STAFF


Ruth Purcell-Jones
Ruth Purcell-Jones
President
Ruth Purcell-Jones has been affiliated with the organization since 2000. Her background of community relations, program development, law and public service provides a broad understanding of organizational development and leadership training.  Ruth works closely with organizations to custom design initiatives that lead to powerful, transformational and sustainable results.

Philosophically, Ruth believes in collaboration, collective wisdom and the power of building on what works.  She uses an “appreciative approach” and invites clients to identify and build on organizational strengths.

As President, Ruth seeks to develop solutions for organizations that meet current needs and invite them to future “greatness.”

 

John Shertzer
John Shertzer
Vice President for Program and Development
John is the newest addition to the Leadership Ventures team.  He has extensive experience in leadership training and education and manages such initiatives for Leadership Ventures.  He writes, designs, and facilitates programming that covers a wide variety of leadership topics. 
 
Before joining the staff of Leadership Ventures, John spent several years in higher education developing leadership ability in college students all over the country.  He enjoys both theoretical and practical views of leadership and seeks to build curriculum that is learner-centered and experiential.

 

Dave Guarino
Dave Guarino
Director of Corporate Relations
Dave has a background in project management, and lobbying with the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce prepares him well to introduce nonprofit board service to corporate leaders.  Dave serves on the board of Indiana Intern.net and the Indiana Chapter of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America.

 

Katrina Crist
Katrina Crist
Director of Finance and Operations
Katrina Crist has been with the organization since 1999.  Her attention to details has assured the structure and the organizational accountability of Leadership Ventures. 
 
Katrina serves as President for the Bayberry Homeowners Association.

 

Amanda McDowell
Amanda McDowell
Client Services Coordinator
Amanda McDowell works closely with both clients and consultants of Leadership Ventures to coordinate all aspects of the Leadership Ventures services.  Her engaging and supportive nature assures exceptional quality in every client encounter.