The Community Foundation's David Sursa Leadership Award 2026 Finalists Announced

The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County recognizes the following finalists for the 2026 David Sursa Leadership Award: Jeffrey Heavilon, Exchange Club of Muncie; Kourtney McCauliff, Cornerstone Center for the Arts; Jeff Tingler, Grow Market; Douglas White, Jackie L. Michael Foundation; and Katherine White, Animal Rescue Fund.

The David Sursa Leadership Award was established in memory of the Foundation's first board leader. As the inaugural President, David Sursa blazed the trail for The Community Foundation. His visionary leadership contributed significantly to the Foundation's success and the generous support it has provided to our community. The annual program rewards, recognizes, and encourages extraordinary nonprofit leadership by a board member displaying the characteristics and commitment to the community expressed by Mr. Sursa during his lifetime.

The Foundation reviews nominations for impactful community leaders who deserve recognition each year. We are pleased to recognize the finalists for this year’s award.

Jeffrey Heavilon

Jeffrey Heavilon has served the Exchange Club of Muncie for several years, contributing steady leadership through multiple roles, including president, vice president, secretary, and board member. During his tenure, he has played an active role in advancing the club’s mission of community service, patriotism, youth support, and child abuse prevention. Jeff has been deeply involved in planning and executing signature initiatives, such as the annual Flags of Honor program, and in supporting partnerships and volunteer efforts that benefit veterans, families, and local nonprofits across Delaware County. Known for his reliability and willingness to step in where needed, he has provided consistent guidance and encouragement to fellow members, helping sustain the club’s impact and presence in the community over time.

About Exchange Club of Muncie

Established in 1921, the Exchange Club of Muncie is a local service organization focused on community service, patriotism, youth programs, and the prevention of child abuse. As part of the National Exchange Club, it focuses on improving the local community through philanthropy, fellowship, and volunteerism.

Kourtney McCauliff

Kourtney McCauliff has served on the board of Cornerstone Center for the Arts since 2021 and has held several leadership roles, including secretary, vice chair, and board chair. Over the course of her five years of service, she has played a central role in stabilizing and strengthening the organization during a period of significant transition. Her contributions include improving governance practices, helping restructure internal systems, supporting staff and board development, and guiding strategic decision-making to support long‑term sustainability. In addition to her governance work, Kourtney has helped advance partnerships and community engagement efforts that reinforce Cornerstone’s role as a cultural anchor in downtown Muncie.

About Cornerstone Center for the Arts

Located in downtown Muncie, Cornerstone Center for the Arts serves as a hub for creative expression, providing arts education through classes and workshops and hosting events for building community. Cornerstone operates out of the historic Masonic Temple building, celebrating its 100 anniversary this year.

Jeff Tingler

Jeff Tingler has served Grow Market Inc. and the Yorktown Farm & Artisan Market for approximately six years, currently holding the role of vice president and treasurer. During his service, he has been instrumental in helping establish Grow Market Inc. as a supporting nonprofit entity, allowing the organization to expand its educational programming and food access initiatives. Jeff has contributed to responsible financial oversight, sound governance, and strategic growth, supporting programs that address food insecurity, small business development, and youth entrepreneurship. His steady leadership has helped the market evolve into a well‑attended community gathering space that benefits families, local growers, and entrepreneurs throughout Delaware County.

About Grow Market | Yorktown Farm and Artisan Market

The Yorktown Farm & Artisan Market is a seasonal, weekly community market featuring over 50 local vendors offering produce, crafts, food, and plants, along with live music and food. Grow Market provides education, programming and food access through the market.

Douglas White

Douglas White has served as a founding board member and treasurer of the Jackie L. Michael Foundation since its establishment in 2019. Over the past several years, he has played a key role in guiding the organization’s growth, financial stewardship, and strategic direction. His leadership has helped the foundation expand its reach and strengthen collaboration among animal welfare organizations in the community. Through thoughtful planning and innovative fundraising efforts, Doug has supported initiatives that promote sustainability and increase resources for animal advocacy, contributing to the foundation’s continued ability to serve as a connector and leader within the local animal welfare network.

About Jackie L. Michael Foundation

The Jackie L. Michael Foundation is dedicated to improving animal welfare through activism, education, and collaboration.

Katherine White

Katherine White is a founding board member of Animal Rescue Fund of Muncie and has served the organization continuously since 1998. Over nearly three decades, she has held numerous leadership roles, including president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary, providing consistent financial oversight and governance support. Her long‑term service has been central to ARF’s growth from a small grassroots effort into a large‑scale animal welfare organization serving thousands of animals each year. Through her commitment to sound financial practices, strategic planning, and board development, Kathy has helped ensure ARF’s stability, accountability, and capacity to meet evolving community needs.

About Animal Rescue Fund

Founded in 1998, ARF rescues, shelters, and adopts out homeless dogs and cats. In addition, ARF supports pets and their families by offering low-cost spay/neuter services, a pet food pantry, and a dog park.

The recipient of the 2026 David Sursa Leadership Award will be named later this month.

For more information about the David Sursa Leadership Award, please visit The Community Foundation's website at cfmdin.org or contact Marcy Minton, President & CEO, at mminton@cfmdin.org.