The Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne (CFGFW) has elected four new members to its board of directors, installed officers for the 2026-27 fiscal year, and recognized four outgoing board members for their service and leadership. During their tenure, the Foundation experienced significant asset growth, expanded community investment, and continued refining its grantmaking and governance practices to better serve the region.
“These board members helped lead the Community Foundation through a significant period of growth, evolution, and organizational change,” said President and CEO Brad Little. “Their willingness to ask important questions, embrace change, and thoughtfully guide the organization through new opportunities helped strengthen both the Foundation and our community. We are incredibly grateful for their leadership, service, and lasting impact. Christine, Rob, Shelley, and Sherry have each brought valuable leadership, insight, and commitment to the Community Foundation.”
Outgoing board members:
• Sherry Early, Chair – Principal, Early Consulting
• Christine Boles, Secretary – HR Generalist, Brotherhood Mutual
• Rob Slusser, Treasurer – President and CEO, GreenWay Bank
• Shelley Walker – Project Leader, BFGoodrich
“We are excited to welcome Alisha, Brian, Carly, and Stephanie to our board of directors,” said Little. “They each bring unique professional experience, strong community connections, and a shared commitment to helping our region thrive. We look forward to the perspectives and leadership they will contribute to the Foundation’s future.”
New board members:
• Carly Buchanan – Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer, GreenWay Bank
• Brian Flory – Associate Director, Indiana Program, Solar United Neighbors
• Alisha Norris – Senior Portfolio Manager, Credent Wealth Management
• Stephanie Veit – Vice President, Commercial Banking, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
2026–2027 board officers/executive committee:
• Susan Wesner, Chair – CFO, Greater Fort Wayne, Inc.
• Jason Knothe, Vice Chair – CFO, Micropulse
• Nikki Quintana, Secretary – Executive Director, City of Fort Wayne Metropolitan Human Relations Commission
• Stephanie Carper, Treasurer – Tax Partner, Forvis Mazars US
• Hallie Custer, At-Large Member – Vice President, Human Resources, Parkview Health
• Kody Tinnel, At-Large Member – Vice President of Community Development, Arts United of
Greater Fort Wayne, Inc.
Returning board members:
• Zachary Benedict – President, MKM architecture + design
• Stephanie Crandall – Of Counsel, Barnes & Thornburg LLP
• Paul Sauerteig – Attorney at Law, Snow & Sauerteig LLP
• Gary Shearer – Retired President and CEO, Physicians Health Plan of Northern Indiana, Inc.
• Sarah Schenkel – Partner, CPA, Katz, Sapper & Miller
• Daniel H. Swartz – Community Leader
• Denita Washington – Executive Director, Girlz Rock and Adams Township Trustee
“As we look ahead, we remain focused on growing the Foundation’s impact across our region,” added Little. “In 2025, the Community Foundation continued to expand its charitable assets, increase grantmaking and scholarship support, and strengthen the ways it serves donors and nonprofits. That momentum reflects the dedication of our board, staff, and community partners as they work together to build a stronger future for Allen County.”