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.
Carol Crouse, DTM
Why Toastmasters?
With over 20 years as a dedicated Toastmaster, I have held numerous leadership roles within the clubs I’ve been part of, including Vice President of Membership and Vice President of Public Relations. My skills in organization and interpersonal relations have been particularly well-suited to my latest position as Vice President of Education.
I was personally chosen by the esteemed and veteran Toastmaster Marlene Purdy to step in as the Area 11 Director in 2014, and subsequently, as the Area Director for Area 12 in the following years.
Throughout my service, several areas achieved the status of Distinguished and President’s Distinguished.
My contributions have also included roles as Division Director, Web Master, and member of the Realignment Committee.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I believe it’s easier to rebuild a club than to start from scratch, although I’ve assisted in establishing several new ones.
Pickleball is my passion—I absolutely love playing it! I also have a vintage coin collection and gather horse statues from bygone days. Additionally, three or four-day road trips are something I always look forward to!
Michael Saine, SR5
Why Toastmasters?
I have served in various roles including teaching, mentoring, promotion, and creating marketing materials for different organizations. My leadership skills were honed in the Navy, but my contributions extend beyond that. In District 11, the number of Paid Clubs has decreased by 19.23%, and Payment Growth has declined by 10.9%. Only 14% of clubs meet the Distinguished requirements. Last year, Hanna Center Toastmasters did not achieve distinction, a feat accomplished only four times in the past two decades. Since my arrival, the club’s size has nearly doubled. We have achieved the qualifications for the Talk Up Toastmasters award. In our next meeting, two speakers will complete their Level II’s, positioning us for Presidential Distinguished status for the first time in 40 years.
What are your hobbies and passions?
My desire to serve as a District leader stems from the transformative experiences I’ve had at the club level, which have profoundly reshaped my understanding of leadership in both personal and professional contexts. I cherish the growth I’ve undergone and seek not only to contribute but also to continue evolving. My aim is to inspire others and extend the success I’ve witnessed at the club level across my district, and I view this role as a positive move towards that goal.
Jane Croft, EC5
Why Toastmasters?
As an advocate for leadership and diversity, I believe that everyone has the potential to be a leader, often without realizing it. I dedicate my talents, skills, and experience to enhance the capabilities of our members, teams, and clubs, both individually and collectively. This growth and development over time embed the mission and vision of our desired leadership identity. Toastmasters provides an excellent safe space for us to grow and improve both individually and together. In my role as Division H/Area 86 Director, I evaluate and fully understand the dynamics of team/club operations to guide each member to become the best leader they can be, to F.L.Y. – “First Lead Yourself,” regardless of their background, culture, talents, skills, abilities, or disabilities.
Jane holds the unique position of being the only virtual and deaf Club Growth Director within Toastmasters International, fulfilling her responsibilities from outside District 11 in Northern Colorado.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I’m passionate about public speaking and have engaged audiences ranging from 5 to 1,000 individuals since my youth. In quieter moments, my two Sheltie dogs and cats guide my introverted Hufflepuff spirit, allowing me to excel at the Hogwarts Legacy game on PS5 (I’m a proud Hogwarts enthusiast!). Among my other favorites are Legos, genealogy, YouTube, pepperoni pizza, and mocha coffee.
Mark Decker, LD3
Possessing skills in crafting newsletter articles to promote individuals, clubs, or events can be a valuable asset. Consider utilizing these abilities to assist others within our Toastmasters community. Your creativity and expertise are needed to highlight the achievements of our members and clubs.
Join our public relations team and contribute your unique perspective. Please reach out to me through email to get involved.
Office managers are responsible for keeping an office running smoothly and overseeing administrative support. The job can range widely in duties and responsibilities, from reception, copy editing and support, to handling a specific type of paperwork or filing for a specific department.
In Toastmasters you have the opportunity to learn about the various positions and gain experience that is used in real world situations.
This is a great opportunity to help so many and pass on to others.
Sean Gleason, TC5
Why Toastmasters?
In my professional role, I’m often required to report to my company’s Senior Leadership about the status of various projects. I stumbled through the first several meetings being fairly unprepared, using a lot of filler words, and being intimidated by the other leaders in the room. I joined our corporate Toastmasters club to improve my speaking skills so that I felt more comfortable and effective during those report-outs. Additionally, my role is fully remote so I found myself lacking connection to team members and missing the spontaneous discussions that happened when passing a co-worker in the halls. Now, as a people manager, I utilize the skills that I’ve learned from Toastmasters every single day when I’m communicating with my team. I have served as the Club Vice President of Education and President and now as the Administration Manager as I pursue my DTM in 2025.
What are your hobbies and passions?
When I’m not working, I’m probably reading, doing a home improvement project, or hanging out with my wife, daughter, and two golden doodles.
Jeni Christoffersen, DL5
Why Toastmasters?
I believe in the value of Toastmasters and appreciate that no matter how many years I’ve been a Toastmaster, communications is a muscle that I need to keep building. I have witnessed unexpected wins & challenges for myself and so many TM colleagues when we allow ourselves to fail, get back up, and allow ourselves to be uncomfortable. I am now in full pursuit of DTM credential, which has brought me to serve this year as District 11 Finance Manager. I look forward to meeting you!
What are your hobbies and passions?
I am actively helping change at-risk lives in our community through board administration and on the ground volunteer work with the St Vincent de Paul Society. I also mentor several early careerists, invest in my health through a variety of dedicated fitness activities, and develop my mental faculties through books, podcasts and my current fav “People School” with Vanessa Van Edwards. Last but not least I enjoy cultivating botanical life in my tiny courtyard in the middle of the city.
Rick Holtmeier, DTM, IPDD
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.”
Kelii Mays-Aboagye, PM4
Why Toastmasters?
Hello fellow Toasties! My name is Kelli Mays-Aboagye, and I serve as the Logistics Manager for Toastmasters District 11. My journey with Toastmasters began due to my pronounced introversion, as confirmed by the ISTJ Myers-Briggs personality type, where I scored a full 100% in introversion. Seeking improvement, I found no better place than Toastmasters. With a background in improv and technical theater, Toastmasters has been the ideal platform for honing my extroversion and improvisational skills within a supportive and amiable environment. Transitioning from a complete introvert to roles such as President, Vice President of Membership, Education, and Sergeant-At-Arms over four years in my corporate Toastmasters club, and now as District 11’s Logistics Manager, Toastmasters has enabled me to venture beyond my comfort zone into the realms of public speaking, self-assurance, and presentation expertise. The encouragement of fellow Toasties has transformed me from an easily overlooked introvert to a confident leader, orator, and innovator. Taking the initial step to attend your first meeting as a distinguished guest is the gateway to growth in Toastmasters, where continued membership propels you towards further development, excellence, and a steadfast community. With Toastmasters, you’re sure to bring more *bread* to the table. 😊
David Klopfenstein, DTM
Why Toastmasters?
I’ve discovered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s a place where I can learn to be a better person, explore new possibilities, and above all, help others on their journey. What more could one desire? It is often said, “Keep your eyes and ears open, and life will teach you everything you need to know.”
Find your purpose, your passion, your unique place in the world…and fight for it.
Lamia Katbi, PM5
Joseph C. Phillips, DTM, PDD
Why Toastmasters?
A Toastmaster since 1998, I have served in various roles at the club, area, division and district levels. My most challenging and rewarding role was leading District 11 to distinguish status in 2016-2017 when I was the District Director. I joined Toastmasters on the advice of a former supervisor and 26-years later I still enjoy the journey, mentoring fellow Toastmasters and lending my skills where needed.
Marlene Purdy, DTM 
Why Toastmasters?
In 1988, while serving as president of the Bowling Green, Ohio Board of Education, after each meeting the local radio reporter would approach me with microphone in hand and recorder by his side to ask me questions about different parts of the meeting. I would turn on the radio the next morning to listen to his show and hear my responses. It was not pretty! At about the same time, I saw an article in the paper about Toastmasters and thought perhaps it could help. I went to the first meeting and was hooked. The people were so welcoming. So I joined Toastmasters for the Table Topics. It did not take long until I got into the leadership track first as a club officer, then Area Governor, Division Governor, Public Relations Officer, and then the Trio, serving as District 28 Governor in 2001-2.
When we moved to Fort Wayne in 2004, it was only natural that I continue my Toastmasters journey. Along the way, I studied to become a Parliamentarian. But now I have a different focus. It is not so much self-improvement as it is helping others to grow. As long as I can make a positive contribution, I am happy.
What are your hobbies and passions?
Gardening, floral design, travel, and dancing – not sure in what order. I am a Master Gardener and flower show judge in Ohio. I enjoy competitive flower arranging. In addition to traveling to all 50 states, my husband and I have cruised extensively to the Caribbean islands, Europe, South America, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Korea. We spend seven weeks every year in Aruba. You will find us dancing there and on the cruise ships.
Christina Owens, PM5
Why Toastmasters?
I joined Toastmasters in February 2017 hoping to improve my presentation skills for work. Over the last 7 years, I have a honed my speaking skills, as expected, but have been surprised to see how my leadership skills have grown. Now, I want to bring these opportunities to other Toastmasters, so they can grow as well!
What are your hobbies and passions?
In my spare time, I love the great outdoors and enjoy things like trail running, hiking, and camping. When I want something a little quieter, I love to read and play games. Spending time with my family, including my new grandson, is always a blessing!
Lou Bengel, DTM
Why Toastmasters?
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.”
Ruth Schmidt, PM2
Why Toastmasters?
I am passionate about conveying impactful messages through public speaking and empowering others to do likewise. Over my decade-long membership with Toastmasters, I have held various officer roles in corporate and community clubs across Virginia, DC, and Indiana. In the previous year, I chaired the District 11 conference and spearheaded the exceptional TEAM@11, comprising over 30 volunteers. As your Area Director, my commitment is to our club’s current and prospective Toastmasters, embodying the principle that Together Everyone Achieves More.
What are your hobbies and passions?
In addition to Toastmasters, I am passionate about project management, listening and reading, participating in charitable and church activities, spending time with my family, and engaging in stretching and walking exercises. I also pursue courses to keep my certifications as a Project Management Professional, Program Management Professional (PMI), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (ISC2) up to date.
June Reister, EH2
Why Toastmasters?
I joined Toastmasters in September 2017 and have held all of the roles on the club board except for Sargent of Arms. I was Area Director in 2019-2020. I am currently working on my goal of DTM. I’ve been married for 35 years and have 1 adult, 23, daughter. I live in Valparaiso and belong to Lake Effect Toastmasters in Hobart.
Division A
Why Toastmasters?
Valerie Mrak is a public speaker, communication coach, and storyteller. She has been active in Toastmasters since 2013, holding every board position at the club level. At the District level, she has served as Administration Manager and Area 12 Director. In 2019, Valerie established the Singing Sands Toastmasters Club in Michigan City, Indiana, as part of an HPL project. She takes pride in the community resource that Singing Sands has become and in the numerous individuals who have improved their careers and lives through their involvement, as well as the sense of camaraderie it fosters. Currently, as the Division A Director, she is eager to assist Area Directors in her division to not only expand and strengthen their clubs but also to enhance their leadership abilities.
LaTyra Parks, DL1 is Area Director for 5 clubs:
3. The Great Communicators of Northwest Indiana
5. Lake Effect Toastmasters Club
About LaTyra?
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Diane Arias, PM3 is the Area Director for 4 clubs:
3. Notre Dame Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
Diane Arias is Operational Assistant for Patient Access at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Hobart, IN. As former club President and current VP of Education for the Great Communicators of NWI, Diane leads from a place of passion, authenticity with a strong desire to see everyone grow to become their level best. If you were to see one of her speech evaluations it would most likely say, “Great energy!” She walks her talk as she is focusing on positive team building, effective and fun collaboration as she steps into and fills the role of Area 12 Director.
Jaime Wilsey-Heckman, LD2 is Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. Anthony Wayne Toastmasters Club
2. Bob Leiman Toastmasters Club
4. ZimmerBiomet Toastmasters Club
5. Virtual Voices Aspiring Toastmasters (VVAT) Club
Why Toastmasters?
I joined Toastmasters to get comfortable getting up in front of a room of people and be comfortable. Along the way I have grown in my leadership skills and participated in speech contests which I would avoid at all costs previously.
What are your hobbies and passion?
I’m a book worm and always have a book or two in hand and I love to travel. My hobbies are genealogy, bead craft and needlepoint.
Leonora Felon is Area Director of 4 Clubs:
1. Wall Street Speak-Easy Club
2. Lunchtime Speaking to Succeed Club
4. Four Score and Seven Speeches Ago
Why Toastmasters?
I am Leonora Felon, with 16 years of experience in the medical device industry. In 2022, I joined a Toastmasters club sponsored by my employer and have since become the club’s VP of Education for the 2023/2024 cycle, as well as the Area 15 Director for the current cycle. Outside of work, I volunteer for a local non-profit that supports children who have lost a loved one.
What are your hobbies and passion?
My hobbies include gardening, crafting, reading, and spending time with my Chiweenie.
Division C
Why Toastmasters?
I joined toastmasters to increase my confidence in public speaking and effectiveness of information being portrayed. I wanted to become a proficient communicator and storyteller.
What are your hobbies and passion?
My hobbies include billiards, movies (all genres), traveling, and immersing myself in various cultures. I also am an entrepreneur owing and running a tutoring company Hire Learning and a luxury charter transportation company Starship Coach.
Linda Hendrickson, EC5 is the Area Director for 3 Clubs:
2. Indy Free Speakers Toastmasters Club
3. Dynamic Club
Why Toastmasters?
Linda J. Hendrickson is a proud member of Daybreakers 1155. She is a 20+ year member of the club and have served in several leadership roles. Recently, Linda served as president of the club for 2023-2024 term. Linda was runner-up for the Area 31 International Speech Contest in 2023. She has worked as an insurance agent and in retail sales leadership. From her leadership skills that Linda learned from Toastmasters, Linda and her ministry group from church developed a guide to assist members of the ministry, as well as a model for other ministry groups. Linda is a graduate of Butler University and Christian Theological Seminary.
Allen Chlupacek, EC4 is Area Director for 4 clubs:
1. Greenfield Toastmaster Club
2. Fort Harrison Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
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Anna Riley, PI2 is Area Director for 4 clubs:
2. Roadmasters
Why Toastmasters?
I will serve as Area 33 Director supporting downtown Indianapolis clubs. I’ve been a Toastmaster since 2009, performing several officer roles including VP of Education, VP of Public Relations, and President of Lilly LTC Toastmasters Club. I also had the distinctive privilege of roasting Lou Begnel as part of the “Special Occasions” Speech Manual. Currently I am working on Pathways Programs for Persuasive Influence and Presentation Mastery. I look forward to meeting people at different clubs to help them achieve their club goals.
Korlon Kilpatrick, MS2 is the Area Director for 4 clubs:
2. Leadership Outreach Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
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Division E
Why Toastmasters?
I am approaching 34 years at GE/GE Appliances, with 23 of those as an hourly employee. I could work 8 to 12 hours without speaking to anyone, as I have always been extremely shy and introverted, experiencing anxiety, rambling, nausea, and shortness of breath. I used to walk with my gaze fixed on the ground, avoiding eye contact with those I passed.
In 2002, I became certified as an EMT, not fully considering the need to communicate with patients. Although I improved over the years, public speaking remained a significant challenge. After transferring to Louisville for work in 2015, I pushed myself to smile or greet one new person each day. Meetings, especially with my team or the Chief Procurement Officer, were daunting; I would keep my head down, hoping to avoid being called upon.
Determined to overcome this, I discovered Toastmasters in 2016 after seeing a poster. While I still experience anxiety, I’ve delivered several successful speeches, though occasionally I might freeze or lose my train of thought. I am thankful for the support of my Toastmasters groups over the years, which has been instrumental in my progress.
What are your hobbies and passion?
I am passionate about advocating for the less fortunate and always strive to protect the underdog. I believe that every person is important and we should never ignore those who are unable to help themselves. No child ever dreams of a future burdened with addiction or isolation. I serve on the leadership committee for Caring for Aging Parents, where we offer webinars, discussions, and open forums on topics such as home healthcare and Advanced Directives. I am also enrolled in Bible School, pursuing a license in Women’s Ministry, with a focus on aiding women of all ages who have been rescued from sex trafficking, have left the adult entertainment industry, are overcoming addictions, or are escaping domestic violence.
Amy Eberle, DL5 is the Area Director of 4 Clubs:
Why Toastmasters?
I have spent 15 years in the automotive industry learning sales, finance, managing, leadership and so much more. As I progressed in my career, the weight of being a female role model in my male dominated industry started to set in. I began searching for ways to improve my communication and leadership skills and five years ago a colleague of mine suggested Toastmasters. The rest is history. I LOVE my club (Greater Greenwood Toastmasters) both for its professional and social aspects. I look forward to each Friday morning meeting to start my weekend. The skills I have gained in the past five years are immeasurable and I will forever be grateful for every experience I have had and will have with Toastmasters.
What are your hobbies and passions?
I am an animal and nature lover, doing anything I can to be outside and with my dogs (my husband and I just rescued our third dog this month). When I am not enjoying the company of my husband or my dogs I enjoy art, antiques, our vintage vehicles, being at the lake, motorcycles, and hanging out with my friends! I also dedicate myself to our church and love to help lead our growing ladies bible study. I believe that finding our gifts and sharing them with others is what we are here to do.
Ruth Schmidt, PM2 is Area Director for 3 clubs:
1. Bloomington Good Morning Club
3. High Noon Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
I love delivering messages that matter through public speaking and enabling others to do the same. During my 10 years as a Toastmasters member, I’ve served in several officer positions in both corporate and community clubs in Virginia, DC, and Indiana. Last year I was the district 11 conference chair and led the great conference TEAM@11 of over 30 volunteers. As your area director, I serve our club’s fellow and future Toastmasters. Together Everyone Achieves More.
What are your hobbies and passions?
Besides Toastmasters, my passions are project management, listening and reading, charitable and church activities, enjoying my family, stretching and walking. I take courses to maintain my certifications as Project Management Professional, Program Management Professional (PMI), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (ISC2).
Kevin Berba, MS5 is Area Director for 5 clubs:
3. Brownsburg Toastmasters Club
5. Got Toast?
Why Toastmasters?
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What are your hobbies and passions?
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Tim Loutzenhiser, DL3 is Area Director for 6 clubs:
3. St. Luke’s Toastmaster Club
Why Toastmasters?
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What is your passion?
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Division F
Why Toastmasters?
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Regina Sears, PI3 is the Area Director of 5 Clubs:
4. Humana’s Guiding Voices Club
5. Peace Speakers Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
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What are your hobbies and passions?
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Unassigned is Area Director for 6 clubs:
2. Speaking Eagles Toastmasters Club
5. Kentuckiana Women in Leadership
Why Toastmasters?
Unassigned is Area Director for 5 clubs:
1. St. Matthews/Lyndon Toastmasters Club
2. Legendary Communicators’ Club
3. GE Appliance Park Toastmasters
Why Toastmasters?
Rajesh Vegesna, PI3 is Area Director for 4 clubs:
Why Toastmasters?
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Division H
Why Toastmasters?
Gabe Deise, LD4 is Area Director of 3 Clubs:
1. Donald A. Campbell Lafayette Toastmaster Club
2. Hanna Center Toastmasters Club
Why Toastmasters?
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What is your passion?
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Shawn Miller, IP1 is Area Director for 4 clubs:
1. Toastmasters Club of Fishers
3. Westfield Toastmasters Club
4. City of Fishers Toastmasters
Why Toastmasters?
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What are your hobbies and passions?
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Theresa Banks, MS1 is Area Director of 5 clubs:
1. Nora Toastmasters By the Pyramids
4. Roche Indianapolis Toastmasters
Why Toastmasters?
Theresa is a self-motivated and dynamic managerial professional with a decade of proven leadership and robust communication skills. Her expertise in stakeholder management and her role as a Customer Service Manager at Anthem Inc. have established her as a distinguished professional in the industry.
Her professional achievements extend into the public domain, where she has served as the Area Director for Toastmasters International Indiana District #11, demonstrating her influential leadership beyond the corporate world.
Academically, Theresa is pursuing an Associate of Science in Business Administration degree from Southern New Hampshire University, reflecting her dedication to continuous learning and professional growth. She has also earned several prestigious certifications, including a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Practitioner from Anthem Process University and a Lean Six Sigma White Belt from the Management and Strategy Institute.
Theresa’s extensive professional and academic achievements are complemented by her role as a mentor and life coach, where she excels in guiding others. Her comprehensive skill set and exceptional leadership abilities greatly enhance her community presence and invite potential collaborations.
What are your hobbies and passions?
Residing in Franklin, IN, she is devoted to her family, with five children, eight grandchildren, and a dog. Beyond her professional and familial responsibilities, she takes pleasure in spending time with friends and indulging in her love of reading.