Staff

As Former President and CEO, Ernie played a pivotal role in advancing the mission of Eskenazi Health Foundation by providing leadership, guidance, and philanthropic resources in support of Eskenazi Health. He oversaw all fundraising efforts, including an $87 million capital campaign to construct a new state-of-the-art public hospital in downtown Indianapolis.

Building on the momentum of the $87 million capital campaign, Ernie helped advance the Beyond Barriers Campaign to unprecedented results. What began as a $60 million effort ultimately raised a record $79.6 million, surpassing its goal and finishing an entire year early. The campaign’s impact peaked in 2024, with more than $20 million raised, marking the second-highest fundraising year in the Foundation’s history.

During his tenure, Eskenazi Health Foundation raised over $166 million to ensure everyone in our community receives quality health care.

Prior to joining the Eskenazi Health Foundation, Ernie was a senior consultant with Johnson, Grossnickle, & Associates. Ernie is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) with a bachelor’s degree in communications and public relations from University of Akron, where he currently serves as board of director for the University of Akron Foundation and past chair of the national alumni board and a member of the President’s Advisory Committee. He began his career as the director of marketing and communications for Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, then moved to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra as director of development. Ernie is also an adjunct faculty member at the Lilly School of Philanthropy at Indiana University.

He has served on many boards including Lambda Chi Alpha and Lambda Chi Alpha Educational Foundation and as board chair of Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School.