Wayne County Foundation Names 2022 Award Recipients
The Wayne County Foundation is pleased to announce the 2022 recipients of the Charles A. Rodefeld Award for Leadership in Philanthropy and Community, and the Ruth J. Wickemeyer Award for Nonprofit Excellence.
Dave Rodgers was awarded the Charles A. Rodefeld Award for 2022. Named for a founding visionary of the Wayne County Foundation, the Rodefeld Award seeks to recognize philanthropic Wayne County citizens who move quietly and steadily to help meet community needs. Dave’s gifts have benefitted countless nonprofit organizations across Wayne County like the Richmond Symphony Orchestra, Girls Inc., and many more. He also serves on multiple nonprofit boards, including the Wayne County Foundation and the Richmond Symphony Orchestra – the latter of which nominated him for this prestigious award.
Monica Koechlein, Executive Director of the Richmond Symphony Orchestra, shared that, “Dave is extraordinary, constantly on the lookout for ways that he can be helpful and create change. He is remarkable; the impact he has made with his gifts of financial support and leadership on boards has served to build strong futures for our non-profit community. I would even go so far as to say his impact is unequaled.”
Robin Henry is the recipient of the 2022 Ruth J. Wickemeyer Award. Named for the first executive director of the Wayne County Foundation, the Wickemeyer Award seeks to honor nonprofit leaders, whether paid or volunteer, who personify exceptional service to others in the name of community progress. Robin’s nomination came from the Richmond Art Museum.
Through her active participation, Henry has directly impacted numerous institutions and organizations with her time, talent, and treasure. Henry has served on some of the most important and diverse organizations in Wayne County that have not only vital community outreach but represent some of our most recognized organizations. Examples include the Richmond Art Museum, Every Child Can Read, and the Indiana University East School of Business and Economics Council.
Shaun Dingwerth, Executive Director of the Richmond Art Museum, wrote, “I have personally been the beneficiary of this mentorship and knowledge that Robin is so readily eager to share. Throughout my twenty-five years at RAM, I have encountered few who are so willing to share their knowledge and help whenever possible. I know countless others in our community who have benefited from her advice, activism, and willingness to share.”
“The Foundation is honored to add Dave and Robin to a long list of deserving award winners,” added Rebecca Gilliam, Executive Director of the Wayne County Foundation. “Wayne County is fortunate to have these wise, intelligent, and generous philanthropists in our community.”
Dave Rodgers and Robin Henry will be honored at the Foundation’s upcoming Summer Celebration later this year.
Since 1979, the Wayne County Foundation has existed to foster and encourage private philanthropic giving, to enhance the spirit of community and to improve the quality of life in the Wayne County, Indiana, area now and for future generations.