Photo: Rachelle Gardner, Hope Academy Executive Director, and Dr. John Lechleiter, Former CEO of Eli Lilly and Company
Indiana’s only recovery high school shares its plans for long-term sustainability and announces major fundraising effort at its annual Rise & Shine for Hope breakfast
INDIANAPOLIS — At its Rise & Shine for Hope breakfast on Thursday, November 6, 2025, Hope Academy, Indiana’s only high school designed for students in recovery from substance use disorder, announced the public phase of its $20 million Sustainability Campaign. The bold initiative is designed to ensure the school’s long-term future and expand its reach for decades to come.
The announcement was made by Dr. John Lechleiter, former CEO of Eli Lilly and Company, who serves as honorary co-chair of the campaign alongside his wife, Sarah Lechleiter.
“As a business leader, I’ve always believed in investing where results speak for themselves,” said Lechleiter. “Hope Academy’s outcomes, including higher attendance, graduation, and recovery rates, demonstrate a model that works. When we equip young people with the tools to succeed, we strengthen families, schools, and our entire community.”
The campaign has already raised more than 40 percent of its $20 million goal, reflecting early momentum and strong community support.
Founded in 2006, Hope Academy was among the nation’s earliest recovery high schools. Today, it is one of just 45 operating across the country, one of only 10 accredited by the Association of Recovery Schools, and the only one of its kind in Indiana.
Since its inception, Hope has served more than 800 students and celebrated over 200 graduates. The school serves approximately 50 students each year and consistently maintains attendance and post-secondary acceptance rates above 90 percent.
Rachelle Gardner, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Hope Academy, said the campaign comes at a pivotal moment in the school’s history.
“We’ve spent 20 years proving that when teens have access to both education and recovery supports, their lives change for the better,” Gardner said. “This campaign ensures that we can keep saying ‘yes’ to every student who needs a supportive place to learn for the next two decades.”
During the event, Hope Academy alumna Kat Stuart (Class of 2011) shared her story.
“Before Hope, I had given up on myself,” she said. “What I found there changed everything. It wasn’t just a school, it was a community that believed in me until I could believe in myself.”
Funds raised through the Sustainability Campaign will strengthen academic and recovery programs, expand family supports, and secure the school’s long-term financial stability amid increasing demand for recovery-focused education.
The event also honored F.A. Wilhelm Construction with the 2025 Faces of Hope Award for their longstanding commitment to the school’s mission. Attendees heard from current students and alumni who shared how Hope Academy helped them rebuild their lives and continue their education in recovery.
To learn more about the Hope Academy Sustainability Campaign or to make a contribution, visit hopeacademyrhs.org/20years.
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About Hope Academy: Hope Academy is a tuition-free, public charter high school in Indianapolis for teens in recovery from substance use disorders. Its mission is to provide a safe, sober, and challenging academic experience. Hope Academy enrolls grades 9-12 year-round. Learn more at hopeacademyrhs.org.
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Media Contact:
Ty Spisak, Hope Academy Communications Consultant
317.517.8867 | ty@tyspisak.com