Indiana Republican Diversity Leadership Series
2024 Cohort
Cinnamon Bell-Williams (Hamilton)
Dr. Cinnamon Bell-Williams is the Campus Dean and Director of Nursing at Hondros College of Nursing. Cinnamon has both educational and hospital executive leadership experience. She is establishing her own private business, Supporting People in Compromised Environments, DBA S.P.I.C.E, an organization that believes in a hand-up versus a hand-out for sustainability.
Cinnamon graduated from Millikin University, where she studied Human Services and Nursing. She later graduated from Lewis University, where she studied Educational Leadership. She then graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University, where she studied business, and is now attending William Taft University, where she studies law, not to become an Attorney but to be well-versed in law. Cinnamon resides in Hamilton County and previously served with another party as Hamilton County’s secretary, precinct chair, and polling judge.
Brandon Braganza (Marion)
Brandon Braganza is a proud Indianapolis native with a strong background in hospitality and has a keen interest in fostering connections within the community. Having graduated from IUPUI in 2020 with a Health Sciences degree, he is very diverse in his experiences. He has eight years of experience in the hospitality industry and currently holds the position of Concierge at the JW Marriott Downtown Indianapolis, as well as serving in other city capacities. He is also a proud owner of Prime Connects, a business/community development company based in Indianapolis. Driven by his passion for people and helping others, Brandon loves leveraging his networking skills and ability to bring people together to impact his local community.
Deonte Brown (Marion)
Deonte Brown is a multifaceted professional with a strong foundation in both engineering and marketing. With degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and in Organizational Management/Global Marketing Management from Purdue University Global, Deonte demonstrates a unique blend of technical and creative skills. He co-founded and leads Prime Connects, a community-focused organization in Indianapolis, where he focuses on local business growth, leadership in youth, and financial literacy, alongside his role as a Staff Sergeant in the Indiana National Guard, specializing in Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) defense.
Deonte's career showcases versatility, from pioneering comprehensive operational procedures at Prime Connects to enhancing unit readiness in the National Guard. His achievements include launching successful community programs, leading marketing campaigns, and developing CBRN defense measures. Deonte's leadership and strategic planning skills are evident across his diverse roles, contributing to his significant impact on both his organization and in military service.
Robin Fouce (Grant)
Robin L. Fouce, an unwavering advocate for public service and community development, serves as the Chief of Staff and former President of the Marion City Council. Robin's commitment to fostering positive change within the community has made a lasting impact on the lives of residents in Marion and Grant County.
A seasoned public servant, Robin's journey in public office has been marked by dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Having earned the trust of constituents, Robin won reelection to the Marion City Council and was graciously appointed as the Chief of Staff, driven by a deep-rooted belief in the power of local government to shape a brighter future for all.
Beyond the political arena, Robin is a passionate sports enthusiast, finding inspiration and camaraderie in the world of athletics. This love for sports mirrors Robin's approach to leadership, teamwork, resilience, and a commitment to achieving common goals.
Education and continuous learning are at the core of Robin's professional philosophy. Armed with a solid foundation of education and training, Robin is not only a competent leader but also a catalyst for positive change in the community through public service.
As Chief of Staff, Robin works tirelessly to bridge gaps, champion initiatives, and ensure that the city government operates efficiently and responsively. The vision is clear: a community where every voice is heard, and every individual is given the opportunity to thrive.
In the realm of public service, Robin L. Fouce stands as a beacon of integrity, an advocate for progress, and a leader dedicated to building a community that flourishes for generations to come. Robin returned to her hometown and remains steadfast in her commitment to making a difference and leaving an indelible mark on the City of Marion’s future.
Caleb French (Marion)
Caleb is Vice President, Relationship Manager at Fifth Third Bank. He focuses on providing advice and financial solutions to middle market healthcare companies in Indiana. Caleb is also Co-Founder and CFO of Prime Connects, a community-development focused networking group based in Indianapolis.
Prior to this, Caleb worked as a senior associate in large corporate banking and credit analyst at a top bank in the U.S. Caleb has also worked in treasury management and wealth management, with over eight years of experience in the industry. He holds a bachelor’s of science in finance from Ball State University.
James Hopf (Dubois)
James Hopf is widely recognized for his outstanding leadership in safety management, shaping organizational cultures focused on safety and excellence. Currently serving as a Chair Member on the Patoka Township Advisory Board, James brings extensive expertise in safety regulation and strategic decision-making to his role. With a distinguished career that includes positions such as Regional Manager at Miller Pipeline and Safety Director at Midwest Mole, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to inspire teams, ensure compliance, and cultivate positive work environments. Beyond his professional achievements, James is committed to ongoing education in occupational safety and health, reflecting his dedication to continuous improvement in safety practices. As a driving force in the community, James Hopf's unwavering commitment to safety and leadership sets a standard for excellence.
Wayne James (Porter)
Gary, Indiana native, Wayne James rose through the ranks of area law enforcement over the last 19 years to serve as a Chief of Police, Chief Diversity Officer, Chief Deputy and currently 3rd in Command as Operations Commander for the Starke County Sheriff’s Department.
During his law enforcement career Wayne has worked in a variety of positions, received awards and commendations for his work, and taken advantage of professional development that includes the Police Executive Leadership Academy, Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command and as well as completing a bachelor’s degree in Public Safety Management. Wayne serves as an Indiana Law Enforcement Academy certified instructor, specializing in such areas as active shooter response, defensive tactics and implicit bias training.
The recognitions he has received for his work includes the 40 Under 40 award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police, city of Gary Legend Award, a Medal of Valor, the Congressman Pete Visclosky Award for Going Above the Call of Duty, and two awards from the Northwest Indiana Public Information Officers Association for Going Above and Beyond the Call of Duty and for Officer Recognition and the Urban League of Northwest Indiana Diversity Workforce Award. Additionally, Wayne has been active in community and professional activities and organizations, such as the Urban League of Northwest Indiana, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives’, International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Indiana Association of Chiefs of Police.
Kevin Rogers (Hendricks)
Kevin Rogers is the owner of Facility Solutions, which is a General Contracting and Property Maintenance company that helps clients throughout Indiana with design, construction, building maintenance, janitorial and landscaping. Outside of operating his own small business, Kevin also serves as an elect member of a three-person board for Brown Township in Hendricks County.
In his role, as a member of the Township Board Kevin works with the Township Trustee and other board members on setting policy, adopting budgets, and approving expenditure for the Fire Territory. As a business owner, Kevin uses his 19 years in building operations and facility management to help his clients with cost reduction, capital planning, capital improvements, life cycle costing, and subcontracting of building services.
Kevin was enlisted in the United States Navy from 2001 - 2005 and deployed on two different occasions. His first deployment he was assigned to the USS Philippine Sea CG58 which took part in Operation Iraqi Freedom and his second deployment was with USS O'Bannon. At the end of his naval service, he received a National Defense ribbon, two Sea Service ribbons, The Navy and Marine Corp. Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Award, and numerous other achievements. Kevin is a member of the Brownsburg American Legion Post 331 and loves sharing his thoughts about military service with young men and women.
Kevin holds a BA in Health Care Administration and an MBA from the University of Arizona. He lives in Hendricks County with his wife Lisa, and son Kadin.
Ryan Scott (Marion)
Ryan Scott is a Hoosier Native, Notre Dame football fan, a Veteran, volunteers with the St. Luke Catholic pro-life committee, and Indy’s CFA Society.
After the military, Ryan worked on Wall Street at Morgan Stanley where he provided capital markets and investment management solutions to large American companies and municipalities.
After a decade in NYC, he returned home to start an institutional investment consulting firm. DuLac Capital Advisory L.L.C. helps institutions navigate unintended risks that global mandates such as “Net Zero Transition” can cause.
Morey Strozier (Marion)
Morey Strozier is the CEO and owner of Resilient Minds', a social services agency contracted with the State of Indiana's Department of Child Service since 2019. Morey has demonstrated a commitment to fostering strong, resilient communities. Her prior service in Indiana's Department of Corrections reflects her dedication to public safety and rehabilitation. Morey's leadership has led to the employment of hundreds of Hoosiers, contributing to local economic growth. With a Master's in Clinical Mental Health, Morey applies her expertise to address community mental health challenges. She resides in Lawrence with her two sons.
