Nearly 400 members of the Marian University and Indianapolis communities gathered on Saturday, July 25th, at the Marian University Arena and Convocation Center for the annual Women of Marian Summer Luncheon, an event celebrating leadership, mentorship, and the growing influence of women in sports.
Hosted by the Women of Marian Society, the event featured a panel discussion with four accomplished leaders whose careers span collegiate athletics, professional sports, and sports business. Together, they shared personal stories about leadership, overcoming challenges, building successful teams, and creating opportunities for the next generation of women.
Moderated by former WTHR meteorologist and current forecaster for the Indianapolis 500, Kelly Greene, the panel included:
- - Suntana Anderson, head coach of Marian University's NAIA National Champion women's basketball team and the 2026 NAIA Coach of the Year.
- - Emma Halter, Indianapolis native and professional volleyball player for the Indy Ignite.
- - Allison Melangton, Senior Vice President of Penske Entertainment, whose leadership has helped shape some of Indiana's most recognizable sporting events, including the historic 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500.
- Katie Wise-Butler, Marian University's Director of Track & Cross Country, who has led the Knights to multiple NAIA national championships while becoming one of the most accomplished coaches in collegiate track and field.
Throughout the discussion, panelists reflected on the importance of resilience, mentorship, servant leadership, and remaining authentic while navigating careers in highly competitive environments. They also discussed the rapid growth of women's sports and the expanding opportunities available to young women pursuing careers as athletes, coaches, executives, and leaders.
The annual luncheon serves as the signature event of the Women of Marian Society, which honors Marian University's foundresses, the Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Indiana. Through scholarships and mentorship opportunities, the Society supports Marian students throughout their educational journey while connecting women across generations who share Marian's mission of service and leadership.
To learn more from this year's panel discussion, watch the Women of Marian Summer Luncheon panel discussion here