Countless students from yesterday, today, and tomorrow are helped by the work of Carmel Education Foundation. (Photo provided by Carmel Education Foundation)
Carmel Education Foundation turns 60
2026 will mark Carmel Education Foundation’s (CEF) 60th anniversary, celebrating six decades of impact, partnership, and investment in Carmel Clay Schools (CCS).
Founded in 1966, CEF is one of Indiana’s oldest and most established educational foundations, and this milestone year will honor the people, programs, and community support that have shaped generations of students.
Since its founding, CEF has worked alongside CCS and awarded more than $2.5 million in scholarships to Carmel High School seniors and nearly $2 million in grants funding innovative classroom experiences, directly benefiting thousands of students from elementary through high school. Through the generosity of donors, businesses, and community partners, the foundation has helped bridge critical funding gaps and fuel innovative educational experiences that prepare students for their future.
Penix
“As we commemorate our 60th anniversary, we are reflecting with gratitude and looking ahead with purpose,” CEF CEO Jennifer Penix said. “This milestone is not just about celebrating our history, it is about honoring the people who made that history possible and inviting our community to be part of the impact we will make in the future.”
Throughout 2026, CEF will host a year-long anniversary celebration designed to honor its legacy while inviting the community to celebrate, engage, and support education in Carmel. Anniversary initiatives will include storytelling, special events, community engagement opportunities, and milestone giving campaigns.
Fundraisers
As part of the 60th anniversary celebration, the community is invited to support CEF through two special fundraising initiatives.
On Feb. 8 CEF launches its “Share the Love, Shape the Future” fundraising campaign in celebration of Valentine’s Day. This campaign invites supporters to show their love for students and educators by making a gift that directly supports classroom grants, scholarships, and educational opportunities across Carmel Clay Schools. You can learn more about that at this link.
In honor of its founding year, CEF has introduced the 1966 Donor Society, recognizing leadership-level donors who contribute $1,000 annually to the foundation. Members of the 1966 Society play a vital role in sustaining CEF’s mission and advancing its impact for future generations. You can learn more about that at this link.
Special events
CEF’s 60th anniversary will also be celebrated through a variety of events and opportunities to connect with community members and partners throughout the year, including:
- CEF’s annual Taste of Carmel celebration will take place on Aug. 27. This ticketed event brings together community members, local businesses, and supporters for an evening of food, connection, and philanthropy in support of CEF’s mission. Sponsorships are available and tickets will go on sale to the public in April.
- CEF’s signature Ghosts and Goblins race will take place on Oct. 24, and welcomes a large number of Carmel community members annually for a morning of fun and fitness. Participants may run, walk, or jog a one-mile or 5K course. Proceeds benefit Carmel Clay students and teachers through CEF programs and scholarships.
Community events
CEF will engage with the community at events throughout the year that are hosted by established community organizations.
- CEF will have an interactive booth at the OneZone Chamber of Commerce’s Taste of the Chamber on Thursday, Feb. 19. There will also be interactive booths at the Carmel Farmers Market this summer and at Carmel Public Safety Day.
- The CEF 60th Anniversary parade float will be seen in the CarmelFest parade hosted by the Rotary Club of Carmel on Saturday, July 4.
- In partnership with the Carmel Clay Historical Society, a special exhibit will be on display at the museum during the month of November, offering the public an opportunity to explore and celebrate CEF’s legacy.
- Additional details about anniversary events, exhibits, and engagement opportunities will be announced throughout the year.
As CEF looks ahead to its next chapter, the 60th anniversary year will serve as both a celebration and a call to action, inviting the community to continue investing in education and ensuring students have the resources they need to thrive.
For more information about Carmel Education Foundation and updates on its 60th anniversary celebration, visit ccs.k12.in.us/foundation.
