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Aspiring Directors Cohort Announced

Editorial • Post Date: January 30, 2026
(L-R backrow) Cassie Turner, Starr Laytart, Natalie Reffitt, Chris Caldwell, Amanda Sizemore, Kristy Szkudlarek, Inci Yilmazli Trout; (front row) Joel Kessel, Jennifer Butler, Ashley Saum, Whitney Sciko, Doug Jenkins, Tom James

The Community Foundation is pleased to announce the inaugural cohort for the Aspiring Executive Directors (AED) Program, hosted by the Foundation.

Participants include:

  • Jennifer Butler, VP of Development at Adriel Foundation
  • Chris Caldwell, Community Liaison at Black Heritage Library and Multicultural Center
  • Tom James, Volunteer & Donations Coordinator at Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County
  • Doug Jenkins, Senior Investor Experience Lead at Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce
  • Starr Laytart, Assistant Director at Findlay Hope House
  • Natalie Reffitt, Operations Manager at Humane Society & SPCA of Hancock County
  • Ashley Saum, Operations Direct at Focus Recovery & Wellness Community
  • Whitney Sciko, Trustee at Findlay Art League
  • Amanda Sizemore, Program Director at Challenged Champions Equestrian Center
  • Kristy Szkudlarek, Director at Journey to Belonging
  • Inci Yilmazli Trout, Development Director at Awakening Minds Art

The AED Program is a two-year leadership development experience designed to equip rising nonprofit professionals with the knowledge, skills, and real-world experience needed to confidently step into executive director roles. The program is moderated by Joel Kessel.

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