Following the passing of Jim Irsay in May 2025, his daughter, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, has stepped into the role of owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts. Alongside her sisters, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson, she is carrying forward the Irsay family's legacy in the NFL. In a recent announcement, Kalen Jackson revealed that the family's mental health initiative, Kicking The Stigma, has committed over $32 million to grants and programs since 2020.
"Kicking The Stigma" was launched in May 2021. For the Irsay family, mental health advocacy is more than just a campaign; it's a calling. Jim Irsay himself fought battles with addiction, making the cause deeply personal. Now, as Chief Brand Officer, Kalen Jackson is leading the charge to break down barriers and rewrite the narrative around mental health.
The initiative, which began as a local mission in Indianapolis, has gained traction across the NFL, with other teams joining to amplify the message. This collaborative effort aims to turn awareness into action, fostering vulnerable conversations and promoting breakthroughs in mental health care.
Carlie Irsay-Gordon's journey with the Colts began in the ticket office, followed by involvement in marketing and sales strategies. She has been representing the team at NFL owners' meetings since 2004 and became a team vice-president in 2008. In March 2012, she and her sisters were announced as co-owners. Following her father's death in May 2025, she assumed the role of owner and CEO.
Irsay-Gordon is actively involved in the NFL's administration, serving on committees such as the Media Owned & Operated Committee, the 32 Equity Committee, and the Security & Fan Conduct Committee. She also created the Colts' Tony Dungy Diversity Coaching Fellowship and the Harriet P. Irsay Fellowship for Women in Football programs.
Indianapolis has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous events and initiatives throughout the year. The Indy Arts Council partners with various organizations to produce arts and culture activations, such as the All-Star Arts & Culture event during the WNBA All-Star 2025. This event featured immersive experiences, including art markets, murals, and live music, celebrating women and girls in sports and the arts.
The Indiana Black Expo also hosts a Cultural Arts Pavilion as part of its Summer Celebration, showcasing Black creativity, heritage, and innovation. Additionally, the city is home to various museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, such as the Indianapolis Artsgarden, Newfields, and the Indiana State Museum.
With Carlie Irsay-Gordon at the helm of the Colts and the continued commitment to community initiatives like "Kicking The Stigma", Indianapolis is poised for a promising future. The city's dedication to arts and culture further enhances its appeal, creating a vibrant and thriving environment for residents and visitors alike. The collaborative spirit between the Irsay family, the Colts organization, and the Indianapolis community demonstrates a shared vision for a better future.
