Urban League of Northwest Indiana to Host Leadership Luncheon for Purpose-Driven Progress November 18, 2025

Event Designed to Open Dialogue for Solutions

The Urban League of Northwest Indiana is taking action by opening the floor for meaningful dialogue at its upcoming Leadership Luncheon set for Thursday, November 18, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at Avalon Manor in Merrillville. The occasion has been themed “Better Together: From Taking Sides to Creating Solutions – A Leadership Luncheon for Purpose-Driven Progress.” 

Urban League of NWI President and CEO Dr. Vanessa Allen-McCloud acknowledges that the elimination of many DEI initiatives has caused some confusion with various opinions emerging; requiring calm, insightful, and compassionate leadership and engagement to arrive at meaningful solutions.

“Like many organizations, we are facing significant challenges due to shifting funding landscapes,” said Allen-McCloud. “As you may know, national and state decisions along with a decrease in local individual donations have contributed to a current budget shortfall/deficit within our Urban League affiliate. The Leadership Luncheon will serve as our annual fundraising event; however, it will serve to reignite and empower leaders to serve their communities; making an impact by creating opportunities for all employees by leading with dignity and respect.”

According to Allen-McCloud, this year’s luncheon will focus on creating solutions that further strengthen community impact outcomes including:

• Creating opportunities for all employees by leading with dignity and respect
• Building authentic relationships grounded in purpose and empathy
• Exploring what it truly means to lead with integrity
• Recognizing the unique gifts and values each person brings

The Right Reverend Dr. Douglas E. Sparks, VIII Bishop of the Diocese of Northern Indiana will serve as the keynote speaker. With more than four decades of ministry, including international service in New Zealand. Bishop Sparks has dedicated his life to faith, service, and community leadership. Since 2016, he has guided Northern Indiana with a commitment to compassion, dialogue, and building bridges of understanding. 

“His message will inspire us to work together for collective success,” added Allen-McCloud.

Retired Ivy Tech Community College Chancellor Louie Gonzalez serves as the Chairman of the Urban League of NWI Board of Trustees and endorses the organization’s effort to develop a platform for conversations around effective leadership.

“In today’s graceless age, Americans want more than dirty politics and half-baked solutions,” said Gonzalez. “We want authentic leadership who can provide impactful solutions to everyday problems. We begin that conversation at the annual Leadership Awards Luncheon on November 18, 2025. Please join us!”

Dr. Danny Lackey, retired Executive Director for Merrillville Schools, is a long-time former Urban League board member who continues to lend his guidance and expertise by participating on a number of Urban League committees.

“In light of the challenging times we are living in, this year’s Urban League luncheon will focus on hope and guidance, emphasizing the importance of leadership that sees the human value and possibilities in all of us,” said Lackey.

Tickets for the luncheon are available as well as vendor and sponsorship opportunities. For more information, about Urban League of Northwest Indiana and luncheon details, call 219- 887-9621 or visit www.urbanleagueofnwi.org. 

About the Urban League of Northwest Indiana

The Urban League of Northwest Indiana is the premier agency that supports and promotes neighborhood community collaborations towards the improvement, capacity building and awareness of citizens in areas of education, financial literacy, health/wellness, civic/civil initiatives, and leadership development throughout Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties which would encourage a better quality of life for all citizens.  Visit www.urbanleagueofnwi.org for more information.