SOUTH CENTRAL IN. – The United Way of South Central Indiana is thrilled to announce its dynamic Board of Directors for the 2025-2026 term, welcoming five new members alongside a dedicated group of returning leaders. These individuals will guide the organization’s mission to create a lasting impact across Lawrence, Monroe, Greene, and Owen counties.
Joining the board for the first time are:
- Ashlynne Bender, representing Lawrence County through her work at Hoosier Hills Credit Union.
- Landry Culp, bringing the Monroe County perspective from Cook Medical.
- Michelle Ellis, connecting Greene County through the Wagler Education and Training Center.
- Ryan McCombs, representing Monroe County and Ivy Tech Community College – Bloomington.
- Sam Smith, contributing Owen County insight from Boston Scientific.
The United Way also extends its sincere gratitude to the following returning board members for their continued leadership and commitment:
- Christopher Emge, Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce (Monroe County)
- Beth Gazley, Indiana University Bloomington (Monroe County)
- Brian Jackson, IU Health (Monroe County)
- Kayla Kern, Booz Allen Hamilton (Lawrence County)
- Amy Somers Kopp, RE/MAX Acclaimed Properties (Monroe County)
- Vanessa McClary, Kiwanis Club of South Central Indiana (Monroe County)
- Christopher Pierce, Monroe County Prosecutor’s Office (Monroe County)
- Nick Shafer, German American Bank (Monroe County)
- Kirk White, IU Center on Representative Government (Monroe County)
- Susan Wilde-Elkins, Duke Energy (Owen County)
- Megan Betz, Grant Partner Representative, Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard
“Their leadership, passion, and commitment to our community will help drive our mission forward,” the United Way stated in its announcement. “We’re excited to work together to create a lasting impact across our region.” The organization plans to spotlight each board member in their “Sunday Spotlights” series on social media.
The United Way also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the service of departing board members: Derek Fields (IU Health), Levi Goss (Old National Bank), Kirsten Grønbjerg (Indiana University), Esthela O’Neill (Ivy Tech Community College – Bloomington), and Jerry Sutherlin (Southern Indiana Area Labor Federation, AFL-CIO). Each of these individuals made significant contributions to the organization’s success through their leadership, dedication, and expertise.
“Each of these individuals has contributed to our mission and community,” the United Way acknowledged. “We’re grateful for their service and wish them all the best in what comes next!”
With a blend of fresh perspectives and continued dedication, the United Way of South Central Indiana is well-positioned to continue its vital work in supporting the community’s needs in the coming year.
