The state government has a massive effect on its citizens. From where we send our children to school to how much we pay in taxes, the policies passed through the statehouse affect us more than we may realize. The Policy Circle Day at the Capitol events are designed to take you right into the heart of policymaking that directly affects your everyday life and facilitate connections with like-minded women near you.
We partnered with Ambassador Enterprises to bring our model to Indianapolis. Indiana holds a special place in our hearts — it’s where The Policy Circle was founded!
Here’s a recap of our Indiana Day at the Capitol:
Coffee with Comptroller Neishalla
Inside the state capitol building, The Policy Circle co-founder Sylvie Légère and Indiana State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla discussed Elise’s impressive career journey, including serving seven years in local government. Elise also happens to have a personal connection to The Policy Circle: She initially joined a Circle to learn more about global affairs!
Elise emphasized the importance of connecting with others, building relationships with constituents, and finding common ground with those who disagree. Since taking office as state comptroller in 2023, she has worked to ensure Indiana remains fiscally responsible. Elise was proud to say that Indiana has maintained a balanced budget since 2018, using surplus revenue to fund teacher pensions, improve the Capitol building, and return money to taxpayers. Learn more about Indiana’s finances in the state’s annual financial report.
Faith and Civic Life with Indiana Lt. Governor Micah Beckwith & Second Lady Susan Beckwith
Newly elected Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith and his wife, Susan Beckwith, discussed the role of faith in society, connecting it to The Policy Circle’s Faith and Civic Life initiative.
Susan shared the influence her faith has on how she engages in her community. While she seeks to be the “hands and feet of Jesus,” she can unite with those of different faith backgrounds because they’re all dedicated to making a positive impact.
The lieutenant governor noted that government assistance should serve as a safety net, while churches and nonprofits are better equipped to address community needs. Finding common ground with others and engaging in conversations with those who disagree helps him refine or reconsider his positions.
On the Frontlines of Service
Indiana Secretary of Public Safety Jennifer-Ruth Green and Steve Carter, deputy general counsel for the Office of the Governor, discussed ways individuals can serve their communities at the state level.
Appointments are a prime opportunity for people to become more involved. Jennifer-Ruth shared her journey from an impressive military career to her appointment as secretary of public safety in January 2025. Steve highlighted Indiana’s more than 200 boards, commissions, and agencies as avenues for civic engagement beyond running for office. Appointments are based on policy goals and skills needed to achieve them.
Sometimes you have to fight for access and influence. But as Jennifer-Ruth pointed out, in order to solve any problem, it starts with being in the room. She encouraged all women in the room to step up to learn and prepare so that they can run full speed ahead.
The Intersection of Faith and Giving
Attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the connection between faith, policy, and giving from a conversation with Ron Turpin of Ambassador Enterprises, David King of The Lake Institute at Indiana University, and Joanna Taft of Harrison Center for the Arts.
Joanna discussed how foundational principles like restoring broken systems, loving your neighbor, repairing relationships, and creating art and community all fit into how you view public policy decisions through a religious lens. She later emphasized the importance of cultural entrepreneurs, who see needs, take risks, and leverage resources for the greater good.
David pointed out that while our religious identity may not be a particular plank of a political platform, faith motivates political action. He warned about the tendency to silo into different sectors. It becomes important to connect in order to accomplish more together.
The Future of Education in Indiana
Education remains a critical issue in Indiana, as demonstrated by robust discussions during the final panel featuring Katie Jenner, Indiana’s first Secretary of Education, Robert Enlow of EdChoice, and Sherilyn Emberton of Huntington University.
Katie discussed new opportunities Indiana has to create a policy environment that is opportunistic and works for families. Literacy was one area that immediately came up. Middle and high school teachers, who were not trained to teach reading, were having to teach older students who struggled to read. By focusing on both current and future teachers, Indiana jumped to sixth in the nation in reading for fourth and eighth graders.
As president of Huntington University, Sherilyn knows that in any rock you turn over, there will be challenges. She works to make those challenges an opportunity for her students. Robert’s comments on the explosion of different delivery models for education highlight the importance of delivering dollars to the students who need it most. Learn more about that in The Policy Circle’s Education: K-12 Brief.
Reception at the Governor’s Residence
The Policy Circle was joined by Gov. Mike Braun at his residence, where he remarked on his administration’s priorities and journey of civic engagement before mingling with attendees. While most of his career was spent growing a business, Gov. Braun got his start in public service as part of the local school board for ten years. He later served as State Representative and a U.S. Senator before winning the election for Indiana governor last year.
Taking Action
Day at the Capitol events always showcase opportunities for civic engagement while fostering meaningful connections among attendees passionate about shaping their communities. This event was no different. From insightful discussions on fiscal responsibility and education reform to empowering conversations about public service and collaboration, attendees left inspired to take action.
Join The Policy Circle today! Connect with us at [email protected] and share your civic story. You can also learn more about CLER, a program designed to activate women leaders.
