Cindy Hoye, Executive Director of the Indiana State Fair Commission, is retiring effective March 31, 2026 after having served in that role for more than 21 years.
The Indiana State Fair Commission is the governing body overseeing the year round operation of the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center and the annual Indiana State Fair.
Cindy started her career at the Indiana State Fairgrounds as Marketing Director in 1988 and became the Executive Director in 2004. She has overseen many transformations, including more than $250 million dollars in improvements to the campus and facilities.
Under her stewardship, the annual Indiana State Fair has expanded its footprint and impact, reinforced its role in showcasing agriculture and youth, and today is recognized as one of the nation’s most respected and celebrated state fairs.
In addition, Cindy has been the driving force behind the transformation of the State Fairgrounds into a 250-acre dynamic, year-round destination that serves millions of Hoosiers, hosting 400 events annually. Through oversight of facility updates, property development and attracting new business, today the fairgrounds are a thriving entity with an economic impact of $330 million dollars annually.
“It has been an absolute honor and incredible privilege to serve as the Executive Director of the historic and meaningful institution that is the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center,” Hoye said. “With the State Fair’s roots deeply planted in its mission, this place will always hold a special significance for me and most importantly for Hoosiers across the state. I am immensely proud to have worked alongside one of the greatest team of people you’ll ever encounter. Their sense of pride, purpose, and relentless pursuit of excellence is truly remarkable. As I transition from this role, I leave with full confidence that the future is bright. The Fairgrounds are in capable hands, guided by a clear and strategic roadmap for continued success.”
Under Cindy’s direction, the Fairgrounds underwent major revitalization and modernization, including the $63 million renovation of the historic Corteva Coliseum, as well as the creation of the Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion, a state-of-the-art livestock and multipurpose facility. She has championed projects including The Glass Barn, expansion of 4-H programming, Little Hands on the Farm, and most recently, leading the State Fairgrounds’ expansion into the Indoor Track & Field business, catapulting it into the National spotlight by hosting the NCAA D2 National Championships, Big Ten Championships, Hoosier State Relays and many more.
“Cindy Hoye’s remarkable tenure has elevated the Indiana State Fair Commission to unprecedented growth.” said Governor Mike Braun. “Her unwavering commitment to the State of Indiana, to her staff, and to leaving the Fair and Fairgrounds better than she found it, has set a standard of excellence that will continue to guide us for years to come. I join my fellow Hoosiers in thanking Cindy for her decades of service.”
The Indiana State Fair Commission is conducting a search and accepting applications for Hoye’s successor, and she will help with the transition prior to her departure. For more information, please click here.
Source: Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center
