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About us

our MISSION

Indy Chess is an educational organization seeking to build strategic thinking and community through teaching and sharing the game of chess in Greater Indianapolis.  We emphasize making these skills and connections accessible and inclusive for all who want to grow through knowledge of the game.

our VISION

An Indianapolis where all have the opportunity to grow in the skills and community that chess can provide.

our VALUES

Intentional Inclusion: We have to work to invite and welcome underrepresented groups to the chess community.  After all, "The only thing chess players have in common is chess!"

Affordability and Access: If chess instruction is not affordable, or even free, it cannot reach all who can benefit from it.

Sportsmanship: Winning at the expense of good character isn't winning at all.  Losing is learning.

Balancing Fun & Struggle: Chess must be enjoyable to engage with it.  However, growth and skill application comes in the forging fire of competition.  One without the other risks being incomplete.

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our 2025 board members
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Gabe Hawkins

President

Cohen & Malad, Attorney

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Brad Armstrong

Treasurer

Milliman, Principal and Consulting Actuary

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Michelle O'Keefe

Board Member

Eskenazi Health, Chief Communications Officer

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Mike Chapuran

Executive Director

(ex officio)

info@indychess.org

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Vaughn Laptiste

Vice President

Educator, Christel House Indianapolis Watanabe High School

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Manasi Balagere

Immediate Past President

Lamb Weston,

Senior SAP Developer

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FM Lester VanMeter

Board Member

President,

Indiana State Chess Association & Six-time Indiana State Champion

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Tom Spalding

Secretary

C2 Strategic Communications, Senior Strategist

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Michelle Jackson, PhD

Board Member

Indianapolis Public Schools, Executive Director of Teaching & Learning

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Mike Dugdale

Board Member

Emeritus (ex officio)

Dugdale Foods, Retired CEO

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Upcoming Events

Become a member

Indy
Chess

info@indychess.org

PO Box 40663

Indianapolis, IN 46240

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©2023-2025 by Indianapolis Chess Club & Scholastic Center, Inc., dba Indy Chess

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