Celebrating the 2026 Indy’s Best and Brightest Winners!🏆⭐️🌃

INDIANAPOLIS (April 22, 2026) — Junior Achievement of Central Indiana proudly recognized 100 of the city’s most outstanding young professionals on Wednesday, April 22, during the 2026 Indy’s Best and Brightest awards ceremony at the Fishers Event Center. The evening celebrated individuals who are making a meaningful impact through their professional accomplishments, civic leadership, and dedication to giving back to the community.

From this remarkable group of honorees, 10 individuals were selected as the 2026 Indy’s Best and Brightest winners, representing excellence across key industries that drive Central Indiana’s growth and vitality. These winners exemplify leadership, innovation, and service—values at the heart of Junior Achievement’s mission to inspire and prepare young people for success.

2026 Indy’s Best and Brightest Winners

Accounting
Justin Verbeten, CPA

Banking & Financial Services
Adam Shaffer

Education & Nonprofit
Cory Daniel Graham

Government, Tourism & Arts
Sarah Hayward

Health & Life Sciences
Rebecca McNally Keehn, PhD, HSPP

Law
Alejandra Reichard

Manufacturing, Retail & Services
Chad Peterman

Media, Entertainment & Sports
Leigh-Ann Richardville

Real Estate, Development & Construction
Kionna Louise Walker, AIA, NOMA

Technology
Chelsea Linder

Each honoree’s journey reflects a deep commitment not only to professional excellence, but also to strengthening the community and mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Gratitude for an Inspiring Evening

Junior Achievement was honored to welcome Olivia West—keynote speaker and host of Olivia West Speaks, partner at DRVN, and in‑game host/emcee for the Pacers and Fever with Pacers Sports & Entertainment—who served as emcee alongside JA Student Ambassador Kiva, bringing energy, insight, and inspiration to the stage.

The evening also featured a powerful keynote address from Jasmin French, Senior Director of Right Environment, Global Ethics, Compliance & Privacy at Cummins Inc., whose remarks encouraged honorees to lead with purpose, integrity, and action. Jennifer Burk, CEO of Junior Achievement of Central Indiana, shared reflections on the importance of supporting young people as they pursue their potential.

Junior Achievement extends its sincere appreciation to KPMG, the presenting sponsor of the 2026 Indy’s Best and Brightest, for their generous support and continued commitment to leadership, education, and community impact.

Looking Ahead

The Indy’s Best and Brightest Awards Ceremony celebrates more than achievement—it highlights the role these leaders play in shaping opportunities for future generations. Junior Achievement is grateful to all 100 honorees, our winners, sponsors, speakers, and community partners who made this celebration possible.

Congratulations again to the 2026 Indy’s Best and Brightest winners—your leadership is lighting the way forward for Central Indiana.