(DENVER, CO) - Indiana's State Fair is earning major national recognition -- both for its leadership and its creativity.
At the International Association of Fairs and Expositions Convention in Denver, two top Indiana State Fair Commission executives were elected to prominent national leadership roles. Chief Operating Officer Ray Allison was chosen as Chair of the IAFE Board of Directors for 2026, while Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer Anna Whelchel was elected IAFE Zone 3 Director, representing fairs across multiple states.
In addition to the leadership honors, the 2025 Indiana State Fair brought home nine national awards, recognizing excellence in agriculture education, communications, competitive exhibits, photography, and radio advertising.
Fair officials say the honors reflect years of innovation and teamwork. Allison has spent more than three decades in the fair industry and now leads operations, safety, agriculture, and campus development at the State Fairgrounds. Whelchel oversees marketing, sponsorships, programming, guest services, and year-round revenue strategies -- including the popular Christmas Nights of Lights event.
The awards highlight everything from agricultural education programs to creative exhibits, promotional materials, and radio advertising.
The International Association of Fairs and Expositions represents fairs and expos across North America and beyond, promoting best practices and innovation throughout the industry.
The Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center hosts more than 400 events each year, including the annual Indiana State Fair, serving communities across the state year-round.