Congratulations to our 2017 class of Alumni Hall of Fame!
Gordon D. Pope, David L. Apple, Robert W. Cherry, Thomas New, Joseph Todd Parker, Rob McCullers, Katrina Hodge Willis, Annie Linville Grinstead, and Jerricho Scroggins
These individuals have set themselves apart from their peers through their achievements, involvement, and impact on their personal, professional, and/or local communities over a number of years. Their stories are connected with the threads of educators, colleagues, friends, family, and neighbors who influenced their lives and spurred them to passions beyond themselves.
Class of 1957 | Greenfield High School
Gordon D. Pope
Athletics was a foundation and a springboard for Gordon “Gordy” Pope as he ventured from his years at Greenfield High School into college and his career. A five-sport athlete in basketball, baseball, football, track and golf, Gordy was honored as one of the top 100 Basketball Seniors in 1957. He even won the city tennis tournament. Sports wasn’t everything though, and his classmates often found him engaged in a variety of clubs from Latin Club to the Hi-Y Senior Play, and Boys Glee Club to Science Club.
Gordy initially attended Purdue University as part of a Co-op with Eli Lilly where he was a member of the basketball team. He then transferred to Butler University to play basketball and golf for Tony Hinkle while he pursued his degree in education. He was President of his class his Junior year and President of his fraternity TKE. He received his master’s degree from Indiana University in health, physical education, and recreation.
Gordy remained very active with sports all of his life. He was the head boys basketball and baseball coach at Dover High School, the assistant boys basketball coach at Crawfordsville, and the boys basketball head coach for Triton Central High School. He was honored to be inducted into the Butler Athletic Hall of Fame (along with the other members of the Butler 1961-62 basketball team) in 2007, as well as into the Greenfield-Central Athletic Hall of Fame. He was a past board member of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame.
Gordy played for the AAU Masters Basketball Program for 45 years where he was a champion for many years. He played basketball, even including the Senior Olympics, until he was 72. Comments Walt Deal, one of Gordy’s basketball teammates, “I first met Gordy, face to face, more than fifty years ago when his Butler Bulldogs played my Evansville Aces in basketball. We next met years later when he joined my Clearwater Aces basketball team. We played together through countless games in local, state, and national competition throughout the country. I remember remarking that he was “the man among men” playing basketball. It appears that that same comment would apply equally well in the rest of his life affairs.”
This “other” side of Gordy is an example to those around him of his core values, his leadership, and his willingness to invest his life in people, especially the youth. Says friend Charles Willis, ”Leadership is service and Gordy was a great leader.”
Gordy was a sales representative for 48 years for the national company Jostens — primarily known for its production of yearbooks and class rings for high schools and colleges. He was a member of the Jostens’ Chairman’s Club and a recipient of the Elmer Duerst Leadership Award which honors professionalism and dedication to serving schools.
Gordy’s leadership at Jostens could be seen in his mentoring of younger colleagues, his work with students and schools, and his dedication to creating strong communities with opportunities for youth. He helped serve thousands of high school students through the Commitment to Graduate® (C2G) program — an initiative that addresses the growing student dropout rate across America. It encourages students to remain in school, strive for their high school diploma and set a goal for the next stage of life. Others have called him a “legend” in every aspect of his life because of his love for his family, his work with students and his desire to show other employees how to do things the right way.
Gordy was also truly dedicated locally to the work and purpose of the Boys and Girls Club in Hancock County, serving on the Board of Directors for 30 years, including as President. He started early, becoming a member in 1945. He was chosen as Member of the Year in 1956. In 2005 he was recognized for his work and dedication to young people with the National Service to America to Youth Award.
Gordy was a 50-year member of both the Masonic Lodge No. 101 and the Elks Club, where he was the past Exalted Ruler. Gordy was also a member of the Scottish Rite and past president of the Greenfield Country Club. Plus, he served as the president of the Butler B Men.
Married to Joy and the father of two sons – Jeff and Jason – Gordy enjoyed fishing, golf, basketball, hunting and was an avid outdoorsman. He passed away in 2015.
Class of 1959 | Hancock Central High School
David L. Apple
David Apple is described as a humble man who was quick to give attention and credit to others. Others, however, have given him much credit and honor for his many contributions to the lives of those around him and to the industry impacted by his engineering work with John Deere.
David long-claimed that his Biology teacher, Scotty Smith, at Hancock Central High School planted the idea in his mind that a Hancock County farm boy could, and should, consider obtaining a college degree. David heeded that suggestion and did indeed go to Purdue University where he received both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Agricultural Engineering. Upon graduation in 1964, he began a long and productive career with John Deere and John Deere Horicon Works in Wisconsin.
David’s positions with John Deere included Engineering Research, Product Planning, Test Department, and Division Engineer. As Division Engineer, his team developed the 55 Series of compact utility tractors. The 55 Series was recognized as one of the best at John Deere and changed the entire industry. They were the first successful tractors of their kind with a hydrostatic transmission and a quick-detach loader assembly.
Friend and colleague Ron Leonard exults, “I claim full responsibility for issuing the invitation for David to transfer to Horicon Works Engineering Department. This turned out to be a great benefit to both of us. David’s upbeat positive attitude carried us through many periods of debate and doubt about new products. David and his talented group of engineers made a stunning contribution to the Deere growth in consumer products. When the successful Horicon designed 55 Series compact utility tractors were later combined with the Yanmar small tractors, the JD 4000 Series resulted. This was big-time stuff. His leadership style enabled all participants to accomplish what was needed, in the face of many diverse opinions. Many still proclaim this tractor with a loader was the best design ever achieved by Deere. David made that happen.”
It wasn’t just friends and colleagues who noticed David’s contributions. A member of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers – an international professional organization – David received the Quad City Chapter 1967 Outstanding Engineer of the Year award. Many years later, he also was a part of the ASAE Roundtable Series where he was able to share his extensive knowledge and experience with others.
Following his extremely successful career with John Deere, David began a second career in 1992 with Brunswick Corporation – an international company that today is a market leader in the marine, fitness and billiards industries – as the Manager of Engineering in Muskegon, Michigan, and Germany. This presented him with new challenges and an opportunity for international travel.
David gained great satisfaction from mentoring. Titles and prestige were unimportant. His leadership and willingness to share what he knew with the people he worked with did not go unnoticed. People were appreciative, calling him “generous,” “genuine,” and “friend.” Another colleague, Roger Curry, says, “Dave was great to work with on the several projects we shared at John Deere. He was always upbeat and looking for a better way to accomplish the work to be done.”
In his community, David was actively involved in leadership roles with United Methodist and Presbyterian congregations, as the organizer and President of a Parent Teacher Organization, and as a member and officer in the Rotary Club of Horicon, Wisconsin.
While David lived out of state, he never forgot his roots in Hancock County. He always enjoyed the opportunities to reconnect with his hometown friends during alumni gatherings and was proud to be a graduate of Hancock Central. He especially enjoyed the time he was able to reminisce with Scotty Smith at one of those gatherings where they mutually gave thanks for the day his teacher encouraged him to spread his wings and give college a try.
David and his wife Lois were blessed with two children, Ellen and Brian, and four grandchildren. He loved his family and working on his farm. David passed away in 2013.
Class of 1965 | Hancock Central High School
Robert W. Cherry
As an Indiana State Representative Robert “Bob” Cherry has distinguished himself in Indiana’s political arena. Perhaps lesser known, however, is his career beginnings can be found in the classroom – and even further back, in the halls of Hancock Central High School. One of 59 students in his graduating class, he was also one of 41 who chose to pursue higher education. Says Bob, “In 1965, that was impressive. My education, specifically in science, ag, and biology prepared me for college as well as for the world of work.”
After receiving his degree from Purdue University majoring in animal science and education, Bob began as a teacher at Greenfield-Central High School. He strove to follow the lead of his two favorite teachers, Darl Collins and Lou Hurrle. Like Bob, they had been fresh out of college but both, he says, “made their subjects relevant and interesting, commanded respect, and focused on our futures and the importance of education.” He adds, “Many times I run into former students from my teaching days.” A recent message from a former student who had been a bit of a loner and struggled academically shared, “Mr. Cherry, I remember you believed in me when no one else did.” Bob tells us that this student is now a professor at Marshall University.
An important part of Bob’s school experience as a student and a teacher was his participation in Future Farmers of America (FFA). Bob was an officer as a student and an advisor as a teacher. He says, “There is a thread of agricultural involvement that has followed me throughout my entire life, both personally and professionally.” Bob also became a Consultant of Vocational Education at the Indiana Department of Education. He then moved on to Indiana Farm Bureau and Farm Credit where he served for 40 years. After retirement in 2015, he immediately found himself in the field – part of a beautiful and bountiful harvest – and has continued his involvement in farming.
Along the way, Bob dedicated himself to the service of fellow Hoosiers. He started with serving on the Hancock County Council, then was elected in 1998 as a Representative in the Indiana House of Representatives. Bob held the position of Assistant Majority Caucus Chair for ten years. He has also been appointed to numerous positions by the last five Indiana Governors. For nearly 20 years Bob has impacted the people of Indiana House District 53. Building on his foundation in agriculture, Bob has been dedicated to preserving Indiana’s agricultural prominence and strong Hoosier values.
Bob has served as Chairman of the Agricultural Advisory Council, a member of the Local Government Committee, and as an appointee of the State Board of Tax Commissioners. He currently is a member of the Rules and Legislative Committee and Government and Regulations Reform Committee. He serves on the Indiana State Fair Legislative Advisory Commission, is Vice-Chair of Ways and Means, and serves on the Budget Committee.
His efforts have been noticed by his colleagues and others around the state. Bob has been recognized for his efforts and passion by being named “Legislator of the Year” by several organizations. A recipient of the Library Advocacy Award, he also was given the Purdue Distinguished Alumni Award in Animal Science in 2007.
Bob has continued to be involved in the state and local community through a variety of organizations. He is a member of Elks, Free and Ancient Masons, the Greater Greenfield Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club, Masonic Lodge and Murat Shrine. He is a Masonic 33rd Degree. He has served as Director of Local Government for Indiana Farm Bureau. At Greenfield-Central he has devoted time to give presentations to retired teachers, served on a committee for school building improvements and officiated basketball and football games.
His nominator, Bill English, says, “Bob Cherry has always been, and continues to be, an outstanding contributor to all of Hancock County through his many connections with organizations and his work as a member of the Indiana State House of Representatives.”
Bob and his wife Deb have been married since 2006. The Cherry’s have five children between them and 11 grandchildren. Education has always been important in the family. All of their children have continued with a college education and two obtained Master’s degrees in Education. Many are involved in the school system – a teacher, a principal, and twin boys who coach high school basketball. For six years Deb tutored 3rd grade reading at Weston Elementary School. Says Bob,” Greenfield-Central schools have a strong family, supportive structure, which I am honored to be a part of.”
On being a part of the 2017 Alumni Hall of Fame class Bob says, “I am honored and humbled beyond measure to be included.”
Class of 1969 | Greenfield High School
Thomas L. New
Tom New’s strong dedication to every endeavor spurred his nominator Steven Weaver to say, “Whatever the challenge, Tom’s commitment is always 100 percent.” Those words affirm the perseverance that has propelled Tom to accomplish much, beginning with being Valedictorian of the GHS class of 1969.
Tom’s accomplishments have required much hard work. After high school, Tom began his studies at Harvard University. He called the transition a “huge leap.” He says, “My freshman academic advisor told me I would experience some initial difficulty adjusting to the demands of the curriculum, not because I was ill-prepared but because of the competition I would face from one of the most academically-driven student bodies in the country. His comment took me aback but he was correct. The competition from my peers, especially those who had attended elite private preparatory schools, was a bit overwhelming at first but the solid academic base laid at Greenfield High School sustained me, and I graduated from Harvard College with honors and a full-ride scholarship to graduate school at the University of Chicago.” In addition to his degrees from Harvard and the University of Chicago, Tom received his Master of Public Policy from John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard.
While most of Tom’s career has been in politics and state government, he began as a high school AP/honors government teacher at Maine South High School in Illinois. He has also served as adjunct faculty at Harvard and Butler University. He is currently an associate faculty member at the School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, where he teaches public management. Says Tom, “When I look back I realize I often emulated the teaching styles of the GHS faculty.” Teachers like William Harpring, Larry Fox, and Charles Wise each brought an approach to the classroom that positively impacted and stimulated their students. Tom specifically singles out Nora Lamble who, during middle school, he says, “put me on a path that would result in a high degree of academic success.”
Prior to his current position as a member of Krieg DeVault’s Governmental Affairs Practice Group in Indianapolis where he advises clients in the areas of governmental affairs, public procurement, public finance, life sciences, economic development and public policy analysis, Tom held several key positions in Indiana state government and politics. Tom served as Chief of Staff to Governor Frank O’Bannon and managed O’Bannon’s gubernatorial campaigns in 1996 and 2000. He also served as Fiscal Advisor to the Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus, Legislative Liaison to the Indiana Senate for Governor Evan Bayh, and Chief of Staff to Lieutenant Governor O’Bannon. Additionally, he was the Indiana Democratic Party’s nominee for Treasurer of State.
Tom reflects, “Without question, the high point of my professional life has been working for Governor Frank O’Bannon, both as his campaign manager and as his Chief of Staff during his first term of office. During that period in the late 1990s, I had the opportunity to work on important issues such as creating a statewide community college system through Ivy Tech and commencing the dialogue on full-day kindergarten and pre-K education.”
Tom was named a Sagamore of the Wabash by Indiana Governor Evan Bayh in 1997. He received that honor again in 1999 from Governor Frank O’Bannon and a third time in 2005 from Governor Joseph Kernan. To be given this recognition three times is phenomenal. Weaver concludes that Tom is, “just an outstanding citizen and person.”
Other awards have included receiving the Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award (3 times), School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis; Harvard National Scholar; James L. McLaughlin Memorial Trophy, Harvard University; and Distinction in Undergraduate Teaching, awarded by the Committee on Undergraduate Education, Harvard University. He is also honored to be included in the Greenfield-Central Athletic Hall of Fame.
Tom has actively sought to improve the lives of the people of Indiana with his service on numerous committees, boards, and commissions. While Tom’s impact cannot be fully expressed in a few short paragraphs, it is very visible to those affected through his many associations, projects, policy works and sharing of experience – in a multitude of venues – where he has generously given his time, his passion and his life.
Tom’s daughter, Emily New, is a Brebeuf Jesuit Prep School and Indiana University graduate who works for Linkedin. His siblings are also G-CHS graduates. Ann lives in Seattle and John continues to reside in Greenfield, working for the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, managing the state park inns.
Class of 1983 | Greenfield-Central High School
Joseph Todd Parker
Todd Parker has built on the foundation he received in Greenfield and the Greenfield-Central school system to become a successful businessman, a loving father, devoted husband and esteemed community servant. Says his nominator, Trina Griesmeyer, “Todd was very proud of his school and loved being a Greenfield-Central Cougar.”
Involved on many levels in high school, Todd was an athlete, Student Council member, class officer, and high academic achiever. He spoke at his graduation and was highly regarded by both peers and faculty. His favorite teacher was Roy Pignatiello, his football coach, and algebra teacher. Says Todd, “The excellent math program prepared me well for an engineering education.” He continued to add that the athletic programs taught him the rewards of hard work and a healthy competitive spirit. Additionally, lifelong friends from a great high school experience have continued to enrich his life.
Todd continued his education at Purdue University where he played football while pursuing his degree in Construction Management Engineering. He followed that with a Master’s degree in Business Administration in Finance from Indiana University.
Since 1992, Todd has worked for the Fortune 500 Company, Owens Corning. Owens Corning is a global company that develops and produces insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composites. He began working as an engineer and held further positions in sales, customer operations, and finance. Todd has extensive leadership experience, having served terms as Director of Finance, Director of Corporate Financial Planning and Analysis and Manager of the Pipe and Equipment Business. Todd is currently Vice President of Finance for the Insulation Business and an Officer of the company. He has steadily risen through the ranks increasing his responsibility and influence as a valuable and trusted core of the company leadership.
While Todd’s energy and focus have created significant business success, he is also devoted to his community in Toledo, Ohio, and in Greenfield. Todd heavily invests his time in causes that are important to him, in the lives of people – young and old – and in his church.
For several years Todd was involved with Junior Achievement, helping teach young people skills related to work-readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy through JA’s experiential learning opportunities. In his church, St. Joan of Arc, Todd serves as Chairman of the Finance Committee and Parking Lot Security Coordinator.
Another important focus has been work among the homeless and poor. Cherry Street Mission Ministries serves individuals in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan by cooking meals, offering shelter, and pointing to a hope found in Jesus. Following many years volunteering with this organization, serving meals and offering encouragement to low-income and homeless men, women, and children, Todd joined the Board of Directors in 2015 and currently serves as its Treasurer. He says,”We serve over 1,000 meals per day and have multiple facilities with over 300 beds. In addition, to food and shelter, we offer emergency services, partnering with mental health providers, job readiness programs, and most recently vocational training through our innovative Life Revitalization Center.” The ministry is the largest organization serving this population in the 14-county area.
Todd began his work with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as a Great Strides Walk volunteer and committee member in 1999. Todd’s 19-year-old daughter Katie was born with Cystic Fibrosis. He says, “This was the primary driver in our involvement with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation through their Great Strides Walk in Greenfield and Toledo. The Greenfield walk was started by my mom, Pat Parker, who chaired the committee for several years followed by my sister Trina. During Katie’s life, there has been no cure found but many improvements to medical care and medications that have extended life expectancy. Katie is in good health and able to attend college and we attribute much of this to the great work of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Great Strides walk.”
Todd’s parents, Pat and Joe Parker, and sisters, Trina Greismeyer and Terry Gordon, still live in the Greenfield area. Todd and his wife Debbie are the parents of twins Katie and Joey.
Class of 1984 | Greenfield-Central High School
Rob McCullers
Rob McCullers begins his story on the outskirts of Greenfield near a grass strip airport where he spent his days watching planes take off and land and “scrounging flights by washing and waxing airplanes.” His passion for flying and becoming a pilot grew throughout high school. It ultimately led him to attend the US Air Force Academy in Colorado where he was selected as Outstanding Cadet during his Junior year. Says Rob, “My time at the Academy, especially my freshman year, was the most intense time of my life and G-CHS prepared me well. Thanks to the efforts of Mr. Rihm and Mr. Smith, physics, chemistry and biology in college were just a review for me while my classmates dropped these courses left and right.”
Rob served in the Air Force for 28 years on Active Duty, in the Reserves and Air National Guard. He began his flying career with nuclear alert for Strategic Air Command and then followed as a Research Pilot and Test Program Manager at Edwards AFB in California. He has traveled the world. Rob has over 8,000 flight hours in 23 types of aircraft from gliders as a cadet to the B-747. He has flown 93 combat missions and 195 test/test support missions. He flew worldwide telemetry, international space support, treaty verification, and missile defense missions. He was involved in the low-level air refueling certifications for the B-2 and C-17. He also flew high-altitude missions testing new types of fuel as an instructor pilot for the USAF Test Pilot School. Rob has had eight overseas deployments including to Kuwait, Iraq, Turkey, Bosnia, Somalia, and Afghanistan. Rob’s last deployment was to Afghanistan in 2012. He served as the Air Force Central Command’s Inspector General and sole manager for the Air Force Complaints Resolution Program. Traveling extensively across nine Middle Eastern nations he worked on White House and Congressional inquiries providing analysis of force protection issues, flight safety issues and fraudulent contracting.
Rob retired from the Air Force in 2016, finishing as the Inspector General for the Illinois National Guard. While in the Guard, he also flew for ATA Airlines. Says Rob, “Flying trips for ATA out of Indianapolis was a great joy as I routinely saw classmates, Greenfield alumni, and former teachers.” His wife Sally adds, “Rob, as an Airline Captain for ATA, flew in response to Hurricane Katrina bringing relief supplies to the Gulf Coast and flying evacuees out. He also flew flights transporting refugees out of Kenya, Somalia, and Lebanon.”
During his stellar career, Rob has received numerous recognitions. In 1990 Rob was a significant contributor to his squadron being awarded the Golden Tanker Award as the Best Air Refueling Squadron in 8th Air Force. (National). In 1996 he was a pilot in the 452nd Flight Test Squadron at Edwards AFB, CA, which won the USAF Duckworth Award in recognition for having made the most significant contribution to the science of aerospace instrument flight. (National). In 2010 and 2011 Rob, as the State Inspector General for Illinois, twice led his Directorate to win the General Flynn Trophy from the Secretary of the Air Force for having the best Complaints Resolution Program in the Air National Guard. (National). He was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal from Illinois in 2016 and has been recognized 12 times for outstanding achievement in aerial flight.
Somehow, Rob also found time to be involved in his community and in schools. Since 2000, Rob has served as a volunteer with the US Air Force Academy as an Admissions Officer – including for Greenfield-Central from 2000-2008. He identifies and mentors prospective officer candidates for the Academy. Rob has served on congressional selection boards in both Indiana and Illinois to evaluate candidates for scholarship selection. Rob was a math tutor for two years with the Gifted and Talented Program in the Brownsburg, IN, elementary school system. And, both Rob and Sally volunteer in their church as Junior High and High School youth leaders. Rob, as both a military pilot and airline pilot, has repeatedly gone to local schools in order to speak in classes and with individual students about life in the military.
Rob remembers his time at Greenfield-Central and the many dedicated teachers who, “made school enjoyable and taught life lessons along with their classes.” He specifically highlights memories of Rowena Morelock, Barbara Sturm, Coach Busby, Don Jackson and Kathy Dowling. He says, “Coach Busby put up with my love-hate (mostly hate) relationship with swimming. He taught great lessons in perseverance.” And, “Kathy Dowling taught me not to allow missteps to get in the way of achieving your goals.”
Rob met his wife Sally (also an Air Force Academy graduate) in 1984 at the Indianapolis Airport while they both waited for that initial flight to begin basic training at the Academy. He credits her with the support that has enabled him to achieve his successes in life. They currently live in Illinois and have four children: Abigail, Mary, Grace and Sam.
Class of 1988 | Greenfield-Central High School
Katrina Hodge Willis
Katrina Willis recently received a glowing endorsement from New York Times bestselling author Rachel Macy Stafford who, upon reading Katrina’s writing, said, “Katrina has an extraordinary gift of detail and language”, a “brave willingness to go where others dare not go”, and a “heart that feels deeply and fully.” She further adds, “when I am lost in one of Katrina’s stories, I don’t want to come back.”
As a writer, Katrina has had the opportunity to engage in a number of high-profile writing experiences. Says her nominator, Chris Willis, “Her words have helped deliver the message for many multinational companies. She has both ghostwritten and been bylined for numerous industry magazines including Forbes, iMedia Connection, and Marketing Profs.” Additionally, Katrina has developed an award-winning independent writing career. Her focus has been on issues of parenting, mothers, family, and women. Katrina received a Midwest Writers Fellowship to develop her current novel Parting Gifts, which was a 2016 Finalist in General Fiction and Literary Fiction categories at the 13th Annual Best Book Awards. Katrina was also selected to participate in the St. Augustine’s Writers Conference which allowed her to work with some of the world’s best writers and be included in the “up and coming” crowd.
Katrina’s passion, insight, and authenticity in sharing her words has led to many honors. She has been a Featured Alumni in the Ball State University Magazine; named a Distinguished Author by Indianapolis Book & Author Luncheon; received the Parenting Media Association Gold Medal Blogger Award, St. Augustine Writers Conference Fiction Selection, Circle of Moms “Top 25 Book Author Moms” Award; and has been a Listen To Your Mother Selected Essayist and Participant, America’s Next Author Short Story Contest Finalist and Anthology Feature, Top Five Finalist for the Notes & Words Essay Contest, and First Runner-Up at the 2012 Victoria A. Hudson Emerging Writer SFWC Scholarship Contest. Katrina was also an Experts Among Us 2015 Voice of the Year Honoree by BlogHer, the preeminent voice in independent writers addressing women’s issues.
Katrina’s other works include essays in My Other Ex: Women’s True Stories of Leaving and Losing Friends Anthology and Nothing but the Truth So Help Me God: 73 Women on Life’s Transitions Anthology, and author of Table for Six: The Extraordinary Tales of an Ordinary Family. Katrina has been a syndicated contributor for BlogHer. She is currently a writer for Mamalode magazine.
Through her writing, Katrina has shared her perspective around the globe. She has been recognized for her clear voice and found herself interviewed by writers as far away as New Zealand. Her nominator adds, “Her sharing of herself and her words has given countless others validation, strength, hope, and courage.”
Katrina believes her foundation at Greenfield-Central prepared her well. She credits Mary Parido as instrumental in her English education. “Her Greek and Latin Derivatives course was the best, most thorough preparation for both college and career.” She also notes that “Gail (Noland) Powell introduced me to the joy of music and performance during my senior year. Because of her, I was able to sing the National Anthem for the Indiana Pacers, perform at many of my friends’ and relatives’ weddings and special events, and tour with the Ball State University Chamber Choir.” Says Katrina, “My writing was championed by many of my beloved high school teachers — the kind of early support that instills confidence and encourages risk-taking. I wrote my first full-length novel in high school — one that will never see the light of day! — but it was the encouragement of my teachers that solidified my desire to put some of my earliest words to paper.”
Beyond writing, Katrina has actively been involved in public school foundations in Starksville, MS and in Zionsville, IN where she rose to become executive director. She has coached youth softball and basketball and directed a summer children’s theatre program. Recognizing the value of young people being part of a sports team, Katrina notes that her own experience in athletics in high school provided her the “discipline and work ethic necessary to succeed in future academic and career opportunities.”
Katrina says, “My greatest works to date are my four children: Samuel Joseph, Augustus Charles, Mary Claire, and George Anderson.” Each of her children are actively pursuing their own dreams and have strong musical and creative gifts. She also adds, “The unconditional love and support of my parents, Bob and Sis Weaver, provided the foundation for all my successes — past, present, and future.” Katrina currently lives in Ohio.
Class of 1996 | Greenfield-Central High School
Annie Linville Grinstead
Sometimes a person exudes such positive energy that people cannot help but be drawn in. Annie Grinstead is such a person. It is no surprise then that she named her event planning business “Positive Energy.”
A Purdue University graduate with a degree in Public Relations, Annie began her career with CMC Global, an international event planning company based in Indianapolis. She quickly distinguished herself as a project manager and team leader and received the 2004 Indianapolis Event Planner of the Year recognition by Meeting Planners International.
In 2012, Annie ventured out on her own and started Positive Energy with the goal to plan great events for terrific clients with a wonderful team. Positive Energy now organizes and runs events for national companies, universities, and well-known speakers like Greenfield’s own Josh Bleill. Her company also shares its expertise with foundations and not-for-profits that are near and dear to the hearts of her team. In 2016, Annie was included in Indianapolis Business Journal’s “Top 40 Under 40.”
When reflecting on her life’s path, Annie has had many teachers and experiences that have impacted her. People like Nancy Herndon, Lillian Parish, Roberta Breese, Karen Davis, Larry McBride, Terry Beagle, Scott Kern, Don Rickett, Buddy Busby, and Larry Angle. Annie loved her time in Greenfield-Central schools. Her good memories could fill pages! However, Kathy Dowling leads the way for the opportunities she encouraged Annie to do such as Key Club and the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference – where Annie received the Positive Mental Attitude Award. Annie also was the test student for a new program of serving 75 hours of community service for school credit. Kathy’s recommendation letter for a scholarship Annie received said that “Annie is as comfortable in a formal gown as she is in her hog barn.” That has stuck with Annie, “I think it is still a strong attribute. To be confident and a voice to be heard at the most important boardroom discussions, but also well-rounded enough to follow and kindle the passions that you enjoy most – even if not on the normal beaten road.”
Annie is so grateful for the foundation of her parents, teachers and school mentors that helped mold her. People believed in her and allowed her to find her path, bring her best qualities to the forefront and shine. She puts an incredible value on the people in her life, including her clients. She says, “Through various achievements and awards, the things I am most proud of are not the awards – my proudest are the people I get to call my partners and clients, to me that is winning!”
Nominator Kathy Angle calls Annie phenomenal, “I have never met anybody who commits to everything like she does, not to just do it but to excel at doing it. Everything she does, she does with complete passion – working in the hog barn, event planning, and changing health habits when she was diagnosed with the worst kind of breast cancer one could get. There is a level of excellence, and above that there is the ‘Annie’ level of excellence.”
Annie’s passion outside of Positive Energy revolves around her family and friends, plus show pigs and the livestock industry. She also loves to golf! She likes to be involved in community activities, church, supporting local businesses, and encouraging youth.
Annie has served on the Hancock Regional Hospital Foundation Board as well as the Hancock County Farm Bureau Board. She worked hard to help establish the Indiana Junior Swine circuit – now a thriving organization with nearly 700 members. She serves on the Hancock County Swine Committee, is the Doug Linville Memorial Fund Lead and Fund-raising Chair and a member of Park Chapel Christian Church.
Since her diagnosis with breast cancer, Annie has spoken at many events and to groups sharing her story of strength, faith, and courage to stay positive. She has also mentored youth from Greenfield-Central, and held seminars for students participating in the 4-H Queen competition as well as livestock competition. She has helped local youth to excel in raising, caring, grooming, and judging livestock.
Annie honors the upbringing her parents Doug and Becky Linville gave her and her sister Katie. Their past experiences gave her the expectation that school would be fun and a great place to springboard her future. She calls it a “perfect childhood” and she has incredible memories, but is “proud to be living with bright eyes for the future.” Annie recalls taking her daughter to her first day of Kindergarten and states, “I feel confident in her future knowing Greenfield is her home and will continue to build, support and cheer on another generation.” Annie and her husband Justin and daughter Rylee reside in Greenfield on the family farm.
Class of 2005 | Greenfield-Central High School
Jerricho Scroggins
In Jerricho Scroggins’ first five years in the music industry, he has received four Grammy awards. There is only a small group of people who have had that kind of success so quickly. So says Seth Mosley – one of the most awarded and in-demand songwriters and producers in the Christian music industry.
Since graduating from Greenfield-Central High School Jerricho has pursued an audio engineering career. He was accepted into Full Sail University in Florida where he successfully completed a rigorous degree in audio engineering. He got his foot in the door when he was accepted for a 3-month internship at Yamaha Music Group in Nashville, TN. His connections there led to his first job with Chris Stevens, a producer, engineer, and songwriter. Jerricho’s first album work was with Toby Mac – which won a Grammy in 2012.
More albums were produced where Jerricho worked alongside nationally recognized Christian music artists such as For King & Country, Michael W. Smith, Manifest, and others. His talent, ability and work commitment were quickly recognized as he contributed to three more Grammy-winning albums in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Those awards caught the eye of many in Nashville and led to his current position. He is now Engineer and Head of Operations for Nashville-based Full Circle Music – a music production house offering songwriting, production, engineering, editing, mixing, instrumentation, arrangement, programming, vocals, and mastering.
One of Jerricho’s nominators, Paul Galbraith, says, “Jerricho’s passion and ability for music and arts have driven him since junior high to produce music, start bands, and explore the arts. What is especially encouraging about Jerricho’s life is the obstacles he has overcome to achieve these things. Since high school, he has dreamed of having an impact on culture through his music. That is a significant dream for a young man from a small town in central Indiana to have. This dream led him to the highest level of training at Full Sail University. He has excelled tremendously in his professional field.”
No one in Jerricho’s family is in the music industry, but Jerricho says he has been surrounded by music his whole life – his father Jeff is a drummer. Jerricho knew he would need to leave the state he loved to pursue his dream. Even so, going off to Nashville was a huge leap. He says his family was supportive though, and he was competitive and driven to make it. His advice, “Get out and do it.”
Jerricho has quickly achieved national awards and recognition since his first introduction to the music industry. Since beginning his work with Full Circle Music in 2012, Jerricho has help record and produce over 10 #1 Songs. He is a four-time Grammy Award winner for albums with Toby Mac, For King & Country and Mandisa. He has won a Dove Award for “Inspirational Album of the Year” and contributed to seven other albums that received Dove Awards. Jerricho’s credits include producing, editing, engineer, and background vocals. His expert contributions have left his mark nationally and internationally.
Jerricho recognized the influence his teachers have had on his life spurring his incentive to achieve. “Jennifer Northhouse,” he says, “was a teacher who spoke into my future. She didn’t just care about her class and helping me pass it. She cared and pushed me to follow my dream and that every step I took would be that much closer to achieving my goals.” Another teacher, Cathy Clements, also taught him life lessons. “She is one of the most caring people I have ever met. On top of teaching me German, she taught me people skills. She’s a servant and is passionate in everything she does and that is what is easily learned from her.”
Desiring to be a servant has also motivated Jerricho to give to others as well as impacted the way he interacts with people. He says, “Everybody is somebody – it is important to treat people equal.” That influences him in the workplace and in the community. Jerricho often serves through his local church. He has been a youth mentor and leader since moving to Nashville. Paul says, “He constantly gives his time and effort to help teens in his local church and community navigate through the difficult years of adolescence.”
Paul sees great things in Jerricho’s future. He says, “Music impacts and directs culture in powerful ways. I believe Jerricho’s contributions to nationally recognized, top of the charts music has had a deep impact in culture, and especially in the young lives of those who listen to his music. I have seen this impact first hand in the lives of teens in our own community who listen passionately to Toby Mac, Skillet, For King & Country, and other artists Jerricho works with. Jerricho’s passion has not wavered at all, and I expect many more incredible accomplishments for him throughout his career.”