The Boone EDC is proud to introduce its 2026 Board of Directors and welcome newly elected members who will play a pivotal role in shaping Boone County’s economic future.
Welcoming New Board Directors for 2026
The Boone EDC is pleased to introduce three newly elected directors, each serving a three-year term through
December 2028:
Jake Merritt, Chief Financial Officer at Merritt Contracting, Inc., brings a strong foundation in financial leadership, real
estate investment, and long-term strategic planning. His role in guiding Merritt Contracting through its transition to an
ESOP demonstrates his commitment to sustainable growth and meaningful community investment. Merritt is deeply
passionate about advancing Boone County’s economic vitality. Lisa Claghorn, Partner at Church, Church, Hittle + Antrim (CCH+A), is a respected zoning and land-use attorney with a decade of experience leading entitlement and development projects across Central Indiana. Her extensive knowledge in planning, residential development, and community engagement positions her as a strategic leader for Boone County’s growth and future development initiatives.
Braden Nicholson, President of 500 Sycamore LLC and developer behind Nicholson Development, is a dedicated
Boone County resident and business owner. Nicholson brings deep experience in construction, site development, and
small business entrepreneurship. His longstanding leadership in advancing commercial development throughout
Boone County adds strong value to the board.
2026 Board Officers
The Boone County Economic Development Corporation 2026 Board Officers:
Shari Richey, Board President
Shane Conner, Vice President
Kelly Braverman, Secretary
Corey Kutz, Treasurer
Full Board of Directors
The Boone EDC Board of Directors brings together a wealth of experience and expertise to economic development
and community progress:
Shari Richey, Boone County Council
Shane Conner, ATEC Electrical Contractors
Kelly Braverman, Witham Health Services
Corey Kutz, First Farmers Bank & Trust
Adam Owens, RL Turner
Lisa Galvin, Talk to Tucker and MIBOR
Rick Isenhower, First Farmers Bank & Trust
Lisa Claghorn, Church, Church, Hittle + Antrim (CCH+A)
Braden Nicholson, 500 Sycamore LLC
Jake Merritt, Merritt Contracting LLC
A Vision for 2026 and Beyond
“Our team is energized by the strength and depth of leadership represented by our 2026 Board of Directors,” says
Andrea Kern, CEO of the Boone EDC. “These leaders bring a commitment to thoughtful growth, quality of life, and
long-term community investment. Their collective expertise will be vital as we develop and implement our new
strategic plan and continue building a stronger Boone County.”
Shari Richey, newly elected Boone EDC Board President, said, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as President of
the Boone EDC Board of Directors and to work alongside so many dedicated leaders. Boone County’s progress is
rooted in strong partnerships, and together we will continue fostering an environment where our communities and
businesses can thrive. I’m excited for what lies ahead.”
The 2026 Board of Directors will play a key role in shaping Boone EDC’s strategic direction, championing initiatives that
expand economic opportunity, strengthen local businesses, and position Boone County for long-term, sustainable
growth.
For more information about Boone EDC and its initiatives, visit BetterInBoone.org