Three Hamilton County residents have been chosen to participate in the Emerging Leaders Project, a statewide program aimed at preparing future Democratic leaders.

Nocona Canady-Flatt of Noblesville, Jay Dunne of Westfield, and Fran Smith of Fishers were selected for the initiative, which provides hands-on training in campaign management, public policy, and party organization.

The Emerging Leaders Project, founded in 2011, is an independent nonprofit run by volunteers in coordination with the Indiana Democratic Party. Its goal is to build a pipeline of future Democratic candidates, campaign staff, and community activists across the state.

Josh Lowry, chair of the Hamilton County Democratic Party, praised the local participants for their selection.

“We are thrilled to see three of our own Hamilton County Democrats chosen for this program,” Lowry said. “Nocona, Jay, and Fran represent the next generation of leaders who will continue the work of building a stronger, fairer Indiana.”

The program has a history of producing Democrats who go on to win elected office, manage campaigns, and assume leadership roles within their communities. Party officials say the participation of three Hamilton County residents highlights the growing presence of Democrats in the county.