INDIANAPOLIS – Independent candidate for Indiana Secretary of State Greg Ballard today announced a full campaign team of experienced professionals from across Indiana’s political spectrum, underscoring a serious, well-organized bid in what promises to be one of the state’s most closely watched races this November.
“This is a dream team of professionals built to compete and win,” said Ballard. “Their belief in this campaign is incredibly energizing.”
The team is:
Campaign Manager
Nathan Gotsch – Former executive director of Independent Indiana, a nonpartisan initiative focused on restoring competitive elections in the state. In 2022, Gotsch ran for Congress as an independent in Indiana’s 3rd District, gaining firsthand experience building and executing a campaign outside the traditional party structure. He will oversee the campaign and lead fundraising efforts.
Operations Director
Amber Audrain – Founder of Audrain Advising, which helps small businesses and nonprofits strengthen their operational and funding strategies. Audrain is also a current Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation Fellow.
Communications Director
Kate Shepherd – Founder of Kate Shepherd Communications LLC, marking 10 years serving political, nonprofit and business clients. She was a veteran broadcaster with nearly two decades in Indianapolis media, including roles at Network Indiana, WIBC, WISH-TV, and Inside INdiana Business. She also previously served as Communications Director in the Indiana Secretary of State’s office.
Communications Advisor
Robert Vane – President of public relations firm Veteran Strategies and host of the Leaders and Legends podcast. A former Deputy Chief of Staff and Communications Director for Mayor Ballard, Vane will advise on messaging and media strategy.
Digital Media Director
Joe Garrison – Founder of Moonflower Marketing, with extensive experience in digital strategy and audience growth. He was also a co-founder of the North Shadeland Alliance in Indianapolis.
Organizing Director
Will Conway – Founder of Conway Consulting, serving independent campaigns, candidates and causes. He has extensive experience working with statewide political campaigns, and served in senior leadership with both No Labels and the Forward Party. Conway will lead organizing and mobilization.
Engagement and Events Director
Lacey Everett – Seasoned communicator, strategist, and advocate with more than 20 years of experience in political affairs, public policy messaging, and PAC fundraising. Lacey advances local advocacy initiatives focused on housing policy, economic mobility, and quality of life, and brings experience in board leadership and political campaign management. Previously, Lacey served as E‑Communications Coordinator for then‑Mayor Ballard. Everett will oversee engagement and events for the campaign.
Ballard’s campaign has gained early attention as a contender in the race, with initial polling showing a competitive path in a three-way contest. Ballard will outline his policy agenda for the Secretary of State’s office in the coming weeks.
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About Greg Ballard
Greg Ballard served two terms as Mayor of Indianapolis from 2008 to 2016 after winning a surprise upset victory as a political newcomer and retired Marine with no prior elected experience. In office, he built a reputation for focusing on the nuts and bolts of government rather than partisan maneuvering. You can learn more by visiting the campaign website and following Greg on social media on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Threads and X.
Media Contact:
Contact: Kate Shepherd
317-442-1674