Champions of Change Awards

Honoring the
Impactful Champions in our Community

Each year, the Champions of Change Awards, hosted by the GFW Inc. Women’s Network program, celebrates the achievements of individuals who inspire, empower, and advocate for women in Fort Wayne and Allen County.

Award Criteria

The Champions of Change Awards are presented to individuals making a substantial impact in one of the following sectors:

  • Nonprofit

    Recognizes an individual working in the nonprofit sector who is driving meaningful change through service, leadership, and community impact.

  • Corporate

    Honors an individual in the corporate sector who is championing innovation, inclusion, and positive transformation within their company and the community.

  • Education

    Celebrates an individual in the education sector who is shaping the future through leadership, advocacy, and a commitment to student and community success.

  • Public Service

    Recognizes an individual in the public service sector who is making a lasting impact through dedicated leadership, civic engagement, and a commitment to the community.

    The awards are given annually to individuals currently working and/or living in the Greater Fort Wayne and Allen County area who:

    • Demonstrate an unwavering passion and commitment to our community.

    • Are role models and mentors 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 thrive.

      2026 Champions of Change award dinner attendees networking

      Congratulations to the 2026 Champions of Change Finalists and Winners

      We were once again proud to honor and celebrate the individuals who make an impact on women and girls in Allen County. Read the press release announcing the 2026 winners.

      Be sure to check back next January to nominate an extraordinary individual who supports women in Allen County!

      Previous Winners

      We have shone a well-deserved spotlight on more than 145 finalists and awarded the following individuals:

      • pictured left to right) Sheila Anderson, Nikki Quintana, Réna Bradley, Kristen Kimmel, and Heidi Fowler, winners of the Champions of Change awards.

        2026

        • Kristen Kimmel
        • Sheila Anderson
        • Réna Bradley
        • Nikki Quintana
        • Heidi Fowler
      • 2025 GFW Inc. Champions of Change Award Winners

        2025

        • Jama Ross
        • Dawn Clopton
        • Captain Andrea Burton
        • Dr. Faye Williams-Robbins
        • Casey Claypool
      • 2024 GFW Inc. Champions of Change Award Winners

        2024

        • Stephanie Crandall
        • Whitney Bandemer
        • Lisa D. Givan
        • Denita Washington
      • 2023 GFW Inc. Champions of Change Award Winners

        2023

        • Sharon Pohly
        • Flora Barrón
        • Daniel Boylan
        • Lori Morgan
      • 2022 GFW Inc. Champions of Change Award Winners

        2022

        • Alison Gerardot
        • Jeanné Wickens
        • Jeff Roberts
      • past winners of the Champions of Change awards pose for a photo

        2020 / 2021

        • Marty Pastura
        • Rachel Tobin-Smith
        • Leslee Hill
        • Corinna Ladd
      • 2019 Champions of Change Award Winners

        2019

        • Wendy Moyle
        • John Dortch