Email:

brianp@cicf.org

Areas of Interest:

Community development, arts and public spaces

Philanthropy and fundraising

Racial equity and the equitable distribution of power

Print-quality photo

Brian Payne, former president and CEO of Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) and The Indianapolis Foundation, joined the O'Neill School as executive in residence in 2023.

Payne is a leader in the field of community development and philanthropy. With a track record of transformative initiatives and a deep commitment to making a positive impact for all, Payne has dedicated his career to fostering social innovation, urban revitalization, and inclusive growth.

Since he joined CICF in  2000, the foundation’s annual grantmaking quadupled to more than $95 million. Under Payne’s leadership, CICF has become a driving force in creating positive change in Central Indiana. The foundation actively works to address the region's most pressing issues by providing grants, support, and resources to nonprofit organizations and community initiatives.

Payne also is the founder and founding artistic director of the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene & Marilyn Glick. The acclaimed urban bike and pedestrian path stands as a testament to Payne’s ability to envision and execute transformative projects. This trail has not only connected neighborhoods, cultural districts, and public spaces, but has  stimulated economic development, promoted healthy living, and enhanced the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Payne is the founding board chair of The District Theatre, which is committed to helping incubate a Black professional resident theatre company for Indianapolis. He recently concluded a two-year term as board chair of the national organization, Forward Cities, an organization committed to helping cities build inclusive economic growth.

The California native retired from the top spot at CICF June 30, 2023. He came to Indiana in 1993 as managing director of the Indiana Repertory Theater where he increased its endowment from $1 million to $11 million by 2000. After serving on IUPUI’s advisory board and its executive committee for over a decade, Payne served as chair in 2022.  He also currently sits on the boards of Visit Indy, Indiana Repertory Theatre and the 2024 NBA All-Star Game He was named an Indiana Living Legend in 2016 by the Indiana Historical Society.