Incoming Executive Director

A Grant County native with deep roots in both Marion and Upland, C. Ted Ward, II returns home to lead the Growth Council after more than three decades building and scaling civic, educational, and workforce development programs across East Central Indiana. Ward most recently served as Membership Director for Shafer Leadership Academy in Muncie, where he facilitated brand strategy and aligned leadership development programming with regional workforce retention goals. Before that, he spent more than a decade at Ball State University as Executive Director and Director of Strategic Initiatives with Online and Distance Education, overseeing a $4.1 million State of Indiana contract for regional programming and a statewide network of nine locations and more than 100 full-time personnel.

Ted's connection to Grant County extends well beyond his professional career. From 1991 to 2000, he served with Grant County Correctional Services as Chief of Services and Support, gaining an early and grounded understanding of the county's governmental and fiscal operations. He holds a Master of Science in Management from Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion and has taught management and entrepreneurship at Ball State's Miller College of Business as an adjunct instructor since 2008.

In recent years, Ted has served by mayoral appointment on both the Muncie Economic Development Commission and the East Central Indiana Regional Planning District, and on the executive board of the Yorktown Chamber of Commerce. His family's roots are in manufacturing, and he carries that foundation of hard work and community investment into everything he does, both in the office and out in the community.

Executive Director

With more than 40 years of experience in local government, utilities, and economic development, Chuck Binkerd brings deep expertise and strong community relationships to his role as Executive Director of the Grant County Economic Growth Council.

Chuck previously served as Executive Director of Marion Utilities for 13 years, following leadership roles with Peru Utilities and the Grissom Redevelopment Authority. He has also served more than a decade on the Growth Council’s Board of Directors and over 20 years on the Marion Community Revitalization Enhancement District Board.

Known for his passion for people and partnerships, Chuck sees the Growth Council as a hub for connection—supporting existing businesses, attracting new opportunities, and helping residents thrive. He is committed to ensuring the organization is well-funded, forward-thinking, and always focused on building a stronger, more vibrant Grant County.

Program Coordinator

Madison (Madi) hit the ground running with the Growth Council in July 2025. With a background in project management, marketing, and nonprofit service—as well as deep hometown roots in Grant County—she’s jumped right in learning more about the organization, collaborating with community leaders, and supporting the Growth Council’s mission to strengthen and grow our region. Outside of work, Madison enjoys baking, live music, good food, coffee, and spending time with her two cats and favorite humans.

Marketing Coordinator

Loretta brings creativity, strategy, and a passion for storytelling to the Growth Council team. With experience in communications, marketing, and nonprofit service, she helps craft messages that highlight Grant County’s strengths and opportunities. A strong community advocate, Loretta is dedicated to fostering collaboration, supporting local businesses, and sharing the stories that connect people to place. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, music, and quality time with her husband, pets, and close friends.