Meet Julian Edwards.
Julian is the new operations coordinator at CICF. In this position, Julian handles daily contribution processing, grant payments and tracking, new fund setup and accounts payable/receivable.
What excites you about your new role?
One of the things that excite me about my new role is the great opportunity to make an impact on a macro level. From my previous role, I observed how Central Indiana Community Foundation contributed to the growth and development of my community. Now with the operations department, I can help support our stewardship and build on our mission and vision. It is exciting to be a part of an organization that is strategically working to understand and address issues within our community, which ultimately, will grow, develop and enhance the quality of life in Indianapolis and beyond.
In this past year, what book, movie or album resonated with you in the strongest way and why?
A book that I am currently reading is “What Makes a Leader Great,” by Russ Crosson. In my pursuit of learning and implementing ways to be an effective leader, I want to constantly grow in connecting and encouraging the people I work with to reach above what they think they can do. This book gave me an awesome outlook on leadership by its main point—an effective leader not only works to achieve the mission of an organization, but a leader must live the mission with one important goal in mind, empowering and inspiring the leader that comes after them.
What’s one thing you’re learning now, and why is it important?
I am learning to live in the moment. So many times, we are always busy and on the move, so at the end of the day, we are just ready to hop in the bed. Living in the moment helps you take in your experience, to learn the people around you and to build memories that will last for a lifetime.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?
Some of my favorite ways to unwind are going to the gym and playing basketball, spending time with my family and friends, and watching a good movie or television show. I also like to listen to live music and checking out events around the city.
What’s your most recent act of equity?
Recently, the youth ministry at my church produced a Black history play. We had a mixture of youth and adults who had a range of acting experience. As the director of the play, we had an open environment, where everyone had a voice on what to include in the play and the youth and adults were able to share their experiences and perspectives, which resulted in a play that was filled with learning, fun and growth.
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