News

President's Post: Honoring distinguished service

Published: March 14, 2017 by Gail Richards, president and CEO

Dean receiving his award

I recently had the honor of helping present the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash Award, the highest distinction given by former Governor Pence for distinguished service in Indiana, to long-time JCCF volunteer and Board member, Dean Abplanalp. Dean is an investment advisor with Raymond James and Associates, Inc., located in Greenwood.

The Hudock family, long-time friends and clients of Dean, submitted the application for the award, but many local residents and businesses were happy to provide tidbits of information that shows the dedication he has to making Johnson County a better place for all.

Dean served more than 10 years on the JCCF Board of Directors, leading the organization out of the recession and increasing assets from $11 million to over $24 million during that time-period. The Foundation faced one of the darkest periods in our 25-year history, due to the recession. Dean was responsible for overseeing the process to dig our way out of a large financial crisis and save us more than $500,000 in fees during that time-period. 

JCCF would not be where it is today without Dean’s help and guidance. In addition, Dean took on the role of revamping our investment and spending policy, was instrumental in setting up new policies dealing with excess cash and additional grant distributions to the community (as we recovered from the recession), raising funds to remodel our 1903 offices, and chairing the Facilities Committee that resulted in setting aside funds for capital improvements. Other organizations that have benefited from one of the most philanthropic individuals I know are Franklin College, the Interchurch Food Pantry, Study Connections, the City of Franklin and his church. The aforementioned are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to his charitable and professional dedication. 

The world needs more Deans to make life better for everyone. 

A special thanks to our Platinum Community Partners!

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