STATEHOUSE (April 15, 2026) – State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) recently presented an Indiana House of Representatives District Declaration to Dave Yarde in recognition of his decades of service to education, local government and the DeKalb County community.
Smaltz said Yarde has dedicated 37 years as a teacher and principal, shaping generations of students and strengthening the foundation of education in DeKalb County. He also noted that Yarde's commitment to students and families has left a lasting impact on the community.
"It's a special honor to recognize my longtime friend Dave Yarde for his incredible service to our community," Smaltz said. "I've had the privilege of knowing Dave for many years, and his dedication to education, leadership and helping others speaks to the kind of person he is. His impact will be felt for generations of Hoosiers."
In addition to his career in education, Yarde served on the Keyser Township Advisory Board and the Greater Garrett Plan Commission, along with seven terms as a DeKalb County Councilman. Smaltz said his leadership helped ensure local government remains responsive, effective and accountable.
Yarde also served the state as a member of the Indiana House of Representatives for District 52, where he supported policies benefiting families, schools and communities.
For over a decade, Yarde was executive director of the National Auto & Truck Museum in Auburn, helping bring national recognition to the area and establishing the NATMUS Youth Program, which continues to provide opportunities for young people and encourage civic engagement.
Smaltz said that he welcomes opportunities to recognize outstanding Hoosiers whose dedication strengthens local communities. Those who know someone who quietly makes a difference every day and deserves to be recognized are encouraged to contact his office at the Statehouse at in.gov/h52 or by calling 317-234-9450.
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State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) represents House District 52,
which includes all of DeKalb County, and portions of Noble and Steuben counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) (far right) joins members of the National Auto & Truck Museum with U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman (R-IN-03) (far left) to recognize Dave Yarde (second from left) with a House District 52 Declaration on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Auburn. Smaltz presented the declaration to Yarde for his decades of service to education, local government and the DeKalb County community.
