Margaret is Indiana Youth Institute’s Senior Communications Manager, leading marketing, communications, and public relations for the organization.

Margaret has created, executed, and managed multichannel marketing campaigns and communications strategies at IYI for more than 5 years. She previously worked in PR agencies and graduated from Ball State University, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communications: Public Relations.   
 
In her career, Margaret has had the opportunity to work on content strategy with National brands as well as targeted community outreach. Her favorite way to spend her time out of the office is going on walks and brunch with her husband and puppy around central Indiana.   

Derek is Indiana Youth Institute’s Creative Brand Manager, overseeing all branding and design projects. 

With a robust background in the nonprofit sector, they have dedicated more than five years to crafting compelling and impactful creative solutions. Derek’s expertise lies in translating complex ideas into visually stunning and meaningful representations, contributing significantly to the organization’s brand identity. 

A graduate of the Herron School of Art & Design, Derek brings a unique blend of artistic talent and strategic thinking to the IYI team.  

Derek is a proud Indianapolis resident, where they share a home with their husband, two dogs, and a lively bunch of chickens. 

Ashley is IYI’s Vice President of Data & Communications, responsible for leading initiatives that build and execute brand, strengthen marketing and communications, foster strategic partnerships, and expand relationships with other influencers and stakeholders. Additionally, Ashley leads IYI’s efforts to educate, equip, and empower the youth services field with actionable data that can drive solutions and positive impact for youth well-being. 

In addition to her background in advertising, community building, and nonprofit marketing, Ashley holds a master’s degree in elementary education. She taught second grade for three years in Washington Township and served as grade level professional learning committee lead. Ashley serves on the board of Beyond Monumental (the Monumental Marathon) as the Monumental Kids Movement program chair. 

Taylor is Indiana Youth Institute’s Policy & Data Advocacy Manager. He develops, supports, and informs existing and new communication efforts related to data, issues, and policy initiatives impacting Indiana youth.  Taylor also provides expertise and insight into a wide range of issues impacting kids and youth workers, including monitoring the status of federal, state, and local policy.

Taylor graduated from Hanover College with a degree in political science and a minor in economics, spending time in Washington D.C. interpreting and analyzing policy. He lives in southern Indiana with his wife Colleen and enjoys staying physically active, playing piano, and exploring culinary arts. 

Bri serves as Indiana Youth Institute’s Data & Research Program Manager, dedicated to enhancing programs and policies for Hoosier youth and leading efforts in research, policy activities, and contributing to key publications like the KIDS COUNT Data Book.   

With bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public administration from Indiana University’s O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Bri excels in communicating data-driven solutions and managing diverse projects. Her impactful academic journey includes leadership roles and honors during her studies, in addition to being awarded the William M. Plater Civic Engagement Medallion, emphasizing a commitment to community service and academic excellence. In her career, Bri has had the opportunity to guide both state and national-level organizations through her critical thinking and data analysis.  

Bri enjoys spending time with her family, reading a good book, and is also a green thumb.    

Erricka is IYI’s Senior Accountant. She has more than 10 years of experience in financials and accounting, and more than six years specifically in nonprofit accounting. She holds a master’s in accountancy from Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis and a bachelor’s in chemistry from Indiana University, Bloomington. Prior to her work at IYI, she served as the finance manager at Joy’s House where she contributed to the audit process, annual budgets, and many other financial processes imperative for organizational success.

Erricka enjoys movie nights with her family, traveling with her husband, and exploring new foods. She loves to watch her three children in their extracurricular activities. Erricka also served in the Army for more than 12 years. 

Donielle is the Payroll & Benefits Manager at Indiana Youth Institute. She plays a crucial role in managing payroll, overseeing new employee onboarding, and administering benefits for our team. 

Starting her journey at IYI as the Accounting Coordinator, Donielle has seamlessly transitioned into her current role, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to the organization, ensuring the smooth functioning of payroll processes and supporting the well-being of our team through comprehensive benefits management. Donielle earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Indiana Wesleyan University. 

Beyond her professional prowess, Donielle brings a touch of joy to the workplace. When not immersed in payroll and benefits, she finds delight in hosting random game nights with her husband and kids at home. Additionally, Donielle and her family open their doors to friends for couples game nights, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. 

Melanie is Indiana Youth Institute’s Accounting Coordinator, providing support and financial expertise throughout the organization. She understands well-equipped youth workers are essential to creating measurable and meaningful impacts on the lives of Indiana’s youth. 
 
Melanie earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from Prairie View A&M University and a master’s degree in public administration nonprofit management from Capella University. She has more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. 
 
Melanie spends her free time traveling with friends and family.