Community is one of the core pillars of Orr Fellowship, a network of support for recent graduates within Indianapolis. And let’s be real: what better way to bring people together and showcase the best of Indianapolis than by centering it all around a meal? With that idea in mind, the 2024 DEI team created the DEI Dinner Series — a space for Fellows to build relationships and savor some seriously good eats from local Indianapolis restaurants.
This year’s DEI team, featuring Fellows Alyssa Huffman, Janet Lovera, Cece Taylor, Kyler Bourne, Taje Wilson, Devonia Moore, and Christian Martinez, set out to highlight the diverse cultures, communities, and flavors that make Indy so special. Here are some highlights from past DEI Dinner Series:
May: AAPI Heritage Month at Siam Square
In May, Fellows celebrated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a dinner at Siam Square, a delightful Thai restaurant nestled in Fountain Square, one of Indy’s most artsy and vibrant neighborhoods. Siam Square offered the perfect backdrop for Fellows to learn more about AAPI culture while sharing stories and, of course, plates of food.
June: Pride Month at 45 Degrees
June brought the celebration of Pride Month, and Fellows gathered at 45 Degrees, a buzzing sushi spot on Mass Ave known for its LGBTQ+ support and upscale and new-age atmosphere. Between bites of California rolls and slices of decadent chocolate cake (a unanimous favorite), Fellows toasted to love, acceptance, and the power of community.
July: Hidden Gems at Tlaolli
In July, the DEI team turned their focus to hidden gems, spotlighting locally owned small businesses. One standout was Tlaolli, a cozy restaurant offering Mexican comfort food, vegan and vegetarian options, and a charming patio space. Fun fact: Tlaolli was even featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!
November: Finalist Day Pre-Game
Most recently, Fellows and candidates came together across the city — from Carmel to Broad Ripple to Fountain Square — for a special dinner series on the eve of Finalist Day. These gatherings were a chance for Fellows to connect with candidates, offer encouragement, and provide a glimpse into what Orr is all about. Sharing meals and stories proved the perfect way to ease nerves and foster genuine connections.
A Taste of Connection
The DEI Dinner Series has proven that sharing a meal is about more than just food — it’s about building community, celebrating diversity, and creating memories that last far beyond the dinner table. Through this initiative, the DEI team has shown that when we come together, one bite at a time, we can make Indy feel a little smaller and a lot more connected.
Cheers to more meals, more conversations, and more moments that bring us together.
