Honoring a Legacy: Tom Boelter Retires from Potawatomi Ventures Board

After years of dedicated service, Tom Boelter is retiring from the Potawatomi Ventures Board of Directors, marking the end of an era defined by visionary leadership, community commitment, and unwavering integrity. 

Boelter, who served as both Chairman and Director, helped guide Potawatomi Ventures through transformative growth and cultural evolution. His tenure was marked by strategic foresight and a deep-rooted belief in the power of tribal enterprise to uplift the Forest County Potawatomi Community. 

“Tom’s leadership has been a steady force for progress,” said Kip Ritchie, CEO of Potawatomi Ventures. “His commitment to our mission and his ability to connect business strategy with community values have left a lasting imprint on our organization. We are grateful for his wisdom, his heart, and his years of service.”  

Boelter’s retirement was commemorated with a dinner and blanket ceremony, honoring his contributions and the relationships he cultivated across the enterprise. The event reflected the respect and admiration he earned from colleagues, tribal leaders, and employees alike. 

Crystal Deschinny was named Chairwoman of the Board earlier this year; she brings a fresh perspective and a deep understanding of PV’s evolving identity. “I’m honored to step into this role and build on the strong foundation Tom and the board have laid,” Deschinny shared. “Potawatomi Ventures is at a pivotal moment, and I look forward to working with the board and leadership team to drive meaningful progress for the Forest County Potawatomi Community.”   

As Potawatomi Ventures looks ahead, Boelter’s legacy will continue to inspire the organization’s path forward—one rooted in shared prosperity, cultural pride, and bold innovation.