FORTVILLE, IN – The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) is proud to announce Jan Viehweg as the recipient of this year’s prestigious Mt. Vernon Education Foundation Leanne Brown Cornerstone Award. This award, named in honor of MVEF founder Leanne Brown, recognizes an outstanding individual each year for their invaluable dedication and service to the foundation.
The Leanne Brown Cornerstone Award was established to honor Leanne Brown’s legacy as the founder of MVEF and her unwavering commitment to education and community engagement. As a driving force behind the foundation’s success, Leanne laid the groundwork for initiatives that continue to positively impact students, educators, and the Mt. Vernon community. The award serves as a tribute to individuals who, like Leanne, have demonstrated remarkable leadership, vision, and dedication in advancing MVEF’s mission.
Jan Viehweg has been a founding member of MVEF since its inception in 2007 and has remained deeply committed to its mission. As an emeritus member, she has served in various leadership capacities, continuously demonstrating her dedication to supporting education and fostering community engagement.
Her current contributions to MVEF include chairing the annual ” Sr. Thank an Educator” Breakfast Program, a heartfelt initiative that recognizes and celebrates the impact of educators. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in launching and chairing the inaugural MVEF Distinguished Alumni Award Program, which honors outstanding MV alumni who have made significant contributions to their communities.
In addition to receiving the MVEF Leanne Brown Cornerstone Award, Jan Viehweg will also have the opportunity to direct a $3,000 grant, generously established by Leanne Brown. This grant allows each award recipient to support a Mt. Vernon grant project that aligns with their passion and interests, furthering MVEF’s mission and impact. Jan will be the fourth recipient to receive this generous award since it was established by Brown past recipients have utilized the funds to support the welding, aviation, and sports programs at MVCSC.
Renee Oldham, Executive Director of MVEF, shared:
“Leanne Brown’s unwavering dedication to education and the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation has left a lasting legacy that continues to uplift our students, educators, and community. Her vision and generosity, now further extended through this special grant, exemplify her deep commitment to fostering meaningful opportunities in education.
Likewise, Jan Viehweg embodies the very essence of servant leadership. As a founding member of MVEF, she has dedicated countless hours to advancing our mission, inspiring others, and strengthening the foundation’s impact. Her passion and tireless service make her a truly deserving recipient of this year’s MVEF Leanne Brown Cornerstone Award. We are honored to celebrate both Leanne and Jan—two remarkable leaders whose contributions continue to shape the future of education in Mt. Vernon.”
MVEF extends its heartfelt gratitude to Jan for her years of dedicated service and congratulates her on this well-deserved recognition. Jan will be presented the 2025 Leanne Brown Cornerstone Award at the 2025 MVEF “A Million Dreams Under the Big Top” Annual Gala on April 12, 2025, at the Indiana Roof Ballroom. Tickets are available for purchase by going to http://onecau.se/mvefbigtop or by contacting Renee@MtVernonFoundation.org
About Mt. Vernon Education Foundation
The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation (MVEF) is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students, educators, and the community. Through innovative programs, scholarships, and partnerships, MVEF aims to create a lasting impact on the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation and its students. For more information, visit MtVernonFoundation.org