Game On is more than a theme—it’s a mindset. It’s about women who step forward with courage, lead with strategy, and build businesses that change industries and communities. Today, we celebrate the women who don’t just play the game—they redefine it. Game
On represents the drive, resilience, and vision of women entrepreneurs who turn challenges into opportunities and ideas into impact. Together, through connection, leadership, and bold action, we’re not just winning in business—we’re shaping the future.
DESIGN YOUR FUTURE
Design that shapes behavior. Spaces that shape the future.
Visionary Awards 2026 Program
Welcome
Alia Blackburn – WXIN 59 / WTTV CBS4
President’s Remarks
Christy Gormal, President, NAWBO-Indianapolis Board of Directors
Remarks from NAWBO Indy Foundation President, Anne Hathaway
Indianapolis Choice Award Presenter,
Kesha Rich, Deputy Director of the Indiana Department of Administration, Division of Supplier Diversity
Lunch
Presenting Sponsor Remarks
Chip Wood, VP, Client & Community Relations Director, PNC Bank
Corporate Partner of the Year Award Presenter
Chad Frost, Director of Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Development, Elevance Health
Keynote Presentation
Olivia West, Olivia West Speaks
Emerging Entrepreneur Award Presenter
Sherry Davis, Senior Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer, Eli Lilly & Company
Woman Business Owner of the Year Award Presenter
Tiffany Sauder, Founder and CEO of Tiffany Sauder, LLC
Closing Remarks
Alia Blackburn, WXIN 59 / WTTV CBS4
Special thanks to our Visionary Luncheon Co-Chairs
Irem Rashidfarokhi and Jessica Nickloy
“Women don’t wait to win—they build what winning looks like.”
PRESENTING SPONSOR
CHAMPION SPONSOR
EXHIBIT HALL SPONSOR
ENTREPRENEUR SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
IN-KIND SPONSORS
Supplier Development Makes an Impa ct
Supplier Development is integral to how we do business. By expanding and diversifying our supplier base, we can positively impact our communities.
Elevance Health is proud to sponsor the 2026 NAWBO Visionary Awards Luncheon and partner with NAWBO Indianapolis.
Learn more about our Supplier
LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT
Christy Gormal
President, NAWBO-Indianapolis Board of Directors
Welcome to the NAWBO Indianapolis Visionary Awards Luncheon: Game On! Women Who Play to Win in Business.
Today, we gather to celebrate something truly powerful: women who lead with courage, compete with integrity, and show up every day ready to build, grow, and win in business. The theme “Game On!” is more than a slogan—it’s a mindset. It reflects the determination, resilience, and strategic thinking that women business owners bring to every challenge and every opportunity.
NAWBO Indianapolis is proud to be part of a national organization dedicated to propelling women entrepreneurs into economic, social, and political spheres of power worldwide. Here at the local level, we bring that mission to life through meaningful connections, impactful programming, advocacy, and a community that champions one another’s success. Whether through leadership development, peer support, or strategic partnerships, our chapter remains committed to being a powerful resource for women business owners at every stage of their journey.
None of this would be possible without the vision and dedication of those who came before us, the leadership of our Board of Directors, the passion of our members, and the generous support of our corporate partners and sponsors. On behalf of the NAWBO Indianapolis Board of Directors, thank you to our event organizers, sponsors, members, and allies for making this Visionary Awards Luncheon such a meaningful celebration of women’s leadership and impact.
Today, we also proudly recognize our Visionary Award recipients—extraordinary women whose achievements, leadership, and commitment to excellence inspire our entire community. They remind us that success is not just about winning, but about lifting others as we climb and opening doors for those who follow.
Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Let today inspire you to think bigger, lead bolder, and keep showing up ready to play—and win.
Game on. And let’s lead—together.
With gratitude, Christy Gormal
President, Board of Directors
2026 KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Olivia West
In-Game Host for the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, WNBA and NBA All-Star events, Indy Ignite Pro Volleyball, and the Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball League, Business Owner, Podcast Host and Speaker
Olivia West is an award-winning keynote speaker, branding strategist, and thought leader on competitive advantage, personal performance, and what it takes to WIN at work. As a partner at Drvn (pronounced Driven) Content Marketing, Olivia empowers leaders, organizations, and professionals to clarify their message, strengthen their brand, and stand out in crowded, high-pressure environments.
Drawing from her experience at the intersection of branding, sports, and high-performance culture, Olivia delivers dynamic keynotes that challenge audiences to sharpen their competitive edge, elevate their personal and professional brand, and show up with confidence, clarity, and intention. Her work equips audiences with practical strategies to differentiate themselves, communicate with impact, and perform at their best when it matters most.
In addition to her work as a keynote speaker and strategic brand advisor, Olivia has works in high-stakes, high-visibility environments as the In-Game Host for the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, WNBA and NBA All-Star events, Indy Ignite Pro Volleyball, and the Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball League, experience that reinforces her credibility in settings where preparation, adaptability, and presence are essential.
Olivia is also the host of the Living In Victory Podcast, which serves as an extension of her keynote curriculum and thought leadership. Through conversations with athletes, executives, and entrepreneurs, she explores the mindset, habits, and strategies required to build a competitive edge, strengthen one’s brand, and win consistently in work and life.
2026 VISIONARY AWARDS EMCEE
Alia Blackburn
Anchor, FOX59/CBS4
2025 VISIONARY AWARDS EMCEE
Born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, Alia Blackburn is proud to be from the Circle City and excited to be back home telling the stories of her community and surrounding areas. Having served a little more than a decade in the journalism industry, she is an award-winning and 5-time EMMY-nominated anchor for FOX59/CBS4, where she joined the team in April 2021. Prior to that, she spent seven years in Terre Haute, Indiana, where she worked a variety of roles for the local CBS and FOX affiliates.
Alia is a 2013 graduate of Ball State University and a 2009 graduate of Ben Davis High School, where her passion for journalism started. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and enjoys giving back to her community through the sisterhood.
Alia is married to her husband, Aaron. They are the proud parents of their daughter, Aria (pronounced: Are-EE-uh), and proud dog parents to Carmelo and Griffey.
2026 TABLE SPONSORS, EXHIBITORS, & COMMITTEE
FULL TABLE SPONSORS
Bank of America
Brandfuel Communications
Business Furniture
Citizens Energy Group
Elevance Health
Eli Lilly and Company
Engaging Solutions
Etica Group
Health and Hospital Corp
Indianapolis Airport Authority
Intrinz
IU Health
JA Benefits
JP Parker
Keys to Work
Keys to Work
NAWBO Indy Foundation
NAWBO-Indianapolis
netlogx
Nubian Construction Group
EXHIBIT HALL EXHIBITORS
Phoenix Data Corp PNC
Recycle Force
Recycle Force
Recycle Force Regions
HALF-TABLE SPONSORS
Citizens Energy Group
Data Management Consultant
Eclipse Staffing
Eli Lilly and Company
Girl Scouts of Central IN
Indiana Energy Association PNC
VISIONARY AWARDS COMMITTEE
Irem C. Rashidfarokhi, DIMA Investments, LLC – Co-Chair
Jessica Nickloy, Etica Group – Co Chair
Evgenia Baikova – Fulfillment Coaching and Consulting
Michelle Boyd – m2 Performance Strategies
Michelle Foreman - Eventually Michelle’s Event Planning
Christy Gormal, Brandfuel Communications
Elaine Jai – Eli Lilly & Company
Lee Ann Richardson - NAWBOIndianapolis
Michelle Travis – m2 Performance Strategies
Citizens Energy Group is a proud sponsor of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Indianapolis.
We believe our success depends on valuing diversity in our workforce, business partners, and communities.
Thank you for mentoring our current and future business leaders.
2026 AWARD PRESENTERS
Kesha Rich
Deputy Commissioner of the Division of Supplier Diversity (DSD) at the Indiana Department of Administration (IDOA) presenting Indianapolis Choice Award
Kesha Rich serves as the Deputy Commissioner of the Division of Supplier Diversity (DSD) at the Indiana Department of Administration (IDOA). In this role, she leads a team devoted to supporting and advocating for Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), and Indiana VeteranOwned Small Businesses (IVOSBs). By guiding these businesses through certification and providing resources for growth, Kesha and her team empower diverse entrepreneurs to succeed and create a lasting impact within Indiana’s economy.
Kesha’s journey within DSD began in 2015 as a Certification Coordinator. Over the years, she has worked in and led each of the division’s core functions—certification, business development, outreach, and contract compliance. Her experience across these areas has shaped her comprehensive approach to supplier diversity and strengthened her ability to meet the needs of the businesses she serves.
A deeply compassionate and community-focused leader, Kesha is driven by a passion to help others succeed. For nearly a decade, she has championed minority and women-owned businesses, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for growth— particularly in traditionally male-dominated fields like construction, IT, and manufacturing. Her collaborative efforts with advocacy groups and community
organizations have addressed systemic challenges while empowering entrepreneurs to navigate the state procurement process with confidence.
Kesha is also known for fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, both within her team and in the broader supplier diversity community. She is committed to mentorship, offering guidance and encouragement to those facing challenges. Her opendoor policy ensures that individuals feel supported, valued, and empowered to overcome obstacles and pursue their goals.
Kesha’s commitment to excellence is evident in her innovative initiatives, from organizing workshops and conferences to building partnerships that connect businesses with opportunities. Her proactive approach to ensuring contract compliance and advocating for diversity in state procurement underscores her belief that success should be accessible to all.
Humble yet impactful, Kesha attributes her achievements to the collaborative efforts of her team and the resilience of the communities she serves. Her dedication to fostering equity, empowerment, and opportunity continues to leave a meaningful legacy across Indiana’s business landscape.
2026 AWARD PRESENTERS
Sherry Davis - Senior Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer, Eli Lilly & Company presenting Emerging Entrepreneur Award
Sherry Davis is a senior vice president and Chief Procurement Officer at Eli Lilly and Company. In this role, Davis oversees the company’s global sourcing strategy and operations. During her 19 years at Lilly, Davis has held various international and domestic roles in the finance organization and has also been a key leader in Lilly’s efforts to advance diversity and inclusion, serving on the executive advisory board of the Black Employees at Lilly ERG and executive sponsor of the Finance Inclusion Council. Most recently, Davis was the CFO of Lilly USA and Immunology, providing oversight of commercial operations and capability investments in the USA, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Davis also served as the CFO and Treasurer of Lilly Del Caribe Manufacturing site in Puerto Rico. Her other Lilly roles have included CFO of Research, Corporate Audit Services, and the financial leader of the Access Expansion team which focused on extending the reach of Lilly’s medicines in developing countries, and a short-term assignment in assignment in Johannesburg, South Africa managing financial planning for Lilly’s South Africa and Sub-Saharan affiliate.
Prior to joining Lilly, Davis worked at Pricewaterhouse Coopers and in the accounting department of Ford Motor Company.
Davis earned her B.S. in Accounting and Finance from the Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business in Bloomington, IN. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Davis currently serves on the advisory boards of Eskenazi Health Foundation, Discovering Broadway, and Lynx Capital. She previously served on the boards of Citizens Energy Group, Tindley Charter Schools, the Indiana University Kelley School of Business Alumni Association, and Chaired of the Indiana Certified Public Accountant Society (INCPAS) Diversity Council.
2026 AWARD PRESENTERS
Chad Frost
Director of Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Development, Elevance Health presenting Corporate Partner of the Year Award
Chad Frost serves as Director of Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Development at Elevance Health, where he leads enterprise-wide initiatives to strengthen supplier partnerships, optimize sourcing strategies, and drive long-term value across the organization.
aligning sourcing operations with Elevance Health’s broader mission to improve health outcomes and create more efficient, sustainable healthcare solutions. His work focuses on building collaborative relationships, enhancing supplier performance, and ensuring scalable, responsible growth across the supply chain.
With a strategic mindset and a passion for operational excellence, Chad brings a results-driven approach to supplier development, helping transform procurement into a competitive advantage for the business. He is recognized for his ability to connect strategy with execution, foster cross-functional alignment, and create meaningful partnerships that support both business objectives and community impact.
Named the “Best Airport in North America” for an unprecedented 13 years in a row, Indianapolis International Airport (IND) continues to set the standard in airport experience and creating opportunities for all. We’re building stronger connections with our business partners, empowering our workforce, and serving more than 10.5 million travelers each year—to a place where everyone is welcomed.
2026 AWARD PRESENTERS
Tiffany Sauder Founder and CEO of Tiffany Sauder, LLC— presenting Woman Business Owner of the Year Award
Tiffany Sauder is a founder, CEO, investor, and sought-after speaker who has spent her career building businesses and helping leaders navigate growth - professionally and personally. After building an eight-figure company, Tiffany found herself asking a question many high-achieving women quietly carry: Is this success sustainable—and does it leave room for the rest of my life?
That question led to Life of And, a platform and framework designed to help women pursue meaningful ambition and a full, well-lived life. Through writing, speaking, courses, and conversations, Tiffany helps women clarify priorities, make confident decisions, and build lives that don’t require constant tradeoffs.
A wife and mom of four daughters, Tiffany shares her work through the Life of And newsletter and podcast, where she offers practical insights, honest stories, and tools for navigating leadership, career, and life.
Inspire Her Summit 2026
For women and allies building a brighter future for girls
March 19, 2026
The
Founders Lodge Event & Conference Center
Join Girl Scouts of Central Indiana for an inspiring day of connection, leadership, and action. Hear from changemakers who are shaping the future, gain tools to mentor and empower the next generation, and celebrate the power of community that lifts every girl higher.
Community is the commitment we make to each other
When a community is strong, it's more than a collection of streets and buildings—it's a place that helps its residents thrive.
That's why we're committed to building stronger communities as a proud supporter of NAWBO-Indianapolis.
Girl Scouts of Central Indiana
The Visionary Luncheon: Investing in the Future of Women Business Owners
NAWBO Indianapolis Foundation
The Visionary Luncheon is more than an annual celebration—it is a powerful investment in the future of women entrepreneurship. Now in its 21st year, this signature NAWBO event brings together business leaders, changemakers, and champions of womenowned businesses to honor visionary leadership while advancing meaningful impact.
This year’s luncheon is held in part to support the NAWBO Indy Foundation, with proceeds from today’s event and donations directly funding scholarships and educational initiatives for women business owners. These funds provide access to critical learning opportunities, financial support, and long-term resources that empower women to start, sustain, and scale their businesses—creating impact well beyond today.
Established in 2012, the NAWBO Indy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization created to expand opportunities for both new and seasoned entrepreneurs. The Foundation’s mission is to enhance the wealth-generating potential of female business owners while fostering economic growth throughout the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through intentional investment in education, access, and opportunity, the Foundation is building a lasting legacy for future generations of women leaders.
Building on NAWBO’s long-standing legacy, today’s proceeds directly support the Foundation’s three core pillars:
Educational Opportunities
Funding programs, workshops, and learning experiences that equip women with essential knowledge, skills, and strategic insight.
Scholarship Funding
Providing financial assistance to women business owners pursuing education, certifications, and professional development—removing barriers to growth and success.
Economic Development
Strengthening women-owned businesses, fueling job creation, and contributing to a more vibrant and inclusive economy for the next generation.
Your presence today—and your generosity—helps turn vision into action. Together, we are not just celebrating leadership; we are investing in education, opportunity, and a future where women business owners continue to thrive.
2025 VISIONARY AWARD RECIPIENT
INDIANAPOLIS CHOICE
INDIANAPOLIS CHOICE AWARD
AWARD CRITERIA
The Indianapolis Choice award honors one outstanding individual who serves as a powerful advocate for NAWBO-Indianapolis and woman-owned businesses throughout the state.
Recipients of this award have a demonstrated history of helping woman-owned businesses reach their full potential while improving the overall business climate via contracting opportunities and/or advocacy efforts.
Both NAWBO members and non-members are eligible.
PAST RECIPIENTS
2024 Kesha Rich, Deputy Commissioner of the Division of Supplier Diversity (DSD) IDOA
2023 Tracy Guerrero, Indianapolis Airport Authority
2022 Shirley Tang-Audritsh, Eli Lilly and Company
2021 Jennifer Ping, Krieg DeVault
2019 Chelci R. Hunter, DBELO, Indianapolis Public Transportation Corporation
2018 Billie Dragoo, RepuCare
2017 Kimberly Dunning, Vectren Corporation
2016 Dr. Sue Ellspermann, Ivy Tech Community College
2015 Ronalda Minnis, Duke Realty
2014 Richard Wise, Citizens Group
EMERGING ENTREPRENEUR AWARD
AWARD CRITERIA
This award is presented to a NAWBOIndianapolis member who owns a minimum of 51% of her business, has been in business less than 5 years, and has successfully grown her business since its inception.
The winner of this award will also receive a Emerging Entrepreneur Scholarship, which will be used in the next year for NAWBOapproved educational training. This will assist with educational programs that will help improve business management skills, obtain access to new markets, or recognize and capitalize on opportunities for growth and expansion. The member must represent the organization’s mission and vision in all facets of business ownership, including innovative leadership and community involvement.
PAST RECIPIENTS
2024 — Leila Spann, enbloom Marketing
2023 — Tiffany Garner, Certify My Biz
2022 — Leslie Bailey, Indy Maven/Maven Space
2021—Mel McMahon Stone, Indiana Owned
2019 — Andrea Sloan, Ground Breakers, LLC
2018 — Michelle Farley, Edify Hair Care
2017 — Arin Lindauer, Transformation Fitness and Wellness
2016 — Amanda Parker, Collective Alternative
2015 — Rosemily Geyer, Geyer Fire Protection
2014 — Kelly Lynn, Kelly Lynn Photography
2025 VISIONARY AWARD RECIPIENT
WOMAN BUSINESS OWNER OF THE YEAR
WOMAN BUSINESS OWNER OF THE YEAR AWARD
MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD
AWARD CRITERIA
The Woman Business Owner of the Year award honors one outstanding NAWBOIndianapolis business owner who has built a successful and sustainable business.
Recipients of this award have a demonstrated history of driving business forward and creating job growth. They assertively break through barriers and overcome challenges and actively support other women business owners. They seek out opportunities to give back to their communities.
2017 Mary Beth Oakes, Choreo and Business Furniture
2016 Jeryl Mitsch, Mitsch Design, Inc.
2015 Elaine Bedel, Bedel Financial Consulting, Inc.
2014 Jill Hall, ReproGraphix
2025 VISIONARY AWARD RECIPIENT
CORPORATE PARTNER OF THE YEAR
CORPORATE PARTNER OF THE YEAR AWARD
AWARD CRITERIA
The Corporate Partner of the Year award honors one outstanding corporation who supports the organization and serves as a powerful advocate for NAWBO-Indianapolis and woman-owned businesses in Indiana.
The Corporate Recipient of this award has a demonstrated history of helping woman-owned businesses reach their full potential while improving the overall business climate via contracting opportunities and/or advocacy efforts. Limited to sponsors who are monetary contributors of the NAWBO-Indianapolis Corporate Partner Program.
RecycleForce and Keys2Work are 501(c)3 employment social enterprises that are committed to reducing crime through employment and job training, while improving the environment through electronics recycling.
Since 2006, RecycleForce and Keys2Work have provided job training to more than 6,000 returning citizens and recycled over 120 million pounds of electronics. Since then, countless families, neighbors, and individuals have benefited from the skills and confidence gained at RecycleForce and Keys2Work.
816 N Sherman Drive, Indianapolis IN 46201 | 317.532.1367 recycleforce.org | keys2.org
