Justin P. Christian is a prominent figure in Indiana known for his outstanding contributions to the state’s technology and business sectors. A 1995 graduate of DePauw University with a degree in computer science, Mr. Christian is a visionary entrepreneur who co-founded BCforward, an IT services and staffing firm headquartered in Indianapolis. Mr. Christian leads the overall BCforward corporate strategy and develops executive-level relationships with its customers and corporate partners.

Mr. Christian and his wife Darrianne provided a significant gift to establish the Center for Diversity and Inclusion at DePauw University which was dedicated and officially opened in November 2017. The center is home to the Association of African American Students and the Dorothy Brown Cultural Resource Center. It offers academic and cultural programming and services for students, advocates for social justice, and assists in fostering a safe and affirming campus climate for all students.

Mr. Christian serves as a member of the boards of the Lumina Foundation, Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, AAA Hoosier Motor Club, and The DePauw University Board of Trustees, among others. He is also a member of the Business Equity for Indianapolis Taskforce. In 2020, Ernst & Young (EY) named Mr. Christian as a National Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner. He was also named to Indianapolis Business Journal’s “Forty Under 40” list in 2004 and received TechPoint’s Trailblazer award in 2021.

Mr. Christian resides in Zionsville with his wife Darrianne and their four daughters.

William K. “Bill” McGowan, Jr. is renowned for his pivotal role in shaping the city as a premier destination for conventions, tourism, and sports. Serving as the president and CEO of the Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Association (now Visit Indy) from 1984 to 2002, he was instrumental in securing major events such as the 1982 National Sports Festival and the 1987 Pan American Games. Mr. McGowan’s efforts also contributed to the construction of the Hoosier Dome and the subsequent development of Lucas Oil Stadium.

Under his leadership, Indianapolis witnessed remarkable growth in its convention business, including a substantial expansion of the Indiana Convention Center. Mr. McGowan’s dedication to the city earned him the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash award from four different Indiana governors.

Mr. McGowan holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Notre Dame University. He has served as a member of the Notre Dame Board of Trustees, the Advisory Council for the Snite Museum of Art, and the Alumni Association Board of Directors, where he was national president from 1973 to 1974. He was also honored as a former Notre Dame Club of Indianapolis Man of the Year.

Mr. McGowan resides in Indianapolis with his wife Joan. They have three children and 11 grandchildren.