(Batesville, IN) — Batesville Main Street has hired Rebekah Porter as its new executive director.
Porter was selected following what the organization described as a comprehensive search and hiring process. She will lead Batesville Main Street’s efforts involving downtown business support, community engagement, events, communications and other initiatives.
“Rebekah brings an exciting combination of professional experience, creativity, community connections and passion to Batesville Main Street,” Board Chair Blaine Timonera said. “Her background in nonprofit fundraising, communications, marketing, event planning and organizational development will be a tremendous asset.”
— Rebekah Porter
Porter is a graduate of Indiana University Bloomington, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism with a concentration in public relations and a minor in sports marketing and management.
She most recently served as a Prevention Specialist and Youth Educator with New Directions of Decatur County. Her work there included marketing, social media management, fundraising, grant support, volunteer coordination and community outreach.
Porter also helped plan and carry out the organization’s Wine & Roses fundraiser and other fundraising and sponsorship efforts.
She previously worked in Batesville as a Creative Content Intern with Genesis Pathways to Success, developing marketing materials, coordinating youth programming, assisting with grant reporting and working with students, staff and community members.
Batesville Main Street Vice Chair Amanda Garcia said Porter’s familiarity with the community was also an important factor in the board’s decision.
“Rebekah’s enthusiasm, strong work ethic and commitment to community engagement were evident throughout the hiring process,” Garcia said. “We are excited to welcome her to Batesville Main Street and look forward to the ideas, energy and leadership she will bring to the organization and the Main Street District.”
Porter said the position gives her an opportunity to combine her nonprofit and communications experience with her familiarity with Batesville.
“I am excited for the opportunity to combine my nonprofit experience, communications background and familiarity with Batesville in a position focused on strengthening the downtown community,” Porter said.
Batesville Main Street will host a meet and greet with Porter on Friday, Sept. 25, from 8:30-10 a.m. in the Amack’s Conference Room. Coffee and pastries will be provided.
Porter succeeds Amy Lundsford, who recently became economic development director for the City of Batesville.
As executive director, Porter will work with the Batesville Main Street Board of Directors, downtown businesses, volunteers, community organizations, residents and local leaders.
More information about Batesville Main Street is available at batesvillemainstreet.org.
