Join the MDLF Networks
The Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation launched the “MDLF Smart Network” in December 2022, and since that time, 250 Hoosier leaders, executives and industry experts have raised their hand to join! It’s our goal to connect each Fellow with members of the Smart Network based on areas of alignment and expertise related to their Capstone projects and career pursuits.
Smart Network
The Smart Network is MDLF’s membership of established career, volunteer, civic, and community leaders.
The purpose of the Smart Network is to bring executives together to support the Fellows and build a strong statewide network to ignite change through relationships, collaboration, positive outcomes, and shared areas of agreement.
As a Smart Network Member, you are a vital part of the Foundation. Executives, mentors, and subject matter experts like you support Fellows in their capstone projects, professional growth, and leadership journeys. By sharing your knowledge and connections, you strengthen both the Fellowship and Indiana’s future.
Highlights:
Be a part of a statewide network
Guide Fellows as mentors and advisors
Lend expertise to Fellowship projects and conversations
Expand your own circle of accomplished, civic-minded peers
Directly impact the development of Indiana’s next generation of leaders
Purpose
Provide access and create connections to a vast, committed and established group of leaders that will support MDLF Fellows in their Capstone and professional development. The Network includes: MDLF Alumni, Board Members, donors, class speakers, community & business leaders/executives, subscribers and key stakeholders. The goal is for our Fellows from across the state, to connect with leaders from a diverse set of backgrounds, industries and regions to expand the scope of their Capstones and professional development.
Commitment
Time commitment is ultimately up to you, with likely one to two email connections per year with potential for a phone call or meeting with the Fellow. Of course, we will always email you first to see if you agree to an introduction before one is provided.
MDLF Five-Year Goals*
100% of Fellows are connected to the Smart Network for mentoring and feedback as they advance their Capstones by completion through Year 2
10 Fellows' Capstones activated with the Smart Network, successfully launched, and completed
200 introductions provided for 10 Classes of Fellows
100% of Fellows Introduced to Smart Network by completion of Year 2
250 Smart Network Members
*As of 2025, these goals to be achieved by 2028 are complete and being exceeded.
Benefits
As a Smart Network member, you will receive invitations to the exclusive Aiming Higher Series, which MDLF conducts at least twice a year.
You’ll also be the first to know about and be invited to our yearly Fellowship Capstone Day each April and Annual Event each fall.
You will have the opportunity to develop relationships with MDLF Fellows and support their work to make Indiana the best place to build a future.
We also encourage our Smart Network members and Fellows to build mentor/mentee relationships that could blossom and last beyond the two-year Fellowship.
Process
Upon joining the Smart Network you are added to the private MDLF database that is shared with the current Fellows. Throughout the program, Fellows will express their interest to the MDLF Membership Director to meet with specific Smart Network Members. From there, the Fellowship Director will reach out to ensure you are open to an introduction and provide detail on the request. Once confirmed, the introduction between Smart Network member and the Fellow will be brokered.
Smart Network Testimonials
“I have enjoyed communicating and collaborating with Class II Fellow, Maggie on her children's book Capstone "There's No More Napping in Nap Town." We have met and touched base several times discussing both her book concept and our Kid Architect books. She is such an asset to our greater Indianapolis community and hopefully she decides to stay in Indianapolis for a very long time. Of course, we will continue to work together as I assist as coach, advisor and cheerleader.” - GARY VANCE, Smart Network Member
"Not only has MDLF's Smart Network helped me execute my capstone project, but several of these Hoosier luminaries have generously guided me in my career journey as well. This list is full of leaders ready to uplift the next generation and make Indiana a better place." - KAITLYN STEINHISER, Class VI Fellow
“The MDLF Smart Network brings immense value through their collective expertise, driving solutions and enhanced collaboration across Indiana. Their combined knowledge and skills create a dynamic force that elevates our MDLF capstones, significantly boosting their chance of success. I appreciate their willingness to always be willing to assist and move these initiatives forward!” - LIANE HART, Class VI Fellow
Next Generation Network
While the Smart Network supports MDLF Fellows, the Next Generation Network is for those interested in participating in the MDLF Fellowship and are looking for ways to be involved in MDLF beforehand.
Not quite ready for the Fellowship? The Next Generation Network is a space for early-career professionals, usually in their twenties, who are eager to grow as leaders. While you’re still building experience, you can begin engaging with MDLF, learning from Indiana’s top civic and business leaders, and preparing for future opportunities.
MDLF Fellows are expected to have demonstrated leadership and entrepreneurial experience, and practice living out the core principles of individual liberty and personal responsibility, and uplifting of private enterprise. As a part of the Next Generation Network, you’ll be invited to attend events, connect with peers who share your energy, and explore opportunities to prepare for a future Fellowship application.
Highlights:
Receive invitations to the exclusive Aiming Higher Series, which MDLF conducts at least twice a year.
Be the first to know about and be invited to our yearly Fellowship Capstone Day each April and Annual Event each fall.
Build relationships with current Fellows
Learn from Indiana’s top civic and business leaders
Prepare to apply for the Fellowship when the time is right
Please email kelsey@mdlfindiana.org with any questions.