Meet our 2021-2022 Leaders
District Leaderships are all volunteer opportunities to get hands on leadership training and practice. Some positions are voted for by the district toastmaster members, and others are appointed by a District Leader. It is an honor to serve and lead our District.
DISTRICT DIRECTOR
Scott Brown, DTM
Why Toastmasters?
When I first walked into the Altamonte Articulators in May 2012, I had no idea what to expect. In the past 9+ years, Toastmasters has helped me find my voice by giving me a platform to help others find their voice. I never expected to find a tribe, or build a family, let alone learn to love speaking from a stage, but that’s exactly what I found.
What are your hobbies and passions?
My wife and I still play coed softball a couple of days a week in the summer. We also love going to TinCaps games. While I don’t seem to fit the profile, I also love to run. Having completed close to a dozen half marathons, and one full marathon, I am currently training to get back into half shape.
I don’t believe Toastmasters was ever intended to be a solo pursuit. It is always best when experienced as a community. My goal for both myself and for the district, this year is to build deeper relationships and enhance our community. I have learned this year how the distance between members can impact not just the health of clubs, but more importantly, the health of individuals.
Program Quality Director
Club Growth Director
Mark Mandel, DTM
I joined toastmasters in 2001 while having seen how this program has benefited myself and others. I am “living the dream” through my club Vineyard Toastmasters and District 11. I’m learning and watching others grow.
English born and living in Indianapolis with my long suffering wife Mindy and two college bound children (Alex and Heather). I am a safety leader by day in addition to my toastmaster addiction.
My goal for this year is to have fun and learn along the way.
Mark Walton, DTM
Why Toastmasters?
I joined Toastmasters Pioneer 17 Club in 2013 . I’ve served in most club officer roles, and twice as a Division Director. I am currently a member of four clubs – Pioneer 17 TMC, Seymour TMC, Vineyard TMC and Global Online Advanced TMC.
Public Relations Manager
Administration Manager
Finance Manager
Immediate Past District Director
Candace Williams
Candace is a valuable member of the team and has been admin manager previously.
Why Toastmasters?
I was initially motivated to join Toastmasters after realizing how it would help me fine tune my speaking skills as a trial attorney.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I love going to concerts and over the last 12 years have been to approximately 30. I want to grow fully comfortable with myself as a speaker; I want my replacement to embrace change and technology. The #1 thing I want to tell everyone is: “To Keep Going!”
Position is OPEN
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
Jean Wolfe, DTM
After many years of referring people to Toastmasters, Jean decided to invest in herself. One of her most cherished benefits to being a Toastmaster is the friendships throughout the district and the world, the most incredible people with hearts for helping others be their best.
Jean loves trips to the beach, especially Weko beach in Bridgman Michigan to relax and recharge. Jean leaves a legacy of shifting our culture and creating a strong community. She is passionate about the Let’s Give it a Try! to take risks, explore ideas and discover your own hidden gems of talent!
Division Directors
Division A
Christy Sheward, DTM
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to improve my confidence in public speaking and build a network in my new community of Plymouth Indiana. That was January 16, 2015. Fast forward to July 1, 2020 I now belong to 2 toastmasters clubs. Wythougan Toastmasters that meets in Plymouth where I hold the coveted office of President and Great Lakes Advanced Toastmasters Club (GLAT) that meets in Crown Point Indiana where I am a charter member and VPM I also chose to branch out to serve the District 11 Division A as Area 13 Director where I got to work closely with 6 clubs for past 2 years. 2021 is a stellar year to join Toastmasters!
Ed Witham is Area Director for 4 clubs:
Rob Fox is the Area Director for 5 clubs:
- Tuesday Night Toastmasters
- Mishatalkers Club
- Everence Toastmasters Club
- Notre Dame Toastmasters Club
- Toast Like A Champion Today
Why Toastmasters?
A colleague was joining Toastmasters in the spring of 2014 and that sounded like something interesting to try out. I had heard about Toastmasters previously but had no experience with it. One of my goals was to become a better communicator and overcome my intense and irrational fear of speaking in front of audiences. My favorite part of Toastmasters is getting to know other people and hearing their stories. The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is that trying to be genuine is the most attractive aspect of public speaking.
I’m an Information Technology Manager. I’ve been a manager now for over 9 years and prior to that I held various positions as lead software developer. I’ve grown to enjoy management because it’s an opportunity to help develop other people and help them achieve their goals. Right now I’m privileged to work with a very talented software engineering team.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I love reading and learning. But I also like to engage in creative arts. So I build and paint miniatures. I love completing projects, learning new techniques, and getting better at a craft. Plus it’s very relaxing. I’m passionate about people – getting to know a wide range of people from different backgrounds and professions. And I’m passionate about trying to help people be the best they can be.
I’m working on active listening, and listening to understand. People communicate their values both verbally and non-verbally. Understanding people’s values makes you a better colleague and friend.
Greg Sheward is Area Director for 4 clubs:
4. ZimmerBiomet Toastmasters Club
I am a Regional General Manager for Aramark Correctional Food Service within Indiana Department of Corrections. My primary responsibility is overseeing 5 facilities with a total of 10 kitchens, 1 warehouse, in Northern Indiana. My secondary responsibilities include over-site and subject matter expert for the 6 certified Kosher Kitchens within IDOC and providing training and audit support across the state as well as the Central Region for Aramark. I have been in correctional food service within IDOC for 19+ years and in my current position for 8 years.
Why Toastmasters?
I joined on my Father’s Birthday in 2017 after he passed January of that year. I was visiting the club, supporting my Amazing, Beautiful Wife, DTM Christy Sheward, in her goal to become DTM, and driving her to visit other clubs and attend trainings. It seemed like something that we could do together and have fun, so I decided to join. I have been fortunate to participate in club and district contests, have been president and am current president of our club, and now am in a district leadership position working for my DTM as Christy works toward her second. I have also benefitted from TM training and practice at work by being able to provide, coherent 10–30-minute training sessions as well as prepared sessions with staff, in front of clients, and executive staff.
What are your hobbies and passions?
My passion is my Amazing, Beautiful Wife Christy Sheward, our kids, and our grand babies (Kylo 3 and Stella 1). I enjoy cooking, reading, and watching movies as well.
Becky Fuller is Area 14 Director of 4 Clubs:
- Valparaiso Club
- Wythougan Toastmasters Club
- Great Lakes Advanced Toastmasters
- Singing Sands Toastmasters
Why Toastmasters?
I am a former marketer and future architect who joined Toastmasters to improve my public speaking skills.
What are your hobbies and passions?
In my spare time I travel as often as possible, make art, take lots of photos, read voraciously, love food (both cooking and eating) and am learning Italian. I enjoy playing with technology and am pretty good at simplifying technology concepts for those who are willing to learn. I hope to one day speak globally about architecture and architectural styles, as well as consult about architectural styles in film. I also hope to address how architecture can be utilized as a key tool in addressing many of our pressing global concerns.
Division B
Why Toastmasters?
I have always loved public speaking. I was on the high school speech team and had very fond memories from that experience. I had never heard of Toastmasters before joining, but I was curious enough to attend a meeting with a friend. I have developed close relationships through our club and have many treasured memories from our time together.
What are your hobbies and passion?
My hobbies include running our church library, scrap-booking, coaching, and leading a girl scout troop. My goal for this year is growth in leadership skills. The #1 thing I want to tell everyone is: “Don’t be afraid to try new experiences. The blessings that we receive when we have faith and trust in the process definitely outweigh the fear factor.”
Jeff Simerman is the Area Director for 5 Clubs:
1. Bob Leihman Toastmasters Club
2. Summit City Toastmasters Club
3. Wall Street Speak-Easy Club
5. Vulcraft Indiana Toastmasters
Why Toastmasters?
I am a life long member of “The Introverts Club”, so I joined the Wall Street Speak-Easy TM Club 16 years ago to help meet other people and to develop public speaking and leadership skills. Those skills have had a dramatic impact on obtaining my career and personal goals!
What are your bobbies and passions?
I’ve been blessed with a beautiful wife, four great kids, and a rambunctious granddaughter.
Thomas Hullinger is Area Director for 4 clubs:
1. Anthony Wayne Toastmasters Club
2. Lunchtime Speaking to Succeed Club
I’ve been married for 45 years with 2 daughters, a son-in-law, and 5 grandchildren. I’m an Indiana University graduate and have a solo practice as a CPA.
What are your hobbies and passions?
Most sports I am interested in with baseball and basketball as my favorites. I enjoy classic rock and attending concerts.
David Klopfenstein, DTM is Area Director for 3 clubs:
1. Fort Wayne/Smoky Montgomery TM Club
David is currently “retired” and overseeing a home restoration for his house built in 1920.
Why Toastmasters?
He joined Toastmasters in 1996 while in Florida on the recommendation of a friend, and absolutely loved the camaraderie of the environment. Now a member of two clubs, one in Indiana and one in Florida, he loves the feel of Toastmasters as a family that helps others along the journey of life. Together, we can make a difference.
What are your hobbies and passions?
David loves gardening when the weather permits, working on, designing and setting up a pond in the backyard, and of course, helping out with Toastmasters is a passion as well. Another passion is Karaoke. Did you know that Karaoke is another form of communication that helps with presenting one-self? David is looking forward to meeting new friends with fellow toastmasters this year. Are you ready for an adventure? Find your purpose, your passion, your unique place in the world…and fight for it.
Division C
Why Toastmasters?
I first joined Toastmasters to help with giving presentations while getting my MBA degree. As a scientist, I felt I had some public speaking catching up to do compared to the other students in my class. I think the real benefit of Toastmasters is not simply practicing public speaking but giving and receiving feedback in a constructive way. In a business setting, being able to artfully facilitate meetings is a plus as well.
What are your hobbies and passion?
I am an avid reader of self improvement and leadership books – Brene Brown and Simon Sinek are two of my favorite authors. I enjoy watching baseball – the St. Louis Cardinals are my favorite but my favorite sport to play when I get the chance to is tennis. When I am not “Toast-mastering”, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Ilona, and two daughters Emma and Nora.
I plan to learn from a diverse group of speakers and leaders to learn to better appreciate a broad set of backgrounds and experiences as they contribute and strengthen a team. I would like to build back up interest in first time district officers within my division.
The #1 thing I want to tell everyone is: “Toastmasters is about growing personally and professionally. It is also about giving back once you have achieved your goals. For every SMART goal, have a HEART goal too.”
Joseph C Phillips, DTM is the Area Director for 4 Clubs:
1. Beacon Advanced Communicators Club
2. Got Toast?
Why Toastmasters?
My motivation to join Toastmasters came with a former employee inviting me to attend a club meeting. After that initial meeting, 23-years ago, I have been a member every sense. I have benefited from Toastmasters in the following ways: Served as a District, Program Quality, Division and Area Director. Lead District 11 to Distinguish Status 2016-2017.
What are your hobbies and passions?
Gardening, traveling, volunteering, and spending time with family.
Lead Area 31 to distinguish status this year.
ADELE BORDERS is Area Director for 6 clubs:
2. Greenfield Toastmaster Club
3. Fort Harrison Toastmasters Club
4. Leadership Outreach Toastmasters Club
I work for Department of Defense – Army. I am in the finance/accounting side of the house, specifically I working for USAFMCOM (United States Army Financial Management Command). I oversee 17 Army sites/installations in the Continental US. It entails visiting the Finance Director’s office to review their processes to ensure that they adhere to the regulations set forth for them in order to pass the yearly audit.
Why Toastmasters?
I joined because in 2016, I received a “not-so-great” performance evaluation from my supervisor who suggested for me to join Toastmasters because I do not volunteer to facilitate meetings and briefing the executives (but if it is mandatory to do so, the supervisor said I can do them without any problem). He wanted to see me volunteering on my own and not to be told or assigned to brief. I joined in August 2016 and since then I have come out of my box with the Toastmasters help, of course.
What are your hobbies and passions?
My passion is my family and my church. I have 3 wonderful children – Logan-14; Chrisi-12 in November 2021; and Alexa-12 in January 2022. My hobbies are traveling and reading. I also like to listen to TED TALKS.
OPEN is Area Director for 5 clubs:
3. Roadmasters
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
OPEN is the Area Director for 6 clubs:
1. Dynamic Club
5. Rolls-Royce
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
Laura Anderson is Area Director for 5 clubs:
2. Business and Community Toastmasters
3. Indy Free Speakers Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
Toastmasters was recommended to me by a fellow student when attending a speech class in college at age 40+. The individual belonged and thought I would enjoy it. When my employer started a group, I joined and have never regretted the decision. I’ve been a member of Toastmasters for 25+ years. I belong to several Toastmasters clubs; a former club mentor and club coach. In addition I was a Pathways Guide when the program was introduced to District 11.
What are your hobbies and passions?
As a semi-professional volunteer, you can often see me at several of the local Indianapolis live theaters ushering. I’m on the “God Mail” committee at my church and involved with several different programs there. Because this is not enough to keep me busy, I also belong to a group involved with high school friends who I graduated with and another group of city-wide people who also graduated the same year I did who plan different events. In my spare time, I take dance lessons and enjoy being with my children and try to spoil my grandchildren and great-grandchildren whenever possible. This year I hope to meet even more Toastmasters at the different area/division/district events and get new ideas and/or learn different approaches to the many areas Toastmasters covers.
Division D
Open
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
OPEN is the Area Director of 4 Clubs:
3. Kentuckiana Women in Leadership
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
OPEN is Area Director for 5 clubs:
Division E
Kathy Cunningham is the immediate Past President of Twin Bridges Toastmasters in Avon, IN. As a wife and mother of three adult children, she is currently figuring out what she wants to be when she grows up. If there was all the time in the world, Kathy would love to travel, paint, sing, dance, enjoy nature and cook; BUT, since there isn’t all the time in the world, she ends up spending what time she has on exercise, fixing up her house, going on “sunset cruises” around town with her husband and maybe having a coffee date with a friend or two, enjoying life as it comes.
Christina Owens is the Area Director of 4 Clubs:
Christina is a Manager of Portfolio Modeling for ACES, a portfolio manager of electric cooperatives around the country. She leads a team that works to forecast needs up to 5 years out. She says she spends a lot of time working on models and spreadsheets.
Christina joined Toastmasters to gain more comfort doing presentations at work, never expecting to meet amazing people that would change her life, making it easier to form friendships as an unexpected benefit.
Christina loves trail running, obstacle course racing, camping and hiking as well as reading, doing puzzles and games to unwind. She is growing her leadership skills with toastmasters with plenty of opportunities to practice.
Steven Pelletier is Area Director for 6 clubs:
1. Bloomington Good Morning Club
3. Toastmasters Club at Kelly School of Business
5. High Noon Toastmasters Club
6. We’re M.A.D.
Why Toastmasters?
I decided to join Toastmasters after years of hearing about it and saying to myself “no way”. It was not until a coworker recommended it that I finally decided to give it a try. This was at a time in my career that I became most aware of the fact that I needed to do something to improve this weakness of mine – public speaking. It was a great decision to join. I have already learned a lot more than I have over years of thinking I would just get more comfortable with it over time.
Dave Williams is Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. Crane Club
3. Brownsburg Toastmasters Club
4. B.S. Talkers
Deepti Vjaykumar is Area Director for 6 clubs:
4. Red Engine Toastmasters Club
6. Seymour Toastmasters Club (STC)
I am a high performance coach with a passion for public speaking and leadership. I have been a past club President at the Columbus club in Indiana.
Division F
Why Toastmasters?
I joined Toastmasters in 1988 in New Jersey with an objective to be more comfortable speaking in public. Shortly thereafter, a leadership path was added. That in itself was unexpected. However, the biggest unexpected benefit for me was the joy that I get when Toastmasters I have advised, formally or informally, succeed!
What are your hobbies and passions?
I have two main hobbies: I enjoy genealogy, having traced parts of my family back to the 15th century. I also enjoy antique vehicles and in the furtherance of that hobby, I am a Senior Master Judge for the Antique Automobile Club of America.
I intend to run for Club Growth Director this coming spring. The nomination process for this position almost always requires competition. I have never campaigned for myself before, so creating my campaign committee will be my personal growth activity for this year.
The #1 thing I want to tell everyone is: “When you get overwhelmed, seek help. Help can always be found from fellow Toastmasters.”
Alverto Martinez is the Area Director of 4 Clubs:
Venkatraman Mahadevan is Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. New Albany Toastmasters Club
2. Steamboat Toastmasters Club
5. Illuminators
Subramani Swaminadhan is Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. St. Matthews/Lyndon Toastmasters Club
2. Legendary Communicators’ Club
3. GE Appliance Park Toastmasters
Why Toastmasters?
I liked talking to people, but was apprehensive about talking in a big group. Toastmasters has helped me structure my speech very effectively and to deliver it with confidence like never before!
I am working on my goal to network with professionals from different fields and enhance my outlook of the world. The #1 thing I want to tell everyone is: “Stay positive! You are your best coach and your best critic. Believe in yourself and achieve greatness.”
Shuyi Zhou is Area Director for 4 clubs:
Division G
Linda Mullen is the Area Director for 5 Clubs:
0pen is Area Director of 4 clubs:
3. Hanna Center Toastmasters Club
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
OPEN is Area Director of 4 clubs:
4. Power Talkers
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
Division H
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
OPEN is Area Director of 4 Clubs:
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
Open is Area Director of 4 clubs:
1. Toastmasters Club of Fishers
3. Westfield Toastmasters Club
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
OPEN is Area Director of 4 clubs:
3. Associated Speechmasters Toastmasters Club
If you are interested in this role to earn your DTM or just practice your leadership skills, please contact Mark Walton, Club Growth Director
OPEN is Area Director for 5 clubs:
3. Nora Toastmasters By the Pyramids
5. St. Luke’s Toastmaster Club