Dr. James B. Lemler

President
jim@awclowescf.org

James Lemler is an executive, consultant and teacher who has worked with numerous organizations, communities, and institutions. Assuming the executive office of President in 2019, Dr. Lemler has served the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation as a director and officer since 2003. 

Dr. Lemler served previously as the Dean and President of Seabury-Western Theological Seminary, its Seabury Institute, and as the President of the Association of Chicago Theological Schools. He has also been a trustee of the National Association of Episcopal Schools and a keynoter and leader for educational conferences. Educated at DePauw University, Oxford University, Nashotah House Episcopal Seminary, and Christian Theological Seminary, he also holds certificates from Trustee Leadership Development, the Lake Institute of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, and the Center for Hope and Renewal (a center founded by Parker Palmer for work in education, stewardship, and civic engagement).

Dr. Lemler served for four decades in congregations and other institutions of the Episcopal Church including a university chaplaincy, three congregations (the longest service being at Trinity Episcopal Church - Mr. Clowes’ parish home - and its St. Richard’s School in Indianapolis), a divinity school presidency, and the mission and program executive leadership as the Director of Mission for the Episcopal Church (national organization.) He has provided leadership in three metropolitan centers; Indianapolis, Chicago, and greater New York, shaping organizations for more effective civic leadership and service.  He has also functioned in ambitious program and fund development work for institutional advancement in these settings.

Dr. James Lemler is a Sagamore of the Wabash, awarded by the State of Indiana, and holds a citation of recognition from the State of Connecticut.  He has also received special recognition from the cities of Indianapolis, Evanston Illinois, and Greenwich Connecticut.

He is married to Sharon Lemler, a retired Psychiatric Clinical Specialist, and they are the parents of three daughters: a physician, a social worker, and doctoral level autism researcher and educator. A trained but amateur musician, he has been involved in the arts in many ways throughout his life and is devoted to learning, conservation, and engaging other cultures. He enjoys cooking, friendships, travel, performances, and extensive reading.

Elizabeth Kaznak-Hall

Vice President/Director of programs
Elizabeth@AWClowesCF.org

Elizabeth Kaznak-Hall joined the staff of the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation in March of 2015 and now serves as the Vice President/Director of Programs. Elizabeth is from Highland, Indiana where her ancestors were some of the founding residents. She attended Indiana University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Personnel Management from the School of Public and Environmental Affairs. She went on to graduate school to earn a Master of Divinity Degree from Louisville Theological Seminary. Elizabeth was ordained in 1991 and has served four different congregations at various pastoral levels. In addition to her pastoral role, she served as the Executive Director of Kentucky Refugee Ministries, before relocating to Indianapolis, Indiana in 2014. 

Elizabeth is married and has a blended family of five, three girls and two boys who are most definitely her pride and joy. She loves farming, animals, walking, and spending time with friends.  She is an advocate for refugees and finds assisting people in need the most rewarding gift in her life.

Heidi Nikou

Office Manager
Heidi@awclowescf.org

When Heidi was in high school, family friend and Foundation Director Betty Roberts presented her with an opportunity to work for Mr. Allen Clowes doing household duties for him in Woods Hole, MA and Indianapolis.  Heidi worked temporary positions for Mr. Clowes during her junior and senior years of high school.  

After receiving her BS degree from Ball State University, Heidi worked in various administrative and personnel positions before joining the Foundation in 2007.  As Administrative Assistant and Grant Administrator, a position previously held for several years by her mother, Heidi's favorite responsibilities are providing assistance to the Foundation's Directors, Grant Applicants and Grantees. 

Outside of the office, Heidi enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and pets.  She has several house rabbits, fosters rabbits for the Indiana House Rabbit Society, an all-volunteer domestic rabbit rescue organization, and serves on their board.  She is an avid birdwatcher, likes organic gardening, and raising butterflies.