Announcing Class XVI of the 1828 Leadership Project
IndyHub today announced the 20 emerging leaders selected for Class XVI of the 1828 Leadership Project, the organization’s signature leadership development program designed to connect rising leaders with the people, places, and issues shaping Indianapolis.
Now entering its 16th class, the 1828 Leadership Project brings together a diverse cohort of young professionals for an immersive experience that takes leadership development beyond the conference room. Through conversations with community leaders, behind-the-scenes experiences, and direct exposure to the opportunities and challenges facing Indianapolis, participants gain a deeper understanding of the city and the role they can play in its future.
“Indianapolis is at its best when people see themselves as active participants in the future of their city,” said Greg Stowers, Chair of the IndyHub Board of Directors. “The 1828 Leadership Project creates that connection early in a leader’s journey. Class XVI represents an incredible range of experiences and perspectives, and we’re excited to see the relationships they build and the impact they make throughout Indianapolis in the years ahead.”
Members of 1828 Leadership Project Class XVI are:
Eric Baker, Founder & Executive Director, Baker Institute of Orchestral Education
Rachel Desmarais, Program Manager in Experiential Programs, WorldStrides Higher Education
Frank Diaz Morales, Legislative Assistant, Indiana House of Representatives, Indiana House Democratic Caucus
Regan Dorsey, Marketing and Licensing Coordinator, Indianapolis Colts
Gwennie Foley, External Engagement Coordinator, Downtown Indy Alliance
Dustin Frye, Experience Manager, Accent Indy
Ari Grinnage, Marketing Manager, Visit Indy
Melanie Hamon, Development & Engagement Manager, The International Center
Linnea Holt, Associate Director for Arts & Humanities, Indiana University
César Jones, Universal Banker, Generations Community Bank
Brenna Lechner, Operations & Communications Manager, Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee
Atzy Lu, Communications Consultant, State of Indiana
Alexis Methner, Executive Assistant to the Dean, Butler University
Maddie Mungia, Director of Corporate and Individual Giving, College Mentors for Kids
Abby Okeson, Community Engagement Manager, Indiana Sports Corp
Parker Post, Senior Manager of Member Relations, Indy Chamber
Xochitl Rivera-Cordova, Quality Improvement Specialist, Eskenazi Health
Charles Russell III, Mayor’s Neighborhood Advocate, City of Indianapolis
Katherine Shr, Program Manager, Youth Global Perspectives
Nic Wright, Outpatient Mental Health Therapist, Ellie Mental Health
Class XVI will be co-moderated by Brett Kramer of Kicking The Stigma with the Indianapolis Colts and André Zhang Sonera of the Indiana Arts Commission, who will help guide participants through the program and facilitate conversations about leadership, community, and civic life in Indianapolis.
The 1828 Leadership Project is built around a simple idea: meaningful leadership starts by getting closer to the work. Rather than simply learning about Indianapolis from a distance, participants are encouraged to engage directly with the people and organizations working every day to move the city forward. Along the way, cohort members build relationships across sectors and develop a stronger understanding of where their own skills, passions, and experiences can contribute.
That approach reflects IndyHub’s broader work to help Indianapolis residents, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, build meaningful connections to the city and discover pathways to civic engagement and leadership.
“Leadership isn’t reserved for a title, a certain point in your career, or a seat at a particular table,” Stowers added. “It begins when people decide to engage and take responsibility for the community around them. That’s what 1828 is designed to encourage.”