Welborn Fellows Program Pilot: Engaging Young Leaders – Ensuring a Lasting Legacy
In 2021, as the community was still navigating the effects of a global health crisis, the Welborn Baptist Foundation (Welborn) board of directors recognized the importance of planning for the future. With a focus on strengthening capacity and securing Welborn’s enduring positive impact in the region, the board identified an opportunity to invest in young leaders. This forward-thinking approach led to the creation of the Welborn Fellows Program.
Creating a Two-Way Learning Opportunity
Pat Creech, CEO of Welborn Baptist Foundation, explains the foundation’s goal for the program, stating, “We saw that a meaningful board experience could be a valuable growth and development opportunity for qualified fellows. We also recognized the value of learning from next-generation leaders—this is a two-way opportunity. We need to hear their voices and perspectives as much as they benefit from ours.”
Candice Perry, Welborn’s Chief Capacity Building Officer, emphasized that the board maintained a “learning posture” throughout the development of the Fellows Program. “We wanted to integrate what we were learning into our approach and strategy for the future,” she said.
Visionary Leadership and Planning for the Future
Tricia Henning, Board Chair and a key member of the committee that formed the Fellows Program, noted, “This initiative reflects Welborn Foundation’s vision and the forward-thinking of the Board of Directors. We’re not afraid to be visionary and think about what our community needs to move forward over the next 10 or 20 years.”
In 2022, Welborn welcomed its inaugural fellows, Travis Johnson and Tyler Stock, both active leaders in the Evansville nonprofit sector. During their two-year fellowship, they have been fully involved in Welborn’s board meetings and assigned committees.
Engagement and Contribution from Inaugural Fellows
Board member Jeff Whiteside, an advocate for the Fellows Program and Chair of the Governance Committee when the program launched, shared his observations. “I was incredibly impressed by the engagement of our inaugural fellows. They came prepared, asked insightful questions, and provided thoughtful perspectives. This first cohort has been a tremendous success.”
Fellows in Action: Travis Johnson and Tyler Stock
TRAVIS JOHNSON
Travis Johnson, a Senior Analyst at Mead Johnson Nutrition and an Evansville nonprofit leader, brought a background in Communication, Radio/TV Production, and Fundraising Management.
Reflecting on his fellowship experience, Johnson shared, “I’ve gained a deep understanding of how Welborn’s work is woven into our area’s growth and transformation. The experience has provided a high-level view of connecting individuals toward shared success.”
Johnson also noted, “Being a part of Welborn’s committees, with full voting privileges, has given me insight into the projects and initiatives that reach beyond Vanderburgh County and impact the entire region.”
TYLER STOCK
Tyler Stock, Executive Director of Talent EVV at the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership, also appreciated his time as a fellow. Stock, who holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern Indiana, was especially impacted by serving on Welborn’s Investment Committee.
“I gained exposure to a sophisticated level of governance and stewardship of resources,” he said. “There was a robust and open discussion in every committee meeting, which isn’t something most people get to experience firsthand.”
A Lasting Impact
As Johnson and Stock near the completion of their fellowships, Welborn celebrates the success of the inaugural cohort. Their contributions have set a high standard for future fellows, providing a foundation for ongoing collaboration and growth between next-generation leaders and the board.
This pioneering approach ensures that Welborn’s legacy will continue to flourish for years to come, supported by emerging leaders and a commitment to the community’s future.
