About the Veterans coliseum Preservation Foundation
Our Mission
preserve, protect, and promote
Our mission is to preserve, protect, and promote the historic Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Coliseum as a lasting tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of our veterans.
Through thoughtful restoration, community engagement, and educational initiatives, we aim to honor its legacy, safeguard its architectural integrity, and ensure its continued role as a vibrant cultural and civic hub for future generations.
Veterans Coliseum Preservation Foundation
A brief History
The VCPF was founded on January 30, 2024 to continue the restoration efforts of the Coliseum. The Vanderburgh County Commissioners and Vanderburgh County Council appropriated $5.7 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for Phase I construction. The VCPF was founded to raise funds to continue restoration efforts since no additional tax dollars will be appropriated towards this project.
Board Leadership Team
Jill Anne Hahn
President
Vanderburgh County,
Vanderburgh County Council
Kathy Glaser
Vice-President
Explore Evansville,
Director of Finance & Administration
Thomas Shetler III
Treasurer
Shetler Moving & Storage, Inc.,
General Manager
Laura Tomes
Secretary
Vanderburgh County,
Superintendent of County Buildings
Board Members
Amy Canterbury
Vanderburgh County,
Board of Commissioners
Barbara Cole
Tri-State Women Veterans,
Founder
Staci Asher
Tri-State Women’s Veterans,
Member & Veteran
Joshua Claybourn
Jackson Kelly PLLC,
Attorney
Stephanie Richard
Indiana Landmarks,
Director of SW Field Office
Charleen Spear
Daughters of the American Revolution,
Regent
Jeff Justice
Hafer,
President
Nick Wallace
Old National Events Plaza,
General Manager
Rev. David J. Nixon
U.S. Army,
Veteran
Paul Dupont
Veteran’s Council of Vanderburgh County,
Quartermaster/Adjutant
Jerry Blake
Veteran’s Council of Vanderburgh County,
Commander
Involvement
What We Do
Fundraising
Through community engagement and fundraising events, the Foundation is dedicated to achieving its $31 million capital campaign, ensuring preservation and restoration of the Coliseum
Grant Writing & Partnerships
By securing grants and forming strategic partnerships, the Foundation will leverage funding opportunities and collaborative resources to advance its $31 million capital campaign. Grant writing will target philanthropic organizations, government programs, and corporate sponsors, while partnerships with businesses, community leaders, and donors will drive sustainable contributions and long-term support.