About

The Athenas is a signature initiative of The Indianapolis Propylaeum, uniting women in a cohort committed to learning, growing, and serving together. Inspired by Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, courage, and strategic leadership, the Athenas embody these timeless qualities as they engage in meaningful service and build community. Rooted in the Propylaeum’s mission—its very name meaning “gateway to higher learning and understanding”—this cohort creates a multigenerational network that bridges university students, emerging professionals, and established women leaders across all sectors.

Each cohort will consist of 15-20 women looking to develop their leadership style and skills, enrich both their personal and professional pursuits through creativity, learn the value of place and preservation, and connect across multiple generations for meaningful mentorship.

Participation

Participation in the Athenas is determined via an application and interview process—application instructions below. Successful participation and completion of the Athenas includes:

  • Attendance: Athenas must attend of at least 10 of the 12 cohort sessions held monthly from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays(calendar below)

  • Service & Volunteerism: Athenas must complete a minimum of 20 service hours through Propylaeum events, programs, and initiatives during the program.

  • Committee Involvement: Athenas must join a standing committee and serves as an active contributor to its work.

  • Member Participation: Athenas are expected to attend and engage meaningfully in Propylaeum member events and programs to deepen community ties.

  • Project Completion: Each cohort collaborates on a unique, mission-aligned group project that leaves a lasting impact and legacy. This could be the improvement of an existing project or program or creating something completely new.

Eligibility

  • Age 21-30

  • Gainfully employed relative to age in any industry including professional services, hospitality, creative economy (photography, graphic design, performance, etc.), government, technical/IT, etc.

    • NOTE: Athenas may also be actively enrolled as a second semester senior and/or graduate student.

  • Track record of service to your community

  • Demonstrate the likelihood of staying in Indiana for the foreseeable future

  • Committed to using leadership skills and knowledge for the long-term benefit of all

2026 Program Calendar

Click + to expand and view topical summary and meeting calendar.

  • Explore personal leadership styles through the lens of women changemakers in history, including May Wright Sewall.

    Meeting Dates:

    • Jan 23

    • Feb 27

    • Mar 27

  • Harness the role of arts and culture in leadership, innovation, and storytelling. Include opportunities to engage with local artists and cultural institutions. Meeting dates:

    • Apr 24

    • May 22

    • Jun 26

  • Understand the importance of preserving historic spaces and cultural memory. Connect leadership to stewardship and civic responsibility.

    • Jul 31

    • Aug 28

    • Sept 25

  • Strengthen intergenerational dialogue and shared wisdom. Focus on building lasting, reciprocal mentor/mentee relationships.

    • Oct 30

    • Nov 27

    • Dec 11

Application Timeline

August 11: Applications Open

September 30: Applications Due

November 1: Candidates Notified

November - December: Athenas announced and acclimated to Propylaeum property and membership community

January 23, 2026: First Session

Application Instructions

Applicants should expect their application to take up to four hours including preparation and submission. The application is to be completed online in a single session so advance preparation is strongly encouraged. Prior to submitting your application, please thoroughly review the application instructions below.

Questions?

Please direct all question regarding the Propylaeum Athenas to The Indianapolis Propylaeum Executive Director Chelsea Marburger at chelsea@thepropylaeum.org