FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Wendy Moyle and John Dortch were named the inaugural winners of the Greater Fort Wayne Inc. Women’s Network Champions of Change Awards. The awards, which aim to celebrate those who mentor and empower women in Allen County, were announced at a luncheon Wednesday at The Charles Fort Wayne.
“Wendy and John have been outstanding advocates for women in this community,” said Brenda Gerber Vincent, VP of community and corporate impact at Greater Fort Wayne Inc. “Great mentors, particularly for women, are crucial to building a nationally recognized economy. I’m inspired by the impact all the nominees make every day, and I hope the Champions of Change Awards motivate even more people to make an intentional effort to serve as mentors.”
Moyle, co-owner and vice chair of Shindigz, has created hundreds of jobs and opportunities for women. She also founded “100+ Women Who Care Fort Wayne,” a nonprofit that has engaged hundreds of women to meet quarterly and give of their time and resources to local nonprofits. Moyle participates formally and informally in a variety of mentorship roles, serving as the moderator of the Young Presidents Organization Forum of Northeast Indiana as well as an international forum of women.
“Our company is probably 80% women, and we’re constantly giving them the realization that they can do what they want to do,” Moyle said. “Showing up, showing your compassion, and doing your best is all you can give. I’ve tried to share that message, sometimes just by example.”
Dortch is a local entrepreneur who is committed to giving back to the community, mentoring, and helping those who are overlooked. He serves as president/owner of the Preston Joan Group, Inc., The Penta C.S. Group LLC, Fort Wayne Ink Spot LLC, and AJ&J Production LLC. Dortch is also the CEO of the Fort Wayne Black Chamber. He and his wife, Anita, have two daughters–one is a doctor of pharmacy and the other is an elementary teacher, tutor, and mental health specialist.
“I do what I do because I have a passion for helping others,” Dortch said. “I grew up hearing about the three T’s: time, talent, and treasure. I believe in giving all three.”
The winners were selected from a field of 20 nominees: 13 women and seven men. A blind panel of three chamber of commerce leaders from outside Allen County reviewed the nominations.
The Champions of Change Awards will be given each year to two extraordinary individuals from Allen County–one female and one male–who:
- Demonstrate an unwavering passion and commitment to our community.
- Are role models making a difference in the lives of others.
- Have made significant contributions that have inspired women to succeed.
- Have made Allen County a better place to live, work, and play.
About Greater Fort Wayne Inc.
Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. serves Fort Wayne and Allen County, Indiana, as its primary point of contact for economic growth. GFW Inc. focuses on prosperity and community vibrancy through economic development, advocacy, programs and resources that support business success, leadership development, graduate retention and community engagement.
