(UNDATED) – The Indiana Republican Party today announced the launch of the Indiana Republican Diversity Leadership Series, a seminar and leadership training program that will provide the preparation and resources needed to increase the engagement of minority Republican leaders in Indiana. Applications for the inaugural class are now available.
“Hoosiers continue to trust Republicans leaders up and down the ballot to lead our state and our communities,” said Kyle Hupfer, chairman of the Indiana Republican Party. “And with that trust comes a responsibility to provide not just a voice, but real solutions for all Hoosiers. We’re launching this leadership series as the next step of building relationships among diverse communities, helping mentor and empower future government and political leaders from these historically under-represented communities.”
The series will involve monthly classes, which will cover topics including civic engagement, campaign management, communication and state government. Class members will build their personal network, meet with state leaders, and receive mentorship while developing additional avenues to become civically engaged in Indiana.
This leadership series will be guided by an advisory council of experienced public and private sector professionals from across the state and from across diverse communities:
- Jillean Battle
- Stephanie (Wade) Bibbs
- Shawn Carruthers
- Brandon Clifton
- Terry Dove-Pittman
- Danny Lopez
- David Olivencia
- Tony Pearson
- Jamal L. Smith
- Alfonso R. Vidal
- Tinisha Weigelt
- Aaron Williams
This announcement is part of the Indiana Republican Party’s ongoing work to develop strong, authentic relationships with minority communities. In 2018, Chairman Hupfer made a commitment in his remarks at the 2018 Indiana Republican State Convention to bring more Hoosiers of different backgrounds into the party. In December, Whitley Yates joined the party as its first ever director of diversity and engagement, and she has worked to build constructive dialogues among the party, elected officials and members of the community.
“The Indiana Republican Party is working now to invest in minority communities by not just listening, but by empowering real solutions,” said Yates. “This isn’t the kind of commitment you make overnight – it takes time, energy and an authentic dedication to building real relationships. I’m excited to help make history right here in Indiana that will continue to be felt in the years and generations to come.”
More information, including applications for the inaugural class, is available at Indiana.gop/diversity. Applications are due September 1.
