Honoring a Leader who Led with Purpose: Charity Counts Service on the Liberal Arts Alumni Board

As she wraps up her service as the Immediate Past President of the Liberal Arts Alumni Board, Charity Counts leaves behind a legacy of thoughtful leadership, meaningful community-building, and an enduring commitment to mentoring and engagement.

Charity's path to the School of Liberal Arts was shaped by a spark ignited in her early museum career. After completing her undergraduate degree in Fine Arts at Ball State University, she discovered a passion for museums through a project at a local museum called Minnetrista and was encouraged to pursue further study. That encouragement led her to the Museum Studies program at IU Indianapolis-at the time, the only program of its kind in Indiana. Her coursework blended museology, anthropology, nonprofit management, education, and hands-on museum experience, setting the stage for a rich and rewarding career.

It was also the beginning of Charity’s deep connection to the Liberal Arts community.

When she was invited to serve on the Alumni Board, Charity had never served on a board before, but she welcomed the opportunity. “I was surprised and honored,” she recalls. “It felt like a privilege worth pursuing.” That first step into alumni leadership turned into years of active service, including her recent service as board president.

Charity’s tenure as board president coincided with a uniquely challenging time-the ongoing recovery from the pandemic. She brought a grounded, intentional approach to her leadership. “We had to simplify,” she says. “Pick a couple of things and do them well.” For Charity, that meant leaning into initiatives like supporting Paw’s Pantry, streamlining board operations, and focusing on what really mattered: building community.

“I realized how much community-building is central to alumni board service,” she shares. “Strengthening our ties with each other made us stronger-and made it more fun. We love our time together. That kind of energy attracts others.”

Charity also helped lay the groundwork for a student mentorship program early in her tenure, creating systems and even serving as a mentor herself. As the board shifts to building and nurturing a close-knit community to support alumni at all career stages, she hopes that board service also becomes more accessible, meaningful, and sustainable. Whether organizing small alumni gatherings or cheering on the board’s Regatta team, she believes that showing up and supporting each other is the work of the board that matters most. “It’s creating what we all hope to find at any career stage, a group we can count on.”

Serving on the board wasn’t just a way to give back-it was also a learning experience. “I’ve learned what makes and motivates a great board,” Charity says. “It’s not always about having a long list of activities and a big vision. We realized that the board felt most inspired as alumni when we had opportunities for fellowship, such as dinner together or attending a school function, and decided to lean into that approach. As we focus our energies on creating opportunities for fellowship and friendship for our fellow alumni, whether it’s trying a new restaurant or attending Jags sporting events, the effort will also continue to motivate us.”

Charity’s service on the Alumni Board has also influenced and informed her professional work, where she collaborates with the board of directors of the Association of Midwest Museums. The two roles gave her a new perspective on effective leadership. “When things are going right, a board can create real momentum.”

Charity’s belief in the power of alumni connection runs deep. “Civil society depends on people willing to be engaged,” she says. “When alumni stay connected, they make things better for current students, fellow graduates, and the next generation of professionals. We’re all part of something bigger than ourselves.”

For those thinking about getting involved, Charity offers simple advice: start where you are with what interests you. “You don’t have to commit to board service right away. Be present. Show up at school events. Get to know people. If you’re ready to contribute time or expertise, there’s a place for you.”

She especially encourages alumni to take another look at campus: “So much has changed since I was in school. Come back. Tour campus. Attend Regatta. These little steps help you reconnect with the energy of the university and see where you fit.”

As the board continues to grow, Charity sees a bright future rooted in the same principles she’s championed: connection, community, and shared purpose. “We’re building concentric circles of friendship-starting with the board and expanding outward. Ultimately, we want hundreds, even thousands, of alumni engaged in meaningful ways.”

Thank you, Charity, for your dedicated service, visionary leadership, and the many ways you’ve helped strengthen the School of Liberal Arts alumni community. Your impact is lasting-and your invitation to fellow alumni is clear: Come be part of something meaningful. We are incredibly grateful for your continued service on the Liberal Arts Alumni Board as an at-large member, beginning on July 1st.