Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana adds Development Director Shellie Zaberdac 

Shellie Zaberdac has joined Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana as director of development and corporate partnerships, completing the organization’s new leadership team and bringing more than 10 years of nonprofit experience to the role.

For Zaberdac, the position represents more than a career advancement — it’s a personal mission rooted in her belief that education transforms communities.

“I’m excited to collaborate with a passionate, mission-driven team that’s working to expand access to quality, values-based education for all children in the Region,” Zaberdac said. “Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed.”

Zaberdac’s relationship with Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana began through volunteer work, during which she was immediately drawn to the organization’s unwavering commitment to educational equity. That connection deepened when she transitioned to a professional role earlier this year.

“This role aligns perfectly with both my professional goals and personal values,” she said. “I’m eager to contribute meaningfully while continuing to learn from the incredible individuals around me.”

A lifelong Northwest Indiana resident, Zaberdac credits her grandparents and parents with instilling values that drive her community commitment — pride in her roots, responsibility to others, and the belief that strong communities support all members.

“Though I’ve left the Region for work and education in the past, I’ve always found my way back,” Zaberdac said. “This is where I was made, where my character was formed. Giving back through expanding educational opportunity is my way of honoring that legacy and ensuring the next generation has even better opportunities.”

Under Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indianaz Executive Director Dan Kozlowski’s leadership, Zaberdac said the team operates with a collaborative spirit that encourages bold thinking and innovative approaches to systemic challenges.

“We’re empowered to think big and roll up our sleeves to do the detailed work that creates lasting change,” Zaberdac said. “Every voice matters on our team, and we all share a deep commitment to making a measurable impact in students’ lives.”

In her development role, Zaberdac will cultivate relationships with corporate partners, emerging community leaders, and philanthropic supporters throughout Northwest Indiana. She will also help communicate the organization’s mission and demonstrate its impact to potential funders and volunteers.

Zaberdac said she draws inspiration from Beth White and her late husband Bruce, whose foundational support enabled Big Shoulders Fund to establish its Northwest Indiana presence.

“Their belief in the power of education to transform lives and communities is a guiding light for all of our work,” she said. “It’s an honor to help carry that vision forward and expand it throughout the Region.”

The organization focuses on increasing access to quality, values-based education through scholarships, school support programs, and community partnerships.

To learn more about Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana please visit bigshouldersfund.org/northwest-indiana.