WABASH, COUNTY, IN- Jan Roland and Brittany Rager were honored on December 19 during Visit Wabash County’s end-of-the-year board meeting and celebration.
Rager, who served on the Visit Wabash County’s Board of Directors since 2019, was presented with a Distinguished Leadership Award for her level of service and dedication to the organization for the last 6 years. Roland, who served as Visit Wabash County’s Board President in 2024 was recognized for her board and organizational leadership.
Presenting awards on behalf of the full Board of Directors and staff was Adam Stakeman, incoming 2025 Board President for Visit Wabash County. “During Jan’s tenure as board president, she represented Visit Wabash County with professionalism, positive leadership, and strength,” said Stakeman. “It is my hope that I am able to continue the growth and advancement of Visit Wabash County with the same level of excellence.”
Rager reached her term limit after completing her third two-year term and was recognized by outgoing President Jan Roland for her stewardship for the last six years. Although Rager was unable to attend in person, Roland shared her appreciation for Rager’s contributions. “On behalf of Visit Wabash County, we would like to thank you for your dedicated service. You have served as a mentor and offered key support whenever called upon,” said Roland, “and we are grateful for your unwavering commitment.”
During the past year, Visit Wabash County has accomplished an advanced scope of work which included the launch of a new website, releasing the LiveIN Wabash County Brand, executing major tourism-focused events such as Wabash Run the River Half Marathon, Dam to Dam Century Bike Ride, Bluegrass at Hopewell, the publication of the 84-page Destination Guide, and several new experience-based programs.
“The leadership of Visit Wabash County is in strong and very capable hands,” said Roland. “It has been rewarding to act as President of the organization, and it has been an honor to serve alongside an incredible group of community leaders. I look forward to continuing my service on the board in the next year.”
Newly elected to the Visit Wabash County Board of Directors is Matt Jasen (Ford Meter Box Company). “The thing that excites me the most about joining the VWC Board is getting the opportunity to work with a great team to showcase everything our county has to offer,” said Jasen, whose service began on January 1.
“Matt brings 11 years of community volunteerism for organizations like Wabash City Schools, Wabash Little League, and the Wabash County YMCA,” said 2025 Board President Stakeman. “His past service on other non-profit boards will lend a supportive and guiding knowledge to Visit Wabash County.”
In 2025 the organization will be governed by President, Adam Stakeman (Industrial Sales Manager for J.M. Reynolds Oil Company), Vice President, Jan Roland (Community Volunteer),
Secretary, Nate Fansher (Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer, and Chief Lending Officer at Crossroads Bank), Treasurer, Howard Kaler (General Manager for the Charley Creek Inn), Beth Gillespie (Lagro Canal Foundation), Jennifer Bailey (owner of The Carriage House, The Sanctuary and Geronimo), Keli Cordi l (owner of Tri Oaks Reality), Deb Conner (co-owner of the Hopewell Barn & Hopewell House), and Matt Jasen (Product Engineering at Ford Meter Box Company).
Office staff includes Executive Director Christine Flohr, Content Manager Biz Bishop, Tourism Manager Jennifer Long-Dillon, Creative Lead Brittany Riner, Experiences Manager Stephanie Rogers, and Visitor Services Coordinator Stacy Clegg.
