2025 RA

  Photos from the Summer 2025 Representative Assembly

Notes from the RA

Paula Dyer Honored with 2025 President’s Award

by Josie Zavada

At the 2025 IRTA Representative Assembly, held at Primo Banquet Hall in Indianapolis, outgoing President David Lennen presented the President’s Award to Paula Dyer in recognition of her outstanding leadership and continued support of the Association.

The President’s Award is given at the discretion of the sitting president to recognize exceptional service to IRTA. As a past president herself, Paula’s influence has extended far beyond her term. She has remained deeply engaged in the work of the Association, offering support, mentorship, and insight whenever needed.

“Every successful leader has guidance from others,” Lennen shared during the presentation. “I’ve been fortunate to be the recipient of this individual’s guidance, support, and encouragement. The IRTA is better because of her leadership.”

Paula’s dedication has helped shape IRTA’s ongoing success. Her leadership, both formal and informal, continues to leave a meaningful mark on the organization and its members. We thank her for the commitment, care, and perspective she brings to everything she does.

From the President’s Desk

by Dr. Sharon Barnes

Greetings, Fellow Retired Educators! I am excited to be part of the Indiana Retired Teachers Association leadership team during the 75th year of our existence! This is a year like none before, and I am happy to share these moments in time with all of you.

Back in the 1970’s, the Steve Miller Band recorded a song entitled “Fly Like An Eagle.” In it he sang about time “. . . slippin’, slippin’, slippin’ into the future. He sang about the way time continually moves forward.

IRTA is continually moving forward as well. In fact, “moving forward” is a theme upon which I would like to focus during my term as President.

Exciting, informative, and practical workshops and activities are in the planning stages for our members and potential members. State IRTA committees will meet in August, 2025 and March, 2026. Serving on a State committee is an excellent entry point to learning more about IRTA. There are two (2) in-person meetings a year. If additional connections are needed, they can be accomplished via telephone or “zoom” technology. Say “Yes” to State committee participation if asked. It is a way for you to move forward!

Fall Leadership Workshops will be held in the South Region (Spring Mill), the Central Region (Primo South in Indianapolis), and the North Region (Swan Lake) regions of the State. We want to come to where you are and make it easier for you to participate. There is no charge for you to participate in the Workshop that is most convenient for you. And for your investment of time and energy, you will connect with fellow educators and learn more effective ways to navigate the INPRS system and connect with your local legislators right from your telephone! We are moving forward!

Indiana Retired Educators Day will be celebrated in November! This is the third consecutive year for this recognition in Indiana. The governor has already proclaimed Sunday, November 2nd as Indiana Retired Educators Day! It is a way to honor, celebrate, and remember the fine educators in our profession. We encourage all members and local chapters to celebrate the educators in your area. IRTA keeps moving forward.

The 2025 Representative Assembly was a huge success in handling the business of the Association and celebrating 75 years of existence. The Assembly voted to increase annual membership dues to $42. This increase will help maintain our programs and activities as we work together to increase our membership numbers and secure pension enhancements. Plans are already in the works for next year’s RA, which will be at Primo on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. Mark your calendars and plan to participate if possible. It is one more way to keep moving forward.

Finally, I am happy to visit and participate in your local RTA meeting if our schedules permit. Reach out to me through the IRTA office or directly via my email at barness@retiredteachers.org.

There are many ways to move forward. I like the way Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. expressed it:

If you can’t fly, then run.                                                     

If you can’t run, then walk.                                                 

If you can’t walk, then crawl.                                                     

But by all means, keep moving!

Let’s move IRTA forward together!

From the Desk of the Executive Director

by Laura Penman

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” - Brene Brown 

There are several people I need to express my gratitude to for a very successful 75th Anniversary Celebration last month. Planning started several months in advance, and early confirmation and support made this event possible. Thank you...

To Our Sponsors - AMBA, Hoosier Lottery, Coffman Wealth Management, Pile CPAs, and Joseph Kelley at Morgan Stanley

To our VIP Guests - Al Campos (NRTA), Omarr Guerrero (AMBA), Steve Russo (INPRS), Jared Bond (Hoosier Lottery), Rae Feller (CASA), and Mike and Joe Coffman

To the IRTA Staff 

To Our Members

To Our Award Recipients

To Our Delegates and Local Officers

To Our Board of Directors and Executive Committee

To the Indiana Retired Teachers Association Foundation Board

To Mary Ann Sullivan and the Staff at Primo Banquet Hall

To Hal Daniels and the Indiana American Legion District 11 Honor Guard

To Caleb and Evan Pettit of Pettit Photography

To Jodi Lohrman and the Honeysuckle Hill Bee-stro

To Saved By Grace Balloon Co.

If you haven’t heard! IRTA is looking at ways to better connect and keep our members informed as we continue to Move Forward. Starting July 1st, a Monthly Member Memo was emailed to members with the updates from the last thirty days. Information will fluctuate depending on the time of year, but monthly updates will bridge the communication gap between IRTA’s quarterly newsletters. If you did not receive the July Monthly Member Memo email, please contact our office!

IRTA has updated the Membership Tab on our website to include the preferred way of joining with Dues Deduct. Although we still offer credit card and check payment options, we hope that Dues Deduct will fit the needs of more retirees. In order to be more proficient with spending our limited funds, we have designed a new promotional card to replace the old membership brochure. This card will be mailed to new retirees, along with an IRTA introductory letter. The cards will also be available for members to share with non-members as we continue to strive for increased membership. 

IRTA Honors 2025 Legacy Award Recipients: Robert “Bob” Kraft and Barry Conrad

Now in its second year, the IRTA Legacy Award honors retired educators whose commitment to service continues to shape lives well beyond the classroom. At this year’s IRTA Representative Assembly, two outstanding individuals were recognized: Robert “Bob” Kraft and Barry Conrad. Their paths may differ, but their influence is deep and enduring.

Barry Conrad received the award in person, surrounded by colleagues and friends who have long admired his steady, thoughtful leadership. Over four decades, Barry taught math at nearly every level before moving into technology leadership in Wabash County. He helped modernize classrooms while always keeping students at the center. Since retiring, Barry has remained active in IRTA, serving as State President and contributing to countless committees with humility and care. He continues to serve through his church and community, living the values that shaped his long career in education.

Robert “Bob” Kraft was unable to attend the Assembly due to a long-planned family trip, but his presence was strongly felt. Known for his joyful and imaginative leadership, Bob spent many years as a principal in Evansville, bringing humor, heart, and innovation to his schools. In retirement, he has offered more than two decades of service to IRTA and was honored at the state level for his continued advocacy. Those who know Bob speak of his genuine curiosity, warmth, and the way he makes people feel seen and valued.

The Legacy Award is not about accolades. It is about how lives of service ripple outward, strengthening communities and inspiring others. In honoring Barry Conrad and Robert Kraft, IRTA celebrates leadership that continues long after retirement and leaves a lasting mark.

Representative Assembly Wrap-Up

By Dr. Sharon Barnes

On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, the Representative Assembly was a wonderful celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Indiana Retired Teachers Association. From the Presentation of the Colors that opened the proceedings to the luncheon and award presentations that closed the activities, the 60th Representative Assembly was enjoyed by all who attended.

The morning business meeting included the approval of raising the dues for regular memberships to $42. A balanced budget was also approved. Four Area Directors were elected along with the incoming Secretary-Treasurer and President-Elect.  David Lennen received an appreciation award for his service as President.

The luncheon and afternoon session included comments from various guest speakers and award sponsors from the National Retired Teachers Association, INPRS, AMBA, Hoosier Lottery, CASA, and the Coffman Brothers. A variety of IRTA award winners were also recognized.

See Photos HERE!

Register HERE!

Welcome to Our Incoming Board Members

We are pleased to announce the newly elected members of the Indiana Retired Teachers Association (IRTA) Board. These individuals will help lead our organization with dedication and passion for public education and retired educators across the state.

We welcome each of these new leaders and look forward to the contributions they will make to our mission.

State Officers

State President-Elect: Mark Guard, Ohio County

State Secretary-Treasurer: Brad Seward, White County

Area Directors

Area 1: Hugh Rettinger, Marshall County (1st term)

Area 3: Judith Neilan, White County (1st term)

Area 5: Mike Robards, Johnson County (1st term)

Area 7: No appointee at this time

Area 9: Dr. Mary Jo Beauchamp, Pike–Gibson Counties (1st term)

2024 AMBA CLOCK AWARDS 

Marcia Haslett 

Area 1-St. Joseph

Marcia has a degree in deaf education from Ball State. After retirement she currently is a teacher at Forever Learning Institute. Marcia has taught multiple levels of sign language to those over 50 to 99 years old. Too, she has tutored youth 8-17 based on individual needs. Marcia works at a phone bank twice a year to collect pledges to WVPE, a public radio station. Also, she delivers books to patrons that may not be able to access the library. She is busy taking disabled seniors to doctor’s appointments and runs errands such as grocery shopping. Marcia’s volunteer efforts range from youth through seniors. Because her effort makes a significant difference to so many, she is considered a “hero” in the community.

David Yarde II

Area 2-DeKalb

David has a deep education background, teaching adult education, elementary teacher, elementary principal, Human Resource Manager, textbook representative, volunteer for National Auto and Truck Museum, board member, Executive Director, and Indiana State Representative. Most would settle in and review accomplishments. “Next Gen” is David’s product. He has developed a curriculum for male and female students 13-17. Skills that are woven into the curriculum are interpersonal, functional life, science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), communication, and money management. As students progress, they are given a project and at completion are allowed to drive the vehicle they have been working on around a prescribed course at the museum. Next Gen students are involved in car and truck shows, downtown cruise-ins, and ultimately answer questions the public may have. This is a positive way to integrate young people into the community. David organizes fund raisers for scholarships available for anyone attending a 2-4 year college, vocational, or trade school. David’s focus on the opportunity to nurture and encourage the minds of young people is a reflection of his value on the youth of tomorrow.

Karmin Reeves 

Area 3- Fulton

Karmin has worked with Habitat for Humanity. This past year she saw the completion of a new home, and two more will be completed this spring. She works with families, helping them meet the financial parameters for a new home. Karmin helps with Meal on Wheels making sure food needs are met for others. Added to this, Karmin coached Track/Field and Diving for students in Rochester. In retirement she continues to teach and contribute tirelessly to the needs of her community.

Karen Webb 

Area 4-Clay

Karen has been described as “phenomenal.” She is President of the Vigo County Retirement Teachers Association and an active member in the Clay County Retirement Teachers Association. She values volunteerism and gives equally to both organizations. She is known for implementing “I Vote,” in the local county elementary schools. She organizes the schedule, initiates the connections, and participates in the reading and voting segments of this new program. Karen reads to every K-2 class in Clay County and teaches mini-lessons on the voting process in preparation for Voting Day at the schools. The student ballots are counted and the results are reported to the schools. Too, Karen volunteers in multiple ways to Christ Community Church, holds many offices in the VCRTA, gives time to Kairos Prison Ministry, and serves on the Executive Board of CCRTA. As a lifetime member of IRTA she generously shares her many talents with her community.

Carol Hervey 

Area 5-Marion-Wayne

Carol’s mission is to help those who have a need, especially underserved young people. “For youth and for fellow volunteers she provides humanitarian, recreational and leadership opportunities.” The majority of her volunteer work is with young people through her church and through community at a mobile home park. Carol is the organizing volunteer who serves the Winterbrook community out of a purchased mobile home. During the course of a year Carol helps with a Valentines Day Party, plans spring break activities, helps identify teens to be trained for summer camp counselors, sets up camp and curriculum, tears down camp. With help from the Center Grove basketball team, she purchased and organized a Secret Santa for Winterbrook children. This abbreviated list reflects some of Carol’s volunteer focus on the underserved. Recently, Carol was installed as an officer on the Board of Directors Riley Hospital Cheer Guild. Her volunteerism is above and beyond.

Patricia Keogh 

Area 6-Madison 

Pat is active in her church administration and plays the piano at masses. She volunteers at the hospital and is an active member at the Guild and gift shop. At the Paramount Theatre she helps patrons during each production. Pat plays diverse roles in her volunteer hours within the community.

Cheryl Miles-Vieth

Area 7-Bartholomew

Words that describe Cheryl are, “a beacon of enthusiasm and dedication,” a “transformative force in our community.” She is involved with student centered events like “Girl Up,” aimed at empowering young girls in STEM, or her support of VEX robotic competitions. She is a board member of the Columbus Area Arts Council promoting the arts as our communities’ identity. Carol’s dedication to a signature event Uncommon Cause has become one of the most successful fundraising efforts in Bartholomew County. Her contributions to the Mill Race Theatre Company have allowed the theatre to flourish and offer opportunities for students and adults. “Her innovative approach to volunteerism has led to increased support for Turning Point, our local food pantry reflecting her deep-seated belief “Those who have, have an obligation to help those who don’t.” The multifaceted volunteerism Carol displays provide many benefits to her community. 

Arlene Owens

Area 8-Daviess-Martin

Arlene retired from teaching in 2018. She taught in the Washington Community School Corporation at North Elementary School K-6 Physical Education. She enjoys playing pickleball and has given youth clinics for pickleball after retirement. Arlene and a co-member of DMRTA are responsible for getting the guest speaker for bi-monthly meetings. She volunteers many hours at St. Vincent DePaul in Washington, Indiana. She works in toys. Arlene has 825 hours showing her commitment to working at St. Vincent DePaul. 

Nancy G. Clem

Area 9-Pike-Gibson

Nancy volunteers her time at her church and participates as treasurer and the Session as an Elder. She provided leadership and direction for the church as the church looked for a new pastor. She helps with church meal preparation. She visits church members who are in the hospital, or rehabilitation. Nancy helps shut-ins with chores, grocery shopping, cooking plus taking them to doctor appointments. Nancy has worked as a volunteer with the Vanderburgh County 4-H, and the Transportation Unit transporting patients. Nancy was President of the Daughters of the Nile, plus holding other offices within the organization. Nancy is a member of Delta Kappa Gamma. Too, she served as Community Service Chair for PGRTA. Nancy has served many people in her community.

Sharon Moder

Area 10-Dearborn County

Sharon is remarkable in the varied ways she volunteers in her community. She developed the curriculum directed toward math concepts not covered in the classroom enforcing student understanding of number and mathematical concepts. She meets with 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade high-ability math students for enrichment one day a week. “Think Smart, Stay Safe,” is a program she volunteers as a small group leader at two different schools. This program teaches student assertiveness, internet safety, stranger danger, and good/bad touch. Sharon maintains the Dearborn County Retired Teachers Association website and Facebook page. Too, she has helped two other associations with the development of their website. She creates the quarterly newsletter the Recess Bell. Also, Sharon belongs to the DCRTA Sewing group that meets nine months a year, and the group makes dresses and shorts for needy kids around the world. These are just some of the activities Sharon is engaged with. Her dedication to youth and the strong education focus plus her dedication to community volunteerism is outstanding.

2024 CASA AWARDS

MARY KAY POWELL

Starke County RTA,  8 years as a CASA Volunteer

Mary Kay has been working on cases for CASA for at least eight years. She is very diligent in her research on each case, and always works for the child’s best interest as needed. She does these things even with her recent mobility issues. She is a joy to work with.

ANNE FERGUSON

Allen County REA, 14 years as a CASA Volunteer

Anne is an outstanding CASA volunteer. Anne has served in this capacity for 14 years. She is still involved with the very first case she was assigned. In addition to this ongoing CASA case, Anne has had the opportunity to advocate for eighteen other children through volunteering as a CASA representative. She has found each child to be challenging yet rewarding.

KIM NIXON 

Montgomery County RTA, 7 years as a CASA Volunteer

As a CASA I have worked with many families since I began 7 years ago, often having more than one case at a time. I am able to ensure that the children’s needs are met whether those needs are material, such as clothing, school supplies, or even Christmas gifts. Often their needs are emotional, attachment to family or caregivers and their confusion and reaction to what is happening to them. Being a CASA has allowed me to bond and work with children who need a voice, an adult they can trust, and the knowledge that they are loved.

JAN VAN KLEY 

Hancock County RTA, 6 years as a CASA Volunteer

Jan is a member of HCRTA and IRTA. She started her career as a scientist and then went back to school to become a science teacher. Jan has been a CASA advocate for 6 years. Her motivation came from knowing that many children face huge challenges and need an adult/advocate who can be constant in their lives. Jan is one of about 50 CASAs in Hancock County with 130 children in need of services. Presently, she works with 6 children between the ages of 2-15.

SHIRLEY SEGERT

Pike-Gibson RTA, 9 years as a CASA Volunteer

Shirley has been a faithful member of the local CASA program for 9 years. She became a member immediately after retirement in 2016. She received the CASA Award previously in 2019 and with her continued service to the CASA children of Pike County, she is deserving of the award again. Shirley is dedicated to the well-being of the children and serves as a role model to them as well as fellow retired colleagues.

2025 School Bell Awards

1st place – Washington County

2nd place – Whitewater Valley 

3rd place – Greene County

We are excited to announce the winners of the 2025 School Bell Contest, presented by the IRTA Membership Committee in partnership with AMBA. This contest recognized local associations that worked hard to recruit new members and promote automatic dues renewals, strengthening our organization for the future.

From June through April, local associations across Indiana focused on bringing more retirees into the IRTA family. Their dedication paid off and was celebrated at the 2025 IRTA Representative Assembly, where winners were awarded cash prizes for the highest percentage increase in membership.

Congratulations to this year’s winning associations. Your efforts help ensure that IRTA continues to protect pensions, advocate for public education, and offer valuable benefits to retired educators.

As a current member, you play a vital role in the health and growth of IRTA. If every member encouraged just one friend or former colleague to join, we could double our impact. Share the value of IRTA membership with those around you. Tell them about the benefits, the advocacy, and the sense of community that comes with joining our organization.

To learn more or to direct others to join, visit retiredteachers.org. Every new member makes us stronger.

Together, we are IRTA and we grow through the power of connection.

Indiana Retired Teachers Association Foundation Board 

As the Indiana Retired Teachers Association celebrates its 75th anniversary, the IRTA Foundation takes this moment to honor the individuals whose service and leadership continue to shape its future. At this year’s Representative Assembly, Foundation board members gathered for a group photo that marked a meaningful time of both reflection and transition.

This year, the Foundation expresses deep appreciation to outgoing board members Linda Morris and Ellen Mulford. Their dedication and thoughtful guidance have helped carry the Foundation through a period of growth and renewed purpose. With gratitude for their service, we now welcome two new leaders into the fold. Sally Durfee joins the board as secretary, and Nancy Durham steps in as a new member. Both bring valuable experience and enthusiasm to the work ahead.

The Foundation remains focused on its mission to support retired educators and strengthen the future of education in Indiana through scholarships, teacher grants, and emergency assistance. Board President Alan Zerkel leads this work alongside Vice President Judy Hostetler, Treasurer Jane Boultinghouse, and board member Charlie Short. Jeff Zook continues in the role of past president, and the board works in close partnership with IRTA President Dr. Sharon Barnes, Secretary-Treasurer Brad Seward, and Executive Director Laura Penman.

Penman shared, “The Foundation’s work is sustained by people who care deeply about Indiana’s retired educators. We’re so grateful for the board members who have served and excited for the future leadership guiding us forward.”

The Foundation is currently overseeing the creation of a Giving Tree mural inside the Plainfield office. This permanent installation will feature hand-painted trees where Golden Apples, each honoring a $250 donation to the Foundation’s endowment, will be displayed throughout 2025. These apples offer a unique opportunity for supporters to leave a legacy while directly strengthening the programs that support retired and future educators 

Join us for a live webinar with our trusted benefits partner, AMBA*, on Tuesday, August 12th, at 1:00 p.m. EST, where we’ll explore:

•  What makes up your "nest egg"

• The five most common threats facing retirees today

• Practical strategies to keep you resting easy in retirement

There is no cost to attend this event, but registration is required.

Secure your spot today—click below to register.

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