About us

Mary T. Harmon

Mary is a mother, health and wellness coach, lifelong learner, and community activist. She has a diverse career background, from Academic Counseling to Human Resources and even operating a wellness center. Mary holds degrees in Sociology, Counseling Psychology, an MBA, and a Doctorate in Integrative Medicine. She is currently enrolled in the Chopra Center's Perfect Health program and actively participates in various community organizations and global commitments.

Thomas Harmon

Mr. Harmon, CEO of Harmon Steel, Taylor Brothers, and VP of Harmon Construction, brings extensive experience from his time at Cummins Engine Company, specializing in management, problem resolution, and policy development. His dedication extends to supporting AAF to secure a lasting legacy for Bartholomew County, emphasizing the importance of a long-term endowment for the Black community's future generations.

Lorraine Smith

Lorraine Smith, the first African American City of Columbus Department Head, directed the Human Rights Commission, safeguarding residents' civil rights and promoting diversity. She retired after 28 years in public service, going on to co-found AAF to support the local African American community, emphasizing the idea of "growing our own." Lorraine aspires to be a catalyst for positive change in Bartholomew County, echoing Mary Church Terrell's words, "Lift as we climb."

Charles M. Smith Sr.

Charles is retired from Cummins Inc. where he held several management positions. His childhood roots in a predominantly Black community in Mississippi exposed him to the enduring tradition of giving. Inspired by this tradition, he felt compelled to join AAF and contribute to the spirit of giving in Columbus. Charles is dedicated to working collaboratively with the Black community to identify and implement solutions that will improve its well-being.

Shirley Trapp

Shirley Trapp is a retired BCSC Elementary School Counselor with a background in Special Education and Physical Education. She holds masters in Adapted Physical Education and Elementary School Counseling from Indiana University. She devoted 40+ years to her career and has been actively involved in youth organizations such as Court Appointed Special Advocates, NAACP, and more. Her work with AAF stems from a commitment to education, leadership, and health awareness for all.

Donald Trapp

Don Trapp is a retired VP of Cummins Inc. with an MBA from Indiana University. He's been actively involved in Columbus, serving on various community boards and committees, including the William R. Laws Foundation, United Way of Bartholomew County, and more. His involvement in local community non-profits stems from a belief in citizen support and a responsibility to help the community grow and thrive. Don is a founding member of AAF to help Columbus become a more welcoming community.

Lori Thompson

Lori is a dedicated Community Advocate and AAF co-founder with a focus on inspiring and supporting youth. She also serves on the boards for Heritage Fund of Bartholomew County and CEC. With an MBA and a background in economics, she played a crucial role in promoting academic excellence for Black and Biracial Youth in Bartholomew County including by establishing the TIME Program for minority entrepreneurs. Helping others achieve their life goals brings her joy.

Ben G. Downing

Ben G. Downing spent 36 years in construction, rising from carpenter to general field superintendent, responsible for overseeing all field personnel, before retiring in 2013. He and his wife joined the AAF to give back to their community, particularly by offering scholarships to college-bound students. They hope for continued funding growth to support more substantial scholarships for deserving students.

Paulette Roberts

AAF Co-Founder Ms. Roberts boasts a remarkable array of career accomplishments. She held offices in both the Columbus Educators Association and Indiana State Teachers Associations, becoming Indiana’s Minority Teacher of the Year. She has also been actively involved in diversity committees in the city and local schools. Ms. Roberts has received many awards and recognitions for her work such as 2023 Beloved Community Award and the NAACP’s Community Excellence Award. Ms. Roberts is committed to helping the local Black community prosper through her work with AAF and many volunteer positions.

Dennis Roberts

Kevin J. Jones, Ed.D.

Kevin J. Jones, Ed.D., is an experienced professional with over 20 years in management and leadership roles. He is currently an associate professor at Indiana University Columbus and serves as the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning. Dr. Jones is a minister and actively involved in radio. He joined the AAF to support the African-American community in Columbus, aiming to enhance educational opportunities and increase college attendance among African Americans in the area.

Aida Ramirez

Director of the Columbus Human Rights Commission

Aida Ramirez is the Director of the Columbus Human Rights Commission. She joined in 2013, rising from Deputy Director to Director. With degrees from Purdue and IU McKinney Law, she previously worked to improve access to justice in Marion County Small Claims Courts. Ramirez is passionate about fair housing, equal access to justice for non-English speakers, and overall human and civil rights equity. She's involved in local community initiatives, chairs the United Way Bartholomew County board, and serves on various committees and boards, including the Heritage Fund Community Foundation of Bartholomew County.

Gil Palmer

Gil, a Columbus resident since 1981, held industrial service and marketing positions at Cummins for 10 years before resigning to become a successful entrepreneur. His community involvement includes leadership on esteemed boards like the Chamber of Commerce, Columbus Philharmonic, United Way, IUPUC Advisory Board, BCSC Diversity Council, and Mayor's Advisory Council. He chaired the Columbus Human Rights Commission for 20 years and is a founding member of AAF.

Dawn Palmer

Dawn Palmer is a retired professional with extensive experience as a business owner, planning analyst, realtor, and director of multicultural programming. She holds an MBA from Indiana University and a B.S. in Marketing from St. Joseph's University. She became a founding member of AAFBC to support the needs of minorities in the Columbus community, raise awareness of Black cultural contributions, and empower Black youth.

Fernando Herndon

Executive Director of North America Regional Operating Team

Fernando is a seasoned leader at Cummins, currently leading North America Regional Operations in Supply Chain with a focus on the Aftermarket. He previously started and led the CARE (Cummins Advocating for Racial Equity) program, advocating for racial equity. Over 28 years at Cummins, he has driven excellence in global Supply Chain and Manufacturing, emphasizing value-driven actions and inspiring colleagues. Fernando joined the AAF board to give back and address equity gaps in the local Black community.