We’re right next door, and we always will be.
You can have a face-to-face conversation with any of us at a moment’s notice.
We know South Madison. It’s our business to know which organizations are providing what services to which groups within our communities — and to help them do the best they can.
We are part of an honored tradition. The foundation was begun by a handful of civic leaders who had a vision for their community’s future. Today, we reap the benefits of the tradition they began, and in turn, it is our responsibility to set the stage for tomorrow’s bright future.
We are committed to stewardship. We comply with stringent national standards. We engage in regular training and development, both in regular meetings and through partnership with the Lilly Endowment, Indiana Philanthropy Alliance, and Council on Foundations. Learn More about SMCF
Betsy Allen, President
Following in her father's footsteps, Betsy is a second generation Foundation Board member. She was born and raised in Pendleton, where she is now working and raising her own family. She is creating a life filled with community involvement and enrichment. Her goal is to have an impact on the community in which her children are raised so they can enjoy wonderful opportunities like she did. Betsy and family spend their free time at the pool and lake with family and look forward to annual family vacations.
Amy Turner, Vice President
Amy Turner is a business owner who loves to unwind in the great outdoors- camping and traveling while keeping her home and business grounded in South Madison County. She sees an excellent quality of life and boundless opportunity in the local community and wants to help others get connected and engaged in the local amenities she knows so well. Always willing to learn more and pitch in to help a community project succeed, Amy has served on Pendleton’s Bicentennial Committee, helped create a local volunteer fair and has served on the Foundation’s grant committee.
Rachel Christenson, Treasurer
Since joining the Town of Pendleton's planning staff in 2012, Rachel has helped the town secure nearly $7 million in state and federal grants. She has guided the town's comprehensive plan and plans for bikes/pedestrians, downtown revitalization, parks and more. Rachel is a Ball State graduate who's certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners. She's also a graduate of the Leadership Academy of Madison County and was selected to The Herald Bulletin's 20 Under 40 in 2017. Current and past board service includes the Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau and Main Street Pendleton. When Rachel moved to Pendleton for its character, sense of place, historic feel and Falls Park, she told her family, "I want to work for this town one day."
Connie Rector, Secretary
Connie is the proprietor of a downtown Pendleton business, a yoga instructor, an artist, teacher, environmentalist, and volunteer for many community organizations. She has long admired the Foundation’s work in the community and looks forward to representing the organization as a member of the Board.
Lori Brand
Lori Brand teaches Kindergarten in South Madison Community School Corporation. A graduate of Ball State University, she's been a Pendleton resident for 25 years. A mother of two, Lori enjoys spending time with family and friends. She looks forward to serving the community foundation because of her desire to help the youth of South Madison County now and on into their adulthood and beyond.
Mark Dudley
Judge Mark Dudley lives in rural Madison County. He is the father of six daughters. Recognizing the importance of parental involvement, Mark volunteers for team concession stands, mows the Pendleton Heights High School Cross Country course, times swim meets, and participates in several running road races with his family every year.
Scott Hersberger
Scott Hersberger brings caring community involvement and a giving spirit to the South Madison Community Foundation Board of Directors. He is a funeral director in Lapel, a member of the Madison County Funeral Directors Association, the Indiana Funeral Directors Association, a lifetime member of Trinity United Methodist Church, a former Lapel Town Council member, and a member and former president of the Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation. Scott loves to cook, hike, and travel and believes South Madison County is a wonderful place to raise a family. He looks forward to serving the Foundation and in increasing its ability to fund projects that benefit our residents.
Dustin Pennington
Dustin Pennington is a Certified Financial Planner who brings financial management and wealth transfer experience to the Board of Directors, where he is interested in helping others fulfill a legacy that lasts beyond their lifetime. He is involved with the Pendleton Business Association, Ovid Community Church, and the Pendleton Lions Club, where he helps run the annual Fishing Derby and June Jamboree. Dustin and wife Amanda enjoy travel, camping, helping their children with sports, and living in a small town with character.
Pam Shuck
Pam is a long time Foundation volunteer and committee member. She values community involvement and serves with the Lapel Community Association, Trinity United Methodist Church, and the Town of Lapel's Board of Zoning Appeals. A retired elementary school teacher, Pam has six grandchildren, all living locally. Her hobbies include reading, antiquing, and gardening; she is also a former drag racer.
Mitchell Smith
Mitchell Smith is the Foundation’s youngest Board member (of all time) and the newest, yet he brings a wealth of experience in boards and associations on the local, collegiate, and national level. Smith is a farmer, selling both cattle and seed. He started his business at the age of 16 and has a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University. He has returned to South Madison County where he loves the community and its neighborliness. His wish for South Madison County’s bright future is for community members to continue to grow closer.