iEngage Leadership Team

Stephanie Serriere, Ph.D

Executive Director

Stephanie Serriere, Ph.D., is a Professor of Social Studies Education at IU Columbus and Director of the iEngage Youth Civic Empowerment Camp. After serving as a master teacher at Baylor University’s iEngage camp in 2022—the same year the program received the Sandra Day O’Connor Award for the Advancement of Civic Education—she brought iEngage to Indiana in 2023 with strong support from the Columbus community. Dr. Stephanie oversees all aspects of the program, including grant writing and reporting, staff hiring, research, community partnerships, and compliance with IU’s Programs Involving Children policies. Her research focuses on how young people become engaged citizens, and she is a strong advocate for youth voice and democratic participation.

Stephanie enjoys yoga, dark chocolate and hiking in the woods with her golden retriever and family!

Lillia Stidam

Hi! I’m Lillia, but you can call me Lilla or Lil! This is my second year helping with iEngage and I’m so excited to be part of the team as the Program Assistant! I’m a current student at IU Indianapolis studying Computer Science.  I love to read, play board games, open blind boxes with my partner, Van, and be with my family and friends! I have two cats, Sprout and Saffron, and a crazy puppy named Sardine!

Samantha Francis

Hi! I’m Samantha Francis, a First-Year Admissions Counselor at Indiana University Columbus, and I’m so excited to be back with iEngage for my second year—this time as Assistant Director! I’m from Brown County, Indiana, and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Hanover College. I love creating fun, hands-on experiences that help students explore their interests, try new things, and grow their confidence. This summer, I’ll be leading a session where campers can discover their passions and learn about majors and opportunities at IU Columbus. I’m also here as a resource for campers and families as they begin thinking about college, and I help support a safe, welcoming environment as a safety liaison throughout camp. Outside of work, you’ll find me spending time in nature, reading a good book, or snuggling with my cats.

Edie Logston

Edie Logston is a sixth-grade teacher at Parkside Elementary School with 25 years of experience. Over the years, she has also had the privilege of teaching at Taylorsville and Schmitt schools, where she’s built lasting connections with students and colleagues. Edie earned her Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University Bloomington and her Master’s in Education from Indiana Wesleyan University. She also served as a counselor at iEngage in 2024 and an Expert Teacher in 2025, where she enjoyed working closely with young people. Edie loves coaching academic clubs as well as volunteering at many camps and youth events through her church. She and is deeply committed to helping her students grow not only academically but also as active, involved members of their community. When she’s not in the classroom, you’ll likely find her outdoors, staying active and enjoying nature or reading. Fun Fact: She grew up with 5 sisters in a one bathroom home!

Yamileth Martinez

¡Hola! I am so excited our wonderful students of Columbus, Indiana gets to experience another year of iEngage! I have been privileged enough to experience the magnificent movement of iEngage for 3 years in a row; now coming for a 4th year as an Expert Teacher. I am a 3rd-grade dual-language teacher at Clifty Creek Elementary School. I have lived in Columbus, Indiana for about 18 years. Through those 18 years I have been able to build wonderful relationships with many people with different backgrounds. I am so excited to be part of this camp another year to bring guidance and support to all who partake in this exciting 1-week journey! 

Freddie King

Freddie King was born and raised in Columbus, Indiana where he graduated from Columbus East High School in 2009. He attended Ball State University where he obtained his Bachelor's degree in Psychology, and minored in Spanish and Counseling. After graduating in 2013, Freddie began his career as a Skills Development Specialist, working with foster care youth in the Indianapolis metro area at the Adult and Child Center. In 2015, Freddie graduated with his Masters of Science in Education and Education Specialist degree in School Psychology from Indiana University Bloomington. He served as a School Psychologist for six years at Fairfax County Public Schools in northern Virginia. In this position, Freddie worked with youth K through 12 from predominantly Title 1 schools, serving students of all backgrounds and ethnicities. In August 2023, Freddie decided to move back home to Columbus, Indiana to be near his family and to serve youth within Bartholomew County. Currently, Freddie works for the Council for Youth Development as the Youth Empowerment Program Coordinator. There he focuses on youth driven outreach initiatives that strengthen youth leadership skills, with an emphasis on equity in the community.

Lily Massingale

Hi! My name is Lily, and I am currently an incoming senior at Indiana University Columbus studying elementary education. I have experience working with K–6 students through classroom field placements, where I’ve supported literacy instruction, small group learning, and differentiated instruction for diverse learners. I am especially passionate about creating inclusive, engaging environments that help all students feel confident and supported in their learning. In addition to my academic work, I’ve been involved in leadership and service through organizations like Kappa Delta Pi, where I’ve collaborated on outreach and educational initiatives. In my free time I enjoy hiking, sketching, and playing with my cat!

Mikenze Bostic

My name is Mikenze Bostic, and I am an incoming junior at Indiana University Columbus. Currently I study Elementary Education and plan to pursue a Bachelors and Master's degree in Education/ Administration and this will be my second year as an iEngage Camp Counselor! I am truly passionate about children and the information that keeps them safe, informed, and knowledgeable. Outside of school, I am a substitute teacher and lifeguard during the summer months.  Working with kids is my passion and I am beyond excited for the opportunity to be a counselor for the iEngage program. My goal is to educate , empower, and help build the future of our country. Here are some things about me, I love to travel, I love to read, and I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family! Can't wait to see everyone there!

Emily Wart

Hi! My name is Emily, I'm excited to return to iEngage this summer! I am a current student at the University of Indianapolis earning my Bachelors in Exercise Science and Associates in Physical Therapy. I additionally have a background in youth development and education through FFY and BCSC and a background in public health through the IDOH. I am looking forward to working with and getting to know the iEngage campers this summer to teach them about how they can get involved and advocate for causes they believe in in their community. 

Fun Fact: I had a fun and unique experience of participating in the Columbus edition of Dancing with the Stars while 3 months pregnant, and I also hold a Blue Belt in Taekwondo!

Sarah Hobbeheydar

Hi! My name is Sara and I am so excited for iEngage! I am a rising sophomore at the University of Indianapolis and I am studying psychology. I plan to become a pediatric occupational therapist so I can continue to support the children of my community. I have worked for Columbus Parks and Recreation for five years as a camp counselor, gymnastics instructor, and more. One fun fact about me is that I help manage the Columbus Farmer's Market!

Caroline Sheaffer

My name is Caroline Sheaffer, and I am a graduate of IU Columbus. I will be a second-year teacher this coming August, and I teach 5th grade at Milroy Elementary. I love math and recently added a 6-12 math addition to my teaching license! I coach both middle school girls and boys tennis at my alma mater. If I'm not at work, church, or the tennis courts, you can find me helping out at another event or playing piano!

Meleah Amos

My name is Meleah Amos, and I am currently a senior at Indiana University Columbus majoring in Elementary Education. Throughout my time in the program, I have gained valuable experience working with students in preschool and elementary classroom settings through field placements, classroom observations, and teaching assistant roles. I am passionate about helping children learn and grow by creating positive, engaging, and inclusive learning environments where every student feels supported and encouraged to succeed. I have especially enjoyed working in kindergarten classrooms and learning how to make lessons interactive, hands-on, and meaningful for young learners. My experiences have helped me develop strong communication, collaboration, and classroom management skills while strengthening my love for teaching. I am excited to continue growing as an educator and making a positive impact on students and their families. Outside of school and teaching. Fun fact about me is that I love creating fun and creative classroom activities and decorations for students!

Bailey Martini

My name is Bailey! I am so excited about the iEngage Youth Camp! I just graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University Columbus. I have always wanted to become a teacher, and I have enjoyed my time at IUC. One of my proudest accomplishments in my career have been watching my students read and write their first words. On my free time I love to walk my dog, Jagger. He is a german shepherd mix from the shelter. My husband and I love to walk him around the park on our free time.

Maddison Brittain

Hi, I’m Maddison Brittain and I recently just graduated college at IUC with my degree in education. I am from Brownstown.

Karon LeCompte

Karon LeCompte, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Social Studies Education. Her research interests include civics education, technology and teacher preparation. She works with teacher education candidates and Texas teachers on civics education and law-related education and teaches classes in elementary social studies methods. In 2022, Dr. LeCompte and the iEngage team were awarded the Sandra Day O'Connor Award for the Advancement of Civic Education.

Karen Garrity

Karen Garrity is a dedicated educator with extensive experience in both PreK-12 and higher education settings. She has held various roles, including teacher, Teacher Center Director, principal, and Director of Elementary Education at Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation. Currently, she serves as a Lecturer and Director of School and Community Relations at Indiana University Columbus, overseeing field and student teacher placements. Passionate about teacher preparation and student success, Karen has contributed to the development of programs that enhance educator effectiveness and has been an advocate for innovation, equity, and service learning. She has also been involved in committees and is the Faculty Advisor for the IUC Kappa Delta Pi chapter. A literacy advocate, she led the creation of the Bartholomew County Literacy Task Force, promoting diversity and inclusivity in literature. Karen’s research includes co-editing an anthology of multilingual parent stories, and she has been recognized with honors such as the Education Hall of Fame and the Indiana University Trustees Teaching Award. A fun fact about her: growing up, she dreamed of marrying baseball legend Mickey Mantle, and at age 38, she had the chance to meet him and be interviewed with him on TV!

Larry Ruich

Lawrence J. Ruich is a Clinical Assistant Professor at Indiana University Columbus, where he coordinates the Dual License Program in Special Education. With a Ph.D. from Indiana University Bloomington and degrees from Purdue University Calumet and Columbia College Chicago, he brings over 20 years of experience in education, spanning K–12 learning environments, curriculum leadership, and higher education. His teaching blends expertise in special education, instructional design, and the arts, and he’s especially passionate about preparing future teachers to create inclusive, creative classrooms. Lawrence is an active member of professional organizations like the Council for Exceptional Children and has been honored with several teaching awards, including IU’s Trustees’ Teaching Award in 2023. When he’s not teaching, you’ll likely find him behind a camera—he enjoys both digital and film-based photography and is a member of the Bloomington Photography Club (BPC). He also gives back locally as an executive member of the Park Ridge East Neighborhood Association (PRENA).