MEET THE TEAM

Michael Twyman

As a subject matter expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion, Michael Twyman, Ph.D. has taught courses on race and social justice at IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and public management and executive leadership at Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs and Indiana University School of Social Work.
His 30-year career includes holding several senior leadership positions in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors, including the role of Executive Director of the University of Arkansas Little Rock Institute on Race and Ethnicity, leading racial justice efforts statewide.
Dr. Twyman is the founding Indiana Director for the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, where he managed a multimillion-dollar grants portfolio and college scholarship support program. He also served as Vice President of Operations for Community Action of Greater Indianapolis and as an Independent Consultant with Development Concepts, Inc. where he worked on large-scale neighborhood revitalization projects across the country.
Twyman was a Special Assistant to Mayor Goldsmith of Indianapolis and helped spearhead significant capital improvement projects and faith-based partnerships with city departments.
Twyman graduated from Brebeuf Jesuit in Indianapolis and with high honors from Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. He studied international law and politics at the London School of Economics on a Fulbright Scholarship from Vanderbilt University. He attended Tulane Law School in New Orleans, Louisiana, and earned a doctorate degree in social policy from Indiana University.
He has been a trustee of several boards and received numerous recognitions and awards for his community service.

Krista Weatherholt

Krista Weatherholt, a Hoosier native, has a blend of non-profit experience in data-driven planning, conceptualizing, and executing visions while managing multiple projects. She focuses on enhancing and protecting communities (past and present) with a strong belief in setting an excellent example by demonstrating honesty, integrity, and a pinch of humor.
Krista received her undergraduate degree from Indiana State University and is currently a graduate student at the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at IUPUI. Krista is also an avid photographer, enjoys architectural tours, and spends time with her large dogs.

Latishea Varnesdeel

Latishea Varnesdeel transplanted to Indianapolis in 2005 to continue her education at IUPUI. While working in state government, she pursued her master’s degree in Public Affairs, with a concentration in Nonprofit Management, to serve and educate her community. With a passion for expanding diversity, equity, and inclusion, Latishea hopes to create a sense of belonging for all. Latishea also enjoys cooking, spending time with her family and friends, and trying new cultural foods and experiences.

Mellon Foundation

• Central Indiana Community Foundation

• Lilly Endowment Inc.

• Herbert Simon Family Foundation

• Mellon Foundation • Central Indiana Community Foundation • Lilly Endowment Inc. • Herbert Simon Family Foundation •

WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR FUNDING FROM THE FOLLOWING: