STATEHOUSE (Nov. 8, 2024) – State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) on Thursday presented a Sagamore of the Wabash to Rick Smith for his more than 30 years of service at the Community Foundation.
During his time at the Community Foundation, Smith served in various roles, including 27 years on the board and three terms as board chair. His leadership during the initial Lilly Endowment's Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow initiative and the creation of a volunteer investment group significantly grew the Community Foundation's assets from under $12 million to more than $85 million. Smith also established the Senior Advisory Committee to ensure continuity and mentoring within the foundation.
"Rick's values of integrity and hard work have not only shaped his career but also inspired his family and others to give back to our community," Karickhoff said. "His lifelong commitment to service, leadership and community development have made Kokomo and Howard County a better place to call home."
According to Karickhoff, Smith was also influential in economic development in Kokomo, where he helped restructure and revitalize the community during the 2008 financial crisis. As a key figure in the creation of the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance, he helped transform Kokomo from one of Forbes' fastest-dying towns into a thriving community.
Smith served on various boards, including the Kokomo Country Club, Kokomo Rescue Mission, Rotary Club of Kokomo, Howard Regional Health Foundation and Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance.
Smith has owned Smith Financial since 1984, earning prestigious designations and mentoring a team of professionals.
Dating back to the 1940s, the Sagamore of the Wabash award was created by former Gov. Ralph Gates. It is the highest honor the governor can bestow and is presented to distinguished Hoosiers who have made significant contributions to the state of Indiana.
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State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) represents House District 30,
which includes portions of Grant and Howard counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) (left) presents Rick Smith (right) with a Sagamore of the Wabash on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, at the Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce's Annual Awards Celebration. Smith served at the Community Foundation for more than 30 years in various roles.
