Minnetrista reorganizes leadership

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens of Muncie has developed a new leadership model, with Brian Statz to remain CEO and Lindsey Horan to step into the new role of president.

Statz has been with Minnetrista since January 2023. He was previously vice president of operations and general counsel for The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

Horan joined Minnetrista as vice president of philanthropy in 2019 and has served in various roles since then.

“This model allows Minnetrista to lead with both strategic clarity and operational strength,” said Statz in a news release. “By intentionally sharing leadership at the highest level, we are better positioned to advance our mission and respond to the evolving needs of our community.” 

“This structure reflects the collaborative leadership culture that already exists at Minnetrista,” Horan added. “I am honored that the Board has asked me to step into this role, and I look forward to expanding my partnership with Brian to continue delivering meaningful experiences to our community.” 

Leaders named

Indiana Manufacturers Association has named Paul Perkins as its chair for 2026.

Perkins is president and co-founder of Amatrol. Matt Smorch, president and CEO of CountryMark, was selected as vice chair.

"The IMA's Executive Committee and Board of Directors are key to keeping the voice of Indiana's manufacturers at the center of our mission," said Andrew Berger, president and CEO of the Indiana Manufacturers Association, in a news release. "I am thankful for our volunteer leaders who contribute their time, expertise and vision. I look forward to working with each of them this next year to continue to make Indiana the best state for manufacturing."

Launching program

Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s Wellness Council of Indiana is working with Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Division of Mental Health to launch Recovery at Work.

The new program is a statewide training series designed to help employers build supportive workplaces for those struggling with substance use disorder. The two-part training sessions will be held in seven counties.

“Employers play a critical role in both preventing and addressing substance misuse, yet many feel unsure of where to start or how to expand their efforts,” said Wellness Council of Indiana executive director Ashley O’Rourke in a news release. “Whether you’re just getting started or expanding your efforts, this training series will provide valuable insights to move forward.

“Substance use disorder impacts every workforce in some way, regardless of industry or size. Recovery at Work is designed to give employers practical tools, trusted partnerships and clear next steps to build recovery-ready workplaces that support their people while strengthening business stability and performance.”

The training sessions are free and open to the public. Sessions in Allen County will be held April 8 and 29. Sessions in Marion County are slated for September.

Expanding team

Shafer Leadership Academy announced last week that it will expand its facilitation team for programs in east central Indiana.

The organization said there has been increased interest from employers in manufacturing, healthcare and financial services. It will add a new facilitator to support leadership programs, including design, evaluation and continuous improvement.

“Our partners are asking for leadership development that is relevant to their people and their environment, not one-size-fits-all programming,” said Tisha Gierhart, chief facilitation officer at Shafer Leadership Academy, in a news release. “Expanding our facilitation team allows us to deliver more customized experiences while maintaining the depth, quality, and intentionality our participants expect.”

Shafer is a nonprofit organization that provides leadership development training through programs, facilitation and assessment.

VP retires

Christina M. Bennett has retired from Indiana Bankers Association.

Bennett had been with the organization for 35 years. She was most recently vice president for its education department.

“The IBA has long been proud of the education we provide for our members’ employees, and Chris has been one of the key factors behind that,” said Amber R. Van Til, president and CEO of the bankers association, in a press release. “She was the driving force behind our Mega Conference, which, with nearly 1,300 attendees annually, continues to set the standard for state bankers associations nationwide. We wish her the best in her well-earned retirement.”

Hosting drive

Menards stores are holding a pet supplies drive through the end of March.

Supplies needed include food, treats, feeders, collars and beds. Items collected will be donated to local humane associations.

Donation boxes will be near the doors at Menards locations, including in Muncie, Richmond and Celina, Ohio.