Shackleford receives Touchstone Award for inspiring young women across Indiana

State Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) has been named one of 2019’s Touchstone Award winners by Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis for her efforts to inspire young women across Indiana.

Shackleford received the award during the organization’s annual luncheon today in downtown Indianapolis. She was one of five women honored for “inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.”

In honoring Shackleford, Girls Inc. officials said she “has dedicated her life to the principles of servant leaders” and recognized her extensive experience in government, community, and diversity affairs, coupled with a strong background in project management, supervision, training, and budgeting.

“I am honored and humbled to think that I can be considered a role model for young women,” Shackleford said. “I pause to think about all the women who helped inspire me to pursue a career in public service, and I  hope that I can pay their bravery, selfless determination, and unwavering commitment to their communities forward to get the young women of today to serve and lead. Their successes will be the most rewarding thing for me to see.”

Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis has been serving girls in the Indianapolis area since 1969. The organization partners with schools and community organizations to educate and empower young girls. 

Here are the remarks Shackleford gave at today’s award presentation:

One of my mother’s favorite t-shirts read, “A woman can do anything a man can do, but better.” This thought process set the foundation for my future leadership path and has led me here today. 

I am pleased, honored and humbled to accept this award and to join past recipients who I have long admired and respected.  A very special thanks to the Girls, Inc. of Greater Indianapolis Board for selecting me and those who supported my nomination.  And an enormous salute to all of this year’s honorees, each of whom have made incredible contributions to our community and state.  And, of course thank you to my extended family and friends for always supporting me and being here this afternoon. 

Girls, Inc. has a special place in my heart. When I was young my mom, an Army Sergeant First Class was adamant that my sister and I be surrounded by confident and positive women.  She, along with my aunts, made sure we participated in phenomenal groups such as: Girls, Inc., Camp Fire Girls and Girl Scouts.   Girls, if I can leave you with one piece of advice, it’s to be courageous.  By being involved with Girls, Inc., you are already a force to be reckoned with and they will equip you with the tools you need to grow, flourish and conquer the World! 

Michelle Obama once said, “Don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.”

Thank you, God Bless and Much Love.