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Indy Chamber Announces 2026 Advance Indy 317 Leadership Class

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  Published in Business and Finance on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 9:57 GMT by WISH-TV
      Locale: UNITED STATES

INDIANAPOLIS, Saturday, January 31st, 2026 - The Indy Chamber yesterday announced the participants for the 2026 class of its prestigious Advance Indy 317 leadership development program. This annual initiative aims to identify, engage, and empower individuals poised to shape the future of the Indianapolis metropolitan area. The announcement signals a continuing investment in the city's economic and community vitality.

The Advance Indy 317 program isn't merely a networking event; it's a year-long, intensive deep dive into the core issues affecting Central Indiana. Delegates will participate in a series of sessions, workshops, and experiential learning opportunities designed to broaden their understanding of critical challenges and potential solutions in key areas like talent development, infrastructure, and overall community growth. The program deliberately fosters collaboration and innovative thinking amongst its participants.

A Focus on Regional Challenges

The selection of this year's delegates comes at a pivotal time for Indianapolis. The city is experiencing rapid growth, but also faces hurdles common to many urban areas, including a competitive talent market, aging infrastructure, and the need for equitable development. The Indy Chamber recognizes that addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from leaders across diverse sectors. Advance Indy 317 is strategically designed to equip these leaders with the knowledge and networks to effectively contribute to solutions.

This year's cohort represents a remarkably diverse cross-section of Indianapolis' professional landscape. The list includes executives and managers from prominent organizations across a wide range of industries - healthcare (Anthem, Roche Diagnostics), finance (Fifth Third Bank, J.P. Morgan Private Bank, Old National Bank, OneAmerica), law (Barnes & Thornburg, Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath), retail (hhgregg, Kroger), sports and entertainment (Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Indiana Sports Corp), construction (KC Construction), and community development (The Mind Trust, Riverfront Development Authority). Lilly Endowment and The Anthem Foundation also have representation, highlighting the involvement of philanthropic organizations in the program.

A Look at the 2026 Class

The impressive list of delegates includes Allison Adams (Anthem), Brad Baker (Carmel), Crystal Borchers (Smith & James), Jeff Boxberger (Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath), John Campbell (Pacers Sports & Entertainment), and Christine Carter (Republic Services). Emily Clark (Mayor Joe Hogsett's office), Meredith Dankof (hhgregg), Chris Daniels (The Mind Trust), and Mark Franklin (Ice Miller) also join the ranks. Sarah Gabbard (Duke Energy Indiana), Danielle Galland (Fifth Third Bank), Laura Hamilton (First Person), and Adam Hammes (Hammes Company) represent the financial and energy sectors.

Notably, a significant portion of the delegates are affiliated with Kroger, demonstrating the company's commitment to leadership development within the Indianapolis community. Individuals representing Kroger include Matt Heaton, Ryan Kohls, Adam McCall, Michael Miner, Rachel Monroe, Ashley O'Brien, Katie Severin, Sarah Smith, Joe Strammiello, and Jordan Sutter. Several partners from Barnes & Thornburg - Samantha Learn, Kelsey Nelson, Erin Scharff, and Laura Sweeney - add a strong legal perspective to the group.

The Program's Impact

According to Indy Chamber President and CEO Fred Danz, "This program provides a unique opportunity for these leaders to deepen their understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our region and to contribute to a thriving Indianapolis." Past participants have gone on to take on significant leadership roles in the community, serving on boards, leading major initiatives, and shaping public policy.

The Advance Indy 317 program is more than just professional development. It's a catalyst for civic engagement, fostering a new generation of leaders committed to building a stronger, more vibrant Indianapolis. The Indy Chamber's investment in these individuals underscores its dedication to long-term regional prosperity. Interested parties can find more information about the program and the full list of delegates at [ https://www.indychamber.com/advance-indy-317/ ].