Fort Wayne, IN – Cassie Beer, Women’s Fund Director of Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne, joined 21 other distinguished individuals from 13 counties across Indiana in being honored as a Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute graduate at the 2024 Philanthropy Leads Dinner. This event took place at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in Indianapolis and was hosted by the Indiana Philanthropy Alliance. The event featured an exclusive fireside chat with Dr. Jerome Adams, 20th U.S. Surgeon General, and Presidential Fellow and Executive Director of Health Equity Initiatives at Purdue University.
The Philanthropy Leads Dinner is a highly anticipated event that celebrates leadership in Indiana’s philanthropic community. This year’s discussion on public health came at a crucial time, following Indiana’s $225 million investment in health initiatives. Dr. Adams shared insights on chronic disease prevention, leveraging community assets, and fostering healthier lifestyles.
“I am honored to be recognized alongside so many incredible leaders from across Indiana,” said Cassie Beer. “The Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute has been an invaluable experience, helping me expand my skills and further my commitment to driving positive change in Allen County.”
A Timely and Vital Discussion on Public Health
With life expectancy in Indiana 2.0 years lower than the national average, the need for strategic public health initiatives has never been more urgent. Indiana’s substantial investment aims to address these challenges by expanding access to health services, enhancing chronic disease prevention efforts and promoting overall well-being throughout the state. The IPA Philanthropy Leads Dinner provided a platform for discussing these initiatives, where Dr. Adams shared valuable insights and compelling stories from across the nation on topics ranging from chronic disease mitigation to leveraging community assets for healthier habits.
An Evening of Celebration
The evening began with a reception at 5:30 pm, accompanied by Indianapolis jazz group From The 317. The dinner program, started at 6:30 pm, featured a fireside chat with Dr. Adams and celebrated the achievements of the 2024 graduates of the Mutz Philanthropic Leadership Institute. John Mutz, former Indiana Lt. Governor and a visionary in the philanthropic sector, led this recognition. Applications are now open for next year’s class.