Shane Christ
Board of Directors
“I care about what Steuben County will look like 20 years from now. The Community Foundation gives all of us a chance to help what that future. If we take care of our home, our home will take care of us.”
“Shane Christ is a life long resident of Steuben County and a recognized leader in agriculture, tourism, hospitality, and small business development. Guided by values instilled by his parents, both lifelong educators, he has dedicated his career to strengthening local communities, supporting entrepreneurship, and enhancing quality of life throughout Northeastern Indiana.
A technically trained wine maker and vineyard owner, Shane has been involved in wine grape production since 2002 and is the owner of Acres Away Winery, now celebrating 25 years of producing locally crafted wines. His leadership within Indiana’s wine industry includes serving as President of Indiana Winery and Vineyard Association, where he advocated for industry growth, agricultural innovation, legislative initiatives and statewide collaboration among wineries and vineyards.
Committed to advancing regional economic development and destination growth, Shane also served as President of Steuben County Tourism Bureau and as a board member of Steuben County Chamber of Commerce. He has served on the Steuben County Community Foundation Lilly Endowment Scholarship Committee for the passt two years.
A strong believer in mentorship and workforce development, he invests significant time mentoring students, employees, and emerging professionals across Steuben and Dekalb County. His leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, community stewardship, and creating opportunities that support long-term regional vitality.
Outside of his professional and community leadership roles, he enjoys basketball, cycling, travel, cooking, lake life and the outdoors.”