Mindy Medalen

Mindy serves as the Director of Operations for FYI, where she works closely with both the mentoring and meals programs. She is passionate about building meaningful relationships with volunteers, families, and community partners, and enjoys creating systems that help the organization thrive. Mindy especially loves analyzing data and sharing the impact of FYI’s programs, using insights to celebrate successes and support continued growth.

A graduate of the Indiana University Kelley School of Business, Mindy earned dual degrees in Marketing and Management. She and her husband have called Fishers home for more than 25 years, where they have enjoyed raising their family and investing in their community.

Before joining the FYI staff, Mindy began her journey with the organization as a mentor through YMI, an experience that deepened her passion for the mission. Today, she is grateful to serve alongside an incredible team dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of local students.

Outside of work, Mindy enjoys coaching volleyball, volunteering with the Fishers High School Marching Band, and traveling with family and friends.

Kristie Bradford

Kristie is the Director for our food programs. She received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from Indiana State University and a Master’s degree from Ball State University. She has lived in Fishers with her husband, Mark, for over 25 years. Her son and daughter went through the Hamilton Southeastern School System, were active swimmers for FAST and graduated from Fishers High School. Kristie owned a small business located in Fishers that focused on embroidery and promotional products for many years. Kristie has grown Snack Attack and Summer Meals since she took them over in 2020. She is passionate about children’s education and making sure their stomachs have food in them. She loves working with the many volunteers that help to make the programs run smoothly whether they be individuals or local children groups. In her free time you can find her exploring Fishers or sitting by her koi pond.

Casey McKean

I grew up in Noblesville and earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Public Relations and Communications from Purdue University (Boiler Up!). Throughout my career, I’ve supported a variety of nonprofit organizations with marketing and awareness initiatives, many of which focused on youth, education, and mental health. That experience and a genuine passion for serving youth and our community led me to the Campus Coordinator role. I have lived in Fishers for nearly a decade with my husband and our two children. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, reading, attending my kids’ sporting and school events, and planning our next travel adventure. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to support HSE schools, mentors, mentees, and families!

Natalie Russell

Originally from the northern suburbs of Chicago, I graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Elementary Education. I spent several years in the classroom teaching fifth grade, first grade and serving as a Reading Recovery teacher before stepping away to focus on raising my family. My husband, Matt, and I have been married for 27 years and have three children—ages 21, 18, and 14—who have all attended Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools. Our oldest is now a senior at Indiana University, our middle is beginning his first year at the University of Cincinnati, and our youngest is a sophomore at Fishers High School. Throughout their school years, I found great joy in volunteering and supporting the district in various ways.

Last year, I began mentoring with Fishers Youth Initiative and immediately felt connected to its mission. It is a privilege to step into the role of Campus Coordinator and take a more active part in supporting local students and giving back to the community that has been such an important part of my family’s life. In my free time, you will often find me outside—walking, kayaking, or cheering on my kids at their sporting events. I also love relaxing at home with a good book, spending quality time with family and friends, and snuggling with my dog.

Meghan Kaplan

I grew up in Chicago but have called Fishers home for over ten years. My husband, Noah, and I have three children, all of whom attend HSE schools. I hold a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Brooklyn College and have taught in schools across New York, Chicago, and Indiana. I later joined The New Teacher Project as an educational coach, supporting teachers and school districts nationwide who were serving at-risk communities.

A few years later, my career took an unexpected but exciting turn when I had the opportunity to be the Media Director for the US OPEN Pickleball Championships, a role I held for six years. Since then, I’ve helped bring youth pickleball programs to Fishers, leading several local leagues and initiatives.

I’m thrilled for the opportunity to return to working in schools and look forward to supporting students in our community through mentorship – helping them to feel seen, valued and empowered.  Outside of work, you’ll often find me on the pickleball court, reading a good book, or enjoying all that Fishers has to offer with my family and friends.

Molly Allen

I grew up in Fishers and graduated from Hamilton Southeastern High School. I’m a bit of a mix as I was raised a Boilermaker but ended up donning the cream and crimson at Indiana University where I earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the Kelley School of Business.

I have been married to my husband, Matt, for 17 years and we have three wonderful daughters. I’ve spent many years giving back to our community and volunteering in their schools and at our local church. My roots in Fishers run deep, fueling my commitment to both family and community.

In my free time I love taking long walks with our golden retriever, reading a good book, cheering for our favorite teams but my true joy is planning the next adventures with my family! I’m honored to be part of YMI and look forward to fostering connections and making a positive impact on the next generation.

Shannon Hanson

I’m a dedicated wife of 25 years and a very proud mom to two boys, ages 18 and 14. In my free time, I enjoy quality time with family, photography, traveling, and cooking. After a very rewarding 28 year career with Fidelity Investments, where I served as a Vice President and a Branch Leader, I retired to focus on my personal interests and giving back to the community. I am originally from Northern Kentucky, however, through my career at Fidelity, I’ve lived in Cincinnati, Chicago, and then promoted to Fishers IN in 2001.

In early 2023, I discovered YMI through a friend and began my journey as a youth mentor in early 2024. I quickly fell in love with the mission of the organization, the incredible people involved, and my mentee. I feel profoundly grateful for this new chapter in my life and am excited to join YMI as a Campus Coordinator to serve our community and its children in meaningful ways in addition to mentoring.

Leah Reynolds