The Portage Township Trustee Board

About the Board

The Portage Township Trustee Board plays a crucial role in overseeing the township’s operations and ensuring the welfare of its residents. Comprised of dedicated members, the board is committed to transparent governance, community engagement, and innovative solutions to local challenges. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for all residents through effective management and strategic planning.

Ryan Hill

Ryan Hill grew up in Lakeville and South Bend, has a bachelor’s in political science and history from IUSB, as well as a master’s degree in public policy from the University of Denver’s Korbel School of International Studies. His studies focused on wages and poverty in Indiana and similar states and is happy to put that knowledge to work for the community. As a board member, he has worked to update the assistance guidelines by eliminating language that could impact applicants by race or disability, and helped bring the welcome baby subsidy to the township to support new families. He is the board secretary and also the board secretary for the St. Joe Fire Territory.

Contact: ryan@portagetownship71.in.gov

Cheryl Ashe

Cheryl Ashe has been a dedicated member of the Portage Township Board since 2022. Ashe is an activist, organizer, leader, librarian, communicator and educator who has worked tirelessly in public service for over a decade.

Muhammad Shabazz

Muhammad Shabazz has been a tireless community leader, working for years with the Civil Rights Heritage Center while teaching in Elkhart. Shabazz has been a board member since 2022.