Jama Ross, Dawn Clopton, Captain Andrea Burton, Casey Claypool, and Dr. Debra Faye Williams-Robbins were named the 2025 Champions of Change Award winners by the Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. Women’s Network. The awards, which celebrate those who mentor and empower women in Allen County, were given Wednesday at an awards dinner at Parkview Mirro Event & Conference Center.
“This year’s Champions of Change are women whose work speaks for itself,” said Meghan Short, Director of Investor Programs at GFW Inc. “Each one has made a real and lasting difference in the lives of others. Through service, leadership, and quiet determination, they have helped make Allen County a place where more women feel supported, seen, and encouraged to grow. We are proud to recognize their efforts and thankful to all the finalists who continue to shape a stronger community.”
An award was given in each of four categories: nonprofit, corporate, public service, and education.
Jama Ross, the winner in the nonprofit category, is the Executive Director of Blessings in a Backpack.
In her role, Ross oversees efforts that provide meals to over 3,000 children weekly and has developed programs like “Believe Bags” to build self-esteem, “Brave Bags” for children facing trauma, and a Summer Feeding Program in partnership with the Allen County Public Library. Ross is a champion for community collaboration, serving on several local committees and leading empowerment events such as The History of She, The Power of We. Her outreach extends through Charlotte’s Ministries, supporting single mothers and children with health challenges, and through volunteer initiatives like toy drives and “Hogworks,” which raises awareness for nonprofits. Her tireless dedication continues to make Allen County a more inclusive and compassionate community.
Dawn Clopton, the winner in the corporate category, is the Vice President and Regional Community Development Officer at WesBanco Bank. Clopton is a dedicated community leader known for advancing women’s empowerment through financial literacy, mentorship, and public service. As Vice Chair of the Fort Wayne Urban League and President of the Fort Wayne Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, she has led record-breaking fundraising efforts, launched impactful programs, and driven civic engagement throughout Allen County. For more than a decade, she has mentored young women and helped students secure scholarships, guiding families through the college journey, and raising two daughters pursuing careers in medicine. Through her leadership and unwavering commitment to service, Dawn continues to inspire lasting change and create pathways to opportunity across the community.
Captain Andrea Burton was the first winner in the public service category, as there was a tie. She is the Fire and Life Public Safety Educator, Fort Wayne Fire Department. She has served the Fort Wayne Fire Department for over 20 years, breaking barriers and championing fire safety through community education and outreach. A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, she inspires young girls to explore careers in firefighting and serves on the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne board and with the Indiana Black Expo. As a mentor and leader, Captain Burton is known for empowering women and fostering collaboration, with her involvement in Leadership Fort Wayne and community initiatives reflecting a deep commitment to personal growth, shared learning, and civic engagement. With her vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication, she not only strengthens public safety but also helps build a more inclusive and empowered Allen County.
Casey Claypool, the second winner in the public service category, is the Marketing and Development Director at Citilink, She is a transformative advocate whose lived experience with homelessness and trauma fuels her mission to create a more equitable and compassionate Allen County. A firm believer in “nothing about us without us,” she centers marginalized voices in shaping policies that address housing, public transit, and community safety. Her leadership has led to tangible improvements, including safer bus stops and increased civic participation in transit advocacy. Casey also serves on numerous local committees, influencing initiatives focused on homelessness, mental health, and women’s safety. As a survivor and mentor, she leads with radical empathy, turning adversity into strength and empowering others to be seen, heard, and valued. Through bold leadership and unwavering commitment, Casey continues to drive systemic change and foster a more inclusive community.
Dr. Debra Faye Williams-Robbins, the winner in the education category, is the Deputy Superintendent of Fort Wayne Community Schools. She is a devoted leader whose impact spans education, advocacy, and community service across Allen County. She has led efforts to remove achievement barriers for students while serving on the boards of Ivy Tech, the YMCA, Fort Wayne United, and others. As founder of the local chapter of the National Alliance of Black School Educators, she continues to champion equity in education. A mentor to many, Dr. Williams-Robbins uplifts others with humility, integrity, and a deep commitment to helping individuals succeed. In her role as Minister of Music at Pilgrim Baptist Church, she fosters unity through worship and inclusive community events. Her quiet strength, compassionate leadership, and unwavering dedication make her a powerful and enduring force for positive change.
This year’s winners were selected from a field of 50 finalists. Nominations were submitted online by community members and reviewed and scored on a blind basis by a panel of leaders from Allen County.
The Champions of Change Awards are given each year to extraordinary individuals from Allen County who:
Demonstrate an unwavering passion and commitment to our community.
- Are role models making a difference in the lives of others.
- Have made significant contributions that have inspired women to succeed.
- Have made Allen County a better place to live, work, and play.
This is the seventh year the Champions of Change Awards have been presented. Past winners are:
- 2019: Wendy Moyle and John Dortch.
- 2020: Corinna Ladd and Marty Pastura.
- 2021: Leslee Hill and Rachel Tobin-Smith.
- 2022: Alison Gerardot, Jeanné Wickens, and Jeff Roberts.
- 2023: Sharon Pohly, Flora Barrón, Lori Morgan, and Daniel Boylan.
- 2024: Denita Washington, Whitney Bandemer, Stephanie Crandall, and Lisa D. Givan.
