Indiana’s biggest night in philanthropy returns. 

The Philanthropy Leads Dinner is the singular evening each year when leaders from business, philanthropy, the charitable sector, and public service come together to celebrate generosity and the people who make Indiana stronger.

The night begins with a cocktail reception, followed by a dinner program designed to spark ideas, lift spirits, and honor our shared commitment to community.

This year’s theme spotlights the power of sport to drive community and economic development. The fireside chat features Claudia Cummings, CEO of Indiana Philanthropy Alliance, with:

• Dr. Alison Barber, Former President of the Indiana Fever and Board Chair of the Marvella Foundation, whose work is transforming rural Northwest Indiana into a national destination for girls’ sports and leadership development.
• Mark Miles, President and CEO of IndyCar and Penske Entertainment, whose leadership has established Indianapolis as a global sports capital through events from the Pan Am Games to the Indianapolis 500.

Together, they’ll explore how philanthropy can fuel sport-centered strategies to strengthen communities—from Indiana’s largest stages to its smallest towns.

We are also honored to welcome First Lady Maureen Braun, champion of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which delivers free books to more than 127,000 Hoosier children.

The evening will also recognize the 2025 Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute graduates, honored by John M. Mutz, whose enduring legacy has shaped philanthropy and community leadership across Indiana.

Join us on October 22 in Indianapolis for a celebration of generosity that fuels innovation, strengthens communities, and empowers Indiana’s future.