Newfields is proud to honor Larry O’Connor with the 2025 Distinguished Service Award. This award recognizes volunteer leaders for their lifetime achievements and contributions to Newfields. O’Connor’s generosity and service began when he joined the Board of Trustees in 2003 as Treasurer and then led the Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA) as Interim CEO from 2005–06. 

O’Connor’s leadership was instrumental in the completion of the IMA’s $74 million renovation and reopening in 2006. 

Newfields President and CEO Le Monte G. Booker, Sr. said, “I’ve had the great pleasure of spending time with Larry during my first year at Newfields, and I’ve found him to be an incredible source of knowledge, perspective, and wisdom. I can’t think of anyone more deserving and I’m so grateful that Larry remains meaningfully invested in the future of Newfields.”  

Learn more about Larry’s story in this tribute video, produced by Allen Bell, local story advocate and Director of Impact and Digital Marketing at GANGGANG. 

Previous Distinguished Service Award recipients include: Randy Deer, Mark Holeman, Anna White, Richard Wood in 2015; Ed Fehnel, Ann Stack in 2016; Kay Koch, Dorit & Gerald Paul in 2018; Lori Efroymson-Aguilera and Sergio Aguilera in 2019; Pat and Jim LaCrosse in 2020; Fran and Roger Hurwitz in 2021; Katie and Len Betley in 2023; and Rosemary and Gene Tanner, Susie and Jack Sogard in 2024. 

To begin your volunteer journey, visit our dedicated volunteer website for more information.