Kelsie Walker
Kelsie serves as the Director of the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) Foundation, providing leadership and vision for all of the Foundation's fundraising efforts. Wearing many hats, Kelsie collaborates with Foundation staff to manage and direct annual fundraising, planned giving, special campaigns and programs, and Foundation events. Close to her heart is STE(A)M education and the power and application of model aviation in classrooms. She is also passionate about the National Model Aviation Museum and the preservation of model aviation history. Previously serving as the Foundation's Grants and Programs Coordinator, Kelsie has been with the AMA Foundation since May 2019. Before coming to AMA, Kelsie taught college English for seven years at universities in Arkansas and Indiana. She earned her Ph.D. in English Rhetoric and Composition in 2018 from Ball State University. Serving in this role, Kelsie hopes to honor her early childhood memories of flying model airplanes with her late great uncle, Charlie. Outside of work, Kelsie enjoys spending time with her family and two dogs; traveling domestically and internationally; practicing yoga and going kayaking; and volunteering in her community.
Austin Perlee
Austin serves as the Donor and Programs Specialist at the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) Foundation. During his years on the Executive Board for Ball State University Dance Marathon, Austin realized his growing love for finding ways to help give back to people and the community. Austin has recently graduated from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana and received his degree for a major in Advertising and a minor in Graphic Design. Throughout his time at Ball State University, he has joined organizations like Ball State University Dance Marathon which have allowed him to use his degree in real world situations and helped him realize his passion for helping others. He is now using that same information and drive to work for AMA full-time and help grow the development and experience of model aviation for many people. When he is not working, Austin likes to be around his loved ones and friends, go hiking, play board games, watch movies, and tend to his many houseplants. He has also recently adopted a new puppy; a Silver Lab named Crater. Crater keeps his days and evenings at home busy and fun.
