May 2023: Dr. Katie Jenner Visits Local Schools, Commends Outstanding Area Educators
Did you know that you can receive our newsletters straight to your inbox? Newsletters are released monthly. Sign up here.
Dr. Katie Jenner Visits Local Schools, Commends Outstanding Area Educators
On May 23, Ball Brothers Foundation hosted a reception to honor local teachers recognized with the foundation's Excellence in Teaching Award. The reception celebrated 2023 award winner, Kira Zick, finalists, Rob Jones and Heather Rogers, as well as past award nominees. Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner was the guest speaker for the evening.
In addition, Dr. Jenner spent the day with Ball Brothers Foundation staff visiting local schools including West View Elementary School, Burris Laboratory School, and Daleville Community Schools.
“When visiting schools in Delaware County, I observed everything from a dual language immersion program, to innovative outdoor learning spaces, to hands-on STEM education, all of which supported their students in gaining the knowledge and skills needed to find their best path,” reflected Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “As students shared what they loved most about school, nearly every time, it was a teacher who topped their list. Delaware County is fortunate to have Ball Brothers Foundation and their long-standing commitment to supporting K-12 schools through their time and investments, celebrating the community’s most remarkable teachers, and ultimately, helping more students succeed in the classroom and beyond.”
BBF's Excellence in Teaching Award reception honored winners and finalists from 2013-2023, pictured here with Indiana Secretary of Education, Dr. Katie Jenner, and members of the award's judging panel.
Ross Community Center: A Decade of Transformation Sparked by Ball Brothers Foundation Grants
In the 1970s, the Garland E. Ross Recreational Center was a popular, bustling gathering place on the southside of Muncie. The center was particularly well known for its youth baseball programs and community baseball fields.
Following years of challenges, both the Ross Center-and the surrounding neighborhoods-are undergoing a remarkable transformation.
Now, a decade after BBF awarded its first major grant to overhaul the Ross Center's baseball fields, we're reflecting on what's been happening at the Ross Center and beyond.
“With our deep Muncie roots, we were familiar with the rich history of the Ross Center, and we saw an opportunity to provide a spark to accelerate revitalization." - Jud Fisher, president & CEO of Ball Brothers Foundation
Foundation Board Explores Outdoors
Earlier this month, BBF's board of directors held its spring meeting at the new Nature Lab adjacent to Ball State University's Rinard Orchid Greenhouse. The meeting featured a "look back" at the past decade of Ball Brothers Foundation's support for outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. The board also enjoyed a walk through Christy Woods and a visit to BSU's Planetarium.
Thinking of Requesting Funding?
Thinking of applying for funding in Ball Brothers Foundation's upcoming grant round? Preliminary applications will be accepted beginning June 1 and are due July 15.
Please be sure to set up a time to meet or chat with Ball Brothers Foundation staff prior to applying - this allows us to provide guidance to help you succeed in the application process.
Reach out to Susan Brumley, Executive Assistant and Convenings Coordinator, to schedule a time to meet by calling 765-741-5500 or by emailing.
ICYMI: Kira Zick Honored with 2023 Excellence in Teaching Award: Celebrating Innovation and Global Education
Kira Zick, a third and fourth grade Spanish/English dual language teacher at Muncie Community Schools’ West View Elementary, was named the recipient of Ball Brothers Foundation's 2023 Excellence in Teaching Award earlier this month. Learn more about Kira and this year's finalists.