Madam Walker Legacy Center ‘Breaks Sky,’ on Rooftop Expansion

The Madam Walker Legacy Center marked a major milestone with its “sky-breaking” ceremony, officially launching the final construction phase of its rooftop expansion. The renovated rooftop is scheduled to open in May 2026 and is outlined as a key objective in the MWLC’s 2023-2027 strategic plan.  

“Today’s sky-breaking and construction launch reflect years of disciplined planning, partnership and belief in the power of legacy institutions to shape the future,” said Kristian Little Stricklen, President and CEO of the MWLC. “This calculated expansion builds on our capacity to serve as a cultural, economic, and community anchor for Indianapolis while advancing the long-term sustainability of the Walker.”

The sky-breaking united local leaders, business executives, philanthropic partners and civic stakeholders. Renovations will enhance the Center’s ability to host cultural events, attract visitors and generate earned revenue, ensuring the historic landmark remains vibrant for generations to come. Today’s ceremony follows the MWLC’s establishment of an $8 million endowment at the start of 2026, positioned to provide long-term support for core operations, historic preservation, cultural programming and strategic initiatives.    

“The Madam Walker Legacy Center rooftop expansion is a demonstration of the Board’s commitment to accountability, stewardship and long-term impact,” said Dr. Nichole Wilson, Madam Walker Legacy Center Board Chair.

Alongside MWLC leadership, guest speakers included Mayor Joe Hogsett; Latha Ramchand, IU Indianapolis Chancellor and IU Executive Vice President; Chris Gahl, Visit Indy Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer; and Gene D’Adamo, Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust President & CEO. The Walker continues to develop and grow its board of directors with the election of Hoosier icons, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and Mike Epps this past fall.

The Mellon Foundation, the MWLC’s lead funder for the rooftop Expansion project, emphasized the importance of investing in historic institutions prepared to carry cultural legacy forward.

“Legacy institutions like the Madam Walker Legacy Center don’t just preserve history—they actively create the cultural and civic life of their communities,” said Justin Garrett Moore, Program Director for Humanities in Place at the Mellon Foundation. “This rooftop project reflects thoughtful and creative stewardship, long-term thriving and sustainability, and a commitment to enhancing public access. Through Humanities in Place, Mellon is proud to invest in projects that help spaces and places thrive as engines of culture, memory, and opportunity for Indianapolis.”

Since the unveiling of the 2023-2027 strategic plan, the MWLC has further established itself as a cultural hub and community gathering space for the city of Indianapolis. In 2023, a portion of Indiana Avenue was commemorated as Madam Walker Memorial Way in name of trailblazing entrepreneur and philanthropist Madam C.J. Walker. The following year, the Indianapolis Cultural Trail officially opened its Indiana Ave and 10th St expansion, adding nearly one mile of pedestrian infrastructure for greater connectivity to the Walker and its amenities.

As the Walker approaches its Centennial Anniversary in 2027, the sky-breaking ceremony represents the Walker’s latest step in a tenacious journey – one grounded in preserving the history that the Center was paved on, while allowing it to elevate the offerings and experiences brought to Indianapolis community members and visitors.