WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Elizabeth Ellis of Noblesville recently took over as the new executive director of the Indiana 4-H Foundation, bringing with her nearly 20 years of nonprofit management experience.

 “We are excited for Ms. Ellis to begin her new role,” said Indiana 4-H Foundation Board President Christy Denault. “Her experience with all aspects of nonprofit work will be a valuable asset as we continue to build on the Foundation’s tremendous growth.”

Ellis also will serve as the 4-H resource development officer for Purdue University.

“I am very pleased Liz Ellis has chosen to help us generate critical financial support for 4-H Youth Development,” said Dr. Charles Hibberd, outgoing director of Purdue extension. “Our exciting educational programs reach almost 200,000 Indiana youth each year. Liz is a remarkable talent and will bring exciting new ideas and energy to the dual role.”

Ellis grew up on a small self-sustaining farm where the family raised horses, cows, pigs, sheep, chickens and rabbits as well as growing corn, soybeans, wheat and a large vegetable garden. In 4-H her projects included swine, poultry, rabbits, foods, arts and crafts, flowers and wildlife.

“I really liked 4-H because everyone was recognized for participating, but you were rewarded if you put in the extra time, effort and hard work,” she said. “I liked the livestock aspect of 4-H the most. I grew up in a rural agricultural community, so all of my friends were showing livestock as well.”

The Indiana 4-H Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 organization that develops financial resources to further the mission of Indiana 4-H Youth Development programs, to provide education opportunities to young people. Last year, the Foundation reached $1.1 million in assets, up from $250,000 four years ago.

As foundation director, Ellis is challenged to continue that momentum through a variety of channels that include grant proposals, major gift solicitation, corporate partnerships and annual fund donations. A few notable grants received by the Foundation in recent years include:

•A $204,000 Lilly Endowment grant to build Foundation capacity, as well as increase the number of science trained extension staff and volunteers

•Two grants totaling $246,000 from the Walmart Foundation to create a weekend backpack program for schoolchildren who may live in situations of hunger

•A $20,000 Pioneer Community Giving Grant to create new 4-H science clubs across the state

“I am thrilled to be leading the Indiana 4-H Foundation,” Ellis said. “By supporting the 4-H Foundation you are supporting 4-H for youth in every county in Indiana.

“I love 4-H and have a great understanding of the programs and opportunities available for youth in Indiana. I look forward to growing the 4-H Foundation to better serve the great programs and scholarships offered by the Indiana 4-H Youth Development Program.”

For more than 50 years, the Indiana 4-H Foundation has supported 4-H, the largest youth development program in the state. For more information and to learn how you can become involved, visit www.in4H.org or contact the office at 765-494-8483.