Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington is preparing to spotlight women who are driving meaningful change when it hosts the 2026 Women’s History Month Luncheon this spring, an annual event that brings together community leaders, advocates, and residents to recognize leadership, service, and impact.
The luncheon will take place on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the Monroe Convention Center, located at 302 S. College Ave. The event is organized by the City of Bloomington’s Commission on the Status of Women and is open to the public. Doors will open at 11:15 a.m., with the program scheduled to begin at noon.
This year’s theme, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” centers on women who are working to create lasting systems that support communities today and for generations to come. Organizers say the focus goes beyond environmental sustainability, recognizing efforts that strengthen economic opportunity, education, and social well-being. The theme also reflects a commitment to the next generation, particularly young women and girls, who will inherit the future being built today.
In keeping with that focus, the Commission on the Status of Women has selected Deana Potterf as the 2026 keynote speaker. Potterf serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, one of the largest Girl Scout councils in the country. The organization supports more than 15,000 Girl Scouts across 45 counties, providing programs that encourage leadership, service, and personal growth.
With 27 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Potterf has led initiatives aimed at expanding access and strengthening partnerships within communities. Her work has placed a strong emphasis on reaching girls from underserved backgrounds and ensuring they have opportunities to build leadership skills that last well beyond childhood. Organizers say her career reflects the values highlighted by this year’s theme, including collaboration, authenticity, and long-term impact.
Alongside the keynote address, the luncheon will include the presentation of the 2026 Women’s Achievement Awards. These honors recognize women and girls who have made meaningful contributions in Bloomington and beyond. Award categories include Woman of the Year, the Toby Strout Lifetime Contribution Award, Emerging Leader, and Young Woman of the Year. According to organizers, recipients will be announced prior to the event to allow the community time to celebrate their accomplishments.
The luncheon also offers space for connection and visibility among local organizations. Women-owned businesses and women-focused groups are invited to reserve exhibit space at the event. Exhibits will be open for attendees to view before the program begins, providing an opportunity for organizations to share their work and build new relationships. Registration for exhibit space is available online through the city’s designated form.
Tickets for the event must be reserved in advance. Individual tickets are priced at $45, while a reserved table of eight, which includes preferred seating, is available for $425. Tickets can be purchased in person at the BCT Box Office, located at 114 E. Kirkwood Ave., or online through the Buskirk-Chumley Theater website. The deadline to reserve tickets is March 17, 2026.
To ensure the event remains accessible, financial assistance is available for individuals who need support to attend. Organizers encourage anyone interested in scholarship options to reach out ahead of time.
City officials say the Women’s History Month Luncheon is more than a single celebration. It serves as a reminder of the role women play in shaping policies, communities, and opportunities at every level. By highlighting both established leaders and emerging voices, the event aims to inspire continued progress and shared responsibility for building a sustainable future.
For additional information about the luncheon, exhibits, or accessibility options, community members may contact Marissa Parr-Scott at 812-349-3468 or by email at [email protected].
