The plan to efficiently and effectively transition my role as Chairman of the Lakeshore Excellence Foundation (LEF) has been established. I took the initiative to develop and review this plan with the Executive Committee to ensure alignment and a seamless transition of my leadership responsibilities. To be clear, no one asked me to step aside; rather, this is a proactive decision I believe is necessary for the continued growth of the LEF.
In October, I turned 80 years old, and while that may sound old (and it is), I am fortunate to still operate with the energy and mindset of someone much younger. That said, I firmly believe our critically important donor base, the businesses that support our events, our teachers, and our students deserve fresh leadership and a renewed articulation of the LEF’s mission after my 14 years of service.
In 2012, I was asked by Dave Brockway, one of the founders of the LEF, to serve as Chair. Dave emphasized the need for new leadership and a more strategic approach. At the time, I had grandsons in the 2nd and 4th grades, and I saw this as an opportunity to help enhance their educational experience at Lakeshore. I committed to serving as long as they were in the school system. Over time, however, this work has become a true labor of love. Supporting Lakeshore students through fundraising has been a meaningful way to give back to the community our family now calls home.
As we look ahead, I believe the next leader should bring several important qualities to the role. Ideally, this individual will be younger and have children currently in the Lakeshore school system. They should possess a strong passion for fundraising and a genuine commitment to supporting students, teachers, and administrative staff. This passion should be reflected in a willingness to actively engage and contribute across school and community initiatives. Additionally, a connection with Whirlpool Corporation—our largest business donor—is highly valuable.
It is my pleasure to introduce Himanshu Ganjoo, who has agreed to be part of this leadership transition plan. Himanshu currently serves on the LEF Board and is a member of the Fund Development Committee. He is a Commercial Banker with 1st Source Bank.
He and his wife, Sucheta, have two daughters—Aadhya (6th grade) and Mishka (preschool)—who attend Lakeshore Middle School and Trinity Lutheran School, respectively. Sucheta is a Project Manager at Whirlpool Corporation and has been with the company for 19 years. I believe you will agree that Himanshu embodies the qualities we are seeking in our next Chair.
This transition plan allows Himanshu to immediately step into a more active leadership role, including chairing the Fund Development Committee, serving on the Executive Committee, and working closely with me through a structured mentoring process. We have worked diligently to strengthen the LEF’s performance, and I am committed to ensuring that momentum continues. I will remain Chair through the end of this year, with Himanshu assuming the role in January 2027. At that time, I will transition to Chair of Fund Development for 2027 and conclude my Board service in 2028.
This thoughtful, phased approach is designed to support a smooth and successful leadership transition. As stated, our goal is to ensure continuity and sustained success for the LEF.
Sincerely,
J.C. Anderson
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the CTE Programs