United Way President and CEO Ann Murtlow receives Sagamore of the Wabash award

NewsImpact

Jun 7

INDIANAPOLIS – Ann Murtlow, president and CEO of United Way of Central Indiana, was recognized Tuesday as the latest recipient of the Sagamore of the Wabash award, one of the state’s most esteemed honors.

Gov. Eric Holcomb presented Murtlow with the award at United Way’s annual celebration. Murtlow retires June 30 after nine years with the nonprofit.

“Ann Murtlow’s unique blend of savvy skill, purposeful passion and true team spirit has helped transform United Way of Central Indiana into the powerhouse organization it is today,” Holcomb said. “For her unparalleled passion to help her neighbors and effective efforts to make our communities stronger, it’s my honor to award Ann the Sagamore of the Wabash.”

Looking back on her time at United Way, Murtlow said there is a moment that stands out: When Holcomb signed legislation in 2017 expanding high-quality preschool education for Hoosier children.

“That one moment was 10 years in the making,” Murtlow said to a room of about 550 people at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in Indianapolis.

“And it is the clearest example of how, when we all work together, we can develop sustainable systems that result in community impact at scale. … When legislation was passed, it was personally and professionally rewarding to think about the thousands of Hoosier 4-year-olds around the state who would attend high quality pre-k and get the start that would be the foundation for their success in K-12 and beyond.”

During the annual celebration, United Way highlighted its work in the community for 2021 and honored top donors, volunteers, companies and partners.

A complete overview of United Way’s work for the year can be found online in the nonprofit’s annual report, which published Tuesday.

Spirit United winners

Spirit United is the most prestigious recognition United Way gives to corporate partners. The award has been presented annually since 2007 to companies whose employees volunteer, advocate and donate to United Way. Winners are chosen by a group of United Way leaders and previous award recipients.

Winners for 2021-2022 are:

Allied Solutions
Central Indiana Corporate Partnership
Old National Bank
Plainfield Community School Corporation

Exceptional Executive and Exceptional Engagement Coordinator

Each year, United Way recognizes an exceptional executive who encourages their employees to give back to the community and an exceptional engagement coordinator who leads a United Way fundraising campaign in their workplace with dedication and creativity.

This year’s Exceptional Executive is William Witchger Jr. of Marian Inc.

This year’s Exceptional Engagement Coordinator is Jane Gosling of J.C. Hart Company.

Top community investors

United Way of Central Indiana recognizes the following companies and organizations that were this year’s top investors (presented in order from top investment):