Boone County Leadership

Get involved. Drive positive change.

THE 2025 APPLICATION WINDOW HAS CLOSED.

Applications for the 2026-27 cohort will be accepted in late 2025. Stay tuned.

Boone County Leadership (BCL) aims to develop a county-wide leadership network, equipping participants to become responsible, active, and well-informed citizens who are ready to collaboratively address local issues, embrace the growth coming to our community, and help Boone County excel as an exceptional place to live, work, and play. The curriculum provides a well-rounded education about important issues and facets of the county, while guiding participants on an intentional journey to further develop leadership skills. By the end of the program, individuals will be connected with like-minded people ready to get more involved in the community and drive positive change.

2025-26 Boone County Leadership Cohort

Shon Bechtold
North Salem State Bank

Lisa Condes
Harmony IN Horses

Samantha Cotten
Community Foundation of Boone County

Derek Dimiceli
North Mechanical Contracting & Service

Suzanne Farid
Executive Consultant

Joel Fleming
The Hagerman Group

Elizabeth Frost
Zionsville Police Department

Kaki Garard
Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library

Aaron Gibbons
Zionsville Fire Department

Ashlee Herrington
Fluor Corporation

Rae Hostetler
Hostetler Public Relations

LeeAnne Kammeyer
LP1

Alexa Lingg
Town of Zionsville

Lauren Matlock
Boys & Girls Club of Boone County

Natalie Perry
Community Action of Greater Indianapolis

Dan Sellers
Witham Health Services

Kelli Shepherd
Boone County Mentoring Partnership

Michelle Hight-Thomas
TCC Software Solutions

Joseph Turney
Whitestown Metropolitan Police Department

Violet Worth
The Hagerman Group

Years of developing leaders via BCL

BCL alumni

Application Deadline

Day(s)

:

Hour(s)

:

Minute(s)

:

Second(s)

Testimonials

“My experience in the Boone County Leadership program was invaluable, primarily due to the strong connections I formed with my cohort and other community members. These relationships have proven to be a lasting asset, me both personally and professionally long after the program’s conclusion.”

Kristen Scott
Assistant Principal, Lebanon High School

“I would encourage anyone with a connection to Boone County, either as a resident or through their employer, to consider applying to participate in the program. The introductions to people, organizations and companies are so valuable. The overall experience will impact your life journey, both personally and professionally.”

Don Barrett
Owner, The UPS Store, 2670 & 6991

“Each day of the BCL experience was fascinating. However, when I think back, the agricultural day really sticks out in my mind. The work that goes into planning each season, the various factors that can impact the process, and the technological advances are truly remarkable. The family aspect of farming still seemed to be at the heart of a successful business. I’d encourage all leaders and future leaders to check out BCL to see what makes Boone County such a unique place to live, work, and play!”

Trina Rose
Wellness Coordinator, Witham Health Services

“My biggest takeaway from BCL was learning about volunteer opportunities in Boone County that I had been unaware of. As a direct result of my involvement in BCL, I was privileged to serve on the board of the Boone County United Way… which led me to becoming a “Read Up” tutor to fourth grade students at Stokes Elementary in Lebanon… which then led me to becoming a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for children in Boone County. I doubt I would have ever learned about these needs and opportunities, let alone participate in them, without having taken the class.”

Amy Wagner
Boone County resident

“I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the County in which I was raised, from Dull’s Tree Farm – where I learned there is a lot more you can do there than just Christmas trees, to Sylvia’s Child Advocacy Center— which I never knew even existed, and once I knew who they were and what they did, I began to volunteer and assist them with their mission to reduce the trauma to child victims from abuse. Every time I attended a BCL class I learned about amazing things happing right here in my own backyard, and the relationships that were established during the class will be around for a lifetime.”

James VanGorder
Fire Chief, Town of Zionsville

2025-26 BCL Calendar

Date	Type
June 24, 2025	2025 BCL Cohort Social
August 12, 2025	BCL Meeting
September 9, 2025	BCL Meeting
October 14, 2025	BCL Meeting
November 12, 2025	BCL Meeting
December 9, 2025	Happy Hour / Social
January 13, 2026	BCL Meeting
February 10, 2026	BCL Meeting
March 10, 2026	BCL Meeting
April 14, 2026	BCL Meeting
May 6, 2026	Graduation Dinner

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Boone County Leadership?

Boone County Leadership is a program aimed at fostering community involvement among residents and professionals. It educates participants on ways to address local issues and encourages increased involvement upon completion of the program.

Who can apply for the program?

Boone County residents and/or professionals who are interested in learning about our community and committed to becoming more involved in ways to better Boone County are encouraged to apply.

What does the program curriculum include?

The curriculum covers various topics including but not limited to philanthropy in community development, corporate social responsibility, health and wellness, building sustainable community programs, agriculture and environmental stewardship, public safety and policy, inclusion and social equity, and leveraging education to break generational cycles.

How long is the program?

The program runs August – May, with an optional social gathering during the summer.

Is there a cost to participate?

The cost of the program is $1,000 to cover materials and resources. Scholarships or financial assistance are available as needed. Payment may be made by the participant, their employer as a sponsorship, or any other external resource.

How are participants selected?

Selection is based on an application process that includes a review of the applicant’s background, motivation, and commitment to community leadership by a committee established by the Community Foundation of Boone County. We welcome and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. Regardless of race, gender, age, occupation, or any other characteristic, we value the unique perspectives and talents that each person brings. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed. Your unique experiences and viewpoints are not only welcomed but celebrated here.

What is the time commitment for participants?

The program meets once a month for 10 months, times varying but generally from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Participants must attend 8 of the 10 sessions.

How can I apply for the program?

Applications are submitted online through the BCL website. The 2025-26 cohort application window is open Nov. 8, 2024 – Jan. 18, 2025.

Who can I contact for more information?

For more details, contact Hope Coons, Director of Community Engagement at the Community Foundation of Boone County: hope@communityfoundationbc.org.