Enable Leaders. Drive Change. Cohort VI Farewell and a Call to Action
By: Geoff Fenelus | Geoff is a transformative leader who believes in education as a catalyst for community impact. A published author with a decade of experience in education and the private sector, he currently serves as a Director at the Indiana Department of Education, driven by his deep commitment to children, families, and their potential.
The MDLF Class VI Fellowship has officially come to a close, marking the beginning of our journey in systems change and impact measurement. During our final class day “First Steps to: System Change & Measuring Impact,” we focused on ensuring that we, as a cohort, were fully equipped with the skills, relationships, network, and experiences needed to enable us as leaders to drive change—while honoring the vision of the Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation (MDLF). The foundation’s mission is to develop a statewide network of change agents actively working to make Indiana the best place to build a future.
In our last session, we had the privilege of learning from leaders across various disciplines who shared their experiences and insights on systems change. This engagement was invaluable. Connecting with individuals from different sectors, affiliations, and skill sets was the perfect way to conclude our fellowship—particularly in the context of our shared goal of making Indiana the best place to build a future.
The day truly pushed me to explore the first steps we can take in systems change and ways to measure our impact. I deeply appreciated how our class brings together diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. I have been challenged to think differently and have built formidable relationships for which I am profoundly grateful.
Over the past two years, I have forged transformative bonds with an incredible group of individuals who deeply care about Indiana and its potential. I have had the privilege of learning, sharing, and growing alongside my fellows across the state. What I am most proud of is witnessing their growth and accomplishments. This is an extraordinary group of changemakers who are working every day—through their professional roles, personal passions, and community efforts—to drive impact and add value.
I would be remiss if I did not highlight some of our cohort’s achievements over the past two years. Congratulations to the MDLF Class VI Fellows on completing their two-year fellowship!
Capstone: All 22 Fellows pitched their projects to over 100 Smart Network attendees, board members, mentors, and incoming Fellows.
Statewide Leadership: Several Fellows earned recognition and awards in Indianapolis Business Journal’s Women of Influence, 40 Under 40, and the TechPoint Mira Awards. Members of our cohort were invited to speak at major events and were featured in publications and books.
Community Engagement: Many Fellows were invited to serve on boards, join local organizing committees, and complete other transformative leadership programs.
Personal Milestones: Fellows celebrated marriages, welcomed children, earned promotions, and secured new career opportunities.
Our class has truly led, learned, and leveled up. I can’t wait to see how they continue shaping Indiana’s future. I am honored to be part of such an inspiring group.
Fellows, remember: we have the network, resources, and experience to drive change. Let’s continue to build a better Indiana—together.
