(INDIANAPOLIS) — The Indiana Chamber of Commerce has named Chelci Hunter, program manager of business alliance for the Indianapolis Airport Authority, the 2026 Jackson Lewis Emerging Leader of the Year. The award was presented today at the second annual Emerging Leaders Forum in Indianapolis.
Hunter, 34, connects businesses with opportunities at the Indianapolis International Airport, helping companies and contractors build relationships with airport and community leaders.
Notably, Hunter has helped develop tools that improve transparency and decision-making for more than 90 capital projects totaling $146 million; 90% involve local and emerging businesses.
A Greenwood native, Hunter’s path to leadership has been anything but traditional. After spending a decade working in security, she entered the business world when mentors took a chance on her potential. Those experiences helped shape her leadership philosophy and fueled her passion for creating opportunities for others.
“Honestly, I was really shocked, and I’m still super humbled by it,” Hunter says of receiving the award. “I did not get here by myself. This recognition comes to me, but there are several other people who played such an important role in helping me get to this point. Sometimes people just need to be given a chance, and I’m living proof of what can happen when someone believes in you.”
“The challenge is often not a lack of resources or ideas,” Hunter offers. “It’s making sure people know about one another and have the opportunities to work together. A conversation can become a partnership, a partnership can become an opportunity, and an opportunity can create jobs, build businesses and strengthen an entire community.”
Indiana Chamber President and CEO Vanessa Green Sinders applauds Hunter’s selection.
“Chelci has demonstrated remarkable leadership, a genuine commitment to serving others and an unwavering dedication to building connections that benefit Indiana businesses and communities,” Sinders notes. “Her story is inspiring, and we’re pleased to recognize her as the 2026 Jackson Lewis Emerging Leader of the Year.”
“Chelci brings a thoughtful, results-oriented approach to leadership and has made a meaningful impact early in her career,” adds Brian McDermott, Indianapolis office managing principal for Jackson Lewis. “She reflects the talent and drive this award was created to recognize.”
Hunter earned a degree in civic leadership from Indiana University and remains active in mentorship, workforce development and community engagement. She hopes her journey encourages other young professionals to pursue their goals, embrace lifelong learning and create positive change wherever they serve.
The Jackson Lewis Emerging Leader of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding young professional who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, career achievement and a commitment to strengthening Indiana’s business climate and communities. The honor is presented annually by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.
Jackson Lewis P.C. was the presenting sponsor of both the Emerging Leaders Forum and Emerging Leader of the Year Award, and Marian University was the Emerging Leader Champion sponsor.
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The Indiana Chamber is the state’s largest business advocacy organization, representing employers of all sizes and industries while championing policies and initiatives that strengthen Indiana’s economy, workforce and overall business climate. Its long-range vision plan, Indiana Prosperity 2035, serves as a roadmap for advancing growth and opportunity for Hoosiers and their enterprises across six priority policy areas.
