2026 Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation Annual Event

Join us for a premier networking reception convening nearly 400 Hoosier leaders from across the state, including MDLF Fellows, Board Members, Smart Network members, and community partners.

This year’s Annual Event carries special significance as we celebrate the launch of Governor Mitch Daniels’ new memoir, Impatience Is a Virtue: A Life Where the Buck Stops. In it, Daniels reflects on a lifetime of leadership across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, offering a candid look at the decisions, challenges, and principles that shaped his work and continue to influence the future of our institutions.

We are honored to welcome as our featured guest. A nationally recognized writer and thinker on institutions, culture, and the future of American democracy, Jonathan brings a distinctive and thought-provoking perspective on the challenges facing our country. He will join Governor Daniels for a timely conversation exploring the state of our institutions, the responsibilities of leadership, and how principled leaders can navigate an increasingly complex world.

As a guest, you’ll connect with dynamic peers, gain fresh perspective on MDLF’s mission to Enable Leaders, Drive Change, hear real-world impact stories from our Fellows, and discover meaningful ways to engage in strengthening Indiana’s future.

We will also proudly recognize this year’s honorees, including the 2026 Daniels Prize recipient, Outstanding Fellow, and Driving Change Award winner.

Attire: Business

Food and Beverage: Heavy hors d’oeuvres and open bar

Interested in showcasing your organization’s commitment to investing in Indiana’s future leaders? Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact Erin Lucas at [email protected].

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, !

Thank you to our Torchbearer Sponsor, the

Thank you to our Champion of Change Sponsor, the Bruce and Beth White Family Foundation.

Photography & Media Release:
By registering for and attending the Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation’s Event, you agree that photos, video, and audio may be taken by MDLF staff and vendor or venue partners. These materials may be used for promotional purposes across various media.

If you prefer not to be recorded, please inform MDLF staff at check-in, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Indiana State Museum, 650 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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