Welcome to Connector’s Chronicles, our roundup of the events, conversations, and community moments that keep us inspired and connected. Whether we are sponsoring local innovation, celebrating impact, or supporting meaningful causes, this series highlights where we’ve been and why it matters. Through corporate community engagement and authentic partnership, we’re finding new ways to build better together—one connection at a time.
We joined the Indiana Technology and Innovation Association’s July Tech Talk and Happy Hour at EXOS, a space designed for high-performance and forward-thinking. The event offered more than just a great tour (though it was one of the best!); it was an opportunity to connect with fellow ITIA members and hear from leaders driving Indiana’s workforce transformation.
Michael Bottorff, Vice President of the School of Information Technology, and Leighton Johnson, Assistant Vice President for Employer Engagement & Consulting, both from Ivy Tech, shared valuable insights on the growing need for upskilling and reskilling in today’s economy. It’s always a pleasure to see familiar faces in new spaces and stay plugged into the conversations shaping tech in Indiana.
At Impact House in Chicago, we joined nonprofits, schools, and innovators in EdTech for an evening focused on the Future of Learning and Work. The conversations were rich, but two moments stood out: Dr. Andrea Messing-Mathie reframed how we talk about adult education, urging us to see “adult learners, not workers,” and Nicholas Freeman challenged us to replace ego and competition with a mindset of abundance, asking, “How can we make the pie bigger?”
Supporting clients in education who are working to expand access and opportunity, we left the evening feeling inspired by what’s possible when the right voices come together. The potential for technology in education is limitless when collaboration leads the way.
What a way to kick off Tech Chicago Week 2025! Mariah Parson joined me at MATTER for an evening celebrating community and support. Did you know that Chicago has the highest number of female founders in tech? Dolphin Tank proved to be the most unique pitching event I’ve attended. Before pitches began, Lauren Flanagan reframed the traditional shark-tank approach, asking, “ Why not be dolphins instead of sharks and utilize the community?”
Entrepreneurs pitched their ideas in three minutes, followed by questions and insights from four panelists. Then, in a refreshing twist, feedback and ideas were given from the audience. This collaborative spirit was an inspiring introduction to Springboard, and I’m eager to learn more about the women-led enterprises they’re championing.
We had the privilege of attending IBJ’s inaugural Nonprofit Excellence Awards, an event dedicated to recognizing the region’s most impactful mission-driven organizations and the individuals bringing those missions to life. From innovative programs to tireless community advocacy, each honoree’s story was a reminder of the dedication, creativity, and heart that fuel real change. It was an evening of celebration, connection, and well-deserved recognition for those making a lasting difference in our communities.
As part of the Venture Club of Indiana, members gain quick access to insights and connections that accelerate learning. This panel at High Alpha was no exception. Ti Chiang (TechPoint), Ginger Rothrock (HG Ventures), and Blake Koriath (High Alpha), moderated by Katie Birg (M25), tackled some of venture’s toughest topics: zombie companies, founder/CEO alignment, and today’s shifting M&A market. The conversation was candid, practical, and a reminder that while venture isn’t easy, sharing lessons learned is much easier.
We’re thrilled to be part of the launch of the Women’s Philanthropy at Indiana University Circle: a community harnessing the power of collective giving to fuel innovative ideas and life-changing projects across all IU campuses. Since 2010, the Women’s Philanthropy Leadership Council has awarded more than $2.2 million in grants to 14 projects, opening doors, removing barriers, and writing new chapters in the IU story.
As a new member, I’m excited to contribute to a dynamic group of women dedicated to leading through generosity. Together, we’re working to expand opportunities for women donors and supporters, provide meaningful educational programs, and champion initiatives that shape the future of philanthropy at IU.
There’s no better way to start the day than with good conversation and fresh ideas. At AMA in the A.M. hosted by Hirons, we connected with both new and familiar faces while exploring their creative space.
Jay Schemankse’s presentation challenged us to rethink what it means to be bold. Boldness doesn’t always have to be big and flashy. It can be small, intentional, and purposeful. At its core, it’s about creating impact.
It was an energizing reminder that the boldest moves are often the ones rooted in clarity and purpose.
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