INDIANAPOLIS (May 1, 2026) – Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis (Girls Inc. Indy) is proud to share that Michelle Freeman, Chief Operating Officer, has been named to Open Pivot’s 2026 Indy’s Most Pivotal Leaders list.

Each year, Open Pivot honors a distinguished group of both emerging and established leaders driving meaningful impact within their organizations, community, and Central Indiana as a whole. Honorees are chosen through a competitive nomination process spanning Central Indiana.

As Chief Operating Officer, Freeman oversees organizational strategy and day-to-day operations that power Girls Inc. Indy’s mission, ensuring programs are impactful, scalable, and responsive to the needs of girls across Central Indiana. She plays a key role in strengthening program delivery, building high-performing teams, and fostering cross-functional collaboration to expand the reach and effectiveness of the Girls Inc. Experience. Her leadership continues to drive sustainable growth and deepen the organization’s impact in the community.

“Michelle has given me a clear blueprint for what strong leadership looks like,” said Emily Henson, Senior Director of Program Impact & Evaluation. “She brings positive, optimistic energy to everything she does while also building the trust needed to have tough, meaningful conversations that push you toward your full potential. She’s a phenomenal person and leader—I’m incredibly grateful for her and she is truly deserving of this award.”

This year’s Indy’s Most Pivotal Leaders will convene for a half-day leadership workshop focused on inspiration, connection, and shared learning. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at the Ritz Charles in Carmel and will be lead by Chris Bittinger, President of Open Pivot and Founder of Indy’s Most Pivotal Leaders program.

“Being a supportive leader doesn’t mean easing expectations—it means pairing high standards with real care, clear accountability, allowing for mistakes, and an unwavering belief in people’s potential,” said Freeman.

The full list of 2026 Indy’s Most Pivotal Leaders honorees and related coverage can be found through Open Pivot.

About Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis

Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through direct service programming. Our comprehensive approach equips girls with skillsets to promote healthy lifestyles, academic enrichment, and independence. Informed by girls and their families, we support the community to increase opportunities for all girls. Follow us @girlsincindy on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Learn more at www.girlsincindy.org.