“I grew up in a single parent household, so I understand education is the key. One of my goals is to make sure we are developing strategic collaborations with people like Dr. Eugene White and others to make sure our kids are graduating from high school and having access to post secondary education,” said Tanya Bell, Indiana Black Expo’s (IBE) newly elected president and CEO.
Building upon existing education programs and implementing new scholastic initiatives are just some of the changes Bell plans to make when she prepares to take the reins of IBE Jan. 28.
Bell, who served six years on IBE’s board, was unanimously supported by her decision to run for the presidency and was chosen because of her knowledge of the organization, passion, wisdom and youth initiatives.
“You used to hear old people say ‘this child acts like she’s been here before,’ and that’s the wisdom that Tanya has. She’s a very open person and we looked to her to generate more people from what we call the ‘New Generation’ era (21-39); to invigorate them and get them inspired about IBE. I think her age will do that,” explained Arvis Dawson, chairman of the IBE Board.
However, before the Terre Haute native can get the ball rolling with her ideas and strategies for IBE, Bell is taking the much needed time to meet with her staff, catch up on plans and programs already in place, and introduce herself to the Indiana community.
Maintaining IBE’s true integrity, which is being an effective voice and vehicle for the social and economic advancement of African-Americans, is very important to Bell and she plans to continue her predecessor, Joyce Rogers’ efforts in diversity but wants IBE to be a servant to the Black community and community at large.
“This is a community organization and it belongs to the community. We want to cross-appeal during some of our signature events, but I want to focus our efforts on programs and initiatives that are going to positively impact the Black community,” said Bell.
“I do plan to sit down with the new mayor and other elected officials. As a community organization, what we do not only impacts African-Americans, but also impacts the community as a whole. I think you can do both without jeopardizing our mission.”
While strengthening community involvement, access and knowledge to what IBE has to offer, Bell also wants to increase the visibility of the organization. She further wants to broaden Hoosiers’ understanding that IBE is not just for Central Indiana residents and does not solely consist of their major events, Summer Celebration and Circle City Classic.
Her answer to increased visibility is better communication with and collaboration with local media and organizations that share some of IBE’s goals and strengthening the 12 IBE chapters located around the state.
Thus far, IBE chapters have become 501c3 organizations able to generate more revenue and have reorganized to make a greater impact on their respective communities.
“She’s going to take IBE to a whole new level. She’s interested in making us a more self-sufficient organization, increasing our scholarships, branding our labels (IBE and CCC) and doing things necessary to take us to not only a state and national organization but also international,” added Dawson.
The attorney, wife and mother of two is excited about leading IBE to the next level, learning as much as she can to lead her staff effectively and is determined to make her mark on the community.
“In order to be in a position of leadership like this, it really has to be a calling. The fact that I can lead such a premier organization and have an impact on the community is an opportunity of a lifetime. I’m humbled by it, at the same time I understand it’s a huge responsibility,” said Bell.
For more information, call (317) 925-2702 or visit www.indianablackexpo.com.
