Indy’s Most Pivotal Leaders for 2026 have been announced as the program celebrates its 10th year. Chosen through a competitive nomination process spanning central Indiana, this year’s honorees represent a distinguished group of both emerging and established leaders driving meaningful impact within their organizations, community, and central Indiana as a whole.
Bittinger
This year’s Most Pivotal Leaders will participate in an exclusive half-day leadership workshop designed to inspire, connect, and refuel. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 13 at the Ritz Charles in Carmel and is led by Chris Bittinger, President of Open Pivot and Founder of Indy’s Most Pivotal Leaders program.
2026 Indy’s Most Pivotal Leader recipients include:
- Amber Barton, McGowan Insurance Group
- Danielle Bell, Level Two
- Janel Bogenshutz, University of Indianapolis
- Alyssa Brelage, Brightlane Learning
- Randall Cloe, Cloe Legal, LLC
- Audrey Falkenstein, Integrity Learning Center
- Michelle Freeman, Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis
- Scott Furnish, Traders Point Christian Schools
- David Gilliland, Valeo Financial Advisors
- Amanda Gleason, Red Envelope Consulting
- Madison Hume, Coverdale Consulting
- Nicolle Larson, Real Chemistry
- Veronica McNeely, Cornerstone Companies, Inc
- Liz Navarre, Real Chemistry
- Sherry Oswalt, Eli Lilly and Company
- Jessica Rasmussen, Aspire Indiana Health
- Michael Redding, Young Life
- Rebecca Reynolds, Indiana Biosciences Research Institute
- Melissa Sunsdahl, Pence Media Group
- Whitney Turso, American Sound
- Rocky Walls, 12 Stars Media
- Kateri Whitley, The Mind Trust
- Chelsie Willoughby, Indiana University
- Sydney Zulich, City of Bloomington
In addition, Bittinger will officially launch his new book, Authentic Coaching, at this year’s event. Published by Kendall Hunt, the book draws on 14 years of executive coaching experience, sharing practical frameworks, tools, and real-world insights.
“I’m inspired by the nominations we received in this milestone 10th year of the event. The depth of talent made it no easy task to select just a few to recognize,” Bittinger said. “These honorees stand out for their impact – not only in their workplaces but also in the broader community. I’m honored to host this exceptional group, and I look forward to seeing how they continue to shape central Indiana for years to come.”
About Open Pivot
Open Pivot is an Indianapolis-based leadership development firm who provides personalized business coaching, training, and strategy for emerging and established leaders. With an unshakeable belief that every person has the power to lead, inspire, and contribute in meaningful ways, Open Pivot works with companies of all sizes to help their leaders flourish and succeed. To learn more, visit theopenpivot.com.
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