Roger Harvey Named 500 Festival Board Chair
The 500 Festival has appointed Roger Harvey to lead its 33-member board of directors for the 2026-2027 term.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in People
Roger Harvey has been appointed as the new chair of the 500 Festival Board of Directors. The organization, currently marking its 70th year, also introduced new leadership and directors for the 2026-2027 cycle.
Why it matters
The board transition ensures continuity as the long-standing Indianapolis organization enters its seventh decade of operations. These leaders manage the committees that oversee the festival's annual events and programs.
The 500 Festival board consists of 33 members, including four new appointees for the 2026-2027 term and three new directors for the associated foundation.
The players
Roger Harvey
He is the new chair of the 500 Festival Board of Directors.
500 Festival
This Indianapolis-based organization is a non-profit that produces events surrounding the Indianapolis 500.
The details
The board leadership team for the upcoming term includes Vice Chair Troy Gilstorf, Secretary Brandi Davis-Handy, Treasurer Bowman Elder, and Immediate Past Chair Christina Moungey. Members work through committees to enhance the planning and execution of the festival's various community events.
Timeline
The 2026-2027 term for the new board officers and directors began in September 2026.
Market Landscape
The 500 Festival is navigating a generational transition as it enters its 70th year of operation in Indianapolis. This leadership shift helps the nonprofit maintain its market position in the local events sector while coordinating efforts across its foundation and board.
For local community members and event attendees, the new board structure signifies the management team responsible for the festival's upcoming programming. Residents should expect the organization to continue its established festival schedule as the new leadership team assumes oversight.
The takeaway
Effective board governance is essential for the sustainability of long-running community institutions like the 500 Festival. Organizations benefit from rotating leadership to bring in fresh perspectives while maintaining focus on a seven-decade mission.
Further reading
For more information on local leadership changes, visit the Indianapolis People section.
More information
Learn more about the organization's history and programs on the 500 Festival organization website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Current Publishing.
