The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation Annual Gala is more than just a fundraiser—it is a catalyst for innovation, career development, and community transformation. As the signature fundraising event for the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation, the Gala directly benefits students and educators by funding programs that enhance learning, spark innovation, and prepare the next generation for success in an evolving world.
Through strategic investments in STEM education, career and technical training, leadership development, and educator excellence, the Gala helps equip students with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to thrive in an increasingly complex global economy. From cutting-edge classroom technology to real-world learning experiences, the event’s impact extends far beyond school walls, shaping the future workforce and fostering a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability.
Beyond academics, the Gala strengthens community connections, bringing together business leaders, educators, families, and stakeholders who share a vision for a strong, dynamic, and future-ready Mt. Vernon. By aligning with community and district-wide strategic goals, the event drives collaboration, economic growth, and educational excellence, ensuring that every Mt. Vernon student is empowered to reach their full potential.
2022 Awards
2021 Awards
Leanne Brown Cornerstone Award – presented to Alyssa Prazeau for her invaluable dedication and service to the MVEF.
Keystone Award – presented to Ambrose Property Group for their corporate service commitment to MVEF.
Teacher of the Year – Leeanna Seppala (Administration), Elizabeth Chaplin (MES), Delinda Deckard (FES), Kitty Masters (MVMS), Lynette Huth (MVHS), Brianne Williams (MCE)
District Teacher of the Year – Lynette Huth (MVHS)
Staff of the Year – Doris Johnson (Administration), Jenny Campbell(MES), Melissa Montague(MCE), Lisa Lindman (MVMS), Jo Goff (MVHS), Nancy Price (FES)
District Staff of the Year – Doris Johnson (Administration)
Ryan Fry Award – District Staff of the Year & the District Teacher of the Year also receive the Ryan Fry Award
2021 Distinguished Alumni
Lorraine Ewing
Linda Garrity
2021 Black & Gold Gala Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor – Hancock Health
Silent Auction Sponsor – Family Leisure
Gold Dinner Sponsor –Ambrose Property
Black & Gold Reception Sponsor – Lancer + Beebe, LLC, Moisture Management
TapSnap Sponsors – Anne Wessell, Emcor, Joyner Homes, Indiana University Health Plans
TableScape Sponsors – Stifel, Frischkorn Law LLC, Seals Funeral Home
Table Sponsors – Anne & Chris Dunlavy, Church Church Hittle & Antrim, Context Design, CSO Architect, Edmentum, Leanne & David Brown (MVEF Founder), McDonald Dentistry, Mike & Libby Harris, NineStar, D R Horton, Chad and Tree Gooding, Family Leisure, State Farm, Ben Eades
Technology Services – JW Marriott, Markey’s Rental, NineStar,
Beverage Sponsors – Daniel’s Vineyard
Parking Sponsors – Greenfield Banking Company, Ice Miller, Assured Partners
Supportive Patron Sponsors – Activate, US Bank, IMI, MJ Insurance, Steele, Flying Arrow Photography
2020 Awards
Keystone Award – presented to Joyner Homes for their outstanding corporate support and commitment to the MVEF.
Leanne Brown Cornerstone Award – presented to Barry Stadler for his invaluable dedication and service to the MVEF.
Teacher of the Year – Ashley Ridenour (Administration), Erin Hardin (MES), Krista Weber (FES), Lauren Reifel (MVMS), Karen Riesterer (MVHS), Ashley Schenck (MCE)
District Teacher of the Year – Ashley Schenck (MCE)
Staff of the Year – Lisa Heitman (Administration), Emily Snider (MES), Laura Lyons (MCE), Stephanie Evans (MVMS), Lisa Tappy (MVHS), Veronica Kirby (FES)
District Staff of the Year – Veronica Kirby (FES)
Ryan Fry Award – District Staff of the Year & the District Teacher of the Year also receive the Ryan Fry Award
2020 Distinguished Alumni
Darrell Thomas
Nathan Heck
2020 Black & Gold Gala Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor – Hancock Health
Silent Auction Sponsor – Family Leisure
Black & Gold Reception Sponsor – Ambrose Property
Gold Dinner Sponsor – Lancer + Beebe, LLC
TapSnap Sponsors – Anne Wessell, Emcor, Joyner Homes, Thrivent – Lanteigne Tailored Planning
Table Sponsors – Anne & Chris Dunlavy, Church Church Hittle & Antrim, Community Hospital North, Context Design, CORE, CSO Architect, Edmentum, Leanne & David Brown (MVEF Founder), McDonald Dentistry, Mike & Libby Harris, NineStar, Seals Funeral Home
Technology Services – JW Marriott, Markey’s Rental, NineStar, PopCon
Beverage Sponsors – Daniel’s Vineyard, Monarch Beverage
Parking Sponsors – Greenfield Banking Company, KeyBank
Supportive Patron Sponsors – Activate, Baker Tilly, Core Planning Strategies, Custom Exteriors, Erlewein Mortuary, MJ Insurance, River Financial Services, Steele
Ticket Supporters – Leanne & David Brown, Haley & Mike Frischkorn, Hancock Health, Heather & David Moore, Jan & Stephen Viehweg, Chris Walrod