About Trustee Raines

• Year appointed: 2026
• Current term: 2026-2029
• Residence: Indianapolis, IN

Mel Raines, BA’91, is President & CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, overseeing all business operations for the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, Noblesville Boom and Gainbridge Fieldhouse, including its recent $400 million renovation. The venue hosts more than 500 events and welcomes over 2 million visitors annually.

Over more than 30 years, Raines has built a career defined by leadership, service and a commitment to community impact. She previously served as chief of staff to Congresswoman Susan W. Brooks, was a principal architect of the 2012 Indianapolis Super Bowl and began her career in the office of U.S. Senator Dan Coats.

A South Bend, Indiana native, Raines is an active civic leader, serving on several boards that support Indianapolis’ business, tourism and economic development efforts. In 2025, she was named a USA TODAY Women of the Year honoree for Indiana, recognizing her leadership in sports management and community development. She resides in Indianapolis.