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Kristian Little Stricklen, the former chief communications and engagement officer for the Indianapolis Public Schools, was named Monday as president of the Madam Walker Legacy Center.
Stricklen will take the job April 19, replacing Judith Thomas, who left in May after 19 months in the job. Thomas is now deputy mayor of neighborhood engagement for the city of Indianapolis.
The Madam Walker Legacy Center board said Stricklen was “recognized as a senior management executive, with proven domestic and global experience, in marketing strategy and communications,” and was a “dynamic leader” with “an exemplary 25-year career transforming strategic solutions into workable partnerships.”
Stricklen was on the IPS superintendent’s executive leadership cabinet.
“Kristian has been an invaluable member of our district’s leadership team,” IPS Superintendent Aleesia Johnson said in written remarks. “I appreciate all she’s contributed to Indianapolis Public Schools and wish her nothing but continued success in her new role. We look forward to remaining connected as organizational partners.”
Stricklen’s board experience includes the Madam Walker Legacy Center, Indiana Black Expo, Autism Speaks, and the National Association of Black Journalists.
“As an Indianapolis native, I grew up idolizing Madam Walker,” Stricklen said in written comments. “I am humbled and incredibly honored to lead this historic organization. Entering this new chapter, we will uplift the culture, create innovative ways to support entrepreneurs of color, and highlight women who are owning their narrative and leading transformational change.”
The 94-year-old Madam Walker Legacy Center was known as the Madame Walker Theatre Center until 2018, when the downtown landmark at the corner of Indiana Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Street received a grant to fund a $15 million renovation. At the same time, Indiana University announced it was stepping forward to partner with the facility to provide transitional operational support and develop new programming “to ensure the Walker’s sustainability and economic viability.”
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