Ellen Munds, a pioneering figure in Indianapolis’s arts and nonprofit sectors, has been elected president of the Indy Progressive Rotary Club, marking a new chapter in her distinguished career of community leadership.

Munds is best known as the co-founder and longtime executive director of Storytelling Arts of Indiana (SAI), an organization she helped launch in 1987 to elevate storytelling as a recognized art form. Under her leadership, SAI produced signature programs such as the Hoosier Storytelling Festival, “Sharing Hoosier History Through Stories” in partnership with the Indiana Historical Society, and “If These Walls Could Tell” with Indiana Landmarks. She also initiated storytelling programs in summer camps and hospitals, and established the Annual Liar’s Contest at the Indiana State Fair.

Before dedicating herself fully to SAI, Munds worked as a children’s librarian at the Carmel Clay Public Library. She served as SAI’s program director from 1987 to 1996 before becoming executive director, a role she held until her retirement about a year ago.

Munds’ contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the National Storytelling Network’s Distinguished National Service Award and two Creative Renewal Fellowships from the Indy Arts Council. Check out more at storytellingarts.org

As president of the Indy Progressive Rotary Club, Munds brings her decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, arts advocacy, and community engagement to a new platform, continuing her commitment to enriching Indianapolis through service and storytelling.