The Salvation Army Welcomes New Leadership in Indianapolis
We are pleased to announce Major Malinda O’Neil has recently been appointed the Area Commander of The Salvation Army of Central Indiana. Major O’Neil comes to Indiana with 20 years experience as a Salvation Army officer. Major O’Neil's previous appointment with The Salvation Army was in Wisconsin at the Green Bay Kroc Center. Her other appointments have included time at a number of corps community centers across the Midwest and a leadership position for a divisional youth department.
The new Area Commander brings to Central Indiana the experience and training necessary to lead the diverse ministries and services in the metro area. She holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership with educational experience in accounting, business management, and biblical and leadership studies from The Salvation Army's College for Officers Training in Chicago.
“I am passionate about telling others about Jesus, personal and professional development, and strategic planning,” said Major O’Neil. “I am looking forward to working alongside Indianapolis leaders and organizations to bring change and transformation into the lives we serve.”
Major O’Neil replaces Major Rachel Stouder, who served as the Area Commander of The Salvation Army of Central Indiana for two years. Major O’Neil is joined in Indianapolis by her husband, Major Matt O'Neil, who has been appointed Divisional Secretary for Business at The Salvation Army Indiana Divisional Headquarters. Together they have four children and four grandchildren.
Also new to Central Indiana are Captains Aaron and Rachel Johnson, who have been appointed to serve at the Eagle Creek Corps Community Center at 4400 N. High School Road on Indy's west side. This location serves residents living on the western half of Marion County and in Hendricks County.
The Johnsons have moved to Indy from Lafayette, IN, where they have been leading the Lafayette Corps Community Center since 2018. They bring with them a passion for youth programming and experience working with both urban and rural populations to overcome their unique challenges.
