Carroll White REMC is committed to the power of youth. Through the REMC Junior Board of Directors, students can expand their horizons and learn key components of leadership. Three of the current Junior Board members have family connections with Carroll White REMC, which makes their experiences have a special connection.
RYN ZIMPFER
A Delphi Community High School senior, Kathryn (Ryn) Zimpfer learned a powerful lesson in her family about leadership and the REMC. Zimpfer’s father is the current president of the REMC Board of Directors. “He introduced me to the Junior Board of Directors,” said Zimpfer.
With her parents, Kent and Kasey, Zimpfer lives outside of Delphi. She has one brother, Kane.
“By joining the board, I hoped to gain confidence and learn how a board of directors works,” said Zimpfer. “I was very scared and nervous in my first year serving on the Junior Board. I knew it would get better, but being a junior in a room full of older members who had experienced the board before intimidated me. At the final meeting last year, I realized I wasn’t afraid anymore to speak or share some ideas for community projects.”
“This year, being my second year on the board, I feel educated and confident to speak up. I’ve tried to engage with the younger junior board members so they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts with the group,” said Zimpfer.
“Being a REMC Junior Board member, I’ve learned a ton about how important teamwork is and how to problem solve,” said Zimpfer. “These skills will be huge factors in my future.”
“I would encourage others to join the Junior Board because you get great life experiences, and you can make lasting friendships through your neighboring schools,” said Zimpfer. “I’ve learned so much, and there’s still more to learn.”
At Delphi Community High School, Zimpfer is on the volleyball and tennis teams. She is a member of the Spanish Club, SADD, 4-H, and Varsity D.
Upon graduation, Zimpfer plans to attend Purdue University and major in Communications.
JJ SPEAR
Like Ryn, Jaquilyn (JJ) Spear of Monon also has a Carroll White REMC family connection. Her father, Joe Spear, is the REMC’s Energy Advisor.
“I’ve always been interested in what my dad does,” said Spear. “I thought joining the REMC Junior Board of Directors would be a perfect learning opportunity for me and a way to get myself out there.”
A North White High School junior, Spear lives in Monon with her parents, Joe and Mindy. Her siblings include Mallory, Zach, Luke, Ryanne, Richie, T.J., Jamiya, Destiny, Chamille, and Jaiylyn.
“My experience being on the junior board has been absolutely amazing and rewarding,” said Spear. “It has helped me gain new skills and insight that I have already started using. Being a part of this group has helped me get out of my comfort zone and has helped me with my communication skills.”
“I would encourage anyone looking to improve their skills and see what the many careers out there look like to join the REMC Junior Board of Directors.,” said Spear. “It’s an amazing experience that you will never forget. There’s also always really good food, so that’s always a plus!”
At North White High School, Spear is in volleyball, cheer, and track. She is a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). “I am part of the student leadership team at my church and a youth group worship team as well,” said Spear.
Following graduation, Spear plans to attend Purdue University and study electrical engineering.
CHRIS HANAWALT
Chris Hanawalt is a junior at Delphi Community High School. His parents are Scott and Alicia Hanawalt. He has one brother, Branston.
Alicia is the former Carroll White REMC human resources director before taking a position at Indiana Electric Cooperatives. With Casey Crabb, the REMC communications and public relations manager, Alicia was instrumental in creating the Junior Board of Directors. The vision of engaging and inspiring youth has grown into a successful mission.
Scott is a staking engineer for Carroll White REMC.
“I joined the REMC Junior Board of Directors for the career learning experiences while strengthening my leadership skills in teamwork and giving back with community projects,” said Hanawalt. “I hope to build myself to become a dependable teammate for the future.”
“I would like the REMC members to know I’m grateful for the opportunity to have these experiences,” said Hanawalt. “I feel like I’ve grown more knowledgeable and have become a better worker from these experiences.”
“I would encourage others to join the Junior Board of Directors for the experiences we get to have and strengthening your speaking skills in a professional setting,” added Hanawalt. “The Junior Board also offers many scholarships and community service opportunities.”
Hanawalt runs Track and Field at Delphi Community High School. After graduation, Hanawalt plans to attend Ivy Tech and earn an Associate’s Degree in Software Engineering/Programming.
“No segment in the society can match with the power, idealism, enthusiasm, and courage of the young people.” — Kailash Satyarthi
