Indianapolis, Indiana – The University of Indianapolis (UIndy) has announced the appointment of four distinguished individuals to its Board of Trustees. These new board members, including Gail Farnsley, Andy Hammond, Pat Watkins, and Jeff Whorley, were elected during the June board meeting and will bring their expertise, leadership, and passion for the university to their new roles. This development comes as UIndy continues its mission to provide high-quality education and foster a sense of community and inclusivity for all students.
“We are delighted to welcome these four distinguished individuals to our board of trustees,” said Deborah Daniels, the Board Chair. “They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, and I’m confident that they will make meaningful contributions to UIndy’s continued growth and success. Their shared commitment to our mission will be invaluable as we look to the future.”
The Board of Trustees is a critical body at UIndy, responsible for providing strategic guidance to the university as it continues to innovate and expand opportunities for its students. Each new trustee brings a unique perspective that will enrich UIndy’s approach to education and community engagement. In fact, UIndy President Tanuja Singh emphasized the significance of the new appointments, noting their diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
“The Board of Trustees are key leaders in implementing our new strategic plan, an important work for both our University and community as we enrich our students’ lives through relevant and impactful education: ‘Anywhere. Anytime. For Life,’” said President Singh. “As first-generation students, as parents of current students, as post-traditional learners, and as alumni, I believe each of these new trustees bring a unique perspective that will help guide the University of Indianapolis as we continue to innovate and expand opportunities for our students. I’m grateful for their willingness to serve and excited to work alongside them as we shape the future of UIndy together.”
The new trustees offer a wealth of experience in various fields, from technology to business to real estate, and they are deeply connected to the university, both personally and professionally.
Gail Farnsley: Championing Women in Leadership and STEM
Gail Farnsley, a retired IT executive, brings more than 30 years of experience in the information technology sector, including roles as Vice President and Executive Partner at Gartner and as Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Cummins. Farnsley is passionate about supporting women in leadership roles, particularly in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines. She also serves on several nonprofit boards, including the TechPoint Foundation for Youth, where she is the board president.
“As a first-generation college student myself, I really appreciate UIndy’s vision which puts a high value on being welcoming to all,” said Farnsley. “I am humbled and honored to be appointed to the Board so that I can help support the next generation of leaders—especially women and students who have traditionally not envisioned themselves in a STEM career.”
Farnsley’s dedication to mentorship and supporting underrepresented groups in STEM aligns with UIndy’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment. Her perspective as a first-generation college student will prove invaluable as she helps guide UIndy’s efforts to create opportunities for all students, regardless of their background.
Andy Hammond: A Heartfelt Commitment to UIndy
Andy Hammond, a 2006 UIndy graduate, is a Partner and Private Wealth Advisor at Truss Wealth Advisors in Indianapolis. He is also the son of Jim Hammond, a former assistant baseball coach at UIndy and an Athletics Hall of Fame inductee. As a former varsity baseball player at UIndy, Hammond has strong ties to the university’s athletic programs and deep affection for the institution. His contributions to UIndy extend beyond his professional success, as he was a member of the Alumni Board from 2010 to 2016 and has served as a mentor to the Finance Club. He and his business partner, Chad Reynolds, established the Truss Wealth Advisors Legacy Fund to support innovative initiatives at UIndy’s School of Business.
“I am incredibly honored to be selected for this distinguished position,” said Hammond. “The University of Indianapolis has held a special place in my heart since I first set foot on campus nearly 23 years ago. Becoming a trustee was the very first professional goal I set for myself during my senior year. To see that dream realized is a mountaintop accomplishment, and I look forward to serving the UIndy community in whatever ways I am called.”
Hammond’s personal connection to UIndy and his continued involvement in the university’s growth exemplify the strength of UIndy’s alumni network and its impact on students, faculty, and the broader community.
Pat Watkins: Continuing the Family Legacy
Pat Watkins, a 1999 UIndy graduate, is a co-owner and Managing Broker of Mike Watkins Real Estate Group in Greenwood. He comes from a long line of UIndy alumni, with his father, Mike Watkins, serving as a trustee for the university from 1991 to 2024. Pat Watkins’ commitment to the university is further demonstrated through his role as the parent of two Greyhound students—his son, a senior on the UIndy golf team, and his daughter, an incoming freshman. By joining the board, Watkins continues the strong family legacy at UIndy, while bringing fresh ideas to help guide the institution forward.
“I am truly honored to join the Board of Trustees and continue the Watkins family legacy and connection to the University of Indianapolis,” said Watkins. “With both of my parents, my wife, my sister-in-law, and now my own children attending UIndy, it is difficult to overstate the impact that this University has had on our lives. I look forward to bringing fresh ideas to the Board while honoring the strong foundation and traditions that make being a Greyhound so special.”
Watkins’ lifelong connection to UIndy and his perspective as a parent and alumnus will serve as a valuable resource as the university continues to build on its rich traditions while embracing new challenges and opportunities.
Jeff Whorley: Leading with Experience in Business and Community Engagement
Jeff Whorley, a 2001 UIndy graduate, brings an impressive track record in the corporate world, having served as an Executive Vice President at three Fortune 500 companies, including Fiserv, Sallie Mae, and First Data Corporation. His business acumen and leadership experience make him an invaluable addition to the Board of Trustees. Whorley has also demonstrated his commitment to the community through his appointment to the Ports of Indiana Commission by Governor Eric Holcomb in 2022. In addition to his professional success, Whorley created the Dr. Gerald Speth Business Knowledge Award in 2022 to honor the leadership of Dr. Speth, the founder of UIndy’s Executive MBA program.
“I am extremely grateful to the University of Indianapolis for this opportunity to serve and give back to a place that has had a lasting impact on my life and career path,” said Whorley. “With its emphasis on lifelong learning and experiential education, UIndy is preparing students to lead in a rapidly changing world and I’m excited to support that mission as a member of the Board of Trustees.”
Whorley’s extensive experience in business and his dedication to lifelong learning align with UIndy’s mission to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in an ever-changing global economy.
A Bright Future for UIndy
As these four new members officially join the Board of Trustees in the September meeting, UIndy is poised to continue its mission of providing innovative, high-quality education that prepares students for success in their personal and professional lives. With their diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, Farnsley, Hammond, Watkins, and Whorley are sure to play a vital role in shaping UIndy’s future as the university continues to grow and evolve.
For more information about the University of Indianapolis Board of Trustees, including a list of current members, visit the Board of Trustees page on the university’s website.
