa Biers, Vice President of Programs, Steuben County Community Foundation
3. Christian Blome, President, Being for Others Health & Wellness Foundation
4. Martha Cortes, Chief Partnerships Officer, KIPP Indy Public Schools
5. Hale Crumley, Program Officer, Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation
6. Jon Dunn, IT Applications Manager, Lumina Foundation
7. Sherry Early, Principal, SE Consulting
8. Melissa Ford-Kalbfell, Development Director, Community Foundation of Wabash County
9. Katie Goodrich, Alumni Relations Associate, Lilly Scholars Network
10. Emily Hemersbach, Marketing & Communications Director, Community Foundation Serving Howard, Clinton, and Carroll Counties  
11. Marianne Holland, Senior Development Director, Hoosier Environmental Council
12. Rochelle Jerry, Adjunct Faculty, IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy
13. Kelly Karbowicz Riley, Interim CEO and Chief Growth Officer, Indianapolis Public Schools Foundation
14. Jackie Martinez, Community Impact Director, St. Joseph Community Health Foundation
15. Marc McAleavey, Chief Executive Officer, Health by Design
16. Haley Nagila, Grants Officer, IU Health Foundation
17. Emily Rice, President & Executive Director, The West Foundation
18. Aaron Schneider, Director of Development, Ivy Tech Community College
19. Rachel Sharpe, Foundation Manager, Norton King’s Daughters’ Health Foundation
20. Greg Stocking, Chief Housing Officer, RDOOR Housing Corporation
21. Virginia Vought, Senior Executive Director, Purdue University - Office of Community Engagement
22. Erica Young, CEO, Purposed Consulting 

Scheduled to run monthly until October 2026, the Mutz Institute sessions promise to offer these leaders a transformative experience, equipping them with the tools to make a significant impact in their communities and beyond.  

For more information about the 2026 class and the Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute, please visit www.inphilanthropy.org/mutz.

About John M. Mutz

Born in Indianapolis, John M. Mutz is a graduate of Northwestern University, where he earned both a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in advertising and business management. He enjoyed a long career in business, managing a restaurant chain and later serving as president of PSI Energy (now Duke Energy). Elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 1967 and the state Senate in 1970, he played a key role in major legislative initiatives, including the Unigov government consolidation, the creation of IUPUI in downtown Indianapolis, and the establishment of the White River Park Commission, among other significant reforms. From 1980 to 1988, he served as the 45th Lieutenant Governor under Governor Robert D. Orr. Mutz later served as president of Lilly Endowment Inc. and chairman of the Lumina Foundation board of directors.