Indianapolis, January 9, 2026
Indy Pride has announced the appointment of Jennifer Carruthers as its new Executive Director, succeeding her role at Capital City Pride. Alongside Carruthers, Alex Richardson and Komal Sheth-St. Pierre have been elected as Chair and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, respectively. Indy Pride is looking to fill six board positions while navigating a challenging fundraising environment and maintaining a strong commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Central Indiana.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Indy Pride Announces New Executive Director and Board Leadership
Indy Pride, the organization behind Indiana’s largest LGBTQ+ pride parade and festival, has appointed Jennifer Carruthers as its new Executive Director. Carruthers previously served as the president of Capital City Pride in Des Moines, Iowa, where she led significant growth and enhanced community outreach. She aims to bring a community-centered approach to Indy Pride, building upon its 30-year history to establish it as a leading pride festival in the U.S.
In addition to Carruthers’ appointment, Indy Pride has elected new leadership for its Board of Directors. Alex Richardson has been chosen as Chair, and Komal Sheth-St. Pierre as Vice Chair. The organization is also seeking new board members to fill six expiring terms. Despite challenges in the fundraising environment, particularly amid shifting support for DEI-aligned initiatives, Indy Pride remains grounded in resilience and optimism.
Indy Pride has a rich history of organizing events that unite and serve the LGBTQ+ community in Central Indiana. The organization continues to navigate a challenging landscape but remains committed to its mission of inclusivity, equality, and community connection.
Who is Jennifer Carruthers?
Jennifer Carruthers is the new Executive Director of Indy Pride. She previously served as the president of Capital City Pride in Des Moines, Iowa, where she led significant growth and enhanced community outreach.
What is Indy Pride?
Indy Pride is a nonprofit organization based in Indianapolis, Indiana, dedicated to uniting and serving the LGBTQ+ community through leadership development, educational and support programs, and community events.
Who are the new leaders of Indy Pride’s Board of Directors?
Alex Richardson has been elected as Chair, and Komal Sheth-St. Pierre as Vice Chair of Indy Pride’s Board of Directors.
What challenges is Indy Pride currently facing?
Indy Pride is navigating a challenging fundraising environment, particularly amid shifting support for DEI-aligned initiatives. Despite these challenges, the organization remains grounded in resilience and optimism.
Key Features of Indy Pride’s Recent Leadership Changes
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Executive Director | Jennifer Carruthers appointed as Executive Director, bringing experience from Capital City Pride in Des Moines, Iowa. |
| Board Leadership | Alex Richardson elected as Chair; Komal Sheth-St. Pierre as Vice Chair. |
| Board Openings | Seeking new board members to fill six expiring terms. |
| Organizational Challenges | Facing a challenging fundraising environment amid shifting support for DEI-aligned initiatives. |
Conclusion
Jennifer Carruthers’ appointment as Executive Director, along with the new board leadership, marks a pivotal moment for Indy Pride as it continues its commitment to serving the LGBTQ+ community in Indianapolis. The resilience and proactive approach of the new leadership reflect a dedication to maintaining a culture of inclusivity and connection despite the challenges faced in fundraising and support. Community engagement and local leadership are crucial in steering the organization towards continued growth and success. As Indy Pride looks for new board members, individuals in Indianapolis are encouraged to consider getting involved and supporting local initiatives that foster civic participation and community development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Jennifer Carruthers?
Jennifer Carruthers is the new Executive Director of Indy Pride. She previously served as the president of Capital City Pride in Des Moines, Iowa, where she led significant growth and enhanced community outreach.
What is Indy Pride?
Indy Pride is a nonprofit organization based in Indianapolis, Indiana, dedicated to uniting and serving the LGBTQ+ community through leadership development, educational and support programs, and community events.
Who are the new leaders of Indy Pride’s Board of Directors?
Alex Richardson has been elected as Chair, and Komal Sheth-St. Pierre as Vice Chair of Indy Pride’s Board of Directors.
What challenges is Indy Pride currently facing?
Indy Pride is navigating a challenging fundraising environment, particularly amid shifting support for DEI-aligned initiatives. Despite these challenges, the organization remains grounded in resilience and optimism.
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