Commencement Speakers

Tamanda Chitalo

Tamanda Chitalo is a graduate student in the Master of Clinical Social Work program at Indiana State University. Originally from Malawi, she has traveled a remarkable path both geographically and academically, bringing her passion for service and community impact to every step of her journey.

At Indiana State, Tamanda completed her clinical internship with Hamilton Center, Inc. in Terre Haute, where she provided individual and family therapy using evidence-based practices. Her dedication, empathy, and skill earned her a prestigious fellowship with Fathers’ Uplift in Boston, Massachusetts, where she was recognized as one of the inaugural fellows.

A proud first-generation college student, Tamanda exemplifies resilience, perseverance, and a strong commitment to personal and professional growth. After graduation, she plans to pursue her License in Social Work (LSW) and continue serving individuals and families as a therapist. Her long-term goal is to earn a doctorate and further contribute to the field of social work through leadership and scholarship.

Tamanda is currently part of the third cohort of the African American Board Leadership Institute, affiliated with the United Way of the Wabash Valley. In addition to her academic and professional commitments, she enjoys reading, traveling, cooking, and attending live music events. 

Frederick Crawford

Fred Crawford built a 30+ year career as a financial executive with deep operational and boardroom exposure within the life and health insurance industry.  Fred is a seasoned business leader with a proven track record of leading complex financial, investment, and risk management organizations, including oversight of significant business units. 

Fred joined Aflac Incorporated in 2015 as Executive Vice President and CFO, was promoted to President and COO in 2022, and later served as executive advisor before retiring in September 2024. During his tenure, Aflac’s market capitalization more than doubled, and he played a key role in strategic initiatives such as Japan Post’s investment, acquisitions in the U.S., and the expansion of direct-to-consumer offerings. He also oversaw the launch of a corporate venture platform, a reinsurance entity in Bermuda, and a tech hub in Belfast. Fred’s experience spans regulatory and investor relations, with strategic oversight of insurance investment platforms at both Aflac and Lincoln Financial Group. He spent a year in Japan leading market strategies and served on the Board of the American Council of Life Insurers. Prior to Aflac, he held senior financial roles at CNO Financial Group, Lincoln Financial Group, and Bank One Corporation.

Fred earned a Bachelor of Science in Business at Indiana State University, and an MBA from the University of Iowa.  Fred serves on the Dean’s Advisory Council for the Scott College of Business at Indiana State University. Fred sits on the Board of the University of Iowa Center for Advancement and is an Executive in Residence with the Vaughan Institute of Risk Management and Insurance at the University of Iowa. 

Nick Bement

A native of Terre Haute, Nick Bement is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies with minors in Political Science and Sport Marketing & Revenue Generation from the Honors College at Indiana State University. As an engaged campus leader and Summa Cum Laude graduate, Nick has made a lasting impact on student life through his dedication to service, leadership, and academic excellence.

During his time at Indiana State, Nick served as the President of the Student Government Association (SGA) for the 2023–2024 academic year, where he focused on advancing student success initiatives and promoting mental health awareness across campus. He also served as the President of The Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity in 2024 and was honored with the Fraternity and Sorority Life Legacy Medal of Distinction for his outstanding leadership and contributions to the campus community.

Nick completed several internships during his undergraduate career, including a summer in Washington, D.C., where he worked for then–U.S. Senator and current Indiana Governor Mike Braun. These experiences, combined with his academic training, have fueled his passion for public service and the law. After graduation, he will attend the Indiana University Maurer School of Law in Bloomington, Indiana.

A proud and faithful Christian, Nick gives all glory to his Savior and credits his faith as a guiding force in his journey. He is deeply grateful for the experiences, friendships, and opportunities he found at Indiana State and looks forward to beginning his next chapter as an engaged and loyal alumnus.