Alonzo Weems’ journey to early childhood education began serendipitously when a new role at Lilly came with an ask to serve on United Way’s Success by Six Leadership Council. This happened to coincide with a very special new personal role: becoming a father.
Through both, Weems developed a broader and deeper understanding of just how important and impactful the first years of life are for a child and he wanted to do more.
“This opened up for me the importance of community investments and bringing resources together to help children succeed,” Weems said.
Motivated by this newfound awareness, Weems sought to make a difference. In 2013, he was appointed by Governor Mike Pence to the Early Learning Advisory Committee for the State of Indiana and in 2016, he joined Early Learning Indiana’s Board of Directors.
These roles allowed him to champion initiatives that focused on creating safe, enriching environments where young minds could flourish. And while Weems tenure on ELI’s Board ended in 2023, his commitment to early learning in Indiana remained steadfast.
“When my wife and I think of giving, we look at two things—the work and the people leading it,” he reflects. “We always designate funds to Early Learning Indiana because we believe in the mission and the leadership. I’ve seen the results when investments are made in facilities, staff and curriculum—to the child and the family.”
Weems work in early learning advocacy serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting difference that committed leaders can make in shaping the future for generations to come.
Weems spent his professional career at Eli Lilly and Company, beginning in 1997 as an attorney and rising through the ranks to hold several key leadership positions, including general counsel for Lilly Canada, Lilly USA and the Biomedicines and Diabetes business units. Prior to retiring in 2024, he served as executive vice president of enterprise risk management and chief ethics and compliance officer. He holds an undergraduate degree from Wabash College and a law degree from Indiana University School of Law.
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