Jud Fisher Named to Indiana 250

Jud Fisher, President & CEO of Ball Brothers Foundation, has been selected as one of IBJ Media's 2026 Indiana 250, an annual recognition honoring Hoosier leaders whose influence and leadership are helping shape the future of Indiana across business, philanthropy, government, economic development, and the nonprofit sector. 

Jud was recognized during a special event on Tuesday, July 21 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.  

Since becoming President & CEO of Ball Brothers Foundation in 2003, Fisher has helped guide one of Indiana's oldest private family foundations through a period of significant growth and strategic evolution. As the Foundation celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026, his leadership has helped strengthen its commitment to place-based philanthropy, expand its grantmaking, and deepen partnerships that improve education, healthcare, economic vitality, and quality of life throughout Muncie, Delaware County, and Indiana. His collaborative leadership and long-term approach to philanthropy have earned the respect of nonprofit, civic, education, healthcare, and business leaders across the state. 

In addition to his leadership at the Foundation, Fisher serves on several influential boards, including the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, the IU Health Foundation Board of Directors, the IU Health Legacy East Region Board of Directors, the Edmund F. & Virginia B. Ball Foundation, Muncie Aviation Company, and the First Merchants Corporation Board of Directors. He is also past president of the Muncie Rotary Club and the past chair of the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce, reflecting his longstanding commitment to civic leadership, business, and community service. Several years ago, Fisher was honored with the Sagamore of the Wabash Award by Indiana’s 51st Governor, Eric Holcomb.   

A graduate of DePauw University, Fisher also has his master’s degree in Philanthropic Studies from the Indiana University Lilly School of Philanthropy.

Other leaders from East Central Indiana recognized this year include Geoff Mearns (President of Ball State University) and Mark Hardwick (CEO of First Merchants Corporation and First Merchants Bank).