Meet our 2022-2023 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
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.
Program Quality Director
Club Growth Director
Rick Holtmeier, DTM
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?
There are two main hobbies I enjoy: The first is genealogy, having traced parts of my family back to the 15th century. The second is antique vehicles and in the furtherance of that hobby, I am a Senior Master Judge for the Antique Automobile Club of America.
The #1 thing I want to tell everyone is: “When you get overwhelmed, seek help. Help can always be found from fellow Toastmasters.”
Carol Crouse, DTM
Why Toastmasters?
As a seasoned Toastmaster for over 20 years, I have taken several leadership positions in the clubs I’ve belonged to: Vice President Membership, Vice President Public Relations. My organizational and people skills are a good fit for my most recent office, Vice President Education.
I was singled out by a highly respected, longtime Toastmaster Marlene Purdy to reluctantly filling in as Area 11 Director in 2014 and over the next few years as Area Director for Area 12.
During my tenure several areas earned Distinguished and President’s Distinguished status.
I have served as Division Director, Web Master and on the Realignment Committee.
What are your hobbies and passions?
My philosophy is that it is easier to rebuild a club than to start a new one, though I have helped to start several new clubs.
Pickle-ball is my passion! I love to play! I have an old coin collection and collect horse statures from the past. Three or 4 day road trips are always in my view!
Public Relations Manager
Administration Manager
Finance Manager
Zoom Manager
Immediate Past District Director
David Klopfenstein, DTM
Why Toastmasters?
I 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, I feel Toastmasters is my family who helps others along the journey of life. Together, we do make a difference.
What are your hobbies and passions?
Gardening when the weather permits, working on, designing, and setting up a pond in my backyard. Another passion is Karaoke. Did you know that Karaoke is another form of communication that helps with presenting oneself?
Find your purpose, your passion, your unique place in the world…and fight for it.
Do you have skills in writing articles for newsletters: promoting people, clubs, or events? Why not use those skills to help others in our Toastmaster community. We need your ideas and talent to promote the members and clubs in our district.
Come and be a part of our public relations team. Contact me via email.
Lou Begnel, DTM
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.”
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.
I don’t believe Toastmasters was ever intended to be a solo pursuit. It is always best when experienced as a 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.
Division Directors
Division A
Why Toastmasters?
Hi! My name is Kathryn Denzine and I am a charter member of Lake Effect Toastmasters Club in Area 11. Over the last 6ish years I have served as President, VPE, Treasurer, Area Director, and now Division Director.
I am excited about this toastmaster year and our opportunity to grow out from under the COVID shadow. However, before I start talking about my plans, I want to thank you profoundly and from the bottom of my heart. You brave and enthusiastic officers keep your clubs, area, and this division alive. I know it was a struggle, and I acutely felt the absence of many key leadership roles over the last 2 years. I won’t promise miracles but I will promise you that I am here to help, support, and guide to the best of my ability. You survived, you persevered, now it’s time to come together again and flourish!
What are your hobbies and passions?
Outside of Toastmasters I am a veterinarian, business owner, mother, and french hornist with the VU community band. My hope for this next toastmaster year is to build up those cross-club connections that have languished and to help members reach their personal and club goals.
TBA is Area Director for 5 clubs:
2. The Great Communicators of Northwest Indiana
4. Lake Effect Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
Elizabeth Georges, MS2 is the Area Director for 6 clubs:
4. Wythougan Toastmasters Club
5. Notre Dame Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
As a Functional Health and Life Coach interested in public speaking, I joined Toastmasters to learn how to write speeches and get comfortable in front of crowds. Networking in the community was another motivation, since I am not native to this area and work from home, seeing most of my clients virtually. I’ve realized becoming a leader isn’t about being given the opportunity – it’s about taking them when you see them. I’ve also realized Toastmasters isn’t really about speaking, either. It’s about personal development and growth, and it’s come at just the right time in this journey of my life.
TBA is Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. Fort Wayne/Smoky Montgomery TM Club
2. Bob Leiman Toastmasters Club
4. Vera Bradley Toastmasters
5. ZimmerBiomet Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
TBA is Area 14 Director of 5 Clubs:
1. Anthony Wayne Toastmasters Club
3. Lunchtime Speaking to Succeed Club
5. Wall Street Speak-Easy Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
Division C
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
TBA is the Area Director for 5 Clubs:
2. Leadership Outreach Toastmasters Club
3. Got Toast?
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
TBA is Area Director for 5 clubs:
2. Greenfield Toastmaster Club
3. Fort Harrison Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
Laura Anderson, DTM is Area Director for 4 clubs:
2. Roadmasters
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 passion?
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.
James Ryan, PM5 is the Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. Dynamic Club
2. Indy Free Speakers Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined because I wanted to improve my skills as a professional trainer and speaker. I was a professional speaker obtaining fees up to $4000 per day. Now I do birthday parties for kids. On Saturday and Sunday I can usually be found running characters like Chase, Mr. Mouse, or others. Seeing the delight on youngsters faces when their favorite characters arrive fills me with joy. The other days of the week I am likely delivering your lunch or dinner.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I’m currently reading the Kurt Vonnegut collection in honor of his 100th birthday. This year I want to create new friendships.
Division E
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to get more comfortable doing presentations at work, never expecting to meet amazing people that would change my life, making it easier to form friendships as an unexpected benefit.
What are your hobbies and passion?
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.
Kathy Stahlhut, MS1 is the Area Director of 4 Clubs:
Why Toastmasters?
I started TM because I was asked to lead a Women’s Retreat in Los Angeles. Knowing I needed to improve my speaking skills, I thought I’d be in for a few months. Boy, was I wrong! I have enjoyed every minute of acquiring not just speaking skills but leadership skills as well, and making friends with some fascinating people of all walks of life!
What are your hobbies and passions?
I enjoy hiking, biking, gardening, and reading in my spare time. Travel is also a big part of our lives as empty-nesters. There is always a beautiful hike to walk or garden to admire all over the world!
Steven Pelletier, EC2 is Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. Bloomington Good Morning Club
2. Toastmasters Club at Kelly School of Business
4. High Noon Toastmasters Club
5. We’re M.A.D.
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
Rob Guernsey is Area Director for 4 clubs:
2. Brownsburg Toastmasters Club
4. X-Masters
Why Toastmasters?
I want to work on my leadership skills. Toastmasters has been a good opportunity for me to get in front of people and be in a lead role. I feel like in the time I’ve been here, I’ve become more confident and sure of myself when I am being looked upon to take the lead on projects or with team members.
What are your hobbies and passions?
Music is my main passion. I have collected records since I was five and played drums since I was 10. I feel Toastmasters has also helped me with stage fright issues when I’m playing music.
Venkatraman Mahadevan is Area Director for 5 clubs:
3. Red Engine Toastmasters Club
5. Seymour Toastmasters Club (STC)
Why Toastmasters?
I am honored and humbled to serve as the Area Director of Area 54. I have been an active toastmaster for more than 3 years now and I have come a long way in this journey where TM has now become a passion. I have got a lot from my TM experience and wanted to give it back and that’s what made me to take up this leadership role. Please contact me on any help with your TM journey and I will try to lend my hands as much as possible.
Division F
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.”
David Malone, IP2 is the Area Director of 5 Clubs:
5. Humana’s Guiding Voices Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
TBA is Area Director for 4 clubs:
1. Speaking Eagles Toastmasters Club
3. Kentuckiana Women in Leadership
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
Jared Williams is Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. New Albany Toastmasters Club
2. Steamboat Toastmasters Club
5. Peace Speakers Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
I began Toastmasters last year by the recommendation of a friend. My initial goal achieved through Toastmasters would be to improve my public speaking, especially among larger groups. The experience has been successful, and I appreciate the wonderful people I have had the pleasure to meet.
I look forward to more self-improvement and bonds created with our members.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I spend most of my free time cheering on my son as a proud soccer dad. My other interest includes golfing, fishing, and traveling around the world. Any quality time spent with family and friends is always beneficial as well.
LaDonna Hacker, SR1 is Area Director for 4 clubs:
1. St. Matthews/Lyndon Toastmasters Club
2. GE Appliance Park Toastmasters
Why Toastmasters?
I will have 34 years with GE/GE Appliances. Twenty three of that as an hourly employee. I could work 8 – 12 hours and not speak to anyone. I have always been painfully shy and introverted.(Anxious, rambling, nauseous, feel like I could not breathe) I walked looking at the ground not the people I was passing.
In 2002, I received my certification as an EMT. Hmmmmm, didn’t think about having to talk to patients. Over the years got better but still so uncomfortable with speaking publicly. In 2015, I had transferred to Louisville for work. I made myself smile or say hello to one new person each day. I was very intimidated to go to meetings with my team and even more so with Chief Procurement Officer. I would keep my head down or look away and pray no one would ask me a question.
I knew I had to break that. I saw a poster about Toastmaster and went to check it out. That was 2016. I still get anxious. I have a few good speeches in a row and the next one I would freeze up or lose my train of thought. I am grateful for my Toastmasters teams through the years helping me get to where I am today.
What are your hobbies and passion?
Passion for people. I have always been the advocate for those less fortunate. “Watching out for the underdog” so to speak. I feel every person matters and we cannot turn our backs on those who can’t help themselves. I have never heard a child say “When I grow up I want to be under addiction or I want to spend my life alone etc. I am on the leadership committee for Caring for Aging Parents in which we provide webinars, discussions and open forums for topics as home healthcare, Advanced Directives, etc. Enrolled in Bible School for my licensing in Women’s Ministry with focusing on helping women of all ages who have been rescued from sex trafficking, left the adult entertainment business, addictions, and domestic violence.
Charron Combs, DL5 is Area Director for 4 clubs:
Why Toastmasters?
I first joined Toastmasters in Houston, Texas to improve my public speaking skills. Since becoming a member of Toastmasters in Evansville, I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with club members, mentors, and friends. I have been a member of Evansville Number One, Kentuckiana Women in Leadership, Crescent City Toastmasters and a current member of The Best Side Toastmasters Club. Toastmasters has helped me improve my communications, leadership and storytelling skills. While a member of Toastmasters, I have served as President, Vice President of Public Relations, Vice President of Membership and Area Director. I am retired, but I work full time on continuing self-improvement.
Division H
Why Toastmasters?
I originally joined toastmasters to work on humor and improv speaking. Getting involved as President of a new club, and helping out with District Roles has helped me grow way beyond what I ever could have imagined. My leadership skills have improved so much, how I aspired to be has become my natural way of being while leading myself and others. I am a life advisor, (present life coach and end of life pre-planning), focused on habitmastery, and mindset.
What are your hobbies and passion?
I currently am writing a memoir, and do stand-up comedy, in addition to many creative endeavors with all kinds of subject matter. I love dogs, cooking healthy gluten-free meals, gardening, and meeting new people. I am looking forward to getting even better at inspiring others to live their best lives and creating humor for serious matters. It is my hope to see people get more involved at the District level to grow their leadership skills and help make the District strong and fun.
Zeke Puetz is Area Director of 4 Clubs:
1. Donald A. Campbell Lafayette Toastmaster Club
4. Boiler Talks Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to…
TBA is Area Director of 4 Clubs:
1. Logansport Toastmasters Club
3. Hanna Center Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined
What are your hobbies and passions?
Linda Mullen, IP3 is Area Director of 4 Clubs:
4. Power Talkers
Why Toastmasters?
I joined to overcome fears. Never anticipated growing in leadership and meeting new friends. I currently work as a Caterpillar Prototype Coordinator.
What are your hobbies and passion?
I am into natural health and wellness, anti-aging hacks, and grandma gardening.
I see my role as encouraging clubs to be healthy while being mentored by Patty, Div H Director.
Diane Stewart, VC3 is Area Director of 4 clubs:
1. Toastmasters Club of Fishers
3. Westfield Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
I first joined in 2017 to brush up on public speaking for business purposes. I quickly became “hooked” by the opportunity for continuous improvement in my communication and leadership skills for everyday life, both personal and professional.
I work for VMware, a global technology company, as a Sr. Program Manager in the Learning and Development group. I help manage our customer and partner digital learning platforms, manage our global webinar training program for customers, and support complex virtual events for up to 15,000 attendees over multiple days.
What are your hobbies and passions?
My husband and I love to cook and entertain; enjoy live music, theater & art fairs; starting to explore Indiana’s bike trails with our new e-bikes!
My focus is to develop my mentoring and coaching skills to build stronger Toastmasters clubs as well as to help younger colleagues at work develop skills that will contribute to their success. I hope that the clubs in our area have grown both in membership and in active participation, each with a mix of experienced and new members who are committed to serve in leadership.
Shaquana Smiley, DL2 is Area Director of 5 clubs:
Why Toastmasters?
I was first inspired and voluntold to join Toastmasters during my freshman year in college as a requirement for my business program. I have benefited from Toastmasters by networking and connecting with people globally while growing my brand and speaking talent.
I am currently an Anthem Executive affectionately known as Smiley haven been with Anthem for well over a decade as a leader able to quickly solution, ideate and execute at all levels of the organization bringing teams of various proficiencies together for a winning partnership. I am a Strategy Director for the Digital Technology Health Products, Platform & Experience. I am also the Enterprise Community Health Equity Chairs for the Enterprise HR Diversity Equity and Inclusion.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I am a former marathon runner and love all things health and wellness. I also love to row, dragon boat race and have adventures outdoors with my husband, little girl and two dogs. I also enjoy being creative and innovative by creating graphic designs, gamification, and other initiatives to get people out of their comfort zone to explore new things and learn new talents. As a former teacher and current transformational leader I love to inspire and inform people to have a growth mindset.
Dynamic Leadership and Presentation Mastery are my two pathways in which I plan to take on a third to grow my talent in senior leadership with an entrepreneurial spirit as I see more opportunities to grow and give back to others.
James Ryan, PM5 is Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. Nora Toastmasters By the Pyramids
3. St. Luke’s Toastmaster Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined because I wanted to improve my skills as a professional trainer and speaker. I was a professional speaker obtaining fees up to $4000 per day. Now I do birthday parties for kids. On Saturday and Sunday I can usually be found running characters like Chase, Mr. Mouse, or others. Seeing the delight on youngsters faces when their favorite characters arrive fills me with joy. The other days of the week I am likely delivering your lunch or dinner.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I’m currently reading the Kurt Vonnegut collection in honor of his 100th birthday. This year I want to create new friendships.