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.

our 2025 board members

Gabe Hawkins
President
Cohen & Malad, Attorney

Brad Armstrong
Treasurer
Milliman, Principal and Consulting Actuary

Michelle O'Keefe
Board Member
Eskenazi Health, Chief Communications Officer

Vaughn Laptiste
Vice President
Educator, Christel House Indianapolis Watanabe High School

Manasi Balagere
Immediate Past President
Lamb Weston,
Senior SAP Developer

FM Lester VanMeter
Board Member
President,
Indiana State Chess Association & Six-time Indiana State Champion

Tom Spalding
Secretary
C2 Strategic Communications, Senior Strategist

Michelle Jackson, PhD
Board Member
Indianapolis Public Schools, Executive Director of Teaching & Learning

Mike Dugdale
Board Member
Emeritus (ex officio)
Dugdale Foods, Retired CEO

Upcoming Events
- Tue, Mar 11Latvian Community Center
- Wed, Mar 19Latvian Community Center
- Tue, Mar 25Latvian Community Center
- Sun, Apr 06St. Monica School Gym (Enter Door 15)
- Sat, May 03St. Paul Episcopal Church