Indianapolis Propylaeum Opens 2026 Nominations for ‘The May,’ Its Reimagined Historic Leadership Honor

The Indianapolis Propylaeum announced today the evolution of its long-standing May Wright Sewall Leadership Award into a reimagined institutional honor known as The May. The historic distinction recognizes women whose leadership and civic impact continue the legacy of one of Indianapolis’ most consequential reformers.

The Indianapolis Propylaeum also shared that statewide nominations for the 2026 honor open Feb. 18.

The award is named for May Wright Sewall, an Indianapolis educator, suffragist and civic architect whose influence extended from Indiana to the international stage. Sewall helped found the Propylaeum in 1888 as a gathering place for women’s intellectual and civic advancement. She was a leader in the national and international women’s suffrage movement, worked alongside figures including Susan B. Anthony, and helped organize the International Council of Women.

In Indianapolis, Sewall was instrumental in advancing educational access, women’s property rights and civic reform. Her work shaped not only policy but the culture of public leadership in the city.

“The Propylaeum exists because May Wright Sewall believed women should shape the civic life of their communities,” said Chelsea Marburger, executive director of the Indianapolis Propylaeum. “The May is not simply a rebrand. It is a reaffirmation that her legacy is active, urgent and unfinished.”

The May Wright Sewall Leadership Award has historically recognized distinguished women whose work reflects the ideals its namesake championed. Reimagining it as The May elevates that tradition, positioning the honor as the institution’s highest recognition — conferred by the Propylaeum to women whose sustained leadership strengthens Indianapolis and Indiana across sectors including business, public service, education, arts and culture, philanthropy, and community development.

Nominations for the 2026 honor are open to the public and accepted statewide. Individuals, organizations and community members are encouraged to submit names of women whose leadership demonstrates courage, influence and measurable civic impact.

The impact of The May can also go beyond solely recognizing its recipients. The Propylaeum hopes the call for nominations itself prompts broader reflection on women’s leadership at a time when civic engagement and public trust remain central to community vitality.

“Recognizing leadership is not merely ceremonial,” Marburger said. “It signals what a community values. By inviting nominations from across Indiana, we are asking the public to help identify the women whose work is shaping our shared future.”

Nominations are now open and can be submitted at https://bit.ly/TheMay2026 through March 20, 2026.