Leadership Academy 2026 presented by JD Finish Line Foundation kicked off with an incredible first week. From July 13-17, participants immersed themselves in leadership development, entrepreneurship, and hands-on learning.

The week began with girls completing the CliftonStrengths assessment to identify their unique talents and leadership strengths. They reflected on their results, explored the types of businesses they were most interested in creating, and used those insights to form teams with peers who shared similar interests. These teams will spend the remainder of Leadership Academy developing a business plan and designing a corporate philanthropy strategy for their company.

The girls also visited Butler University’s Lacy School of Business, where they learned the fundamentals of marketing through the 4 Ps of Marketing: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. They applied these concepts as they began thinking about how to position and market their own businesses.

At JD Sports, participants explored branding and design by creating mood boards, developing their own brand identities, and practicing presentation skills as they shared their ideas with their peers.

Throughout the week, the girls had the opportunity to learn from inspiring professionals. Marty Posch, President of the Finish Line Youth Foundation, shared insights into corporate philanthropy, social impact, and how businesses can create meaningful change in their communities. They also met with Macaira O’Connell, who led an engaging session on brand voice, tone, persona, and the importance of creating a consistent company identity.

Leadership and civic engagement were also key themes this week. Girls interested in serving in leadership roles during the program announced their candidacy, created campaign posters, and began sharing their vision with their peers in preparation for elections.

To conclude the week, participants focused on personal growth by creating Leadership Development Plans. They identified goals for the coming year centered on character development, leadership growth, and personal achievement, laying the foundation for continued success both inside and outside of Leadership Academy.

We are incredibly proud of everything our girls accomplished during the first week and cannot wait to see their businesses, leadership skills, and confidence continue to grow throughout the program.

Leadership Academy presented by JD Finish Line is a Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis summer experience. This dynamic two-week workshop in July that helps young women ages 13-18 build the confidence and skills to step into leadership roles. Through interactive, hands-on experiences, participants strengthen communication, decision-making, and self-advocacy while preparing for success in school and beyond. Learn more here.