As a Senior Philanthropic Advisor at CICF, Ben provides advice on multigenerational family philanthropy, primarily working with Glick Philanthropies, managing their giving in the arts, and supporting their Next Generation initiative. He also assists with other major funds and CICF field of interest funds.
Ben served as a Community Leadership Officer with the Indianapolis Foundation for two years, bringing a deep passion for arts, culture, and community well-being. A proud resident of Indianapolis for over 25 years, Ben has been deeply immersed in the city’s nonprofit and arts scenes. His extensive career as a professional actor, educator, and arts entrepreneur has shaped his commitment to using the arts as a tool for community engagement and transformation. He is a longtime member of the Actors’ Equity Association and was honored as a 2011-12 Creative Renewal Fellowship recipient by the Arts Council of Indianapolis and the Lilly Foundation.
Ben also is a co-founder of the Indianapolis Shakespeare Company, where he played a key role in establishing the organization’s annual free production in the park, making high-quality theatre accessible to all. In addition to his work in the arts, he spent 11 years as an Assistant Professor, Chair, and Director of Theatre at Marian University, mentoring the next generation of artists and arts leaders.
He holds a Master of Arts in Arts Administration from Southern Utah University and a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Marian College (now University). While his professional achievements are many, the roles that matter most to him are husband and father. He finds joy in traveling, exploring nature, spending quality time with his family, and—of course—drinking lots of coffee.
Grantmaking Portfolio: Arts