The May 2026

Join us for The May Awards Breakfast & Awards Presentation!

This inspiring morning honors extraordinary women whose sustained leadership strengthens Indianapolis and communities across Indiana. Together, we will celebrate this year’s finalists and formally recognize the recipient(s) of The May — our highest institutional distinction.

Named for visionary educator, suffragist, and civic leader May Wright Sewall, The May recognizes women who build institutions, uplift communities, and leave a lasting mark on public life.

Event Includes:

• Breakfast

• Finalist recognition

• Awards presentation

• Community celebration

The Indianapolis Propylaeum was founded in 1888 by renowned suffragist and activist, May Wright Sewall, with the intention to “create a building to be used for literary, artistic, scientific, industrial, musical, mechanical, and educational purposes — particularly for the women of Indianapolis.” In addition to founding our organization, Sewall is credited with founding the Herron School of Art and Design, The Art Association of Indianapolis — which became the Indianapolis Museum of Art | Newfields, The Indianapolis Woman’s Club, and The Contemporary Club, to name a few. Sewall established a national and international reputation through her fight to grow women’s role in society, women’s right to an education, and women’s right to vote.