Meet the finalists: 2025 ELEVATE Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advocate of the Year
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advocate of the Year award recognizes a young professional who is committed to raising awareness and advocating for a more diverse, equitable and inclusive Central Indiana.
This year’s finalists are leaders for change in our community, and we’re thrilled for you to join us in celebrating their accomplishments at United Way’s 7th annual ELEVATE on Feb. 22.
Here are our five finalists:
Wendy Catalan Ruano, bilingual match specialist at Starfish Initiative:
Protecting and fighting for the rights of undocumented individuals is not a new effort for Wendy and their determination to make change. Their leadership in advocacy continues to show the true impact of being an intentional leader and uplifting the voices of the historically silenced. Wendy’s efforts include a commitment to public service, previous experience working with the mayor’s Latino Advisory Council, and continuing to address barriers within the workforce impacting marginalized groups. The desire to make radical change and create economic stability for others is just a glimpse into the critical work of this DEI advocate.
Vote Wendy for People’s Choice.
Jessi Crouse, talent acquisition manager at Indiana University Health:
From health care to education, Jessi is committed to providing opportunities of justice for the communities she serves. Through her work, she centers excellence, purpose, teamwork and compassion. Jessi’s work shows a commitment to serving and educating populations that are historically silenced in Central Indiana. As an advocate for change, Jessi serves as a mentor and works with multiple organizations that provide resources and assistance. Her work to increase community involvement and outreach highlights her desire to be a change agent who provides solutions.
Vote Jessi for People’s Choice.
Samantha Douglas, co-founder of Christ Up:
Working for the community takes time, effort and intention. Samantha continues to dedicate her time to make a significant and positive impact as the president of her community council. To bring together the community she serves, Samantha organizes efforts and resources to provide mental wellness support for Black and Brown women. To further her efforts, Samantha creates opportunities for volunteers to connect and build relationships, including providing voter education and encouraging community members to support local businesses. Her commitment to the work is a reminder of the value of community engagement, purpose and action.
Vote Samantha for People’s Choice.
Leah Johnson, bestselling author and owner of Loudmouth Books:
When the world said “no,” Leah said: “Yes!” And she said it loudly. As an advocate for LGBTQ+ and Black voices, Leah has pushed back against book bans and provided a space for justice through literacy in Central Indiana. Her commitment to authenticity and diversity showcases the value and importance of remaining true to yourself when others want you to stay silent. Leah’s continued support of her communities, desire to foster a sense of belonging, and drive to speak truth to power shows up in the platforms she continues to create for writers and leaders. This author’s efforts show how essential it is to be loud and proud in a world that wants silence.
Vote Leah for People’s Choice.
Morgan Schroeder, adjunct professor of communication at University of Indianapolis, Ivy Tech Community College and Indiana University Indianapolis:
What do you get when you intersect social media, social justice and research? You get a creative scholar who utilizes innovative research that aims to create inclusive environments. Morgan has organized her efforts leading to the creation of a conference focused on creating platforms for marginalized voices and experiences. Morgan integrates inclusive pedagogy that empowers students from diverse backgrounds while encouraging them through her courses to engage with communities of their peers. Morgan has also created spaces for diverse emerging leaders and calls out educational inequities to ensure Central Indiana is inclusive and intentional.