INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Nov. 8, 2023 – If yesterday’s election results prove anything, it’s that Hoosier Women Forward alumnae are stepping up to run for office, and winning.
Now in its sixth year, Hoosier Women Forward is a leadership training program that’s aimed at elevating and empowering Democratic women in public, private, and community service roles across the state. The program counts 111 alumnae in its network, in addition to the 22 women in its current class.
On Tuesday, an unprecedented 18 HWF alumnae were on the ballot, and of those, 12 (66%) won their elections – with over half of those victories coming in contested races.
Among the significant victories: Deborah Whitfield, a member of HWF’s Class 4, is now the mayor-elect for the City of Lawrence. In addition, HWF alumnae won municipal races around the state from the Town of Winfield in Northwest Indiana, down to the City of Greendale in Southeast Indiana. (The full list of successful candidates is included below.)
“The success of Hoosier Women Forward alumnae who seek elective office is a testament to the quality of our program. We’re equipping women to step up and run, as well as creating space for alumnae to work alongside candidates in support roles,” said Hoosier Women Forward Board Chair Elise Shrock. “Clearly, we are developing progressive women leaders who are not only building a successful Democratic infrastructure that is sustainable over time, but also puts wins on the board in the moment.
“Last night’s electoral successes reinforce what we’ve long known, that in both urban and rural areas, Hoosier voters respond to candidates that are focused on the issues affecting Hoosier families. Hoosier Women Forward helps to develop leadership qualities in women who reflect those Hoosier values,” Shrock added.
Applications for Hoosier Women Forward’s next class will open in May 2024.
A Section 527 nonprofit political organization, HWF raises funds through private donations and fundraising events. To learn more, you can go to www.hoosierwomenforward.org, or visit the organization on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
FULL LIST OF HWF ELECTION WINNERS FROM NOV. 7:
Tai Adkins (Class 2), Gary City Council District 4
Amy Blaker (Class 3), Winfield Town Council At-Large
Nicole Bolden (Class 1), Bloomington City Clerk
Michelle Chambers (Class 1), Fort Wayne City Council At-Large
Brienne Delaney (Class 4), Indianapolis-Marion County City-County Council District 2
Grace Kestler (Class 4), Columbus City Council At-Large
Lori Latham (Class 4), Gary City Council District 1
Erin Marqua (Class 2), Greendale City Council At-Large
Shruti Rana (Class 4), Bloomington City Council District 5
Bianca Tirado (Class 2), South Bend City Clerk
Rachel Tomas Morgan (Class 5), South Bend City Council At-Large
Deborah Whitfield (Class 4), Mayor of Lawrence (Marion County)
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