Creation of the Torchbearer Awards

In 2004, the Torchbearer Awards were initiated to honor the accomplishments of Indiana women in their communities, state, and nation as outlined in IC 4-23-25. As a state entity, the Indiana Commission for Women (ICW) administers this annual recognition, celebrating the achievements of talented women across diverse industries and roles within Indiana. A Torchbearer epitomizes a trailblazer who, through her courage, resilience, and compassion, emerges as a guiding light. Leading by example, she sparks inspiration, igniting a flame that illuminates pathways for others to follow. Titled “Torchbearers,” these remarkable women carry forth the torch for Indiana’s women to follow. The statue of Victory atop the Soldiers and Sailors Monument at Monument Circle was chosen to symbolize these awards. Victory embodies the character and achievements of our esteemed recipients, while the flame she holds aloft not only beckons other women to follow but signifies the brilliance Hoosier women have brought to our state and communities.

Customarily, each year the award ceremony takes place on the 4th Wednesday of September from 6:00-8:00pm. The event is free to attend, funded by contributions from sponsors. Registration for the ceremony begins August 1st.

Award Descriptions

Each year six [6] recipients are selected, five [5] Torchbearers and one [1] Lifetime Achievement recipient.

Torchbearer: This is granted to a woman who exemplifies unwavering dedication to philanthropic service, social change, fostering hope, and demonstrating a deep understanding of humanity’s needs. Torchbearers come in many forms. She may be actively engaged in her community and persistently working to enact positive change, yet her achievements may be only known to those in her community. A Torchbearer may be a woman who has opened her heart to the spirit of hope and worked to achieve social change. A Torchbearer may be a woman who has made outstanding or pioneering contributions to society.

Lifetime Achievement: This is bestowed upon a woman whose significant contributions, whether in her professional endeavors or through personal leadership, have left a lasting impact on the state of Indiana. Recipients must have demonstrated a lifelong dedication to advancing women’s progress in society.

Criteria for Nominations

The nomination window begins April 15th and ends on May 24th. 

• Nominators must complete and submit a Nomination Application. No late entries will be accepted. Once the application is submitted no edits, revisions, or attachments will be accepted.
• The Nomination Application must be submitted online via the application below to be eligible.
• Completed questions must provide detailed and descriptive examples in the space allotted. A complete Nomination Application consists of the completed questions, one [1] letter of support, and one [1] resume or one [1] descriptive biography.
• Completed questions must provide detailed and descriptive examples in the space allotted.
• The one [1] letter of support must be signed and dated and include contact information for the author. The letter of support should be presented on a letterhead. The letter of support is to be written by an individual other than the nominator.
• Nominators may re-submit nominees who have not been chosen as an award recipient in a prior year.
• Nominators will receive a confirmation once a nomination has been received.

Nominator Expectations

• Nominators will receive a notice if their nominee is not selected as a recipient.
• Nominators of chosen recipients will be asked to present their award at their ceremony alongside an ICW Commissioner. If the nominator is unable to attend the ceremony, a recommendation must be made for the recipient’s presenter.
• Nominators of chosen recipients will be asked to present their award at their ceremony alongside an ICW Commissioner. If the nominator is unable to attend the ceremony, a recommendation must be made for the recipient’s presenter.
• Nominators are responsible for crafting a 3-minute (450 word) presentation for the award ceremony.
• Nominators of the chosen recipients will receive one [1] ticket for the ceremony.

Awardee Expectations

• Award recipients will receive three [3] tickets (one for themselves and two for guests) and reserved seating for the ceremony.
• Award recipients' names, bios, and photos will be published for editorial, marketing, and/or promotional materials.

The Selection Process

All completed and eligible nomination packages are reviewed by and selections are made by members of the Indiana Commission for Women (“Commissioners”)

The nomination window is now closed.

If you or your organization is interested in sponsoring the event, please contact info@icw.in.gov.

Torchbearer Award Supporters

Torchbearer Recipients (2004 - Present)