Get To Know Us

Skylar Whiteman was raised in French Lick and now resides in Paoli. She holds a bachelor’s degree in healthcare management and policy from Indiana University Bloomington and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern Indiana. Before joining OCEDP in 2023, Skylar spent nearly a decade as a licensed health facility administrator in senior living communities throughout Southern Indiana. She led teams recognized at the local, state, and national levels for achievements in quality, regulatory compliance, and financial performance. Her experience managing an Orange County business with more than 90 employees gave her valuable insight into the opportunities and challenges facing local employers, workers, and families. Skylar is passionate about elevating Orange County, strengthening relationships among businesses and community leaders, and creating opportunities for those who live, work, and visit here. She serves on the boards of Ivy Tech Community College Bloomington, IU Health South Region, the Indiana Uplands Regional Land Bank, First Chance Center, and Radius Indiana. Skylar and her husband have two sons and several pets. In her free time, she enjoys being active, watching sports, reading, and traveling.

Chelsey Thomas is an Orange County native who was raised in Paoli, Indiana, where she continues to reside today. She holds an associate’s degree in business administration and has a firsthand understanding of both the challenges and opportunities that come with living and working in rural Orange County. Chelsey is a graduate of the Purdue Extension Leadership Academy, an experience that strengthened her understanding of the community, local leadership, and how organizations work together to move Orange County forward. Prior to joining the Orange County Economic Development Partnership (OCEDP), Chelsey spent five years in an administrative role at a CPA firm, giving her valuable experience with business operations and insight into the local business climate. Chelsey draws on her education, professional experience, and local roots to further the mission and vision of OCEDP while helping make Orange County a better place to live, work, relax, and do business. She also serves on the Orange County Service Council and serves as President of Possibilities in Paoli, the community’s Main Street organization. Through these roles, she continues to strengthen relationships, stay connected to the needs of the community, and give back to the county she calls home. Outside of work and community involvement, Chelsey enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and dog. She also enjoys running, walking with friends, and spending time outdoors.