Founded in 1888 by suffragist and civic leader May Wright Sewall, The Propylaeum Historic Foundation— known more often as “The Indianapolis Propylaeum”—has served as a cornerstone of cultural, intellectual, and social life for over 135 years. Sharing a common founder as the Herron School of Art and Design, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, The Contemporary Club, and The Indianapolis Woman’s Club, The Indianapolis Propylaeum was established in 1888 to provide a dedicated space for women’s artistic, scientific, and educational pursuits and was originally located on North Street until relocating in 1923 to our current location.
Housed in a beautifully preserved 1890s mansion on Delaware Street, the Propylaeum remains committed to historic preservation and honoring the legacies of women who helped shape Indiana’s civic life. Today, the Propylaeum continues its mission through vibrant programming, leadership initiatives, and community events that celebrate and empower women. From our signature Women’s Enrichment Series and Porch Concert Series, to member-exclusive events and educational programs, the Propylaeum is a welcoming space for connection, inspiration, and impact. Members enjoy access to a growing network of thoughtful, civically engaged individuals and are invited to take part in shaping the future of this historic institution.
Join us in preserving our past while creating a dynamic, inclusive future—become a member today.
Meet the Propylaeum Staff
-
Chelsea Marburger
Executive Director
-
Kelsey Seger
Events & Program Director
-
Stephanie Belko
Innkeeper & Venue Coordinator
Our Mission
The place that connects and celebrates women.
Our Goals
A welcoming place for women to use their voice, inspire leadership, connect with others and continue the legacy of women supporting women.
Programs that offer opportunities for enrichment, education, exploration, culture, and community.
Preserve and maintain the place that has been the home for women since 1923.
Our Values
Collaboration – We believe that the sum of the whole is greater than its individual parts, and working together inspires creativity and community.
Inclusivity – We invite all people to experience our programs and facilities. We are enriched by people from different backgrounds and life experiences.
Leadership – We support women’s potential for leaderships in all their spheres of influence.
Stewardship – We are an important part of the cultural life of our community. We know and honor the legacy that came before us, foster the deep attachments to the Propylaeum, and embrace change for the future.
Integrity – We take our fiduciary responsibility seriously and are transparent in our communications, interactions, and intentions. We act in good faith and honor our commitments.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At The Indianapolis Propylaeum, our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is foundational to our mission of connecting and celebrating women. We believe a vibrant, welcoming community—one that honors diverse voices, backgrounds, and perspectives—strengthens our programs, enriches dialogue, and enhances our stewardship of this historic space.
Meet the Board of Directors
-
Susan Fasig
Board President
Senior Advisor, FEG Investment Advisors
-
Angela Stephens
Vice President
Attorney, Bose McKinney & Evans LLP
-
Althea Cooper
Treasurer
Commercial Relationship Manager, Old National Bank
-
Becky Pettit
Secretary
Vice President, HSI Solar
-
Megan Anderson
Sales Manager, Classy
-
Cynthia Castle
Strategic Account Manager, Eli Lilly
-
Rachel Clark
Director of Learning and Development, Katz, Sapper, & Miller
-
Gigi Cabello
Healthcare Consultant, Milliman, Inc.
-
Laura Davenport
Co-founder and Sales Director, Tulip Tree Creamery
-
Sarah Harrell
Attorney, Barnes & Thornburg LLP
-
Gretchen Hueni
Director of Individual Giving, The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
-
Grace Meils
Vice President of Advancement, Newfields
-
Julie Petr
Executive Director, Dress for Success Indianapolis
-
Barb Richardson
Founder, Indy Encore
-
Dr. Matt Stegemiller
Retired, Dentist
-
Chelsea Thompson
Vice President of Development, Browning
2024 Annual Report
The 2024 Annual Report captures a pivotal year for The Indianapolis Propylaeum—marked by leadership transition, growing momentum, and deepening community impact. Now in year three of our five-year strategic plan, we’ve welcomed new staff, expanded our membership to nearly 200 strong, and strengthened our presence across Indianapolis through partnerships, programs, and preservation efforts. With a mission to connect and celebrate women through arts, culture, leadership, and community, we continue to honor our historic legacy while charting a dynamic path forward. This report reflects both the progress we’ve made and the promise of what’s to come.
View the 2024 Annual Report by clicking the PDF report.