We are a partner and ally to those who serve our state’s youth. Our team members educate, equip, and empower others to collectively meet the needs of every Indiana child.
Janna is the Director of Field Operations for Indiana Youth Institute. She builds meaningful relationships across communities, implements statewide engagement strategies, and supports the outreach team through process improvement.
Janna has worked with IYI for four years, starting as an Outreach Manager in the West Central Region. She previously worked in economic development consulting and retail management. Janna graduated from Purdue University with a degree in corporate communication and entrepreneurship, and received her master’s in social work from the University of Michigan, specifically focusing on macro-social work and community organizing.
In her career, Janna has had the opportunity to work with communities in Detroit, Appalachia, and across Indiana to move toward action on community-wide goals. Her favorite way to spend her time out of the office is running, baking, or spending time with the family exploring the world!
Yalonda is IYI’s Senior Outreach Manager working in West Central Indiana to build meaningful relationships, empower partners and peers, and advocate for Indiana’s youth.
Yalonda is a seasoned professional whose expertise spans more than 20 years in both the private and public sectors. She holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership and a host of certifications, including being a certified DEI and child and youth care practitioner. She is also an accomplished speaker and author, leveraging her formal education, real-world experiences, and passion to inspire and motivate girls and women through transformative messages.
Outside of work, Yalonda is a fashion enthusiast and enjoys traveling and researching new dining spots to try with her husband.
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 over a decade 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 at IU Indy, Derek brings a unique blend of artistic talent and strategic thinking to the IYI team.
Derek is a resident of Richmond, where they share a home with their husband, two dogs, and a lively bunch of chickens.
Jennifer is Indiana Youth Institute’s Chief Operating Officer responsible for overseeing the organization’s operating processes. She is a successful human service professional with 26 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and previously served as IYI’s Vice President of Advancement and as the Vice President of Advancement and Programs for Indiana Black Expo, Inc.
Jennifer holds a master’s in public affairs, nonprofit management and a graduate certificate in public management from Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis. She is a member of the Heartland Advisory Council and the RISE Indy Advisory Council, serves on the board of directors for the Catch the Stars Foundation, Inc., Indianapolis Charter School Board, and previously served on the board for Irvington Community Schools.
Jennifer describes her role in the community as one that helps individuals by providing them with the support, tools, training, and latitude to pursue their goals and become the best they can possibly be. This is accomplished through sharing knowledge, skills, and access to the community, which informs them of available opportunities for success. Her favorite quote is, “A person may cause evil to others not only by his actions but by his inaction, and in either case, he is justly accountable to them for the injury.” – John Stuart Mill.
Le’Joy is IYI’s Vice President of Organizational Capacity. She is a native of Indianapolis, with more than 15 years experience in education and nonprofit management. She is passionate about increasing access to equitable education opportunities and supporting youth-serving organizations.
Le’Joy completed a Ph.D. in urban education studies from the Indiana University School of Education, a master’s degree in public administration from Bernard Baruch College in New York through the National Urban Fellows Program and a bachelor’s degree in business management from Indiana University, Bloomington. She has held various roles in secondary and postsecondary education, teaching the third grade, managing K-12 afterschool programs, working in student support services in higher education, and providing strategic direction as a nonprofit executive team member. In addition, Le’Joy has also supported school, community, and government agencies in building organizational capacity through her work as a consultant and leadership coach.
She continues to serve her community as a board member for various community organizations in Maryland and Indiana. Her goal is to increase impact for those she serves through creative, authentic, and engaging approaches and practices.
Nathan is the Program Officer for Indiana Youth Institute’s College, Career, and Counseling Initiative, helping to empower organizations that look to create the successful matriculation of adolescents and young adults into college and career pathways.
Prior to IYI, Nathan worked for more than 20 years in Indiana’s public school system, serving as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and project manager. He also had the opportunity to direct a college access and persistence program for his district.
Nathan is an avid outdoorsman, sports fan, and has coached high school tennis for 21 seasons. He and his wife, Alisha, have three school-age children.
Jessica is Indiana Youth Institute’s Advancement Program Coordinator, assisting the Director of Grants Management and the Vice President of Advancement & Impact with funding applications, reporting, and compliance, and providing logistical support to the Advancement team.
Jessica graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor of Arts in political science and has experience working with a variety of nonprofit organizations on a local and state level, largely in the youth service field.
In addition to spending time with her friends and family, Jessica enjoys reading, painting, and other creative pursuits.
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.
Katy is the Director of Advancement at Indiana Youth Institute. In her role, she takes charge of preparing, writing, and submitting grant applications, ensuring compliance with grant awards, and administering IYI’s prestigious annual D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year Award.
With a Master of Arts in museum studies and a graduate certificate in nonprofit management, Katy brings a wealth of knowledge to her multifaceted role. Her journey to IYI is marked by nearly 15 years of dedicated service at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. In her various roles in education and advancement, she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the intersection between education, culture, and community engagement.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Katy has a passion for exploration. An avid traveler, she aspires to visit all eight continents—recently discovering that Zealandia is the often-overlooked eighth continent.
August is the Client Success Manager at Indiana Youth Institute, connecting youth-serving organizations with qualified consultants to enhance their organizational capacity, strategy, sustainability, and impact.
August is also a social worker committed to social justice, equity, and collective liberation. He holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in social work from the Indiana University School of Social Work. He has also worked in out-of-school time, youth work, nonprofit, and school settings in downtown Indianapolis for a decade.
August identifies as a queer/trans-masculine, neurodivergent extrovert, and lifelong learner. In his free time, he enjoys playing music, listening to podcasts, spending time with his family, and exploring new places.
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.
Megan is the Director of Communications for the Youth Worker Well-Being Project at IYI. She helps lead initiatives that build and execute the Youth Worker Well-Being Project, strengthen marketing and communications, foster strategic partnerships, and expand relationships with project stakeholders.
Megan has more than a decade of career experience in strategic communications and marketing in the nonprofit, public, and for-profit sectors. She holds a master’s in public administration from Indiana University Fort Wayne and a bachelor’s in journalism and political science from IU Bloomington.
Megan enjoys staying active, taking walks with her daughter & dog, reading, gardening, drinking coffee, and volunteering in the community in her free time.
Dawn is IYI’s Outreach Manager working with the East Central Indiana region to build meaningful relationships, empower partners and peers, and advocate for Indiana’s youth. She connects with others and links them to available resources internally at IYI and externally through community partnerships.
She graduated from Ball State University with a degree in criminal justice and criminology and spent 13 years in leadership at a community mental health center, where she developed and oversaw meaningful and equitable programs for youth and families.
In her free time, Dawn loves spending time with family and friends, traveling to any warm beach, and watching any football or baseball game!
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.
Kori is the Vice President of Professional Education at Indiana Youth Institute, and is the guiding force behind the design, development, and execution of all professional education programming.
Since joining IYI in 2018, Kori’s passion and commitment have led her to spearhead initiatives directly supporting youth workers in the field. Her role is not just a job; it is a mission to serve as a vital partner to individuals and organizations impacting the lives of Hoosier children. Kori provides invaluable resources that educate and empower, contributing to improved outcomes for young minds.
Kori completed the Curriculum and Instruction Ph.D. coursework at Indiana State University and holds a Master of Education in secondary education from Indiana Wesleyan University as well as a Bachelor of Arts in English language and literature from Indiana University.
Kori lives by the “work hard, play hard” mantra. She finds joy in traveling the world, always in search of the next new experience. Kori’s dynamic approach to life mirrors her commitment to transforming education and youth services. She is not just a Vice President; she is a visionary leader shaping the future for Hoosier children
Clint is the Vice President of Statewide Engagement & Advocacy for Indiana Youth Institute. His focus includes engaging and empowering IYI’s partners and peers with resources, services, and connections to champion kids and strengthen communities.
Before joining IYI in 2019, Clint worked 20 years for the YMCA to collaboratively address pressing community issues. He holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership and management from Springfield College and a bachelor’s degree from Olivet Nazarene University.
Clint and his wife, Kindi, have four children and a dog. He is also an avid outdoorsman, mushroom hunter, and trail runner.
Michelle is the Youth Worker Well-Being Project Coordinator for Indiana Youth Institute. In her role, she is dedicated to supporting those who make a difference in the lives of Indiana’s youth
Armed with a Bachelor of Science in health sciences, Michelle brings a unique perspective to her role, focusing on the holistic health and wellness of those dedicated to shaping the lives of Indiana’s youth. Having been with IYI since her early days as a work-study intern in the consulting department, her journey exemplifies dedication and growth. Post-graduation, she transitioned into the role of Consulting Administrator, showcasing her commitment to the mission of IYI.
Michelle is also the proud owner of three cats.
Jennifer is IYI’s Senior Outreach Manager working with the North Central Indiana region to build meaningful relationships, empower partners and peers, and advocate for Indiana’s children.
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice and criminology from Ball State University. Prior to joining IYI, she worked for 15 years in the behavioral health field, providing 10 years of direct care services to youth and families and 5 years of program management.
Jennifer loves pygmy goats and has a small herd she raises on her family farm in western Delaware County.
Josh is Indiana Youth Institute’s Senior Educational Content Manager, spearheading the strategy for professional education content. His role involves booking speakers, analyzing data, and staying abreast of trends in youth worker education.
With a Bachelor of Science in economics from Purdue University, and previous roles as the executive director at a local education foundation and as a special education teacher, Josh brings a diverse background to his position.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Josh adds a unique dimension to his life as a member of a punk band showcasing his passion for music. He also dedicates time to coaching high school swimming.
Ashley is Indiana Youth Institute’s Senior Director of Accounting and Technical Systems, working across teams to ensure that IYI’s systems run smoothly and that our technology empowers staff and supports the mission.
With an MBA from Ball State University and CPA credentials, Ashley brings nearly a decade of experience in nonprofit finance and technology, specializing in project management and process improvement. At IYI, she aims to support strategic goals through technology-driven solutions.
Ashley enjoys the challenge of finding ways to make systems work smarter. Outside of work, she’s an avid reader and loves exploring the latest tech trends.
Monica is IYI’s Senior Consulting Project Manager and helps facilitate thought partnerships between youth-serving organizations and third-party consultants.
She started her career as a teacher in Texan military schools and then low-income Latin@ schools in Chicago. Before coming to IYI, she managed a multi-county mentoring program. She is particularly passionate about building organizational capacity through sustainable and high-quality practices, including onboarding and workforce development, healing-centered youth engagement, and the cultivation of safe spaces and belonging.
Monica enjoys hiking, kayaking, reading, and coffee.
Chelsea is IYI’s Senior Outreach Manager connecting locally and supporting youth-serving organizations in Northwest Indiana.
She prioritizes elevating local needs and voices in her work and is eager to form new relationships and deepen existing ones. She is also in search of the best chai latte in NWI and loves meeting at local coffee shops to learn about the work happening to support youth.
Chelsea earned her Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from DePauw University before completing a Master of Arts in the same field at Columbia University. She also completed a year of coursework in the MA program at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Her educational background enriches the way she understands people and communities.
Chelsea’s hobbies include travel, reading, and crafting. She lives in South Bend with three cats: Oscar, Hemingway, and Fitzgerald.
Tanner is IYI’s College and Career Initiative Manager, overseeing the College, Career, and Counseling Initiative by providing support, making connections, and providing resources for organizations around the state. The department supports K-8 programs, career exploration, college access and success, special populations, alternative pathways, health & essential skills, and financial literacy to prepare youth for their next steps.
Before this role Tanner served as the Community Connector for IYI’s Promise Indiana before his role with the College, Career, and Counseling Initiative. He has also been a project manager for a construction company, served as a behavior coach with a community mental health organization, and was a program manager, area director, and safety director for Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County.
Tanner attended Franklin College and received a Bachelor of Arts in religious studies. He began dating his wife on a service-learning trip in Uganda with Franklin College. His family enjoys traveling to national parks and participating in the junior ranger program.
Becky is one of Indiana Youth Institute’s Directors of Quality for the Youth Worker Well-Being Project. She supports Indiana youth workers by implementing programs to improve well-being through access to healthcare, increased workplace equity, and leadership opportunities.
Becky is a human-centered capacity builder who has held various roles in education, nonprofit, and business sectors. In addition, she has led movements for change in schools, communities, and entities through her work as a consultant and community leader. She is passionate about creating equitable spaces and opportunities for those most impacted by disproportionate resources and systemic injustices through relational and innovative approaches.
Becky has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Purdue University and holds certifications in various training, quality, workplace, humanitarian, and equity concepts. She values time with loved ones, nature, and curling up with a good book.
Heather is IYI’s Outreach Manager actively supporting youth workers and advocating for community well-being in Central Indiana.
Heather has a decade of social work career experience, a master’s degree in social work, and is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in social work with a focus on leadership, practice, and community development. She is passionate about mental health in underserved areas, and as the co-founder of Let Them Talk Indy, a nonprofit elevating Black youth voices nationally, Heather addresses community disparities and fosters intergenerational ties. Additionally, she serves on the boards of Community Alliance of the Far Eastside (CAFE) and the Youth Justice Oversight Committee, focusing on legislative advocacy and transitional services for justice-involved youth. She is also an alumnus of the Leadership United Program.
Through her extensive network, Heather provides resources, connections, and education to advance the missions of various community organizations and stakeholders.
Scott is Indiana Youth Institute’s Salesforce Administrator and oversees the management of our Salesforce customer relationship management.
Scott is a Certified Salesforce Administrator and a graduate of Central Christian College in Moberly, Missouri, with a Bachelor of Science degree. He brings more than 30 years of nonprofit experience, 18 years of nonprofit development experience, and more than five years of Salesforce Consultant experience within the nonprofit and education sectors.
Scott has lived in a Skoolie (converted school bus) with his wife since 2020, so they can travel and visit their children and grandchildren. He is also an award-winning wood carver.
Kevin is IYI’s Outreach Manager serving the northeast region of Indiana. He diligently works to build meaningful relationships, empower partners and peers, and advocate for Indiana’s youth. Kevin has been with IYI since April 2022 and brings his 12 years of experience as a child advocate. He is ecstatic to share his passion of serving the youth and youth workers of Northeast Indiana!
Joe is IYI’s Senior Outreach Manager serving Southwest Indiana. As a seasoned liaison and relationship builder, he is dedicated to connecting Indiana youth workers across the southwest region, fostering collaboration, and amplifying their impact. With a knack for networking, Joe serves as a convener, bringing youth workers together and connecting
Before his journey with IYI, Joe’s career unfolded in advertising and marketing. He transitioned to the nonprofit sector with Youth First, Inc., and then the Youth Service Bureau in Evansville, bringing valuable insights and skills to his current role with IYI, which he’s proudly held since 2004.
Outside of his work, Joe’s passion lies in the great outdoors and physical activity. Whether he’s hiking, camping, running, biking, or swimming, you’ll find him embracing the beauty of nature and staying active.
Tami Silverman leads the Institute’s vision, constructing and implementing strategies to fulfill our mission of statewide child success.
Working with the board of directors, Tami determines the overall direction of IYI. She also serves as the organization’s primary spokesperson, advocating for programs, innovations, and policies that benefit children and youth. Tami draws upon her 25 years of experience managing teams to set the stage for dedicated, curious and focused individuals to create positive impact and lasting change.
Since being appointed president and chief executive officer in 2016, Tami has spearheaded efforts to update IYI’s response to the needs of children and the field of youth service. A new strategic plan was introduced in 2017, followed by an organizational re-design, an update of internal technology, and a revamp of the organization’s approach to outreach and engagement. Throughout each of these efforts, Tami has relentlessly infused feedback from youth workers, community leaders and everyone working to help kids.
She currently serves on the Indiana Department of Workforce Development’s Cabinet Youth Committee, the Indiana Criminal Justice Authority’s Juvenile Justice State Advisory Group and Indiana University’s Society of Aeons.
Tami brings to IYI a clear understanding of the challenges faced by many children and families through her experience in family violence prevention and youth leadership and service. It was while working with thousands of homeless, often traumatized children that she confronted first-hand how some children face seemingly insurmountable challenges while others are born with immense resources and support. This has sparked her passion for ensuring that all children can reach their full potential.
Tami was raised in Bloomington, Indiana by a family of educators. Including her parents and spouse, Tami’s family includes 16 Indiana teachers, counselors, and school administrators. She received a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business and master’s and doctorate degrees in public administration from the University of Illinois. After an early career in the private sector, she shifted to the nonprofit sector in 1997, where she continues her family’s tradition of serving children and families.
Tami spent her high school and college summers participating in international exchange programs, living and learning with families around the world. These formative experiences have sparked a lifelong curiosity about diverse people, places, and cultures. Today one of her greatest joys is traveling, both across the country and around the globe, with her beloved and supportive husband, Ross, and their two teenage children.
Marilyn is IYI’s Outreach Manager serving Southeast Indiana. She helps youth workers reach their full potential by pursuing social, personal, and educational development opportunities.
Marilyn has experience in substance abuse prevention and maintains a credential as a certified prevention specialist.
She enjoys gardening, trail running, and trying new foods.
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.
Olga is IYI’s Manager of Evaluation & Impact, managing the data needed for effective program evaluation, grant reporting, and community needs assessment, and utilizing various data-gathering techniques and statistical analysis to convey critical information to stakeholders for decision-making and policy impact.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology and completed master’s level courses in sociology and statistics from California State University. Additionally, she has earned a certification as a Tableau Desktop Specialist.
Olga is an avid animal lover and enjoys exploring new locations, foods, and cultures.
Cassie is the Vice President of Youth Worker Well-Being, overseeing the statewide collaborative Youth Worker Well-Being Project at IYI. She leads this transformative initiative dedicated to enhancing the well-being of Indiana’s youth workers, empowering them for more effective engagement with youth.
Cassie holds a master’s in public administration from Ball State University, a graduate certificate in nonprofit management from Indiana University-Purdue University and is a certified child and youth care worker professional. With 18 years of human service experience, she has provided visionary leadership in diverse realms, including early childhood education, out-of-school time, child abuse and neglect prevention, and intervention. Cassie is an unwavering advocate for intersectional justice and equality.
Beyond her professional dedication, Cassie finds joy in outdoor adventures with her family, exploring new places through travel, immersing herself in a good read, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through exercise.
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.
Erin is the Registration Manager for IYI’s Professional Education, overseeing the registration processes and event technology for all of the organization’s events and webinars, as well as IYI’s Professional Development Grants program. Prior to her current role, Erin worked in IYI’s college and career division. She also has career experience providing direct service in out-of-school time.
Erin holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Indiana University, Bloomington. She has also been an independent photographer since 2015.
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.
Casey is IYI’s Senior Program Manager of conferences and training, overseeing all the logistics of conferences and events that serve as a resource for Indiana’s youth workers. Casey values intentionality and purpose in her work and strives to ensure those things are done with efficiency. She has been with IYI for nearly two years, and brings more than a decade of experience from other youth-centered nonprofit work. Casey has Bachelor of Science in agricultural education from the University of Idaho.
She fills her personal cup by baking and cooking new foods and playing with her two young children.
