Women’s Fund of Central Indiana Announces Inaugural Cohort of The Next Chapter

Women’s Fund of Central Indiana is proud to announce the inaugural cohort of The Next Chapter, a new pilot program designed for women ages 45–75+ who are entering their “next chapter” — a season of transition, reinvention, self-discovery, and legacy building.

The Next Chapter was created to serve a gap for women navigating this pivotal stage of life. It is not a leadership program in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a growth, impact, and reinvention experience rooted in reflection, skill-building, and community — inviting women to explore who they are now and what they want to contribute next, personally, professionally, and philanthropically.

The program was inspired and made possible by philanthropist and community leader Marianne Glick, whose investment and vision helped bring the idea to life.

“Many women reach a moment when they have built full, meaningful lives and careers, yet still feel a quiet pull toward what comes next,” said Glick. “The Next Chapter creates space to pause, reflect, and intentionally shape that next season with clarity and purpose.”

Developed in close partnership with Marianne Glick and Women’s Fund, The Next Chapter was shaped by Kelly Young, president of Baise Collective, who recognized a need for a space dedicated to experienced women leaders navigating transition and reinvention. Young will serve as consultant and program manager.

The inaugural cohort includes women from across Central Indiana representing a wide range of professional, civic, nonprofit, and community leadership backgrounds.

The Next Chapter Class 1 Members Include:

• Akilah Darden, Founder and President, The Darden Group LLC
• Caroline Dutkanych, Vice President of Philanthropy, Women’s Fund of Central Indiana
• Jennifer Dzwonar, Partner, Borshoff
• Shannon Forsell, CEO & Artistic Director, The Cabaret
• Amber Garcia, Licensed Medical Social Worker, St.Vincent Health
• Kim Gattle, Retired, Vice President of Advancement, Newfields
• Jennifer James Gause, Registered Nurse, Gennesaret Free Clinics
• Hon. Christina Hale, President & CEO, Hale Strategies LLC
• Hon. Carey Hamilton, State Representative – District 87, Indiana House Democratic Caucus Chair
• Holli Harrington, Senior Director, Strategic Alliance, Indianapolis Airport Authority
• Tavonna Harris Askew, Executive Vice President & General Counsel, Suburban Health Organization
• Charlotte Hawthorne, Retired, Senior Director, Social Impact & Vice President, Lilly Foundation
• Denise Herd, President, Herd Strategies
• Abby Hunt, CEO, Health Care Education & Training (HCET)
• Kristen Matha, Consultant, Ice Miller
• Ann Merkel, Retired, Vice President of Market Development, National Bank of Indianapolis
• Nikki Myers, Director, CITYOGA School of Yoga & Health; Founder, Y12SR
• Chris Paulsen, CEO, IYG
• Beth Perdue Outland, Vice President, Leadership Indianapolis
• Ellen Saul, Vice President, Premium Services, Indianapolis Motor Speedway
• Kari Strolberg, Partner, Detail + Design
• Dr. River Sturdivant, CEO, Arthur Dean Family Foundation
• Karin Veatch, Private Wealth Management, UBS
• Erin Weesner, Director of Accounting, Pacers Sports & Entertainment
• Tamara Winfrey-Harris, President, Women’s Fund of Central Indiana
• Lacy Wooden, Owner/Vice President, New Phase Comfort Heating and Cooling

“Women’s Fund is deeply committed to supporting women across their full life journey,” said Tamara Winfrey-Harris, President of Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. “The Next Chapter reflects our belief in the extraordinary wisdom and influence women bring to this stage of life, and we’re excited to learn alongside this inaugural group of accomplished leaders.”

***

Please note: You may notice our former name in this content, as this piece was published before Women’s Fund of Central Indiana became Women’s Foundation of Indiana. Learn more about our evolution »