Three Carmel residents recently were inducted into the 2017-2018 Lugar Series Excellence in Public Service Series at the Ivy Tech located in downtown Indianapolis.
Kelly Barton, Sumeeta Bhatia and Jordan Rose will take part in this competitive program, whose mission is to increase the number and influence of Republican women in elected and appointed governmental positions at the local, state and federal levels.
“Kelly is perfect for the Lugar Series Program,” said Sue Lynch, past president of the National Federation of Republican Women. “She demonstrates a strong commitment to conservative principles of personal integrity, family values and respect for all individuals.”
As participants in this national leadership program, these women will receive specialized training in in preparation to serve in key governmental and political positions. The women who have graduated from the Series are enriching public policy discussions and enhancing the quality of life in Indiana and the nation.
“Sumeeta is the type of strong, smart and hardworking woman the GOP should train, encourage and motivate,” said Congresswoman Susan Brooks, U.S. Rep. for Indiana’s 5th Congressional District. “She has a wonderful network reaching far beyond the Indian community, to include the Sycamore School Corporation, Community Health Network and many charitable organizations in which she has been involved.”
The class meets each month to learn the various skill sets required to become a public servant, run a campaign, network with state and local leaders and listen to business professionals on issues facing society. In the spring the class travels to Washington, D.C., to meet with Indiana’s delegation at the national level.
“For many years, I have appreciated Senator Lugar’s example of teamwork, civility and leadership,” Rose said. “I am excited to follow in the footsteps of the amazing women who have been part of the Lugar Series, and continue making a difference in my community.”
According to the Lugar Series Executive Director Anne Hathaway, this year’s class is made up of 20 Hoosier women from across the state, each bringing a different set of skills and background to the table. To date, 489 Hoosier women have graduated from the Lugar Series and gone on to become elected officials, CEOs and partners in law firms.
Barton serves as vice president, chief operation officer at Community Health Network for the north region, participates in Rotary and serves on numerous boards, mentoring young professionals through the Healthcare Business Women’s Association and community volunteering.
Bhatia is the chairwoman of the India Association of Indiana and serves on the board of the Sycamore School Corporation and leads its development committee.
Rose is the legislative assistant for Indiana Senate Republican Caucus Chairman Senator Jim Merritt. She is a graduate of Indiana University and Carmel High School.