BHI Senior Living
Gene Tempel is a renowned expert in philanthropic studies and a trailblazer in the nonprofit sector. As the Founding Dean Emeritus of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and a Professor of Philanthropic Studies, he led the development of the world’s first academic institution devoted solely to researching and teaching about philanthropy. In addition, as President Emeritus of the Indiana University Foundation, Professor Tempel has significantly shaped the landscape of higher education philanthropy.
Over a career spanning four decades, Professor Tempel has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership and fundraising expertise. He co-founded the precursor to the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy—the Center on Philanthropy—and transformed it during his 11-year tenure as executive director into a leading national resource. His work has not only advanced best practices in ethical fundraising and nonprofit governance but has also earned him numerous accolades, including repeated recognition as one of the 50 most influential nonprofit sector leaders and the honor of being named the first “Influencer of the Year” in 2013.
A respected author, educator, and board member, Professor Tempel has held influential roles such as past chair of the National Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Ethics Committee, the first elected president of the Nonprofit Academic Centers Council, and a member of Independent Sector’s Expert Advisory Panel. His groundbreaking contributions continue to shape national guidelines and ethical standards within the field.
Professor Tempel holds an Ed.D. and M.A. from Indiana University, a B.A. from St. Benedict College, and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive. His enduring commitment to excellence in philanthropy is honored through the Eugene R. Tempel Endowed Deanship, ensuring that his legacy of leadership and innovation will inspire future generations in the field.
Jeff Caldwell is a distinguished leader who brings over 38 years of industry expertise to our organization. After retiring in January 2020 as Executive Director at Cummins, Inc.—where he excelled in leadership roles across manufacturing operations, purchasing, new product development, and marketing—Jeff has continued to drive excellence in his new roles. Since 2020, he has been a vital member of our governing board, and he has since joined our foundation board as well.
Based in Columbus, Indiana, Jeff’s tenure at Cummins was marked by pioneering initiatives such as launching new engine plants and streamlining manufacturing processes. His deep expertise in budgeting, change management, process engineering, and Six Sigma not only led to significant capital investments and product innovations but also set new benchmarks in quality and efficiency.
Jeff’s dual board appointments underscore his commitment to our mission and his ability to identify and overcome leadership challenges. His guidance and strategic vision continue to be invaluable as we build on our legacy of excellence and look toward a promising future.
Dr. Niceta C. Bradburn is a highly respected neonatologist with over 25 years of clinical and administrative experience. She has been instrumental in shaping neonatal care at St. Vincent Hospital, leading the expansion of its NICU from 40 to 75 beds and developing critical neonatal programs, including a transport system that grew to over 200 annual transfers.
As Director of Newborn Services, she has driven advancements in neonatal ventilation, high-frequency therapy, and surfactant research. In her role as Director of the Pediatric Residency Program, she developed curriculum, led faculty recruitment, and strengthened community pediatric partnerships.
Dr. Bradburn has served on key hospital committees, including Quality and Safety, Perinatal Ethics, and Clinical Risk Management, and has contributed to policy development through initiatives like the Maternal-Child Clinical Excellence Initiative. A board-certified neonatologist, she is a published researcher, a sought-after speaker, and a dedicated advocate for pediatric healthcare.
She remains deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of physicians and improving neonatal outcomes through education, research, and community engagement.
With a passion for public service, economic growth, and community betterment, Lienhoop continues to be a driving force in strengthening local organizations and fostering long-term sustainability in Columbus and beyond.
James D. Lienhoop is a respected civic leader, financial expert, and former mayor, with decades of experience in municipal governance, economic development, and financial consulting. He served as the Mayor of Columbus, Indiana (2016–2023), where he played a pivotal role in advancing community initiatives, economic growth, and infrastructure development. Under his leadership, Columbus was recognized as Indiana’s Community of the Year for 2022-2023 by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.
Before entering public service, Lienhoop built a distinguished career in accounting and business consulting. He spent nearly 30 years at Blue & Co., LLC, where he led the Columbus, Indiana office and served on the firm’s executive committee (1996-2004), including four years as Chairman (2000-2004). His expertise in financial and tax planning, consulting for closely held businesses, and economic strategy made him a trusted advisor in the corporate sector.
Beyond his professional achievements, Lienhoop has been deeply engaged in civic leadership and community development. He has served on numerous boards, including the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Columbus Redevelopment Commission, and United Way of Bartholomew County, where he held key leadership positions. He is also an active Rotary Paul Harris Fellow and currently serves as Treasurer of the Columbus Capital Foundation.
With a passion for public service, economic growth, and community betterment, Lienhoop continues to be a driving force in strengthening local organizations and fostering long-term sustainability in Columbus and beyond.
Dr. Karl “Tom” Wagner Jr. is a distinguished physician and leader in orthopedic surgery, with a career spanning decades in clinical practice, medical education, and healthcare leadership. His expertise has contributed significantly to advancing patient care, medical ethics, and senior health initiatives.
Throughout his career, Dr. Wagner has been recognized for his dedication to medical excellence and compassionate patient care. He has served in key leadership roles within hospital systems, medical boards, and academic institutions, shaping the future of healthcare through mentorship, research, and policy development. His commitment to medical education has helped train and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Beyond his clinical and academic contributions, Dr. Wagner is actively involved in community health initiatives, nonprofit organizations, and professional associations, advocating for improved access to care, innovative treatment approaches, and patient-centered wellness programs. His extensive experience in geriatric medicine and chronic disease management has made him a trusted expert in aging-related healthcare and quality-of-life improvements for seniors.
Dr. Wagner’s dedication to healthcare advancement, ethical medical practices, and leadership in medicine continues to leave a lasting impact on the field and the communities he serves.
Virginia Merkel is a distinguished financial expert and dedicated community leader, with extensive experience in investment management, philanthropy, and nonprofit governance. As a Managing Director–Investments at Wells Fargo Advisors, she holds multiple professional designations, including CFP®, RICP®, and ChFC®, bringing a wealth of expertise in financial planning and strategic advising.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Virginia is deeply committed to community service, currently serving as a Life Board Member of the American Red Cross of Indiana, a Board Member of the Eiteljorg Museum, and an Elder at Second Presbyterian Church. She has also held leadership roles in numerous nonprofit organizations, including the Indianapolis Women’s Rotary, CICOA, the YWCA, and the American Red Cross at both local and national levels.
With a passion for board development, finance, and governance, Virginia continues to make a lasting impact on the organizations she serves, combining her financial acumen with a lifelong dedication to philanthropy and community engagement.
Dr. Bill Enright is a renowned leader in faith, philanthropy, and community engagement, with a career dedicated to spiritual leadership, nonprofit development, and interfaith dialogue. He served as Senior Pastor at Second Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis (1980–2004), guiding one of the most influential congregations in the region and fostering a strong commitment to social justice, racial reconciliation, and faith-based community service.
Following his tenure in ministry, Dr. Enright became the Founding Director of the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, Indiana University (2004–2015). In this role, he shaped national conversations on religious philanthropy, donor engagement, and faith-based stewardship, establishing the institute as a premier resource for faith-driven giving and nonprofit leadership.
His impact extends beyond academia and ministry, as he has held leadership roles with the Lilly Endowment, Greater Indianapolis YMCA, and St. Vincent Hospital Advisory Board. He still serves as a board member for The Lilly Endowment which is now the largest endowment in the country at nearly $80 billion in assets. He also served as Co-Chair of Vision Indianapolis, a citywide initiative focused on fostering collaboration and civic engagement.
Dr. Enright’s commitment to racial reconciliation led him to co-found Celebration of Hope, an initiative recognized by President Bill Clinton and honored at the White House as one of the top ten programs addressing racism in 2000. He has also advised the National Cathedral Association in Washington, DC, and lectured at numerous colleges, universities, and theological seminaries.
In recognition of his lifelong contributions to faith and philanthropy, Dr. Enright was awarded the 2016 Visionary Award from McCormick Theological Seminary. Today, he continues to share his expertise as a coach for the National Presbyterian Foundation, mentoring leaders in faith-based philanthropy and organizational stewardship.
Saasha Sundaresh joined the BHI Foundation as the Foundation Operations Manager in December 2024. In this role, she oversees the foundation’s daily operations, including processing gifts and maintaining the foundation’s database. With her expertise and dedication, Saasha is instrumental in advancing the foundation’s mission to enrich the lives of those we serve.
Saasha holds a degree in Social Welfare and Legal Studies from the University of Wisconsin. She brings a rich background in organizing fundraising events and creating meaningful experiences for donors and communities. Her passion for connection and service shines through in her work.
When she’s not at the foundation, Saasha enjoys sewing, staying active through sports—both as a player and a fan—and spending time with her boyfriend, Nicholas, and her beloved cat, “Cat.”
The BHI community is excited to welcome Saasha and looks forward to the positive impact she will bring to the foundation and beyond.
Scott Miller joined the BHI Foundation as Major Gifts Officer in August 2024. He works closely with residents to help them realize their philanthropic goals in alignment with BHI’s mission. Scott’s previous experience includes roles as Development Director for the American Diabetes Association and Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Moore DM. He also spent 10 years with the American Legion National Headquarters.
Scott is a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom, having served in the United States Marine Corps from 2000 to 2009, including time in Afghanistan. He holds degrees in criminal justice and psychology from Purdue University.
In his free time, Scott enjoys coaching his son’s baseball team, camping, hiking, and spending time with his girlfriend and their dog, Yeti Rose’.
Brian Pangle transitioned to the VP of Philanthropy & Development role with the BHI Foundation in June 2023, following over a decade as President & CEO of Clark Retirement Community, a BHI Senior Living affiliate. During his time at Clark, Brian also served as President of the Clark Foundation and played a key role in two comprehensive campaigns that raised $12 million. In his current role at the BHI Foundation, Brian oversees and grows the philanthropic efforts across BHI Senior Living.
Before joining BHI, Brian held positions with Select Medical Corporation and Corewell Health in financial and operational roles. He began his career as a CPA with EY and earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, MI.
Outside of work, Brian enjoys traveling with his wife, Betsy, visiting their five children and grandchildren, playing golf, and indulging in leisure travel.