Two Hamilton County residents have been chosen for Class 8 of Hoosier Women Forward (HWF), a leadership development program for Democratic women in Indiana.

Racheal Bleicher of Westfield and Erin Retif of Carmel are among 24 women selected statewide for the program, which provides training, resources, and networking opportunities to prepare participants for leadership roles in their communities and public service.

The 2025 class includes women from 14 counties and represents a range of ages, backgrounds, and professional experiences.

“We are incredibly proud of Racheal and Erin,” said Meredith Fox, vice chair of the Hamilton County Democratic Party and an HWF alumna. “Their selection is a reflection of their commitment to public service and their leadership in our community. Hoosier Women Forward is a powerful launching pad, and we know these women will use the experience to help build a better future for Hamilton County and Indiana.”

Founded in 2017, HWF has more than 150 alumnae, with over 70% of those who have run for public office winning their elections, according to the organization. Program graduates have gone on to serve in the Indiana Statehouse, on school boards, city councils, and other civic roles.

Bleicher and Retif join a list of Hamilton County women who have completed the program and gone on to hold elected positions or leadership roles in local and state politics.