Kristi J. Sturtz is a purpose-driven leader whose enduring impact on community and economic development is a testament to both vision and pragmatism. With more than 25 years of experience, she has transformed regions, empowered stakeholders, and catalyzed sustainable growth through her holistic approach to governance, planning, and leadership. As President of Sturtz Public Management Group, LLC, Kristi has built an impressive portfolio of multi-million dollar initiatives and regional strategies that speak to her exceptional ability to convert bold ideas into measurable results. Her work exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, rooted in a commitment to long-term change and an unshakable belief in the power of inclusive, place-based solutions.
Kristi’s professional journey began with a deep interest in public service and community dynamics. After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration from Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs, she entered the field with the City of Fort Wayne’s planning department. There, she developed a nuanced understanding of strategic planning and municipal operations, which would later underpin her regional and national-level consulting work. Her time with GAI Consultants, Inc. further deepened her technical skills in planning and grant administration, preparing her to launch her own firm and step into a more transformative leadership role.
In 2003, Kristi founded Sturtz Public Management Group, a consulting practice centered on fostering community resilience and shared prosperity. Over the past two decades, she has led the firm with distinction, orchestrating more than $300 million in community investments. Her approach integrates rigorous systems-thinking with grassroots engagement, resulting in projects that are both visionary and deeply grounded. Under her leadership, the firm has worked with municipalities, foundations, nonprofits, and stakeholder coalitions to implement transformative infrastructure, housing, workforce, and sustainability initiatives across the Midwest and beyond.
Kristi’s hallmark achievement—the East Allen Rural Revival Regional Development Plan—epitomizes her collaborative ethos and strategic acumen. Spearheading this $64 million initiative, she convened over 100 stakeholders across seven communities to create a unified vision for rural renewal. The project not only earned the Indiana Stellar Communities designation but also garnered state and national awards for planning excellence. It stands as a model of community-driven investment and effective cross-sector coordination, thanks to Kristi’s stewardship.
Her leadership in food systems planning is equally impactful. Kristi designed and facilitated the Northeast Indiana Local Food Needs Assessment, an 11-county regional strategy that addressed issues of food access, local agriculture, health, and economic resilience. Engaging hospitals, schools, farmers, foundations, and residents, she demonstrated her capacity to navigate complex stakeholder environments and bring people together around shared goals. This project reinforced her reputation as a leader in sustainable development and food equity, attracting attention from national networks and peer institutions.
Kristi’s educational pursuits reflect her lifelong dedication to global thinking and ethical practice. She earned a Master of Liberal Arts in Global Development Practice from Harvard University, where she honed her understanding of sustainability, environmental systems, public health, and leadership. Her capstone project—a cultural heritage tourism strategy for the Indiana Heritage Trail—won the Dean’s Prize for Outstanding Independent Study, showcasing her ability to blend academic rigor with real-world application. Kristi’s academic background complements her professional credentials, including her status as an American Institute of Certified Planners member and an Accredited Grant Administrator.
A frequent speaker and presenter, Kristi shares her insights on regional planning, food systems, stakeholder engagement, and resilience across a variety of professional forums. Whether addressing a room of 25 or an auditorium of 300, Kristi’s ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and purpose has made her a trusted voice in her field.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kristi’s personal values are evident in how she approaches leadership and life. She is deeply committed to environmental stewardship, social equity, and the preservation of community identity. Her love for nature—reflected in her hobbies of boating, hiking, and fishing with her husband—mirrors her professional commitment to protecting the landscapes and ecosystems that sustain local economies and cultural heritage. She views leadership as both a privilege and a responsibility, grounded in service to others and sustained by personal authenticity.
Kristi’s industry influence extends into ESG strategy, sustainable finance, and impact-oriented board service. Though industry agnostic, she is most drawn to organizations that prioritize environmental and social responsibility. Her skill set—spanning critical thinking, adaptive leadership, portfolio management, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable development—makes her a valuable addition to mission-driven boards and advisory councils. As she evaluates her next professional steps, Kristi remains open to opportunities that align with her values and her vision for resilient, inclusive communities.
Throughout her career, Kristi has never lost sight of the importance of humility, empathy, and shared vision. Her work is not about imposing solutions but about elevating the voices of those most affected and co-creating strategies that endure. From small towns in Indiana to the policy classrooms of Harvard, Kristi has carried one constant truth: enduring change begins at the community level—with trusted relationships, clear purpose, and unwavering commitment.
Character:
Kristi’s leadership is grounded in integrity and respect for people and place. She brings a deeply ethical mindset to every initiative, ensuring decisions are made with compassion, inclusion, and accountability.
Knowledge:
Her academic training and 27 years of practical experience combine to give her unmatched expertise in public policy, economic development, and sustainability. Kristi continuously seeks to expand her knowledge, demonstrating intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning.
Strategic:
Kristi excels in seeing the big picture while managing intricate project details, guiding communities through complex planning processes with clarity and foresight. Her strategic mindset has led to the successful implementation of over $300 million in regional initiatives.
Communication:
A gifted communicator, Kristi translates complex systems into understandable frameworks that resonate with diverse audiences. Her skill in stakeholder engagement ensures all voices are heard and integrated into the decision-making process.
