A Celebration of Billie Fouts

On Friday, February 18^th, 2022, Billie Fouts will bid farewell to The International Center. Eleven days prior to her retirement, Billie celebrates her 10-year anniversary with The Center. We were able to chat with Billie about her career, her decade with The International Center, and her plans for a well-deserved retirement.

A Bit About Billie

Billie was born and raised in Indianapolis. She attended Warren Central High School and then went on to earn her B.A. in Speech and English from Butler University. In her professional life, she’s been involved in marketing, public relations, communications, and fund-raising. She’s had roles in the advertising agency, and the non-profit and corporate sectors. Billie spent much of her career as Director of Public Relations for Simon Property Group- before joining The International Center in 2012 as Vice President of Marketing and Development.

How has The International Center changed in your 10 years?

“It was already a great organization in 2012, having experienced strong and visionary leadership throughout its then 40-year history. Now, one decade later, it’s even better. The professionalism of staff and board, the excellent programs and services, the ability to bring people together with common needs and/or goals, and its commitment to sustainability have all progressively intensified during my time here.”

What’s been your favorite project with The International Center?

“I always loved planning the International Citizen of the Year events. They were all terrific, but the 2021 event honoring Dan Coats was really a capstone for me, particularly since I had already made the decision to retire in early 2022. Everything came together so perfectly and so beautifully (despite two postponements due to COVID-19) that I still get a warm feeling when I think of the attendees’ response to the event and how genuinely touched Dan and Marsha Coats were to have been honored in this way.” 

What’s the best advice you can give to your team?

“Keep doing what you’re doing. You make it hard to leave because I will miss being surrounded daily by such excellence. My successor is in for a real treat!”

What will you miss most about your job and The International Center?

 “Being around people every day who truly embrace The Center’s mission and who love what they do. Working in that environment inspired me every day to do and be my best. I will miss that passion and energy.”

 Plans for retirement?

“Grandkids (12 and counting); lots of coffees, lunches and dinners with people I haven’t had time to stay connected with; new volunteer commitments; travel (domestically and abroad); and keeping my body, mind and spirit healthy and happy!”

A spirited professional and tremendous individual she is! Billie’s skills and knowledge have been an exceptional asset to The International Center. She’s an embodiment of The International Center’s values, and her devotion to The Center and its mission has been a gift. The International Center is lucky to have been a part of Billie’s journey. Her presence in the office will be missed greatly, but we are excited for Billie as she takes on a new chapter of life!

Happy Retirement, Billie!