The American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana has named Irene Walters as its 2016 Humanitarian of the Year. The distinction recognizes an individual whose humanitarian contributions to our community exemplify the principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

“Irene truly exemplifies the principle of humanitarian leadership,” said Katherine Mac Aulay, executive director, American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana. “Her commitment to community development and her generous contributions of time and resources to important causes in our region make Irene a deserving honoree.”

Walters recently retired as the Executive Director of University Relations and Communications at IPFW where she created the Mastodons on Parade public art project as well as the Sculpture with Purpose. She was also instrumental in the founding of Francine’s Friends mobile mammography and currently serves on boards and committees that include the Fort Wayne Community Foundation, Riverfront Fort Wayne, Women United, Downtown Fort Wayne Rotary, Visit Fort Wayne, Turnstone, Parkview, Francine’s Friends, Greater Fort Wayne, Inc., Artlink, United Way, Tapestry, Cookin’ Men and Old National Bank.

The award will be presented during a luncheon on Tuesday, May 17, 2016, at noon at the Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation, 10622 Parkview Plaza Drive, Fort Wayne. The event will also include the naming of a Youth Humanitarian of the Year and a mayoral proclamation.