The Ripley County Community Foundation is proud to welcome four new members to its Board of Directors: Jacob Koehne, Tracy Lemon, Deb Shumate, and Dave Westmeyer. Their individual strengths, combined with their passion and shared mission, will help drive continued growth and opportunity in Ripley County.
New Board Member Introductions
Jacob Koehne is a 2019 Marketing graduate of the University of Indianapolis and currently serves as the territory manager for Stonhard, where he oversees sales and installations of resinous flooring for commercial and industrial clients. He resides in Oldenburg where he is a volunteer and avid supporter of Village events. Jacob also serves as a track & field coach at Oldenburg Academy. Jacobshared, “I was born and raised in Ripley County. I believe it’s important to do what you can to better your community. The opportunity of joining the Ripely County Community Foundation Board provides a direct way to impact my community.”
Tracy Lemon, retired in 2022 from The Friendship State Bank after 38 years, including 33 years as a Consumer/Commercial Loan Officer. He also served on the bank’s Board of Directors beginning in 2014. In addition, he was a member of the Ripley County Sheriff’s Merit Board for over 25 years, serving as the Sheriff’s appointee through six successive administrations. “I feel privileged to serve the Community Foundation as a new board member.” Tracy stated. He continued, “The Foundation has had such a positive impact on our county; improving the quality of life of our residents in many ways, through scholarships, as well as grants for community development.”
Deb Shumate is a Professor & Clinical Coordinator of Surgical Technology at Cincinnati State. She also currently serves as the Town Board President for the Town of Milan. Deb commented, “I always aim to use my skills and passions to contribute to building a better community. The Ripley County Community Foundation does so many wonderful things, and I’m honored to be on the board. I hope to make more connections, make a positive impact, and help more people in all Ripley County communities.”
David Westmeyer is a native of Versailles and graduate of South Ripley High School (Class of ’72). David went on to attend Eastern Kentucky University and the University of Southern California. Retired pilot, serving in the US Marine Corps and UPS, David is a member of the Versailles Legion Post #173 and Versailles Masonic Lodge #7, serving in the Grand Masonic Lodge of Indiana. David shared, “I have been involved with the Foundation for many years through my family’s and my organization’s scholarship programs, promoting our future by helping to develop our youth. I am pleased to further engage with the Foundation and take on a more active role in an organization that has made significant contributions to our community.”
The Ripley County Community Foundation is excited to have Jacob, Tracy, Deb, and Dave join its board as their diverse perspectives and experiences will help drive the Foundations mission forward. Along with the rest of the Community Foundation Board of Directors, they will support initiatives that promote philanthropy, empower our community, and enhance the quality of life for Ripley County residents.
Gratitude for Outgoing Board Members
The Ripley County Community Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to our outgoing board members: Andy Jaisle, Shayla Sattler, and Doug Rump. We are deeply grateful for their service, steadfast commitment, and contributions to the advancement of the Community Foundation’s mission. Their leadership and dedication have strengthened our organization and created lasting value for the Ripley County community.
How to Get Involved
The Ripley County Community Foundation invites all residents to take an active role in strengthening our community. Whether through volunteering, giving, or participating in local initiatives, your involvement helps create meaningful and lasting change.
Volunteerism plays a vital role in building a thriving Ripley County. When community members share their time, talent, and passion, they help support programs that enrich lives, expand opportunities, and foster a stronger sense of connection throughout the county. Every volunteer, no matter how much time they can give, contributes to creating a more vibrant and resilient community for all.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, charitable giving, or ways to support local initiatives, contact the Ripley County Community Foundation at (812) 933-1098. The Foundation is committed to Connecting People Who Care with Causes that Matter and is located at 13 E. George Street, Suite B, Batesville.
