Indy Pride, Inc. is proud to announce the appointment of Jennifer Carruthers as its next Executive Director, marking an exciting new chapter as the organization enters its 31st year of celebrating, supporting, and uplifting LGBTQ+ Hoosiers.
Carruthers is an accomplished community leader, strategist, and nationally recognized event producer with more than a decade of executive and board-level experience in nonprofit leadership, revenue development, financial stewardship, and large-scale event operations. She is widely known for her transformative tenure with Capital City Pride in Des Moines, where she helped guide the organization to become one of the fastest-growing Pride celebrations in the country—and the largest LGBTQ+ gathering in Iowa—driving significant growth in sponsorship, community engagement, and organizational visibility.
“Indy Pride carries an incredible legacy—30 years of resilience, joy, and community-building,” said Carruthers. “After visiting Indianapolis for Pride this summer and watching the parade move down Mass Avenue, I felt the energy immediately. It was electric. I’m honored to step into this role and excited to collaborate with the board, partners, and community to build what comes next—together.”
Originally from Illinois, Carruthers has spent more than two decades building deep roots and strong partnerships in the Midwest. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes authenticity, strategic storytelling, diversified revenue, and relationships grounded in shared investment and trust across sponsors, volunteers, community organizations, and local businesses.
As Executive Director, Carruthers will oversee Indy Pride’s year-round programming, festival strategy, community partnerships, financial stewardship, and organizational development. Her background in fundraising, strategic planning, and operational leadership will support Indy Pride as it strengthens its foundation and expands its impact across Central Indiana.
“Jen brings the kind of steady, community-centered leadership this moment calls for,” said Alex Richardson, Chair of the Indy Pride Board of Directors. “She pairs creative vision with operational discipline and a clear understanding of how to build sustainable revenue and strong partnerships. We’re excited to welcome her to Indianapolis and to the next chapter of Indy Pride’s work.”
Carruthers plans to bring her signature Ignite & Elevate approach to Indy Pride—an ethos focused on sparking community energy while elevating Pride’s visibility, partnerships, and long-term impact throughout the region. “Indianapolis is one of the largest cities in the country, and the opportunity here is immense,” Carruthers said. “I’m excited to listen, learn, and build alongside this community. Pride is for everyone—and I can’t wait to get started.”
Carruthers officially begins her role this week, immediately engaging in planning for 2026 sponsorships, programs, festival logistics, and parade operations. She looks forward to connecting with partners, neighbors, and organizations across Indianapolis as Indy Pride continues to grow, evolve, and lead with joy.
