(Indianapolis, IN) – The Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) announced the state finalists advancing to the 2025 Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) National Career Development Conference (CDC) following the recent state competition.
JAG CDC showcases Indiana’s top young talent as students from across the state compete in categories such as public speaking, business development, financial literacy, and employability skills.
Winners from the competition have the chance to represent Indiana at the National CDC, which brings together JAG students from across the country to demonstrate their career readiness, connect with employers, and explore future opportunities.
Local 2025 Indiana JAG State CDC winners include the following: (highlighted in bold):
Business Plan
1st – Adam King, Caden Kramer, Cruz Meece (Southridge High School)
2nd – Kelly Lohrum, Gracie Patton, Rachel Woosley (South Ripley High School)
3rd – Caden Kawlewski, Owen Pearson, Eli Sheets (Benton Central High School)
Creative Decision Making
1st – Keyonna Madden, Madison Shephard, Nick Vanoven (Franklin County High School)
2nd – Griffen Starr, Liam Sullivan, Braxton Woodall (North Putnam High School)
3rd – Kate Jones, Aaliyah Kohlhouse, Lainey Snyder (Lincoln High School)
Financial Literacy
1st – Ian White (Owen Valley High School)
2nd – Eduar Padilla (George Washington High School)
3rd – Ashton Dodd (Greensburg Community High School)
Prepared Speaking
1st – Aleah Dean (Austin High School)
2nd – Shelby Williams (Milan High School)
3rd – Taiwo Ogunmilade (Decatur Central High School)
Project-Based Learning
1st – Deziree Dower, Kiley Robinson, Madison Rose (Franklin County High School)
2nd – Jose Mejia Caballero, Fatima Novoa, Giselle Vargas Garcia (Shelbyville High School)
3rd – Lacey Dawson, Grace Hall, Aadyn Ousley (North Manchester High School)
“JAG Indiana continues to provide students with the skills and confidence they need to continue to succeed beyond high school,” said DWD Commissioner Richard Paulk. “Each year, we see incredible growth in our students as they prepare to take their talents to the national stage.”
Looking ahead to the 2025 JAG National CDC, held April 24-26 at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis, select Indiana winners compete against students from across 30-plus states, showcasing their skills and leadership development gained through the JAG program at the national level. The students will have the chance to expand networks and gain exposure to various industries.
