A Living Tribute to the Leaders Who Built Our Legacy
In celebration of our 50th anniversary, Schmidt Associates launched Founders Grove, a tree-planting campaign honoring the individuals who shaped our firm and the communities we serve.
We began the campaign in fall 2025 by planting 50 native hardwood trees at New Bethel Elementary School in honor of Ron Fisher, a founding partner, educator at heart, and long-time leader in K–12 design. With 50 native trees now rooted in Franklin Township, this tribute reflects our commitment to sustainability, stewardship, and long-term impact.
Founders Grove will continue through 2027, culminating in 150 trees planted across Indiana and Kentucky.
Ron Fisher (1956-2023)
A beacon of Schmidt Associates for over four decades, Ron was a founding partner whose unwavering commitment to design excellence and mentorship shaped both people and projects. His leadership in educational design and major civic works—including the Indianapolis-Marion County Civil and Criminal Courthouse and the NCAA Headquarters—left an indelible mark across the Midwest.
A mentor at heart, Ron nurtured generations of architects and engineers, including current CEO Sarah Hempstead. His legacy lives not only in the structures he helped create, but in the values and collaborative spirit that continue to guide our firm today.
Rooted in Impact. Built to Last.
Each tree represents a year of impact and a commitment to the future: cleaner air, stronger communities, and a healthier planet. Our landscape architecture team selected Indiana native hardwoods known for their longevity, partnering with Franklin Township Community School Corporation to support the grove’s long-term health.
Founders Grove will continue through 2026 and 2027, with future plantings planned in honor of additional founding leaders. By the end of the campaign, a total of 150 trees will be planted across Indiana and Kentucky.
